JP2016190371A - Recorder - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To avoid the situation of causing the necessity for replacing a recording module when a liquid storage part becomes empty, when not reaching a use limit of the recording module.SOLUTION: Respective recording modules 50a-50c detachably supported to a casing 1a, are constituted so that an initial value A0 of a recordable sheet number A (the number of sheets P recordable by a recording part up to any use limit of at least the recording part (a head 51, a carriage 52 and a carriage moving mechanism 52x), a module carrying mechanism 53 and a discharge recovery part (an ink supply pump) of the recording modules 50a-50c) becomes an initial value B0 or less (that is, A0≤B0) of a recordable sheet number B (the number of sheets P recordable by the recording part until an ink storage part 57 runs out of ink when assuming that recording based on a predetermined standard is executed by the recording module).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a recording apparatus, and more particularly to a recording apparatus in which a recording module is detachably supported with respect to a housing.

  Patent Document 1 discloses a printer device (recording device) that detachably supports a plurality of printing units (recording modules) (see paragraph 0081). Each printing unit supports an inkjet head and a head driving mechanism (recording unit) that scans the head in the main scanning direction (see paragraph 0058). In the apparatus of Patent Document 1, the printing capability of the entire apparatus can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the number of printing units.

JP-A-2005-53016

  In general, in the apparatus of Patent Document 1, a cartridge containing ink to be supplied to an ink jet head of each printing unit is detachably supported by a casing, and the cartridge is replaced when the cartridge becomes empty. It is conceivable to adopt a method. In this regard, the inventors of the present application, as a technique different from the above technique, have a printing unit (recording module) detachably support a liquid storage section that stores ink (liquid) supplied to an inkjet head (that is, recording). A module was inseparably formed with the liquid storage part), and when the liquid storage part became empty, it was considered to adopt a method of replacing the recording module together. However, when the method is adopted, the following problems may occur. That is, when the use limit of the recording unit or the like (other than the liquid storage unit) of the recording module (hereinafter simply referred to as the “use limit of the recording module”) is not reached, the liquid storage unit becomes empty, and the recording module May need to be replaced. In this case, it is necessary to replace the relatively expensive recording module including the recording unit and the liquid storage unit, which is an economic burden for the user. A similar problem may occur in a recording apparatus having only one recording module that can be attached to and detached from the housing.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a recording apparatus capable of avoiding a situation in which the liquid storage portion becomes empty and the recording module needs to be replaced when the use limit of the recording module is not reached.

The recording apparatus according to the present invention includes a recording unit for ejecting a liquid to record an image on a recording medium, a module transport mechanism for transporting the recording medium to a position facing the recording unit, and an ejection operation of the recording unit A recording module that supports a discharge recovery unit for recovering the liquid and a liquid storage unit for storing the liquid, the recording module being inseparably integrated with the liquid storage unit, and a recording medium A recording medium housing portion for detachably supporting the recording module, a transport mechanism provided in the housing for transporting the recording medium from the recording medium housing portion to the recording module, and the recording module Operation history information of at least one of the recording unit, the module transport mechanism, and the discharge recovery unit, and at least the recording unit of the recording module, the module An initial value A0 of the number A of recording media that can be recorded by the recording unit before reaching the use limit of either the roll transport mechanism or the discharge recovery unit, and decreases as the recording module operates. A storage unit for storing
Whether or not the use limit of at least one of the recording unit, the module transport mechanism, and the discharge recovery unit of the recording module has been reached based on the operation history information and the initial value A0 stored in the storage unit. A determination process for determining, and in the determination process, when it is determined that the use limit of at least one of the recording unit, the module transport mechanism, and the discharge recovery unit of the recording module is reached, the use limit of the recording module is reached. A control unit that performs notification processing to notify that the recording unit has been reached, and assuming that recording based on a predetermined standard relating to liquid ejection from the recording unit is performed by the recording unit, The number B of recording media that can be recorded by the recording unit before the liquid runs out, and decreases as liquid is discharged from the recording unit. When the initial value of the number B was B0, characterized in that it is configured to be A0 ≦ B0.

  According to the present invention, since it is configured to satisfy A0 ≦ B0, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the liquid storage unit becomes empty and the recording module needs to be replaced when the use limit of the recording module is not reached. It is.

  The housing supports the plurality of recording modules individually and detachably, the transport mechanism transports a recording medium to each of the plurality of recording modules, and the storage unit stores each of the plurality of recording modules. Information on B / A and a threshold value of the liquid discharge amount for one recording medium are further stored, and the control unit transfers the recording medium to the plurality of recording modules in a predetermined order. When the order in which the recording medium whose discharge amount exceeds the threshold value is transported to the recording module having the smallest B / A among the plurality of recording modules, the recording medium is transported to a recording module different from the recording module. Thus, it may be possible to further execute a high duty skip process for controlling the transport mechanism.

  According to the above configuration, B / A is equalized in a plurality of recording modules. In addition, the relationship between A and B of the recording module that satisfies A> B in the process of use approaches A ≦ B. Thereby, the said situation can be avoided more reliably.

  In the case where the control unit conveys the recording medium to the plurality of recording modules in a predetermined order, the control unit has the largest B / A among the plurality of recording modules as the recording medium in which the liquid discharge amount is equal to or less than the threshold. It may be possible to further execute a low duty skip process for controlling the transport mechanism so that the recording medium is transported to a recording module different from the recording module when the order of transport to the recording module is reached.

  According to the above configuration, the equalization of B / A in a plurality of recording modules can be further promoted, and the above situation can be avoided more reliably.

  The housing supports the plurality of recording modules individually and detachably, the transport mechanism transports a recording medium to each of the plurality of recording modules, and the storage unit stores each of the plurality of recording modules. Information regarding B / A and a threshold value of the liquid discharge amount for one recording medium determined for each of the plurality of recording modules, and a threshold value set so as to decrease as B / A decreases. And storing the recording medium to be transported to the recording module for each of the plurality of recording modules when transporting the recording medium to the plurality of recording modules in a predetermined order. It is determined whether or not the liquid discharge amount exceeds the threshold value set for the recording module, and it is determined that the liquid discharge amount exceeds the threshold value. When it is, may be further executable to separate high duty skip processing the recording medium to another recording module controls the conveyance mechanism so as to be conveyed with the recording module.

  According to the above configuration, B / A is equalized in a plurality of recording modules. In addition, the relationship between A and B of the recording module that satisfies A> B in the process of use approaches A ≦ B. Thereby, the said situation can be avoided more reliably.

  The plurality of recording modules each include a plurality of the recording units having a plurality of ejection ports for ejecting liquids of different colors, and a plurality of liquids that are supplied to each of the plurality of recording units. The liquid storage unit is supported, the storage unit stores the threshold value determined for each of the plurality of colors for each of the plurality of recording modules, and the control unit stores the individual high duty skip. In the processing, the determination may be made based on the smallest threshold among the thresholds determined for each of the plurality of colors.

  According to the above configuration, in the recording apparatus that performs recording of a plurality of colors in each recording module, the above situation can be more reliably performed by performing control while focusing on the color having the smallest threshold (that is, the smallest B / A). This can be avoided and the control can be simplified.

  Each of the plurality of recording modules supports a plurality of the recording units, and a plurality of the liquid storage units that store liquids supplied to the plurality of recording units, respectively. A black recording section having a plurality of ejection openings for ejecting black liquid, and a recording section having a plurality of ejection openings for ejecting a liquid of a color other than black, and the storage section Information on at least B / A of the black recording portion among the plurality of recording portions in each of the recording modules, and when the control unit conveys the recording medium to the plurality of recording modules in a predetermined order, The determination may be made based on the B / A of the black recording portion.

  According to the above configuration, in the recording apparatus that performs recording of a plurality of colors in each recording module, the control is performed while paying attention to the black recording unit that is assumed to be most frequently used, thereby simplifying the control. The situation can be avoided.

