JP2017222130A - Ink-jet recording device and image recording method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an ink-jet recording device which can form a test image more efficiently, and an image recording method.SOLUTION: An ink-jet recording device comprises: an ink jet head provided with a nozzle; an operation reception part which receives an input operation of a user; recording arrangement pattern setting means which sets an arrangement pattern for arranging an adjustment discharge range of an ink, which is in response to at least one of plural kinds of adjustment inspections concerning an ink discharge operation, onto a recording medium with respect to an output range of an output object image which is recorded on the recording medium by a discharge operation of the ink from the nozzle; and discharge control means which causes the ink discharge operation according to said arrangement pattern setting. The recording arrangement pattern setting means can divide at least a part of the adjustment discharge range according to plural kinds of adjustment inspections in response to the received operation into plural blocks and locate the same.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

  The present invention relates to an ink jet recording apparatus and an image recording method.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is an ink jet recording apparatus that records an image on a recording medium by ejecting ink droplets from a nozzle. Inkjet recording apparatuses are also used for large-scale and high-speed image recording for recording media of a wide range of materials and sizes for industrial use and commercial use.

  In such an ink jet recording apparatus, there is a discharge failure in which the direction, speed, or amount of ink discharged from the nozzles is inaccurate, or the balance of the discharge amount among a plurality of nozzles is lost. Deterioration of image quality occurs. On the other hand, a technique for appropriately recording a test image on a recording medium for inspecting whether or not such ejection failure or image quality deterioration has occurred, and determining the presence or absence of deterioration based on the test image There is.

  In Patent Document 1, such a test image is recorded outside the recording area (margin area) of the output target image such as the periphery of the original output target image or a gap between the plurality of output target images. A technique that increases the frequency and does not waste the recording medium is disclosed.

JP 2014-050060 A

  However, while the occurrence of ejection failure occurs sporadically and accidentally, the deterioration of image quality not due to ejection failure gradually proceeds, so the frequency of test images necessary for each detection differs. Further, depending on the content of the output target image and the range of required image quality, there may be cases where detection is not necessary or the frequency of detection can be reduced. That is, when the test image is recorded uniformly, the test image is recorded more than necessary, and the problem is detected, which causes a problem that the efficiency is poor.

  An object of the present invention is to provide an ink jet recording apparatus and an image recording method capable of forming a test image more efficiently.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 1
An inkjet head provided with a nozzle for discharging ink to a recording medium;
An operation accepting unit that accepts user input operations;
Based on the operation content received by the operation receiving unit, at least of a plurality of types of adjustment tests related to the ink discharge operation with respect to the output range of the output target image recorded on the recording medium by the ink discharge operation from the nozzle. A recording arrangement pattern setting means for setting an arrangement pattern for arranging an adjustment discharge range of ink according to one on the recording medium;
Discharge control means for performing the ink discharge operation according to the arrangement pattern setting;
With
The recording arrangement pattern setting means can divide and arrange at least a part of the adjustment discharge range according to the plurality of types of adjustment inspection into a plurality of blocks according to the operation received by the operation reception unit. This is an ink jet recording apparatus.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the ink jet recording apparatus of the first aspect,
A reading unit for reading the surface of the recording medium;
Detecting means for detecting a defect related to the ink ejection operation from reading data by the reading unit of the inspection image recorded in the adjustment ejection range according to the arrangement pattern setting;
Correction means for correcting at least one of the image data of the output target image and the ink ejection operation from the nozzles based on the detection result by the detection means,
The ejection control unit is configured to cause the ink ejection operation to be performed according to the arrangement pattern setting after the correction is performed.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the ink jet recording apparatus according to the second aspect,
The ejection control unit determines whether or not a recording image obtained by the ink ejection operation of the output target image is expected to satisfy a predetermined image quality reference level by the correction. It is characterized by stopping the operation.

The invention according to claim 4 is the ink jet recording apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The recording arrangement pattern setting means can set an output range of the output target image.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the ink jet recording apparatus according to the fourth aspect,
The recording arrangement pattern setting means is characterized in that when the output target image is a combination of a plurality of images, the relative arrangement of the plurality of images can be set.

The invention according to claim 6 is the ink jet recording apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
The recording arrangement pattern setting means can perform a plurality of types of arrangement pattern settings for one output target image, and the plurality of types of arrangement pattern settings can be set based on an operation content by the operation reception unit. Set the selection conditions,
When the output target image is recorded a plurality of times, the ejection control unit selects one of the arrangement pattern settings according to the selection condition for each recording of the output target image, and the one arrangement pattern setting It is characterized in that the ink ejection operation according to the above is performed.

The invention according to claim 7 is the ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 6,
The recording arrangement pattern setting means is characterized in that the plurality of divided blocks can be distributed and arranged in a plurality of types of arrangement pattern settings.

The invention according to claim 8 is the ink jet recording apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
Among the inspection images recorded in the adjustment discharge range according to the adjustment inspection, those that can be divided into the plurality of blocks include a defective nozzle specifying image, a density unevenness detection image, and a color management image. It is characterized by.

The invention according to claim 9 is the ink jet recording apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
The recording arrangement pattern setting means is characterized in that it can perform at least one of reduction, deformation, and rotation on the plurality of divided blocks.

The invention according to claim 10 is the ink jet recording apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9,
A display unit for displaying the set output range of the output target image and the arrangement pattern of the adjusted discharge range;
The recording arrangement pattern setting means receives an operation for correcting the arrangement of the adjustment discharge range displayed on the display unit by the operation receiving unit, and sets an arrangement pattern according to the corrected display. It is said.

The invention according to claim 11 is the ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 10,
Comprising initial setting means for setting an initial arrangement of the adjusted discharge range;
The recording arrangement pattern setting means performs the arrangement pattern setting by accepting an operation for approving or correcting an arrangement pattern setting corresponding to the initial arrangement displayed on the display unit by the operation accepting unit. It is said.

The invention according to claim 12 is the inkjet recording apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11,
The ejection control unit starts the ink ejection operation according to the arrangement pattern setting after the operation accepting unit accepts the operation for determining the arrangement pattern setting.

The invention as set forth in claim 13
An image recording method for an inkjet recording apparatus, comprising: an inkjet head provided with a nozzle that ejects ink to a recording medium; and an operation receiving unit that receives a user's input operation.
Based on the operation content received by the operation receiving unit, at least one of an output range of an output target image recorded on a recording medium by an ink discharge operation from the nozzle and a plurality of types of adjustment inspections related to the ink discharge operation. A recording arrangement pattern setting step for setting an arrangement pattern for arranging an adjustment discharge range of ink corresponding to the recording medium on the recording medium;
An ejection control step for performing the ink ejection operation in accordance with the arrangement pattern setting;
Including
In the recording arrangement pattern setting step, at least a part of the adjustment discharge range corresponding to the plurality of types of adjustment inspection is divided into a plurality of blocks according to the operation received by the operation reception unit, and the plurality of blocks Can be arranged with a positional relationship different from the positional relationship before the division.