  The notification process may include prohibiting conveyance of the recording medium to the recording module.

  According to the above configuration, recording defects can be suppressed. In addition, when a plurality of recording modules are detachably supported by the casing, recording can be continued using a recording module other than the recording module.

  According to the present invention, since it is configured to satisfy A0 ≦ B0, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the liquid storage unit becomes empty and the recording module needs to be replaced when the use limit of the recording module is not reached. It is.

1 is a side view showing the inside of an inkjet printer according to a first embodiment of the present invention. (A) is a top view which shows the inside of the recording module contained in the inkjet printer which concerns on 1st Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 2B is a front view showing the inside of the recording module. (C) is a side view showing the inside of the recording module. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an electrical configuration of an inkjet printer according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is a perspective view which shows the state which has 1 recording module in a drawer position. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing a state where one recording module is in a drawing position, as viewed from the side opposite to FIG. 4. It is the schematic which shows the memory information of ROM and RAM in 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the use limit corresponding | compatible control performed for every recording module. FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating sheet conveyance control for each recording module according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is the schematic which shows the memory | storage information of ROM and RAM in 2nd Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating sheet conveyance control for each recording module according to a second embodiment of the present invention. (A) is a top view which shows the inside of the recording module contained in the inkjet printer which concerns on 3rd-5th embodiment of this invention. FIG. 2B is a front view showing the inside of the recording module. (C) is a side view showing the inside of the recording module. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating sheet conveyance control for each recording module according to a modification of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 1, an inkjet printer (hereinafter simply referred to as “printer”) 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention includes a rectangular parallelepiped housing 1a and a cover provided on one side of the housing 1a. 1b. A transport mechanism 20 and a control unit 100 are arranged in the housing 1a. A sheet receiving portion 4 is provided on the top of the casing 1a. In addition, the recording modules 50a to 50c and the paper storage unit 3 are supported by the housing 1a so as to be movable and detachable.

  The paper storage unit 3 and the paper receiving unit 4 can store and receive a plurality of types of paper P including a postcard size, A6 size, A4 size, letter size, and A3 size, respectively. The paper storage unit 3 corresponds to the “recording medium storage unit for storing the recording medium (paper P)” according to the present invention.

  The transport mechanism 20 is configured to transport the paper P from the paper storage unit 3 to the paper receiving unit 4 through the recording modules 50a to 50c, and includes an upstream transport mechanism 20x and a downstream transport mechanism 20y.

  The upstream transport mechanism 20x is configured to transport the paper P from the paper storage unit 3 to the recording modules 50a to 50c, and includes a paper feed roller 21, roller pairs 22a to 22f, guides 23a to 23g, and a switching unit 28a. 28b. The paper feed roller 21 is disposed so as to contact the surface of the uppermost paper P in the paper storage unit 3. Each roller pair 22a-22f includes two rollers in contact with each other. The feed roller 21 and one of the roller pairs 22a to 22f are drive rollers that are rotated by driving the upstream transport motor 20xM (see FIG. 3) under the control of the control unit 100. The other roller of the roller pairs 22a to 22f is a driven roller that rotates as the one roller rotates. In each of the roller pairs 22a to 22f, one roller and the other roller rotate in opposite directions while sandwiching the paper P. Each guide 23a-23g includes a pair of guide plates spaced apart from each other in the thickness direction. An upstream path including paths R1x to R3x is formed by the space between the pair of guide plates of each guide 23a to 23g and the contact point between the rollers of each roller pair 22a to 22f.

  Each of the paths R1x to R3x extends from the sheet storage unit 3 to the upstream end of the in-module paths Ra to Rc of the recording modules 50a to 50c. The paths R1x and R2x have a common portion from the sheet storage unit 3 to the branch position A1, branch at the branch position A1, and go to different recording modules 50a and 50b. The paths R2x and R3x have a common part from the sheet storage unit 3 to the branch position A2, branch at the branch position A2, and go to different recording modules 50b and 50c.

  Focusing on each route, the route R1x includes two branch positions A1 and A2, and is shared from the common position shared by the routes R2x and R3x from the sheet storage unit 3 to the branch position A2, and from the branch position A2. A common part shared with the path R2x to the branch position A1 and an individual part not shared with any other path from the branch position A1 to the recording module 50a are included. The path R2x includes two branch positions A1 and A2, and includes a common part shared by the paths R1x and R3x from the sheet storage unit 3 to the branch position A2, and a path R1x from the branch position A2 to the branch position A1. It includes a common part that is shared and an individual part that is not shared with any other path from the branch position A1 to the recording module 50b. The path R3x includes one branch position A2, and is shared by the paths R1x and R2x from the sheet storage unit 3 to the branch position A2, and any other path from the branch position A2 to the recording module 50c. And individual parts that are not shared.

  The switching units 28a and 28b are for switching the transport destination of the paper P at the branch positions A1 and A2, respectively. Specifically, the switching unit 28a is configured to switch the transport destination of the sheet P to either the individual part of the path R1x or the individual part of the path R2x at the branch position A1. The switching unit 28b is configured to switch the conveyance destination of the sheet P to either the common part of the paths R1x and R2x or the individual part of the path R3x at the branch position A2.

  The switching units 28a and 28b include swing members 28a1 and 28b1 and switching motors 28aM and 28bM (see FIG. 3), respectively. The swing members 28a1 and 28b1 can swing about the shafts 28ax and 28bx, respectively, and when the switching motors 28aM and 28bM are driven under the control of the control unit 100, the vertical lines shown by solid lines in FIG. It is possible to selectively take the position and the inclined position indicated by the dotted line in FIG.

  When the swing member 28a1 is in the vertical position, the individual part of the path R1x is opened and the individual part of the path R2x is closed at the branch position A1. Accordingly, the sheet P conveyed from the sheet storage unit 3 to the branch position A1 is guided to the individual portion of the path R1x and is conveyed toward the recording module 50a. When the swing member 28a1 is in the inclined position, the individual part of the path R1x is closed and the individual part of the path R2x is opened at the branch position A1. Accordingly, the paper P conveyed from the paper storage unit 3 to the branch position A1 is guided to the individual portion of the path R2x and conveyed toward the recording module 50b.

  When the swinging member 28b1 is in the vertical position, the common part of the paths R1x and R2x is opened and the individual part of the path R3x is closed at the branch position A2. Accordingly, the sheet P conveyed from the sheet storage unit 3 to the branch position A2 is guided to the common part of the paths R1x and R2x and is conveyed toward the branch position A1. When the swing member 28b1 is in the inclined position, at the branch position A2, the common part of the paths R1x and R2x is closed, and the individual part of the path R3x is opened. Accordingly, the paper P conveyed from the paper storage unit 3 to the branch position A2 is guided to the individual portion of the path R3x and is conveyed toward the recording module 50c.

  Paper sensors 6a to 6c are arranged at positions facing individual portions of the paths R1x to R3x. Each of the paper sensors 6a to 6c outputs a signal indicating the presence or absence of the paper P at the detection positions 6ax to 6cx. When the paper P is present at the detection positions 6ax to 6cx, the ON signal is obtained. Outputs an OFF signal. Each detection position 6ax-6cx is defined in the downstream end part of the individual part of the said path | route R1x-R3x.

  The downstream transport mechanism 20y is configured to transport the paper P transported from the respective recording modules 50a to 50c to the paper receiving unit 4, and includes roller pairs 25a to 25d and guides 26a to 26d. Each roller pair 25a-25d includes two rollers in contact with each other. One roller of each of the roller pairs 25a to 25d is a driving roller that rotates by driving of the downstream conveyance motor 20yM (see FIG. 3) under the control of the control unit 100. The other roller of the roller pairs 25a to 25d is a driven roller that rotates as the one roller rotates. In each of the roller pairs 25a to 25d, one roller and the other roller rotate in opposite directions while sandwiching the paper P. Each guide 26a-26d includes a pair of guide plates spaced apart from each other in the thickness direction. A downstream path including paths R1y to R3y is formed by the space between the pair of guide plates of each guide 26a to 26d and the contact point between the rollers of each roller pair 25a to 25d.

  Each of the paths R1y to R3y extends from the downstream end of the in-module paths Ra to Rc of the recording modules 50a to 50c to the sheet receiving unit 4. The paths R1y and R2y extend from different recording modules 50a and 50b, merge at the merge position B1, and have a common portion from the merge position B1 to the sheet receiving portion 4. The paths R2y and R3y extend from different recording modules 50b and 50c, merge at the merge position B2, and have a common part from the merge position B2 to the sheet receiving portion 4.

  Focusing on each path, the path R1y includes one merging position B1 and an individual part that is not shared with any other path from the recording module 50a to the merging position B1, and the sheet receiving section from the merging position B1. 4 and the common part shared by routes R2y and R3y up to 4. The path R2y includes two merging positions B1 and B2, and is shared with an individual part that is not shared with any other path from the recording module 50b to the merging position B2, and with the path R3y from the merging position B2 to the merging position B1. And common portions shared by the paths R1y and R3y from the merging position B1 to the sheet receiving portion 4 are included. The path R3y includes two merging positions B1 and B2, and is shared with the individual part that is not shared with any other path from the recording module 50c to the merging position B2, and with the path R2y from the merging position B2 to the merging position B1. And common portions shared by the paths R1y and R2y from the merging position B1 to the sheet receiving portion 4 are included.

  The cover 1b is attached so as to be movable (rotatable) with respect to the housing 1a around a shaft 1bx along the vertical direction, and the recording modules 50a to 50c are exposed to the outside of the housing 1a. An open position (a position indicated by an alternate long and short dash line in FIG. 1) that allows the movement of the recording modules 50a to 50c with respect to the casing 1a, and a movement of the recording modules 50a to 50c relative to the casing 1a covering the recording modules 50a to 50c It is possible to selectively take a closed position (a position indicated by a solid line in FIG. 1) to be disabled. The recording modules 50a to 50c are moved and detached from the housing 1a while the cover 1b is held in the open position. In the vertical direction, the length Hb of the cover 1b is equal to or greater than the entire length H of the recording modules 50a to 50c. Further, the cover 1b is provided with components other than the roller pair 25d among the components of the downstream transport mechanism 20y.

  The recording modules 50a to 50c are arranged side by side in the vertical direction. In other words, the housing 1a supports the recording modules 50a to 50c in parallel in the vertical direction. In the vertical direction, among the recording modules 50 a to 50 c, the recording module 50 a is located farthest from the paper storage unit 3 and closest to the paper receiving unit 4. In the vertical direction, among the recording modules 50 a to 50 c, the recording module 50 c is located closest to the paper storage unit 3 and farthest from the paper receiving unit 4.

  In the present embodiment, the vertical direction is a direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction. The sub-scanning direction is parallel to the horizontal plane and parallel to the downstream portion of the paths R1x to R3x, the intra-module paths Ra to Rc, and the upstream part of the paths R1y to R3y. The main scanning direction is a direction parallel to the horizontal plane and orthogonal to the sub-scanning direction.

  The recording modules 50 a to 50 c have the same configuration, and each includes a module housing 5, an inkjet head (hereinafter simply referred to as “head”) 51, a carriage 52, and carriage movement accommodated in the module housing 5. A mechanism 52x, a module transport mechanism 53, a platen 54 (see FIGS. 2A to 2C), an ink storage portion 57, and a substrate 58 are included. The head 51, the carriage 52, and the carriage moving mechanism 52x correspond to a “recording unit for ejecting liquid (ink) and recording an image on a recording medium (paper P)” according to the present invention.

  The head 51 is a serial type and is supported on the housing 1 a via a carriage 52. The upper surface of the head 51 is fixed to the carriage 52, and the lower surface of the head 51 is an ejection surface 51a in which a plurality of ejection ports 51b (see FIG. 2A) are opened. Under the control of the control unit 100, ink is ejected from the ejection port 51b at a desired timing, whereby an image is recorded on the paper P. In FIG. 2 (a), the ejection port 51b which is below the carriage 52 and should be indicated by a dotted line is drawn by a solid line.

  As shown in FIGS. 2A to 2C, the carriage moving mechanism 52x includes guides 52g1, 52g2, pulleys 52p1, 52p2, a belt 52b, and a carriage motor 52M. The guides 52g1 and 52g2 have a rectangular shape when viewed from the vertical direction, and are separated from each other in the sub-scanning direction. The guides 52g1 and 52g2 sandwich the upper portion of the head 51, and support both ends of the carriage 52 in the sub scanning direction so as to be slidable in the main scanning direction. The pulleys 52p1 and 52p2 are rotatably supported at one end and the other end of the guide 52g2 in the main scanning direction, respectively. The pulleys 52p1 and 52p2 have the same diameter and are disposed at the same position in the sub-scanning direction. The belt 52b is an endless belt spanned around the pulleys 52p1 and 52p2, and travels with the rotation of the pulleys 52p1 and 52p2. The carriage 52 is fixed to the belt 52b. The carriage motor 52M has a cylindrical shape elongated in the vertical direction, and is fixed to the lower surface of the guide 52g2. The rotation shaft of the carriage motor 52M is attached to the pulley 52p1 and extends in the vertical direction. The pulley 52p1 is a drive pulley, and rotates forward and backward by driving the carriage motor 52M under the control of the control unit 100. Along with this, the belt 52b travels. The pulley 52p2 is a driven pulley and rotates as the belt 52b travels. With the operation of each part of the carriage moving mechanism 52x, the carriage 52 reciprocates in the main scanning direction while supporting the head 51.

  The module transport mechanism 53 is configured to intermittently transport the paper P in the transport direction D (direction parallel to the sub-scanning direction) along the in-module paths Ra to Rc, and the roller pairs 53a and 53b and the module A conveyance motor 53M (see FIG. 3) is included. The roller pair 53a is disposed upstream of the head 51 in the transport direction D. The roller pair 53b is disposed downstream of the head 51 in the transport direction D. Each roller pair 53a, 53b includes two rollers in contact with each other. One roller of each of the roller pairs 53a and 53b is a driving roller that is rotated by driving the module transport motor 53M under the control of the control unit 100. The other roller of each roller pair 53a, 53b is a driven roller that rotates as the one roller rotates. In each of the roller pairs 53a and 53b, one roller and the other roller rotate in opposite directions while sandwiching the paper P. As a result, the paper P is transported in the transport direction D. The in-module paths Ra to Rc are formed so as to pass through positions facing the discharge surface 51a by contact points between the rollers of the roller pairs 53a and 53b.

  The platen 54 is disposed between the roller pair 53a and 53b and at a position facing the discharge surface 51a. The upper surface of the platen 54 is a support surface 54a for supporting the paper P, and forms a gap suitable for recording with the ejection surface 51a.

  The roller pairs 53 a and 53 b and the platen 54 are supported by a pair of flanges 56. The pair of flanges 56 extend in the sub scanning direction and are separated from each other in the main scanning direction.

  The ink storage unit 57 stores ink and communicates with the atmosphere. Further, the ink containing portion 57 communicates with the head 51 via a tube (not shown). The ink stored in the ink storage unit 57 is supplied to the head 51 through a tube by driving an ink supply pump 57P (see FIG. 3) under the control of the control unit 100. The ink storage portion 57 corresponds to a “liquid storage portion” according to the present invention, is formed inseparably from the recording modules 50a to 50c, and is not detachable from the recording modules 50a to 50c. When the ink storage unit 57 is supported by the recording modules 50a to 50c, the user cannot replenish the ink storage unit 57 with ink. Further, the ink supply pump 57P corresponds to a “discharge recovery unit” according to the present invention, and is a purge for recovering the discharge operation of the head 51 (applying pressure to the ink in the head 51 from the plurality of discharge ports 51b. It is driven when the ink is discharged).