  According to the present invention, there is an effect that a test image can be formed more efficiently in the ink jet recording apparatus.

1 is a schematic external view illustrating an overall configuration of an ink jet recording apparatus according to an embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the function structure of an inkjet recording device. It is a figure which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the image on a recording medium. It is a figure which shows the example of arrangement | positioning of the image on a recording medium. It is a figure which shows the example of the output image setting screen displayed on the display screen of a display operation part. It is a figure which shows the example of the output image setting screen displayed on the display screen of a display operation part. It is a figure which shows the example of the output image setting screen displayed on the display screen of a display operation part. It is a figure which shows the example of edit operation of a test image. It is a figure which shows the example of edit operation of a test image. It is a figure which shows the example of edit operation of a test image. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a control procedure of image output processing executed by the inkjet recording apparatus.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a schematic external view showing the overall configuration of the inkjet recording apparatus 1 of the present embodiment.
FIG. 1 shows a case where the ink jet recording apparatus 1 is viewed from the front.

The inkjet recording apparatus 1 is a printer that has a line head and forms a color image by ejecting four colors of ink at an appropriate timing while moving a recording medium with respect to the line head.
The ink jet recording apparatus 1 includes a medium supply unit 10, an image forming main body unit 20, a medium discharge unit 30, a control unit 40, a display operation unit 50 (see FIG. 2), and the like. In the inkjet recording apparatus 1, the recording medium P stored in the medium supply unit 10 is conveyed to the image forming main body unit 20 based on the control by the control unit 40, and is discharged to the medium discharge unit 30 after an image is formed. The

The medium supply unit 10 sends the recording medium P stored therein to the image forming main body unit 20 one by one.
As the recording medium P, in addition to printing paper of various thicknesses, various media such as cells, films, and fabrics that can be supported by being curved on the outer peripheral surface of the image forming drum 21 are used.

The medium supply unit 10 includes a paper feed tray 11 that stores the recording medium P, and a feeder board 12 that conveys the recording medium P from the paper feed tray 11 to the image forming main body unit 20. The paper feed tray 11 is a plate-like member provided so that one or a plurality of recording media P can be placed thereon. The paper feed tray 11 is provided to move up and down according to the amount of the recording medium P placed on the paper feed tray 11, and the uppermost recording medium P is conveyed by the feeder board 12 in the up and down movement direction. Held at a position.
The feeder board 12 is configured to drive a ring-shaped belt 123 carried by a plurality of (for example, two) rollers 121 and 122 on the inner side to convey the recording medium P on the belt 123, or on the paper feed tray 11. A supply unit that transfers the uppermost recording medium P placed on the belt 123 onto the belt 123. The feeder board 12 conveys the recording medium P delivered on the belt 123 by the supply unit along the belt 123.

  The image forming main body 20 includes an image forming drum 21, a delivery unit 22, a head unit 23, an irradiation unit 24, an image reading unit 25 (reading unit), a delivery unit 26, and the like.

  The image forming drum 21 has a cylindrical outer shape, carries a maximum of three recording media P on the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical portion, and conveys the recording media P according to the rotation operation with respect to the central axis of the cylinder. Carry out the transfer operation. In the vicinity of the outer peripheral surface of the image forming drum 21, a drum heater 213 for heating the outer peripheral surface and the recording medium P and a drum temperature measuring unit 212 for measuring the outer peripheral surface temperature are provided. Here, the drum heater 213 is positioned between the transfer position of the recording medium P to the image forming drum 21 by the transfer unit 22 and the image recording position to the recording medium P by the head unit 23 in the rotation direction of the image forming drum 21. Is provided. The drum temperature measurement unit 212 is provided between the time when the recording medium P is delivered to the delivery unit 26 and the time when the recording medium P is delivered from the delivery unit 22. The outer peripheral surface of the image forming drum 21 is heated by the drum heater 213 with an intensity corresponding to the measured temperature of the drum temperature measuring unit 212, and the recording medium P to be carried is brought to an appropriate temperature. As a result, the curing speed on the recording medium P when the ink lands on the recording medium P is appropriately maintained, and a high-quality image is stably formed. For example, an infrared heater is used as the drum heater 213.

  The delivery unit 22 delivers the recording medium P delivered from the medium supply unit 10 to the image forming drum 21. The delivery unit 22 includes a swing arm 221 that supports one end of the recording medium P conveyed by the feeder board 12 and a cylindrical delivery drum that delivers the recording medium P supported by the swing arm 221 to the image forming drum 21. The recording medium P on the feeder board 12 is picked up by the swing arm unit 221 and transferred to the transfer drum 222 to guide the recording medium P in the direction along the outer peripheral surface of the image forming drum 21 to form an image. Delivered to drum 21.

  The head unit 23 has a surface (nozzle surface) facing the recording target surface of the recording medium P in the head unit 23 with respect to one recording target surface of the recording medium P that moves according to the rotation of the image forming drum 21. An ink discharge operation is performed to discharge ink droplets from a plurality of nozzle openings provided at an appropriate timing, and an image is formed by landing on the recording target surface of the recording medium P. The head unit 23 includes one or more recording heads (inkjet heads) provided with a plurality of nozzles. In the ink jet recording apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, a plurality of head units 23 are arranged at a predetermined interval in the conveyance direction of the recording medium P, and four in this case, each corresponding to four colors of ink. The four head units 23 output C (cyan), M (magenta), Y (yellow), and K (black) inks, respectively. Here, those inks that are cured by irradiation with ultraviolet rays are used. Further, the ink is heated and maintained at an appropriate temperature inside and / or outside of the head unit 23 by an ink heater 233 (see FIG. 2).

  Here, each of the head units 23 has a plurality of nozzle openings arranged over the image forming width of the recording medium P in the width direction perpendicular to the conveying direction of the recording medium P conveyed on the image forming drum 21. And a line head capable of forming an image by a single pass by ejecting ink from the nozzle opening to the recording medium P while moving the recording medium P in the transport direction. The head unit 23 is attached to a support portion (carriage) (not shown).