  A memory 58M (see FIG. 3) is mounted on the substrate 58. The memory 58M may store information (such as date of manufacture) unique to the recording modules 50a to 50c.

  As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the module housing 5 has four side walls 5w1 to 5w4, an upper wall 5w5, and a lower wall 5w6. In a state where the recording modules 50a to 50c are supported by the housing 1a, the side walls 5w1 and 5w2 extend in the vertical direction and the main scanning direction, the side walls 5w3 and 5w4 extend in the vertical direction and the sub scanning direction, and the upper wall 5w5 and lower wall 5w6 extend in the horizontal direction. The side wall 5w1 is disposed downstream of the roller pair 53a in the transport direction D, and the side wall 5w2 is disposed upstream of the roller pair 53a in the transport direction D.

  The recording modules 50a to 50c can be individually moved along the transport direction D with respect to the housing 1a, and can be attached to and detached from the housing 1a. The recording modules 50a to 50c are moved or detached from the casing 1a by the user, for example, when performing jam processing, replacing the recording modules 50a to 50c themselves or their components (substrate 58). As described above, the ink storage unit 57 is not detachable from the recording modules 50a to 50c. Therefore, when the ink containing portion 57 becomes empty, the user replaces the recording modules 50a to 50c.

  The recording modules 50a to 50c are mounted on the casing 1a so that the paper P can be supplied from the paths R1x to R3x to the in-module paths Ra to Rc in a state where the recording modules 50a to 50c are supported by the casing 1a (solid lines in FIG. 1). 4 and FIG. 5 (see recording modules 50a and 50b), and a drawing position (one point in FIG. 1) that is the furthest away from the mounting position in the transport direction D along the movement paths Rxa to Rxc parallel to the transport direction D. A position indicated by a chain line (refer to the recording module 50c in FIGS. 4 and 5). When the recording modules 50a to 50c are in the mounting position, the roller pairs 53a and 53b are both disposed inside the housing 1a. When the recording modules 50a to 50c are in the extraction position, both the roller pairs 53a and 53b are in the housing. It is arranged outside the body 1a. Each of the recording modules 50a to 50c is movable in the transport direction D within the region of the cover 1b in the open position indicated by the one-dot chain line in FIG. 1, and when in the pull-out position, the recording modules 50a to 50c are more transported than the cover 1b in the open position. Does not protrude downstream of D.

  In addition, movement and attachment / detachment with respect to the housing | casing 1a of each recording module 50a-50c are each performed by canceling | releasing regulation.

  The movement of the recording modules 50a to 50c along the conveyance direction D with respect to the housing 1a is performed by a pair of movable members 5x (see FIGS. 4 and 5) provided on the side walls 5w3 and 5w4 of the recording modules 50a to 50c. The casing 1a is regulated by contact with a pair of position regulating sections (not shown) provided for the recording modules 50a to 50c. The restriction is released by pulling the pair of movement restriction releasing members 5z provided on the side wall 5w1 in the transport direction D. Each movable member 5x is rotatable about an axis 5xa along a direction orthogonal to the side walls 5w3 and 5w4, and is orthogonal to the side walls 5w3 and 5w4 at the other end opposite to one end where the axis 5xa is provided. A projection 5xb projecting in the direction of turning. The protrusions 5xb and the protrusions of the position restricting portion come into contact with each other while facing the conveyance direction D, so that the movement of the recording modules 50a to 50c along the conveyance direction D with respect to the housing 1a is restricted. When the movement restriction release member 5z is pulled in the transport direction D, the movable member 5x rotates about the shaft 5xa, and the protrusion 5xb is separated from the protrusion of the position restricting portion and does not face the protrusion in the transport direction D. The restriction on the movement of the recording modules 50a to 50c along the conveyance direction D with respect to the housing 1a is released. The recording modules 50a to 50c are pulled out from the casing 1a by moving the recording modules 50a to 50c in the transport direction D in a state where the restriction is released in this manner, and the recording modules 50a to 50c are moved in the transport direction D. The recording modules 50a to 50c are accommodated in the housing 1a. When the recording modules 50a to 50c pulled out from the housing 1a are accommodated in the housing 1a and the recording modules 50a to 50c reach the mounting position, the movable member 5x again carries the protrusion 5xb and the protrusion of the position restricting portion. It is arranged at a position where it abuts while facing the direction D.

  Each of the recording modules 50a to 50c moves with respect to the casing 1a in a state where the side walls 5w3 and 5w4 are supported by a pair of movable rails 11 provided for the recording module 50a to 50c in the casing 1a (FIG. 4). And FIG. 5).

  The housing 1a is provided with the pair of movable rails 11 and the pair of fixed rails 1m for each of the recording modules 50a to 50c. Each fixed rail 1m extends along the transport direction D and is fixed to the housing 1a. Each movable rail 1l extends along the transport direction D and is supported by the fixed rail 1m so as to be movable in a direction parallel to the transport direction D. When the recording modules 50a to 50c move relative to the housing 1a, the movable rail 11 moves relative to the fixed rail 1m while supporting the recording modules 50a to 50c.

  Each recording module 50a to 50c is attached to or detached from the housing 1a by an engagement member provided on one of the side walls 5w3 and 5w4 provided on one of the pair of movable rails 1l facing the one side wall 11. It is regulated by engaging with the formed hole (not shown). In other words, the recording modules 50a to 50c are detachably supported by the pair of movable rails 11. The restriction is released by retracting the engaging member from the hole.

  As shown in FIG. 4, openings 5a and 5b are provided in the side wall 5w1 and the upper wall 5w5 of the recording modules 50a to 50c. At the time of jam processing, the user places the recording modules 50a to 50c in the pull-out position, or removes the recording modules 50a to 50c from the housing 1a to remove the jammed paper P from the openings 5a and 5b. Can be taken out.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 5, a connector 5p and a pair of recesses 5q are provided on the side wall 5w2 of each of the recording modules 50a to 50c. The housing 1a is provided with a facing portion 1ax facing the side wall 5w2 of the recording module at the mounting position for each of the recording modules 50a to 50c. Each facing portion 1ax is provided with a connector 1p and a pair of convex portions (not shown). By inserting the pair of convex portions into the pair of concave portions 5q, the recording modules 50a to 50c are positioned in the vertical direction and the main scanning direction with respect to the housing 1a.

  The connector 1p is provided with a power output terminal 1p1 and a contact 1p2 shown in FIG. The connector 5p is provided with a power input terminal 5p1 and a contact 5p2. The power output terminal 1p1 is electrically connected to a power source 150 disposed in the housing 1a, and outputs power supplied from the power source 150. The power input terminal 5p1 is electrically connected to elements (head 51, carriage motor 52M, module transport motor 53M, ink supply pump 57P, and memory 58M) that require power supply in the recording modules 50a to 50c, and outputs power. The electric power input via the power output terminal 1p1 when electrically connected to the terminal 1p1 is supplied to the element.

  When the recording modules 50a to 50c are in the mounting position, the connectors 1p and 5p are engaged. At this time, the power output terminal 1p1 and the power input terminal 5p1 are in contact with each other and are electrically connected, and power is supplied from the power source 150 to each of the elements via the power output terminal 1p1 and the power input terminal 5p1. Yes. At this time, the contacts 1p2 and 5p2 are in contact with each other and are electrically connected, and signals can be transmitted and received between the recording modules 50a to 50c and the control unit 100 in the housing 1a. .

  When the recording modules 50a to 50c move from the mounting position to the drawing position, the connectors 1p and 5p are disengaged. At this time, the power output terminal 1p1 and the power input terminal 5p1 are separated from each other, and the electrical connection between the power output terminal 1p1 and the power input terminal 5p1 is released, so that power is not supplied to each of the above elements. At this time, the contacts 1p2 and 5p2 are separated from each other, and transmission / reception of signals between the recording modules 50a to 50c and the control unit 100 in the housing 1a becomes impossible.

  When the recording modules 50a to 50c are detached from the housing 1a, the connectors 1p and 5p are disengaged, and the power output terminal 1p1 and the power input terminal 5p1 are not separated from each other and electrically connected. Therefore, power is not supplied to the above elements. At this time, the contacts 1p2 and 5p2 are separated from each other, and transmission / reception of signals between the recording modules 50a to 50c and the control unit 100 in the housing 1a is impossible.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the control unit 100 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) 104, An I / F (Interface) 105 and an I / O (Input / Output Port) 106 are included. The ROM 102 stores fixed data such as a program executed by the CPU 101. The RAM 103 temporarily stores data (such as image data) necessary for the CPU 101 to execute the program. The ASIC 104 performs rewriting and rearrangement of image data (for example, signal processing and image processing). The I / F 105 transmits / receives data to / from an external device (for example, a PC connected to the printer 1). The I / O 106 transmits and receives signals to and from various sensors. The CPU 101 is electrically connected to each unit other than the CPU 101 included in the control unit 100, and performs control based on data received from each unit.

  The CPU 101 corresponds to a “control unit” according to the present invention. The ROM 102 and the RAM 103 correspond to a “storage unit” according to the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the ROM 102 stores “initial value A0 of recordable sheet number A” and “threshold value T of ink discharge amount per sheet” of each of the recording modules 50a to 50c. The “recordable sheet number A” is a usage limit (hereinafter, referred to as any one of the recording module (head 51, carriage 52, and carriage moving mechanism 52x), module conveyance mechanism 53, and ejection recovery unit (ink supply pump 57P) of the recording module. This is referred to as the “recording module usage limit”). The “recordable number A” decreases with the operation of the recording module. “Initial value A0” is the deterioration of at least the recording unit, the module transport mechanism, and the discharge recovery unit of the recording module accompanying the operation of the recording module (for example, wear of the sliding portion of the carriage moving mechanism 52x accompanying the reciprocating movement of the carriage 52) In addition, fatigue of a tube communicating the ink storage portion 57 and the head 51, wear of the discharge surface 51a accompanying wiping, deterioration of the roller pairs 53a and 53b of the module transport mechanism 53 accompanying recording, deterioration of the ink supply pump 57P accompanying purging Etc.) is set.

  The RAM 103 stores “recorded number X” and “ink remaining amount Y” of the recording modules 50a to 50c. “Recorded number X” refers to the number of sheets P recorded by the recording module, and “operation history information of at least the recording unit of the recording module, the module transport mechanism 53, and the discharge recovery unit” according to the present invention. It corresponds to. “Ink remaining amount Y” refers to the amount of ink remaining in the ink containing portion 57. The “recorded number X” increases with the operation of the recording module, and the “ink remaining amount Y” decreases with the operation of the recording module. The ink remaining amount Y may be stored in the RAM 103 by subtracting the ink discharge amount for each recording from the ink full amount in the ink containing portion 57.

  From “recorded number X”, “recordable number A” can be calculated. In other words, “recordable sheet number A” is obtained by subtracting “recorded sheet number X” from “initial value A0” (A = A0−X).

  From “ink remaining amount Y”, “recordable number B” can be calculated. “Recordable number of sheets B” refers to the number of sheets of paper P that can be recorded by the recording unit before the ink storage unit 57 runs out of ink, assuming that recording based on a predetermined standard is performed by the recording module. Here, the “predetermined standard” is a “predetermined standard relating to liquid ejection from the recording unit” (for example, ISO / IEC 24711). The “recordable number B” decreases as ink is ejected from the recording unit.

  That is, the RAM 103 stores information relating to “recordable number B” and information relating to “recordable number A” (information relating to B / A) of each of the recording modules 50a to 50c.

  In the present embodiment, when the initial value of the recordable number B is B0, each of the recording modules 50a to 50c is configured to satisfy A0 ≦ B0.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 7, the use limit handling control for each of the recording modules 50a to 50c executed by the CPU 101 will be described. The routine shown in FIG. 7 is performed in parallel for each of the recording modules 50a to 50c.

  First, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the use limit of the recording module has been reached (S1). S1 corresponds to the “determination process” according to the present invention. When the recordable sheet number A (= initial value A0−recorded sheet number X) = 0, the CPU 101 determines that the use limit of the recording module has been reached (S1: YES).

  When determining that the use limit of the recording module has not been reached (S1: NO), the CPU 101 sets the use prohibition flag of the recording module to “0” (S2). After S2, the CPU 101 returns the process to S1. When it is determined that the usage limit of the recording module has been reached (S1: YES), the CPU 101 sets the usage prohibition flag of the recording module to “1” (S3).

  The use prohibition flag is used in paper conveyance control (FIG. 8) described later. When the use prohibition flag is “0”, use is permitted (that is, paper can be conveyed to the recording module). When the use prohibition flag is “1”, the use is prohibited (that is, the sheet cannot be conveyed to the recording module).

  After S3, the CPU 101 displays that the use limit of the recording module has been reached on the display 7 (see FIG. 3) provided in the printer 1 (S4). After S4, the CPU 101 ends the routine.

  S3 and S4 correspond to the “notification process” according to the present invention.

  Next, the conveyance control of the paper P with respect to the recording modules 50a to 50c executed by the CPU 101 will be described with reference to FIG.

  In the present embodiment, when recording is continuously performed on a plurality of sheets P, the sheets P are conveyed in order from the top (in a predetermined order) (that is, n = 3m + 1 (m is an integer of 0 or more). ) The first sheet P is conveyed to the first recording module 50a from the top, and n = 3m + second sheet P is conveyed to the second recording module 50b from the top, and n = 3m + third sheet P. Is transported to the recording module 50c at the third stage from the top). However, the order may be changed by the following control.

  First, the CPU 101 determines whether or not a recording command has been received from an external device (S21). If it is determined that the recording command has not been received (S21: NO), the CPU 101 repeats the process of S21. When it is determined that the recording command has been received (S21: YES), the CPU 101 sets “n = 0” and “k = 1” (S22). “N” means a page number, and “k” means a “k” level recording module from the top. After S22, the CPU 101 sets “n = n + 1” (S23). After S23, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the use prohibition flag of the k-th recording module from the top is set to “0” (S24).

  When it is determined that the use prohibition flag of the kth recording module from the top is not set to “0” (S24: NO), the CPU 101 sets “k = k + 1” (S25). After S25, the CPU 101 determines whether or not k> 3 (S26). In this embodiment, since there is no recording module corresponding to k> 3, when it is determined that k> 3 (S26: YES), the CPU 101 sets “k = 1” (S27). When it is determined that k> 3 is not satisfied (S26: NO), or after S27, the CPU 101 returns the process to S24.

  When it is determined that the use prohibition flag of the k-th recording module from the top is set to “0” (S24: YES), the CPU 101 stores the ink discharge amount for the nth sheet P in the ROM 102. It is determined whether the threshold value T is exceeded (S28). When it is determined that the ink ejection amount for the nth sheet P exceeds the threshold T (S28: YES), the CPU 101 determines that the k-th recording module from the top is the recording module 50a based on the information stored in the RAM 103. It is determined whether or not B / A is the smallest module (B / A minimum module) among ˜50c (S29). When it is determined that the ink ejection amount for the nth sheet P does not exceed the threshold T (below the threshold T) (S28: NO), the CPU 101 records k-th level from the top based on the information stored in the RAM 103. It is determined whether or not the module is the module having the largest B / A (B / A maximum module) among the recording modules 50a to 50c (S30).

  Note that the value of B / A varies with the operation of the recording module. In each step of S29 and S30, the CPU 101 obtains the latest B / A based on the information stored in the RAM 103 at that time and makes a determination.