  The irradiation unit 24 irradiates energy rays (electromagnetic waves) of a predetermined wavelength, here, ultraviolet rays in the near ultraviolet region (wavelength is about 400 nm), and is ejected from the head unit 23 and landed on the recording medium P (that is, ink). The image formed with the ink is cured and fixed. The irradiation unit 24 includes, for example, a light emitting diode (LED) that emits ultraviolet rays, and emits light by applying a voltage to the LEDs and flowing current to irradiate the ultraviolet rays. The irradiation unit 24 is a position (irradiation position) before the recording medium P is delivered to the delivery unit 26 after ink is discharged from the head unit 23 onto the recording medium P conveyed by the rotation of the image forming drum 21. The recording medium P is provided so that it can be irradiated with ultraviolet rays. The irradiating unit 24 is provided with a light shielding plate so as to cover the LED and the setting range in order to reduce the amount of the ultraviolet light leaking outside the setting range (irradiation position) where the recording medium P is irradiated with ultraviolet rays.

  In addition, the structure which emits an ultraviolet-ray in the irradiation part 24 is not restricted to LED. The irradiation unit 24 may include, for example, a mercury lamp. In addition, when the ink has a property of being cured by receiving energy rays other than ultraviolet rays, a known light source that emits energy rays having a wavelength for curing the ink is provided instead of the above-described configuration that emits ultraviolet rays.

  The image reading unit 25 is provided on the downstream side in the transport direction of the recording medium P with respect to the ultraviolet irradiation position by the irradiation unit 24, reads the surface of the recording medium, and outputs read data. The image reading unit 25 includes an imaging unit 255 such as a line sensor or an area sensor that images the surface of the recording medium P, and is landed on the recording medium P by the head unit 23 and fixed by ultraviolet irradiation by the irradiation unit 24. The image is read by taking an image.

  The delivery unit 26 conveys the recording medium P after image formation is completed and the landed ink is cured to the medium discharge unit 30. The delivery unit 26 includes a cylindrical delivery roller 261, a plurality of (for example, two) rollers 262 and 263, and a ring-shaped belt 264 supported by the rollers 262 and 263 on the inner surface. The delivery roller 261 receives the recording medium P from the image forming drum 21 and guides it on the belt 264. The delivery unit 26 transports the recording medium P delivered from the delivery roller 261 onto the belt 264 together with the belt 264 that moves around with the rotation of the rollers 262 and 263, and sends it to the medium discharge unit 30.

  The medium discharge unit 30 stores the recording medium P sent out from the image forming main body 20 by the delivery unit 26 until it is taken out by the user. The medium discharge unit 30 includes a plate-shaped discharge tray 31 and the like, and the recording medium P after image formation is placed on the discharge tray 31.

The control unit 40 controls the operations of the medium supply unit 10, the image forming main body unit 20, and the medium discharge unit 30, and the recording medium P according to the data of the image to be formed by the image forming command (job) and the setting related to image formation. An image is formed on top.
Of the above configuration, the medium supply unit 10, the image forming drum 21 in the image forming main body unit 20, the delivery unit 22 and the delivery unit 26, and the medium discharge unit 30 constitute a transport unit.

  The display operation unit 50 displays various menus and statuses based on the control of the control unit 40, receives an input operation by the user, and outputs an acceptance signal to the control unit 40.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the inkjet recording apparatus 1.
The ink jet recording apparatus 1 includes a control unit 40 (recording arrangement pattern setting unit, discharge control unit, detection unit, correction unit, initial setting unit), a display operation unit 50, a transport control unit 411, a transport motor 211, and a drum. Heater control unit 412, drum heater 213 and drum temperature measurement unit 212, ink heater control unit 432, ink heater 233 and ink temperature measurement unit 232, head control unit 431 and head drive unit 231, irradiation control unit 44 and irradiation The unit 24, the reading drive control unit 45, the imaging unit 255, the notification output unit 47, the communication unit 48, and a bus 49 that transmits data by connecting the units.

  The control unit 40 includes a CPU 401, a RAM 402, a storage unit 403, and the like. The control unit 40 temporarily stores the control program 403a and setting data read from the storage unit 403 in the RAM 402, and the CPU 401 performs control processing based on the temporary storage data. The storage unit 403 includes an auxiliary storage unit such as a readable / writable nonvolatile memory or an HDD. A ROM may be used as part of the storage unit 403.

  The control unit 40 (CPU 401) performs overall control of the operation of the inkjet recording apparatus 1. The control unit 40 includes a medium supply unit 10, an image formation main body unit 20, and a medium discharge unit 30 based on a command related to image formation acquired from the outside via the communication unit 48 and the formed image data, that is, a print job. Are operated at appropriate timings to form an image on the recording medium P. Further, the control unit 40 detects a defect related to the ink ejection operation from a test image or the like based on the imaging data acquired by the image reading unit 25, and performs correction setting and processing for eliminating or reducing the defect. .

  In the storage unit 403, data of various test images for performing an inspection (test) related to the ink ejection state from the head unit 23 is stored in advance in the test image storage unit 403b. Also, output pattern settings relating to the output range of the output target image on the recording medium, the output range of the test image arranged in the blank area provided for the output target image, and the discharge area of the ink discharge operation, etc. The output pattern data stored and stored as the program 403a to be executed is stored as the output pattern storage unit 403c. Also, history information for learning output pattern settings set in the past with an appropriate algorithm is stored as the history storage unit 403d.

  The display operation unit 50 receives a user operation as the operation reception unit 501, or performs display for showing status information, an operation menu, and the like to the user as the display unit 502. The display unit 502 includes a display screen, for example, an LCD (liquid crystal display), and displays various menus and statuses related to image formation on the display screen of the LCD. The operation receiving unit 501 includes a touch panel arranged on the display screen and detects a touch operation by the user.

  The notification output unit 47 performs a predetermined notification operation when an abnormality occurs in the inkjet recording apparatus 1. Examples of the notification output unit 47 include a sound generation unit that generates a predetermined beep sound using a piezoelectric element or the like, and a light emitting unit that blinks or lights an LED lamp.

  The communication unit 48 is an interface for performing communication connection with an external device such as a PC and performing data communication according to the standard. Examples of the communication unit 48 include a network card for LAN connection. In addition, the communication unit 48 can be used for a wireless communication interface using wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark: Bluetooth), or for direct connection with an external device using USB. Such connection terminals and drivers may be used. The control unit 40 acquires a print job, control setting data of the inkjet recording apparatus 1 and the like from an external device via the communication unit 48.

  The conveyance motor 211 operates each unit such as the image forming drum 21 at a predetermined rotation speed under the control of the conveyance control unit 411. For example, the transport control unit 411 appropriately determines the rotation speed and rotation position of each unit such as the image forming drum 21 based on the rotation speed and rotation angle position of the image forming drum 21 and the like acquired using an encoder (not shown). Control. Further, the conveyance control unit 411 controls operations related to delivery of the recording medium P from the medium supply unit 10 to the image forming main body unit 20 and delivery from the image forming main body unit 20 to the medium discharge unit 30. Further, when an abnormality occurs in the conveyance of the recording medium P or the like, the conveyance control unit 411 promptly stops the operation of the conveyance motor 211 and stops the rotation of the image forming drum 21.