  When it is determined that the kth recording module from the top is the B / A minimum module (S29: YES), or when it is determined that the kth recording module from the top is the B / A maximum module (S30) : YES), the CPU 101 shifts the processing to S25. Here, S28: YES → S29: YES → S25 corresponds to the “high duty skip processing” according to the present invention. S28: NO → S30: YES → S25 corresponds to the “low duty skip process” according to the present invention.

  When it is determined that the k-th recording module from the top is not the B / A minimum module (S29: NO), or when it is determined that the k-th recording module from the top is not the B / A maximum module (S30: NO) The CPU 101 controls the switching motors 28aM and 28bM and the upstream transport motor 20xM so that the paper P is transported to the k-th recording module from the top (S31). After S31, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the recording based on the recording command received in S21 is completed (S32). When determining that the recording is completed (S32: YES), the CPU 101 ends the routine. When it is determined that the recording has not been completed (S32: NO), the CPU 101 sets “k = k + 1” (S33). After S33, the CPU 101 determines whether or not k> 3 (S34). In this embodiment, since there is no recording module corresponding to k> 3, when it is determined that k> 3 (S34: YES), the CPU 101 sets “k = 1” (S35). When it is determined that k> 3 is not satisfied (S34: NO), or after S35, the CPU 101 returns the process to S23.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, each of the recording modules 50a to 50c supported so as to be detachable with respect to the housing 1a has the recordable number A (at least the recording unit (head of the recording modules 50a to 50c) (head). 51, the carriage 52 and the carriage moving mechanism 52x), the module transport mechanism 53, and the discharge recovery unit (ink supply pump 57P) until the use limit is reached, the initial value A0. However, the number of recordable sheets B (the number of sheets of paper P that can be recorded by the recording unit before the ink storage unit 57 runs out of ink, assuming that recording based on a predetermined standard is performed by the recording modules 50a to 50c). The initial value is B0 or less (that is, A0 ≦ B0). Therefore, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the ink storage unit 57 becomes empty and the recording modules 50a to 50c need to be replaced when the use limit of the recording modules 50a to 50c has not been reached.

  In a configuration in which a plurality of recording modules 50a to 50c are detachably supported on the housing 1a, the CPU 101 executes high duty skip processing (S28: YES → S29: YES → S25 in FIG. 8), thereby recording. B / A is equalized in the modules 50a to 50c. In addition, the relationship between A and B of the recording module that satisfies A> B in the process of use approaches A ≦ B. Thereby, the said situation can be avoided more reliably.

  Further, the CPU 101 executes the low duty skip process (S28: NO → S30: YES → S25 in FIG. 8), thereby further promoting the equalization of B / A in the recording modules 50a to 50c. Can be avoided more reliably.

  In the notification process performed when it is determined that the use limit of the recording module has been reached, the CPU 101 prohibits the conveyance of the paper P to the recording module (S3 in FIG. 7). According to the above configuration, recording defects can be suppressed. Further, when a plurality of recording modules 50a to 50c are individually detachably supported on the housing 1a as in the present embodiment, recording can be continued using a recording module other than the recording module.

  Next, a printer according to a second embodiment of the invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10. The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the information stored in the ROM 102 and the content of the sheet conveyance control executed by the CPU 101, and is otherwise the same as the first embodiment.

  In the present embodiment, the ROM 102, as shown in FIG. 9, “the initial value A0 of the recordable sheet number A” of each of the recording modules 50a to 50c, “B / A and the threshold value T of the ink discharge amount per sheet of paper”. Is stored in a table associated with "." In the table, “B / A” is classified in stages, and a smaller threshold value T (T1 <T2 <T3 <T4) is associated with a smaller “B / A”. From the table stored in the ROM 102 and the information regarding the B / A of each of the recording modules 50 a to 50 c stored in the RAM 103, a threshold value T determined for each of the recording modules 50 a to 50 c is obtained.

  S51 to S63 performed by the CPU 101 in the sheet conveyance control in the present embodiment are different from S21 to S35 performed by the CPU 101 in the sheet conveyance control in the first embodiment only in that S58 is performed without performing S28 to S30. Except for the same.

  In S28 of the first embodiment, “the threshold T common to all the recording modules 50a to 50c” is used, whereas in S58 of the present embodiment, “the threshold T defined for each recording module 50a to 50c” is used. (That is, an individual threshold value T for each of the recording modules 50a to 50c). In S <b> 58, the CPU 101 applies the B / A determined for the recording module to the table stored in the ROM 102, and acquires the threshold T dedicated to the recording module. Then, the CPU 101 determines whether the ink ejection amount for the nth sheet P exceeds the threshold T using the acquired threshold T dedicated to the recording module. If it is determined that the ink ejection amount for the nth sheet P exceeds the threshold T (S58: YES), the CPU 101 moves the process to S55, and the sheet P is conveyed to a recording module different from the recording module. Like that. When it is determined that the ink ejection amount for the nth sheet P does not exceed the threshold T (below the threshold T) (S58: NO), the CPU 101 moves the process to S59, and the sheet P is conveyed to the recording module. Like that. Here, S58: YES → S55 corresponds to the “individual high duty skip processing” according to the present invention.

  Note that the value of B / A varies with the operation of the recording module. In step S58, the CPU 101 obtains the latest B / A based on the information stored in the RAM 103 at that time, and makes a determination.

  As described above, according to this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained in addition to the same effects by the same configuration as that of the first embodiment.

  In a configuration in which a plurality of recording modules 50a to 50c are detachably supported on the housing 1a, the CPU 101 executes the individual high duty skip process (S58: YES → S55 in FIG. 10), whereby the recording modules 50a to 50c are executed. B / A is equalized at 50c. In addition, the relationship between A and B of the recording module that satisfies A> B in the process of use approaches A ≦ B. Thereby, the said situation can be avoided more reliably.

  Next, a printer according to a third embodiment of the invention will be described. The third embodiment is the same as the second embodiment except for the configuration of the recording modules 50a to 50c, the information stored in the RAM 103, and the content of the sheet conveyance control executed by the CPU 101.

  In the third embodiment, the heads 51 of the recording modules 50a to 50c include four heads 511 to 514 that eject inks of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black, as shown in FIG. The ink storage unit 57 includes four storage units 571 to 574 that store ink supplied to the heads 511 to 514. The carriage 52 reciprocates in the main scanning direction while supporting the four heads 511 to 514.

  In the third embodiment, the RAM 103 stores “recorded number X” of the recording modules 50 a to 50 c and “ink remaining amount Y” of the storage units 571 to 574 in the recording modules 50 a to 50 c. From the “ink remaining amount Y” of each of the storage units 571 to 574, the “recordable number B” for each of the heads 511 to 514 (each color) can be calculated. Further, by applying the B / A for each color to the table stored in the ROM 102 (see FIG. 9), the threshold value determined for each of the heads 511 to 514 (for each color) for each of the recording modules 50a to 50c. T is obtained.

  The sheet conveyance control performed by the CPU 101 in the third embodiment is the same as the sheet conveyance control performed by the CPU 101 in the second embodiment except for the contents of S58.

  In S58 of the present embodiment, the CPU 101 applies the B / A for each head 511 to 514 (for each color) of the recording module to the table (see FIG. 9) stored in the ROM 102, for each color of the recording module. The threshold value T is acquired. Then, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the ink discharge amount for the nth sheet P exceeds the threshold value T using the smallest threshold value among the acquired threshold values T for each color.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained in addition to the same effects by the same configuration as the second embodiment.

  In the printer 1 that records a plurality of colors in each of the recording modules 50a to 50c, the CPU 101 is based on the smallest threshold value among the threshold values T determined for each color in the individual high duty skip process (S58: YES → S55 in FIG. 10). Judge as. In this way, by performing control while focusing on the color having the smallest threshold (that is, the smallest B / A), the above situation can be avoided more reliably and the control can be simplified. .