The drum heater 213 heats the outer peripheral surface of the image forming drum 21 to an appropriate temperature as described above. The outer peripheral surface temperature of the image forming drum 21 is measured by the drum temperature measuring unit 212, and the drum heater control unit 412 appropriately turns on / off the operation of the drum heater 213 based on the measurement data of the drum temperature measuring unit 212, thereby forming an image. The outer peripheral surface temperature of the drum 21 is maintained within an appropriate temperature range. Thereby, the recording medium P is set to an appropriate temperature range at least when ink is ejected, and suppresses a change in temperature after ink ejection.
For example, a halogen lamp that emits radiant heat is used as the drum heater 213, and the drum heater control unit 412 supplies an appropriate current to the halogen lamp. The radiant heat directly heats the outer peripheral surface of the image forming drum 21 and is reflected by a reflection plate (not shown) to heat the outer peripheral surface more efficiently.

  The ink heater 233 heats the ink to an appropriate temperature in advance inside the head unit 23 and / or outside before discharging the ink. The ink temperature is measured by the ink temperature measurement unit 232, and the ink heater control unit 432 appropriately turns the ink heater 233 on and off based on this measurement data, or controls the amount of current to determine the ink temperature. Maintain within the temperature range. As the ink heater 233, for example, a heater that generates Joule heat with energization such as a heating wire or a heating plate is used.

  The head driving unit 231 loads the nozzle of each head unit 23 according to a control signal from the head control unit 431 and input image data to be formed (piezoelectric element in a piezo type ink jet recording apparatus or thermal type ink jet recording). Power is supplied to a heating element or the like in the apparatus, and ink is ejected from the opening of each nozzle at an appropriate timing.

  The irradiation control unit 44 causes the irradiation unit 24 to irradiate energy rays (ultraviolet rays) to the recording medium P on which an image has been formed in accordance with the operation of the head driving unit 231. During a series of image recording operations, for example, in the case of a plurality of continuous images, the irradiation controller 44 starts from the start of image formation on the first recording medium P to the end of image formation on the last recording medium P. Irradiation may be performed continuously, or on / off may be controlled so that ultraviolet irradiation is performed only while the recording medium P passes the ultraviolet irradiation range of the irradiation unit 24. Alternatively, it may be between these.

  The reading drive control unit 45 controls the imaging operation by the imaging unit 255. The reading drive control unit 45 causes the imaging unit 255 to detect reflected light from the imaging range (that is, the recording medium) for each of the RGB wavelength bands, and converts the detected data into color values of RGB colors and outputs them to the CPU 401. .

  In the above description, the transport controller 411, the drum heater controller 412, the ink heater controller 432, the irradiation controller 44, the reading drive controller 45, and the head controller 431 are shown separately from the controller 40, respectively. All of the control operations can be performed by a common CPU 401, RAM 402, or the like.

Next, the recorded image by the inkjet recording apparatus 1 of this embodiment is demonstrated.
In the inkjet recording apparatus 1, when an image to be output (output target image) is recorded, a margin area (in this case, normal post-processing in this case) is also possible to record the image by the head unit 23 around the output range. The test image (inspection image) is recorded in the area that is cut and discarded in step (3), and the adjustment operation such as ink discharge (at least one of the test operation and the adjustment operation is collectively referred to as inspection inspection) is performed. . The test image is formed so as to be readable by the image reading unit 25, and is used for image quality inspection, that is, detection of defects such as ink ejection abnormality and balance deviation from each nozzle of the head unit 23, and a recorded image based on the detected abnormality. This is used for recording operation correction and notification operation for notifying occurrence of an abnormality.

3 and 4 are diagrams showing an example of the arrangement of images on the recording medium.
Here, on the recording medium P, the maximum recording range R in which an image can be recorded by the head unit 23 is determined according to the arrangement of the head unit 23. Inside this maximum recording range R, an output target image F is formed together with the register marks M1 to M8.

  The test image formation range and the discharged ink landing range (collectively referred to as the adjustment discharge range) on the recording medium P are outside the output range of the output target image F within the maximum recording range R. Arranged in the margin area. In the example shown in FIG. 3, test images TA, TB, TC1, TC2, TD, and TE are formed in the blank area. On the other hand, in the example shown in FIG. 4, test images TA2, TC1, TC2, TE2, and TE3 are formed in the blank area. Here, normally, the margin area is defined as the outside of the finished position indicated by the register marks M1 to M8. However, even within the margin area, a margin or the like that does not touch the user's eyes as a product. Can be included in the margin area.

  The arrangement pattern of these adjustment discharge ranges can be manually set by the user by executing the program 403a. A plurality of types of arrangement patterns are set for one output target image F, and are selected and output during a plurality of times of image recording of the output target image F in accordance with a predetermined output condition. For example, normally, the adjusted discharge range (test image) is arranged in the pattern shown in FIG. 3, and the adjusted discharge range is arranged in the pattern shown in FIG. 4 once every time the output target image F is formed 1000 times. The recorded image may be recorded. Or, normally, when an image in which the adjustment discharge range is arranged in the pattern shown in FIG. 3 is recorded and an abnormality is detected in the test image TE1, test images TE2 and TE3 for detecting the abnormality more precisely. It is also possible to record an image (FIG. 4) in which the adjustment discharge range is arranged in a pattern provided with.

Next, the adjustment discharge range setting operation in the inkjet recording apparatus 1 will be described.
In the inkjet recording apparatus 1, the program 403 a allows the user to specify the operation pattern by the operation reception unit 501 via the GUI (Graphical User Interface), such as the layout pattern of these test images and the output condition of the entire image on which the test images are arranged. Can be manually set based on.

5, 6, and 7 are diagrams illustrating examples of the output image setting screen displayed on the display screen of the display operation unit 50 of the inkjet recording apparatus 1.
Here, a setting menu is provided on the left side of the screen, and a setting preview image is displayed on the right side of the screen.

  As the setting menu, for example, “output image setting” for selecting the output target image F, and the number and names of output patterns related to a plurality of arrangement patterns of test images that can be output to the output target image F are defined. "Output pattern setting selection", "Output condition setting" to set the output conditions (selection conditions) of images of these multiple types of output patterns, Select the adjustment operation range such as test images recorded in each output pattern and ink discharge “Test image selection” and “Test image placement operation” for placing and editing the selected test image in the blank area are provided, and it is assumed that each setting menu is switched in order or appropriately. Set output images for all patterns.