  Next, a printer according to a fourth embodiment of the invention will be described. The fourth embodiment is the same as the first embodiment except for the configuration of the recording modules 50a to 50c, the information stored in the RAM 103, and the content of the sheet conveyance control executed by the CPU 101, and the rest.

  The configuration of the recording modules 50a to 50c of the fourth embodiment is the same as that of the third embodiment. That is, as shown in FIG. 11, the heads 51 of the recording modules 50a to 50c include four heads 511 to 514 that eject inks of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black. The ink storage unit 57 includes four storage units 571 to 574 that store ink supplied to the heads 511 to 514. The carriage 52 reciprocates in the main scanning direction while supporting the four heads 511 to 514.

  In the fourth embodiment, the RAM 103 stores the “recorded sheet number X” of each of the recording modules 50a to 50c and the “ink remaining amount Y” of the storage unit corresponding to black among the storage units 571 to 574 of the recording modules 50a to 50c. Is memorized. From this “ink remaining amount Y”, the “recordable number B” in black can be calculated. That is, the RAM 103 stores “information regarding B / A of the black recording portion” of each of the recording modules 50a to 50c.

  The sheet conveyance control performed by the CPU 101 in the fourth embodiment is the same as the sheet conveyance control performed by the CPU 101 in the first embodiment except that the contents of S29 and S30 are different.

  In S <b> 29 and S <b> 30 of the present embodiment, the CPU 101 determines that the recording module is the B / A minimum module or B / A based on the “information regarding B / A of the black recording unit” of each recording module 50 a to 50 c stored in the RAM 103. It is determined whether or not it is the A maximum module.

  As described above, according to this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained in addition to the same effects by the same configuration as that of the first embodiment.

  In the printer 1 that records a plurality of colors in each of the recording modules 50a to 50c, the CPU 101 performs control while paying attention to a black recording unit that is assumed to be most frequently used. Thereby, the above situation can be avoided while simplifying the control.

  Subsequently, a printer according to a fifth embodiment of the invention will be described. The fifth embodiment is the same as the second embodiment except for the configuration of the recording modules 50a to 50c, the information stored in the RAM 103, and the content of the sheet conveyance control executed by the CPU 101, and the other aspects.

  The configuration of the recording modules 50a to 50c of the fifth embodiment is the same as that of the third embodiment. That is, as shown in FIG. 11, the heads 51 of the recording modules 50a to 50c include four heads 511 to 514 that eject inks of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black. The ink storage unit 57 includes four storage units 571 to 574 that store ink supplied to the heads 511 to 514. The carriage 52 reciprocates in the main scanning direction while supporting the four heads 511 to 514.

  In the fifth embodiment, the RAM 103 stores the “number of recorded sheets X” of the recording modules 50a to 50c and the “ink remaining amount Y” of the storage unit corresponding to black among the storage units 571 to 574 of the recording modules 50a to 50c. Is memorized. From this “ink remaining amount Y”, the “recordable number B” in black can be calculated. That is, the RAM 103 stores “information regarding B / A of the black recording portion” of each of the recording modules 50a to 50c.

  The sheet conveyance control performed by the CPU 101 in the fifth embodiment is the same as the sheet conveyance control performed by the CPU 101 in the second embodiment except for the contents of S58.

  In S <b> 58 of the present embodiment, the CPU 101 applies “B / A of the black recording portion” determined for the recording modules 50 a to 50 c to the table stored in the ROM 102, and uses the threshold T dedicated to the recording module. To get. Then, the CPU 101 determines whether the ink ejection amount for the nth sheet P exceeds the threshold T using the acquired threshold T dedicated to the recording module.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the following effects can be obtained in addition to the same effects by the same configuration as the second embodiment.

  In the printer 1 that records a plurality of colors in each of the recording modules 50a to 50c, the CPU 101 performs control while paying attention to a black recording unit that is assumed to be most frequently used. Thereby, the above situation can be avoided while simplifying the control.

  Next, a printer according to a modification of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. This modification differs from the first embodiment in the storage information stored in the RAM 103 and the contents of the use limit handling control and the sheet conveyance control executed by the CPU 101, and the rest is the same as in the first embodiment.

  In this modification, the RAM 103 stores the “recorded number X” of each of the recording modules 50a to 50c, but does not need to store the “ink remaining amount Y” (see FIG. 6). That is, the RAM 103 does not have to store information related to the “recordable number B” of each of the recording modules 50a to 50c (further, information related to B / A). However, in the present modification, the RAM 103 stores information related to a recording module that has performed recording in which the ink discharge amount exceeds the threshold T (high duty recording).

  The use limit handling control performed by the CPU 101 in this modification is obtained by omitting S2 and S3 (use prohibition flag setting processing) in the use limit handling control performed by the CPU 101 in the first embodiment.

  In the paper conveyance control of this modification, the CPU 101 first determines whether a recording command has been received from an external device (S81). If it is determined that the recording command has not been received (S81: NO), the CPU 101 repeats the process of S81. When it is determined that the recording command has been received (S81: YES), the CPU 101 sets “n = 0” (S82). “N” means a page number. After S82, the CPU 101 sets “n = n + 1” (S83).

  After S83, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the ink ejection amount for the nth sheet P exceeds the threshold T stored in the ROM 102 (S84). When it is determined that the ink ejection amount for the nth sheet P does not exceed the threshold T (below the threshold T) (S84: NO), the CPU 101 performs recording with high duty recording based on the information stored in the RAM 103. It is determined whether there is a module (S85). If it is determined that there is a recording module that has performed high-duty recording (S85: YES), the CPU 101 performs recording processing that has performed high-duty recording (if there are a plurality of recording modules that have performed high-duty recording, any of them) The switching motors 28aM and 28bM and the upstream transport motor 20xM are controlled so that the paper P is transported to the module) (S86). If it is determined that there is no recording module that has performed high duty recording (S85: NO), the CPU 101 controls the switching motors 28aM and 28bM and the upstream transport motor 20xM so that the paper P is transported to an arbitrary recording module. (S87).

  If it is determined that the ink ejection amount for the nth sheet P exceeds the threshold T (S84: YES), the CPU 101 determines whether there is a recording module that has performed high-duty recording based on the information stored in the RAM 103. Is determined (S88). If it is determined that there is no recording module that has performed high-duty recording (S88: NO), the CPU 101 moves the process to S87, and the switching motors 28aM, 28bM and upstream so that the paper P is conveyed to an arbitrary recording module. The conveyance motor 20xM is controlled.

  If it is determined that there is a recording module that has performed high duty recording (S88: YES), the CPU 101 determines whether there is a recording module that has not performed high duty recording (S89). If it is determined that there is a recording module that does not perform high-duty recording (S89: YES), the CPU 101 moves the process to S86 and performs recording processing that does not perform high-duty recording (a recording module that does not perform high-duty recording). The switching motors 28aM and 28bM and the upstream transport motor 20xM are controlled so that the paper P is transported to any module in the case where there are a plurality of them. If it is determined that there is no recording module that does not perform high duty recording (S89: NO), the CPU 101 moves the process to S87, and the switching motors 28aM and 28bM and the recording motor P are transported to an arbitrary recording module. The upstream conveyance motor 20xM is controlled.

  After S86 or after S87, the CPU 101 determines whether or not the recording based on the recording command received in S81 is completed (S90). If it is determined that the recording has been completed (S90: YES), the CPU 101 ends the routine. When determining that the recording is not completed (S90: NO), the CPU 101 returns the process to S83.

  The preferred embodiments and modifications of the present invention have been described above, but the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments and modifications, and various design changes are possible as long as they are described in the claims. It is a thing.