FIG. 5A shows a display example when the output image setting screen is open.
Here, the image data selection menu is selected, and “data A” is selected from the image data listed on the right screen. When an image output command is acquired from an external device or the like and image data to be output is specified in the image output command, the image data is selected from the beginning as an initial setting. Further, the selected image data may not be changed.

In the setting of the output image, it is possible to set the layout and range of margins on which the adjustment discharge range can be set on the recording medium. Here, a blank area is set from the front end to the rear end of the recording medium in the conveyance direction of the recording medium, but an area where no test image is arranged at both ends of the recording medium P may be set.
Further, as shown in FIG. 5B, by shifting the output target image F from the reference position such as the center of the recording medium P, the conveying direction and / or the width direction of the recording medium P are set on both sides. The size of the blank area can be made different. Further, as described above, even within the registration marks M1 to M8, it is possible to appropriately set a blank area according to the content or use of the output target image F. Further, as shown in FIG. 6A, when a plurality of images are combined as output target images, the relative positional relationship between these plurality of images can be finely adjusted. Here, the position of the lower left image is finely adjusted.
Note that, in relation to post-processing such as cutting of the recording medium, a plurality of output patterns for normally forming a single output target image F at different positions on the recording medium are not set. It may be possible to set a pattern.

  Also, if the output target image and its layout and margin area are not set, the subsequent output pattern setting operation cannot be performed. Therefore, until the output target image and margin area are set, output pattern setting selection, etc. It can be controlled not to accept the selection operation.

FIG. 6B shows a display example when the condition setting screen is opened.
Here, a plurality of output patterns set by the output pattern setting selection are displayed in a list from “normal output” to “ejection abnormality detection output 1”, and the fixed interval output 2A is selected.

The output condition setting of the output pattern “fixed interval output 2A” is displayed at the upper part of the right screen. Here, when the fraction of the output count is “2” once per 1000 sheets, this “fixed interval output” is displayed. An image of the output pattern named “2A” is recorded.
When these output conditions overlap, an image with a high priority is output based on the reference priority and the user-set priority. When the priority is set by the user, the image of the output pattern with the higher priority is prioritized and output in order. When the priority set by the user is equal or not set by the user (in this case, displayed as “normal”), the priority is output according to the reference priority. The reference priority is determined in the order of, for example, an output pattern output on condition of abnormality detection, an output pattern output at regular intervals, and an output pattern normally output in descending order of priority.

FIG. 7A shows an example in which a test image selection menu is opened. A test image that can be selected is registered in advance in the test image storage unit 403b. Here, a discharge failure detection image for detecting density unevenness due to discharge failure using a halftone image or the like, individually from each nozzle at a predetermined position. Incorrect discharge nozzle identification image for identifying nozzles that have caused discharge failure by causing ink to be discharged, correction of density unevenness and color shift caused by the drive voltage difference between the heads and the operation status of the drive elements Density unevenness detection images, color patches (color management images), and the like. In addition, here, an ejection area related to ink ejection can be selected as the adjusted ejection range.
For one output target image data, a test that has not been set by the user, such as by changing the display color between a test image that has never been selected in all output patterns and a test image that has already been selected at least once. It is good also as making it easy to recognize an image. In addition, the control unit 40 determines whether or not a test image of a type that does not need to be recorded for the output target image, for example, a discharge failure detection image of a nozzle that discharges a type of ink that is not used in the output target image, or the user It may be possible to switch the display form or temporarily delete from the selection menu by the input operation.

  FIG. 7B shows an example in which the test image operation menu is opened. Examples of the operation contents include division of one image into a plurality of blocks, combination of a plurality of images (blocks), enlargement / reduction, deformation, movement, rotation, and the like. Further, it may be possible to perform trimming without deformation or reduction. Although the selection switches are displayed here, these selection switches should not be displayed as these operations can be performed simply by various drag operations using a user's finger or touch pen. It is also good.

8, FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 are diagrams illustrating examples of test image editing operations.
As shown in FIG. 8A, the test image TC0 used as the color patch (color management image) arranged in the left margin is larger than the margin range, and here, the outer frame is indicated by a broken line. It is warned as a test image that cannot be placed. Alternatively, the outer frame may be further colored with a predetermined color, and not only the outer frame but also the inside may be colored with a mesh line or the like. Moreover, only the part which overlaps with an output object image and a finishing range among the insides may be colored. Furthermore, depending on the current size and orientation, the color to be colored may be different depending on whether the existing margin cannot be entered or if it can be entered simply by moving.
Here, for the test image TC0, division is selected as an editing operation, and a position indicated by a horizontal solid line and an arrow E1 is indicated as a cutting position candidate. When the execution operation is performed here, the test image TC0 in which a plurality of color patches are combined is divided, but the cutting position of the test image that can be cut is a range in which the cutting can be performed. Can be adjusted as appropriate.

  As shown in FIG. 8B, the test images TCp1 and TCp2 obtained by dividing the color patch image into two are still arranged so as to protrude from the blank area, and are warned by a broken line display. Here, reduction is selected as the editing operation, and the reduction operation is enabled by the markers at the four corners of the test image TCp1 to be selected and the arrow E2. Or you may reduce by inputting the numerical value of a reduction rate in the window W1 produced | generated temporarily, or performing operation which changes a numerical value.

  At this time, the test image may be arranged inside the outer ends of the register marks M1 to M8, or may partially overlap the register marks M1 to M8. For these situations, a warning may be displayed, but it is possible not to prohibit final placement determination.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 9A, when it is troublesome to perform all the arrangements manually, the initial arrangement can be automatically performed (initial setting is performed). By selecting a test image (in this case, test images TA0, TB0, TC0, TD0, TEc0, TEm0, TEy0, TEk0) to be arranged in the test image selection menu, automatic arrangement is executed in the test image arrangement operation menu. A possible arrangement pattern is searched and executed by the control unit 40 (CPU 401). Alternatively, a standard test image combination may be automatically obtained and displayed without the user selecting a test image. Although an algorithm related to the arrangement in this case is set as appropriate, it is not always necessary to have a high ability for deriving a complex optimum arrangement in a short time.

  At this time, instead of automatically arranging all the test images, after setting the arrangement of some test images and performing the operation of fixing the arrangement of the test images, the remaining test images that are not fixed Automatic placement may be performed for.

  The determined test image arrangement pattern can be stored in the history storage unit 403d as history data. The CPU 401 can reflect each test image, the appearance frequency of the arrangement pattern between the plurality of test images, and the like based on the history data with a predetermined algorithm, so that it can be reflected during the subsequent initial arrangement. .