The “operation history information” is not limited to the recorded number X, but is information that can calculate the recorded number X (for example, history such as the number of reciprocating head movements, the amount of liquid ejection, the number of purges, the number of wipes, the number of humidifications, etc. Information). That is, the “operation” in the “operation history information” is not limited to the recording operation, and may be an operation related to ejection recovery (for example, purge, wipe, humidification, etc.). The “operation history information” may be the recordable sheet number A.
-In 2nd and 5th embodiment, the table with which B / A and the threshold value were matched is memorize | stored in the memory | storage part, and a control part applies B / A to the said table, and acquires a threshold value. It is not limited to. For example, a calculation formula that can calculate the threshold value from B / A is stored in the storage unit, and the control unit may calculate the threshold value by applying B / A to the calculation formula.
The notification process does not include prohibiting the conveyance of the recording medium to the recording module, and may simply notify the user. Notification to the user may be performed via an output unit (for example, a light emitting unit, an image output unit such as a display, or an audio output unit such as a speaker) provided in the recording module.
The control contents by the control unit are not limited to those described above, and the control unit performs arbitrary processing as long as the control unit executes determination processing and notification processing and is configured to satisfy A0 ≦ B0. It's okay. For example, the control unit performs high duty skip processing, low duty skip processing, individual high duty skip processing, and the like for the first page when the recording medium is transported to a plurality of recording modules in a predetermined order. Thereafter, the recording module that has transported the first page may be transported in a predetermined order.
-The memory | storage part does not need to memorize | store the information regarding B (information regarding B / A) (refer the said modification).
A storage unit provided in the recording module may store the operation history information and the initial value A0.
The drawing direction of the recording module from the housing is not limited to the transport direction, and may be a direction (for example, main scanning direction) orthogonal to the transport direction. Further, the attaching / detaching direction of the recording module with respect to the housing is not particularly limited (for example, the conveying direction may be used), and may be the same as or different from the drawing direction.
In the above-described embodiment, the configuration is such that the recording module is pulled out from the housing and disposed at the drawing position, and then the recording module is attached to and detached from the housing.
The number of recording modules included in the recording apparatus is arbitrary and may be one.
The recording unit is not limited to a serial type and may be a line type.
-The discharge recovery unit is not limited to a pump, but a cap that seals the discharge surface to prevent drying of the discharge port, a waste liquid tank that receives the liquid discharged by the purge, and a humidification mechanism for humidifying the vicinity of the discharge surface Etc.
-Both a conveyance mechanism and a module conveyance mechanism are not limited to the structure containing the roller pair rotated while pinching | interposing a recording medium, The structure containing the belt which drive | works while supporting a recording medium on the surface may be sufficient.
The liquid stored in the liquid storage unit is not limited to ink, and may be a treatment liquid that aggregates or deposits components in the ink.
-The recording module may not support the substrate.
The recording apparatus is not limited to a printer, and may be a facsimile, a copier, a multifunction machine, or the like.
The recording medium is not limited to paper, and may be cloth.

1 Inkjet printer (recording device)
1a Case 3 Paper storage part (recording medium storage part)
20x Upstream transport mechanism (transport mechanism)
50a-50c Recording module 51 Inkjet head (recording unit)
51b Discharge port 52 Carriage (recording part)
52x carriage movement mechanism (recording unit)
53 Module transport mechanism 57 Ink container (liquid container)
57P Ink supply pump (discharge recovery part)
101 CPU (control unit)
102 ROM (storage unit)
103 RAM (storage unit)
511-514 Inkjet head (recording unit)
571-574 Ink container (liquid container)
P paper (recording medium)

Claims (7)

A recording unit for recording an image on a recording medium by discharging liquid, a module conveying mechanism for conveying the recording medium to a position facing the recording unit, and an ejection recovery unit for recovering the ejection operation of the recording unit And a recording module for supporting a liquid container for containing the liquid, wherein the recording module is inseparably formed with the liquid container;
A recording medium accommodating portion for accommodating the recording medium;
A housing that detachably supports the recording module;
A transport mechanism that is provided in the housing and transports a recording medium from the recording medium housing unit to the recording module;
Operation history information of at least one of the recording unit, the module transport mechanism, and the discharge recovery unit of the recording module, and use of at least the recording unit, the module transport mechanism, and the discharge recovery unit of the recording module A storage unit that stores an initial value A0 of the number A of recording media that can be recorded by the recording unit before reaching the limit and that decreases as the recording module operates;
Whether or not the use limit of at least one of the recording unit, the module transport mechanism, and the discharge recovery unit of the recording module has been reached based on the operation history information and the initial value A0 stored in the storage unit. A determination process for determining, and in the determination process, when it is determined that the use limit of at least one of the recording unit, the module transport mechanism, and the discharge recovery unit of the recording module is reached, the use limit of the recording module is reached. And a control unit that executes notification processing for notifying that it has been reached,
When it is assumed that recording based on a predetermined standard relating to liquid ejection from the recording unit is performed by the recording unit, the number B of recording media that can be recorded by the recording unit before the liquid in the liquid storage unit runs out. A recording apparatus configured to satisfy A0 ≦ B0, where B0 is an initial value of the number of sheets B that decreases as the liquid is discharged from the recording unit. The housing supports the plurality of recording modules individually and detachably,
The transport mechanism transports a recording medium to each of the plurality of recording modules;
The storage unit further stores information on B / A of each of the plurality of recording modules and a threshold value of a liquid discharge amount for one recording medium,
In the case where the control unit conveys the recording medium to the plurality of recording modules in a predetermined order, the control unit records the recording medium in which the liquid ejection amount exceeds the threshold value, and performs recording with the smallest B / A among the plurality of recording modules. The high-duty skip processing for controlling the transport mechanism can be further executed so that the recording medium is transported to a recording module different from the recording module when the order of transport to the module comes. Item 2. The recording device according to Item 1.   In the case where the control unit conveys the recording medium to the plurality of recording modules in a predetermined order, the control unit has the largest B / A among the plurality of recording modules as the recording medium in which the liquid discharge amount is equal to or less than the threshold. A low-duty skip process for controlling the transport mechanism can be further executed so that the recording medium is transported to a recording module different from the recording module when the order of transport to the recording module is reached. The recording apparatus according to claim 2. The housing supports the plurality of recording modules individually and detachably,
The transport mechanism transports a recording medium to each of the plurality of recording modules;
The storage unit includes information regarding B / A of each of the plurality of recording modules, and a threshold value of a liquid discharge amount for one recording medium defined for each of the plurality of recording modules, where B / A is The threshold value that is set to be smaller as the value is smaller is further stored,
In the case where the control unit transports the recording medium to the plurality of recording modules in a predetermined order, for each of the plurality of recording modules, the liquid discharge amount of the recording medium to be transported to the recording module is It is determined whether or not the threshold value determined for the recording module is exceeded, and when it is determined that the liquid discharge amount exceeds the threshold value, the recording medium is conveyed to a recording module different from the recording module. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: an individual high duty skip process for controlling the transport mechanism. The plurality of recording modules each include a plurality of the recording units having a plurality of ejection ports for ejecting liquids of different colors, and a plurality of liquids that are supplied to each of the plurality of recording units. Supporting the liquid container,
The storage unit stores the threshold value determined for each of the plurality of colors for each of the plurality of recording modules,
5. The recording apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the control unit performs determination based on a smallest threshold among the thresholds determined for each of the plurality of colors in the individual high duty skip processing. The plurality of recording modules respectively support the plurality of recording units, and the plurality of liquid storage units that store liquid supplied to each of the plurality of recording units,
The plurality of recording units include a black recording unit having a plurality of ejection ports for ejecting a black liquid, and a recording unit having a plurality of ejection ports for ejecting a liquid of a color other than black,
The storage unit stores information on B / A of at least the black recording unit among the plurality of recording units in each of the plurality of recording modules,
5. The control unit according to claim 2, wherein, when the recording medium is conveyed to the plurality of recording modules in a predetermined order, the control unit performs determination based on B / A of the black recording unit. The recording apparatus according to item 1.   The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the notification process includes prohibiting conveyance of the recording medium to the recording module.

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