  Further, the warning content may be displayed in a pop-up by placing the cursor on the abnormal part so that the user can easily recognize when the number of warnings is large or when the warnings are complicated. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 9B, a warning display screen W2 may be provided below the preview screen to display the warning content in characters. This warning may include a notification that informs that the test image that is normally set is not included in the setting.

  Further, a part of the test image set in the output pattern of the regular interval output 2A shown in FIG. 10A is transferred to another output pattern, here, the regular interval output 2B shown in FIG. Separated). Here, for example, the test image TCp2 is selected as the transfer target, and the output pattern of the transfer destination is selected in the temporarily displayed window W3 to be the fixed interval output 2B. On the test image placement operation screen related to the output pattern of the fixed interval output 2B to which the test image TCp2 has been transferred, the placement of the test images TF, TG, etc. including the test image TCp2 is determined as shown in FIG. It has been.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a control procedure by the control unit 40 of the image output process executed in the inkjet recording apparatus 1 of the present embodiment.
Here, a case will be described in which the user starts without specifying an output target image based on an input operation to the display operation unit 50 (operation reception unit 501).

  When the image output process is started, first, the control unit 40 (CPU 401) performs setting of the output target image, initial arrangement of the output target image, and initial setting of the margin area based on the accepted input operation (step). S101). The control unit 40 changes the arrangement of the output target image and the setting of the margin area based on the accepted input operation (step S102).

  Based on the accepted input operation, the control unit 40 performs an edit setting operation for an output pattern including a test image (step S103; recording arrangement pattern setting step). The control unit 40 determines whether or not a margin adjustment readjustment request has been input (step S104). If it is determined that it has been input ("YES" in step S104), the process returns to step S102.

  If it is determined that the input has not been made (“NO” in step S104), the control unit 40 determines whether or not the end of the output pattern edit setting operation has ended normally by the user's confirmation operation ( Step S105). It has not been completed normally, that is, the output pattern is not set at all, the image output without the output pattern is included, or the test image that cannot be placed is included in the output pattern. In the case of “Yes” (“NO” in step S105), the control unit 40 saves (stores) the setting in the output pattern storage unit 403c (step S116), and ends the image output process. In the output pattern setting data stored in the output pattern storage unit 403c, the image data of each set test image may be already embedded, or simply associated with an actual test image such as an identification number. The information may be stored in association with the arrangement coordinates or the editing content.

  If it is determined that the output pattern edit setting operation has been completed normally ("YES" in step S105), the control unit 40 determines whether an image recording start request has been input (step S106). . If it is determined that no input has been made (“NO” in step S106), the process of the control unit 40 proceeds to step S116. If it is determined that it has been input (“YES” in step S105), the control unit 40 causes the head unit 23 to start an image recording operation (step S107; ejection control step).

  The control unit 40 determines whether an abnormality that needs to be dealt with is detected during image recording (step S108). If it is determined that no abnormality has been detected (“NO” in step S108), the process of the control unit 40 proceeds to step S111. If it is determined that an abnormality has been detected (“YES” in step S108), the control unit 40 determines whether the abnormality has contents that can be automatically corrected (step S109). When it is determined that automatic correction is possible (to satisfy a predetermined image quality standard level) to the extent that no problem occurs in the recorded image of the output target image (“YES” in step S109), the control unit 40 performs correction. This is done automatically (step S110). Then, the process of the control unit 40 proceeds to step S111, and determines whether or not all the images have been recorded (step S111). If it is determined that recording of all the images has not been completed (“NO” in step S111), the process of the control unit 40 returns to step S108.

  If it is determined that the recording of all the images has been completed, the control unit 40 ends the image output process.

  If it is determined in step S108 that the detected abnormality cannot be automatically corrected ("NO" in step S108), the control unit 40 performs a predetermined notification operation indicating the occurrence of the abnormality. The notification output unit 47 is made to stop the image recording operation (step S119). Then, the control unit 40 ends the image output process.

  As the content of the automatic correction executed in the process of step S110 described above, various well-known items relating to the correction of the output target image and the correction of the driving operation can be selected. For example, if a nozzle ejection failure is detected, the output target image is adjusted so that the ink ejection from the ejection failure nozzle is stopped and the ink ejection operation is performed from the nozzles arranged on both sides in the width direction. I can do it. Further, when the image density is different among a plurality of recording heads, it is possible to adjust the driving voltage and the driving waveform so as to increase or decrease the ink discharge amount in the predetermined recording head.

As described above, the inkjet recording apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment includes the recording head (head unit 23) provided with the nozzles that eject ink onto the recording medium P, and the operation reception unit 501 that receives an input operation of the user. And a control unit 40. As a recording arrangement pattern setting unit, the control unit 40 performs ink ejection on the output range of the output target image to be recorded on the recording medium P by the ink ejection operation from the nozzles based on the operation content received by the operation receiving unit 501. Output pattern setting is performed for arranging the adjusted ejection range of ink corresponding to at least one of the plurality of types of adjustment tests related to the operation on the recording medium P, and as the ejection control unit, the output pattern is set according to the arrangement pattern setting Ink discharge operation is performed. At this time, the control unit 40 serving as the recording arrangement pattern setting unit divides at least a part of the adjustment discharge range corresponding to the plurality of types of adjustment inspections into a plurality of blocks according to the operation received by the operation reception unit 501. Can be arranged.
In this way, when adjusting discharge such as test images and ink discharge is output together with the normal output target image, the user can further adjust the adjustment discharge range for each purpose by setting the operation. By making it possible to arrange, it is possible to efficiently output a test image or perform adjustment while reducing unnecessary gaps. In particular, since the user manually adjusts, the adjustment discharge range can be easily and efficiently arranged taking into account the presence / absence of the inside of the finishing range set by the registration marks, which can be difficult to determine automatically, and possible locations. I can do it. In addition, even if it is a test image that is preferably output in a batch, it may be better to separate it than it cannot be output. Since there is a problem that the algorithm becomes complicated or the cost increases more than necessary, it is possible to make an appropriate setting with appropriate user judgment.

  In addition, the image reading unit 25 that reads the surface of the recording medium P is provided, and the control unit 40 serves as a detection unit for reading data (inspected image data read by the image reading unit 25 within the adjustment discharge range according to the output pattern setting). That is, from the image data of the output target image and the ink ejection operation from the nozzle based on the result of detection by the imaging unit 255 as a correction unit, a defect related to the ink ejection operation is detected from the imaging data by the imaging unit 255). After at least one correction is performed and correction (that is, correction of an output target image, adjustment of a drive waveform or voltage during ink discharge operation) is performed as discharge control means, the ink discharge operation according to the output pattern setting To do. As described above, the inkjet recording apparatus 1 includes the inline sensor (imaging unit 255), and can immediately determine the malfunction by imaging the output test image, so that it is easy to output the image to the recording medium P. In addition, it is possible to quickly cope with the malfunction and reduce the waste of the recording medium P. Furthermore, while outputting the output target image, it is possible to make corrections at any time and continue outputting an appropriate image, so that the output of the recording medium is not wasted more than necessary and is wasted. And the necessary output target image can be output at high speed and appropriately.

  Further, the control unit 40 serving as an ejection control unit determines whether or not a recording image obtained by an ink ejection operation of an output target image is expected to satisfy a predetermined image quality reference level by correction. The ink ejection operation by the unit 23 is stopped. In other words, if the image quality of the output target image does not reach the required level in the above-described correction operation in real time, it is necessary to take action by the user, administrator, or maintenance person such as replacement of the head unit 23. It is possible to cancel the image recording and eliminate waste. In addition, since the necessary test image recording and defect detection are performed at an appropriate frequency and timing by manual arrangement, the time from the occurrence of such a problem until the image recording operation is stopped is determined. The user can determine it as appropriate.

  Further, the control unit 40 as a recording arrangement pattern setting unit can set the output range of the output target image F. Therefore, when the adjustment discharge range of the test image does not completely fit in the margin, the test image can be arranged more efficiently and appropriately by moving the output target image F, and the ink discharge state is related with appropriate accuracy. Can be inspected.

  Further, when the output target image F is a combination of a plurality of images, the control unit 40 as the recording arrangement pattern setting unit can set the relative arrangement of the plurality of images. Normally, the images are arranged so that the number and arrangement interval of the plurality of images are optimal. However, by enabling fine adjustment in consideration of the output pattern of the test image, it is possible to generate useless recording media when an abnormality occurs. It is possible to more easily obtain a preferable output pattern setting that can suppress the above.

Further, the control unit 40 as a recording arrangement pattern setting unit can set a plurality of types of output patterns related to the arrangement of the adjustment discharge range for one output target image, and can be operated by the operation receiving unit 501. A plurality of types of output pattern setting selection conditions are determined based on the contents, and the control unit 40 serving as the ejection control unit responds to the selection conditions for each recording of the output target image when the output target image is recorded a plurality of times. One output pattern setting is selected, and an ink ejection operation corresponding to the one output pattern setting is performed.
Normally, it is not possible to fit all test images and ink discharge areas in one blank area, so a sufficient adjustment discharge range or a specific defect is detected if it is determined only at the required frequency. For example, a more detailed test image can be recorded in addition to the normal output pattern, and the output pattern to be recorded in accordance with the selection condition can be determined separately. Accordingly, it is not necessary to require a space on the recording medium and an ink discharge amount for determining the adjustment discharge range more than necessary, and various adjustment operations and detection of defects can be performed more efficiently.

  Further, the control unit 40 as a recording arrangement pattern setting unit can disperse and arrange a plurality of divided blocks into a plurality of types of output pattern settings. That is, it is possible to divide an adjustment discharge range that does not fit in one blank area in terms of arrangement with other test images, and to divide them into different output pattern settings. I can do it. For example, if the frequency of obtaining the entire output of one test image may be low, prioritize the test images that have a high required frequency and then divide them into gaps that remain in each output pattern. Since it suffices to output the test image block, the test image can be arranged by effectively using such a gap.

  Among inspection images recorded in the adjustment discharge range according to the adjustment inspection, those that can be divided into a plurality of blocks include a defective nozzle specifying image, a density unevenness detection image, and a color patch (color management image). included. That is, for test images that do not fit in one blank space, and those that do not need to be output all at once and that can be processed together after all output is made if only read data is retained, etc. By dividing, the output of the output target image is not interrupted, and the output of other necessary test images is not hindered.

  In addition, the control unit 40 as a recording arrangement pattern setting unit can perform at least one of reduction, deformation, and rotation on a plurality of divided blocks. The test image is usually formed in the required size, but depending on the situation, it may not be a problem even if it is slightly small or deformed, so it will fit properly according to the margin area etc. It is also possible to arrange it in a deformed manner, and it is possible to perform a defect test and adjustment relating to ink ejection more efficiently by performing a difficult divided arrangement even in such automatic arrangement.

In addition, the display unit 502 that displays the output range of the set output target image and the output pattern of the adjusted discharge range is provided, and the control unit 40 serving as a recording arrangement pattern setting unit displays the adjusted discharge range displayed on the display unit 502. The operation receiving unit 501 receives an operation for correcting the arrangement of the output pattern, and performs output pattern setting according to the corrected display.
As described above, since the output target image F and the adjustment discharge range can be set interactively via the display screen, the user can easily and appropriately set these arrangements while observing the remaining extent of the blank area. I can do it.

  The control unit 40 operates as an initial setting unit that sets the initial arrangement of the adjustment discharge range, and the control unit 40 as the recording arrangement pattern setting unit sets an output pattern according to the initial arrangement displayed on the display unit 502. The operation accepting unit 501 accepts an operation for approving or correcting the output, and sets an output pattern. In this way, setting the test image, ink discharge area, etc. all manually requires a lot of time and effort. Efficient and effective output setting can be performed while reducing. In addition, for such initial settings, the amount of correction by the user can be reduced as appropriate by using a conventional learning algorithm or making settings for test images that are preferentially arranged. .

  The control unit 40 serving as an ejection control unit starts an ink ejection operation corresponding to the output pattern setting after the operation accepting unit 501 accepts an output pattern setting confirmation operation. As described above, by starting image recording after the approval of the output pattern by the user is obtained, it is possible to surely perform a preferable output and to prevent the user from forgetting to set.

  Further, in the inkjet recording apparatus 1, by using the image recording method in which the image output is performed by arranging the output target image arrangement range and the adjustment discharge range via the input operation to the operation receiving unit 501 as described above. Thus, it is possible to efficiently output a test image and make adjustments related to ink ejection while reducing unnecessary gaps in the blank area. In particular, since the user manually adjusts, the adjustment discharge range can be easily and efficiently arranged taking into account the presence / absence of the inside of the finishing range set by the registration marks, which can be difficult to determine automatically, and possible locations. I can do it.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made.
For example, in the above-described embodiment, a conditional branch for outputting a test image corresponding to the abnormality to the blank area when abnormality is detected is provided. However, this condition setting may be performed in a plurality of stages, and the condition is YES. In addition to / NO, different branches may be set according to the abnormality detection level. Further, depending on the obviousness and severity of the abnormality, a setting may be included in which the test image is not formed only in the blank area, but the output of the output target image is stopped and the test image is formed on the entire recording medium.

  In the above embodiment, the original test image is simply divided. However, when it is difficult to detect an abnormality in the boundary portion cut by the division, the test image may be divided with some overlap. If the arrangement is facilitated by dividing into a plurality of small-sized blocks, the size of the test image as a whole may be slightly increased.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the user can set through the GUI. However, it is simple to use a table or the like in which the output range of the output target image and each adjustment discharge range are indicated by numerical values (coordinates). Settings may be made via a UI.

  In the above embodiment, the test image can be deformed, reduced, or trimmed. However, these may not be possible. Further, even if deformation, reduction, or trimming is possible, operation control can be performed so that operation is possible only within a limited range.

  In the above embodiment, the selection conditions for each output pattern are set. However, the plurality of output patterns are related so that the selection conditions for the related output patterns are appropriately arranged. By performing this setting, the initial setting or the setting may be limited so that the selection condition corresponding to one selection condition is reflected in another output pattern.

  In the above-described embodiment, the test image analysis and defect detection are described as being performed by the operations of the image reading unit 25 and the control unit 40. However, the user can directly adjust the color tone and detect the defect. The correction or the ink discharge operation may be interrupted.

In the above embodiment, the inkjet recording apparatus 1 having a single-pass line head has been described as an example. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The present invention can be similarly applied to a multi-pass type or a scan type that moves an inkjet head relative to a recording medium.
In addition, specific details such as the configuration shown in the above embodiment, the method of display and operation, the type and use of the test image to be output, the processing content and the processing procedure, etc. are appropriately selected within the scope of the present invention. It can be changed.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Inkjet recording device 10 Medium supply part 11 Paper feed tray 12 Feeder board 121, 122 Roller 123 Belt 20 Image formation main-body part 21 Image formation drum 211 Conveyance motor 212 Drum temperature measurement part 213 Drum heater 22 Delivery unit 221 Swing arm part 222 Delivery Drum 23 Head unit 231 Head drive unit 232 Ink temperature measurement unit 233 Ink heater 24 Irradiation unit 25 Image reading unit 255 Imaging unit 26 Delivery unit 261 Delivery roller 262, 263 Roller 264 Belt 30 Medium discharge unit 31 Paper discharge tray 40 Control unit 401 CPU
402 RAM
403 Storage unit 403a Program 44 Irradiation control unit 45 Reading drive control unit 47 Notification output unit 48 Communication unit 49 Bus 411 Transport control unit 412 Drum heater control unit 431 Head control unit 432 Ink heater control unit 50 Display operation unit 501 Operation reception unit 502 Display part F Output target images M1 to M8 Dragonfly P Recording medium R Maximum recording range

Claims (13)

An inkjet head provided with a nozzle for discharging ink to a recording medium;
An operation accepting unit that accepts user input operations;
Based on the operation content received by the operation receiving unit, at least of a plurality of types of adjustment tests related to the ink discharge operation with respect to the output range of the output target image recorded on the recording medium by the ink discharge operation from the nozzle. A recording arrangement pattern setting means for setting an arrangement pattern for arranging an adjustment discharge range of ink according to one on the recording medium;
Discharge control means for performing the ink discharge operation according to the arrangement pattern setting;
With
The recording arrangement pattern setting means can divide and arrange at least a part of the adjustment discharge range according to the plurality of types of adjustment inspection into a plurality of blocks according to the operation received by the operation reception unit. An inkjet recording apparatus characterized by the above. A reading unit for reading the surface of the recording medium;
Detecting means for detecting a defect related to the ink ejection operation from reading data by the reading unit of the inspection image recorded in the adjustment ejection range according to the arrangement pattern setting;
Correction means for correcting at least one of the image data of the output target image and the ink ejection operation from the nozzles based on the detection result by the detection means,
The ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the ejection control unit causes the ink ejection operation to be performed according to the arrangement pattern setting after the correction is performed.   The ejection control unit determines whether or not a recording image obtained by the ink ejection operation of the output target image is expected to satisfy a predetermined image quality reference level by the correction. 3. The ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the operation is stopped.   The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the recording arrangement pattern setting unit can set an output range of the output target image.   5. The ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the recording arrangement pattern setting unit can set a relative arrangement of the plurality of images when the output target image is a combination of a plurality of images. The recording arrangement pattern setting means can perform a plurality of types of arrangement pattern settings for one output target image, and the plurality of types of arrangement pattern settings can be set based on an operation content by the operation reception unit. Set the selection conditions,
When the output target image is recorded a plurality of times, the ejection control unit selects one of the arrangement pattern settings according to the selection condition for each recording of the output target image, and the one arrangement pattern setting The ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the ink discharge operation is performed in accordance with the ink jet recording apparatus.   7. The ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the recording arrangement pattern setting means is capable of distributing the divided blocks into a plurality of types of arrangement pattern settings.   Among the inspection images recorded in the adjustment discharge range according to the adjustment inspection, those that can be divided into the plurality of blocks include a defective nozzle specifying image, a density unevenness detection image, and a color management image. The ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the ink jet recording apparatus is an ink jet recording apparatus.   9. The recording arrangement pattern setting means can perform at least any one of reduction, deformation, and rotation on the plurality of divided blocks. The inkjet recording apparatus according to Item. A display unit for displaying the set output range of the output target image and the arrangement pattern of the adjusted discharge range;
The recording arrangement pattern setting means receives an operation for correcting the arrangement of the adjustment discharge range displayed on the display unit by the operation receiving unit, and sets an arrangement pattern according to the corrected display. An ink jet recording apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9. Comprising initial setting means for setting an initial arrangement of the adjusted discharge range;
The recording arrangement pattern setting means performs the arrangement pattern setting by accepting an operation for approving or correcting an arrangement pattern setting corresponding to the initial arrangement displayed on the display unit by the operation accepting unit. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 10.   The discharge control unit starts the ink discharge operation according to the arrangement pattern setting after the operation receiving unit receives the determination operation of the arrangement pattern setting. An ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 1. An image recording method for an inkjet recording apparatus, comprising: an inkjet head provided with a nozzle that ejects ink to a recording medium; and an operation receiving unit that receives a user's input operation.
Based on the operation content received by the operation receiving unit, at least one of an output range of an output target image recorded on a recording medium by an ink discharge operation from the nozzle and a plurality of types of adjustment inspections related to the ink discharge operation. A recording arrangement pattern setting step for setting an arrangement pattern for arranging an adjustment discharge range of ink corresponding to the recording medium on the recording medium;
An ejection control step for performing the ink ejection operation in accordance with the arrangement pattern setting;
Including
In the recording arrangement pattern setting step, at least a part of the adjustment discharge range corresponding to the plurality of types of adjustment inspection is divided into a plurality of blocks according to the operation received by the operation reception unit, and the plurality of blocks Can be arranged with a positional relationship different from the positional relationship before the division.

Images