JP2019034435A - Recording device, recording method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

To suppress generation of density unevenness on a recording image, when adopting a time-division driving system and a multi-pass recording system.SOLUTION: A first dot is formed by time-division driving a plurality of recording elements following a first order at scanning time in a first direction, and a second dot is formed by time-division driving the plurality of recording elements following a second order at scanning time in a second direction. The first order and the second order are set so that an average of each deviation amount of each formation position of the first and second dots in the first direction in a first column area becomes approximately equal to an average of each deviation amount of each formation position of the first and second dots in the first direction in a second column area.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

  The present invention relates to a recording apparatus using a time-division driving method in which a plurality of recording elements in a recording head are time-division driven and a multi-pass recording method in which a recording image for a predetermined recording area is completed by a plurality of scans of the recording head. , A recording method, and a program.

  Patent Document 1 describes an ink jet recording apparatus that employs a time-division driving method and a multipass recording method. In this recording apparatus, the driving order of a plurality of recording elements is specified so that a change in recording density can be suppressed to a small extent even when an ink landing position (dot formation position) shifts unexpectedly. ing. That is, during the first scan involving movement in one direction of the print head, the plurality of print elements are driven in accordance with the first drive order, and during the second scan involving movement in the other direction of the print head, the plurality of print elements are moved. Driving is performed according to a second driving order different from the reverse order of the first driving order.

Japanese Patent No. 5930743

  However, during the first scanning, the ink landing position (dot formation position) tends to shift in the moving direction (one direction) of the recording head as the driving timing of the recording element is delayed. On the other hand, during the second scanning, the ink landing position tends to shift in the moving direction (other direction) of the recording head as the driving timing of the recording element is delayed. For example, when dots are formed on the same column region by the first and second scans, there is a possibility that density unevenness may occur in the recorded image depending on the combination of the drive timings of the recording elements that discharge those dots. Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-228561 does not describe the dot formation position shift related to the scanning direction of the recording head and the driving timing of the recording element.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a recording apparatus, a recording method, and a program that can suppress the occurrence of density unevenness in a recorded image when a time-division driving method and a multipass recording method are employed.

  The recording apparatus of the present invention includes a recording head having a recording element array in which a plurality of recording elements are arranged in a predetermined direction, scanning in the first direction intersecting the predetermined direction of the recording head, and the recording head Scanning means for performing scanning in a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to a unit area on a recording medium; first recording data corresponding to an image to be recorded when scanning in the first direction; and Generating means for generating second recording data corresponding to an image to be recorded when scanning in the second direction; and a plurality of the plurality of data according to a first order when scanning in the first direction to form dots in the unit area. And a driving unit that drives the plurality of recording elements in a time-sharing manner according to a second order different from the reverse order of the first order when scanning in the second direction. In the first direction When the dots formed at the time of scanning are the first dots and the dots formed at the time of scanning in the second direction are the second dots, the generating means respectively extend in the predetermined direction and extend in the first direction. For the first column region and the second column region on the recording medium located at different positions, (i) both the first dot and the second dot are formed in each of the first and second column regions, (Ii) The order of the first and second dots arranged in the predetermined direction in the first column area and the order of the first and second dots arranged in the predetermined direction in the second column area are: The first and second recording data are generated so as to be different from each other, and an average deviation amount of the first and second dot formation positions in the first direction in the first column region, and the second column The first direction in the region in the first direction 1, an average of displacement amounts of the formation position of the second dot, but to be substantially equal, the first order and the second order, characterized in that it is set.

  According to the present invention, the driving order of a plurality of recording elements in the first and second scans is optimally set in consideration of the positional deviation of dots related to the scanning direction of the recording head and the driving timing of the recording elements. As a result, the occurrence of density unevenness in the recorded image can be suppressed.

It is explanatory drawing of the basic composition of the recording device in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the recording head in FIG. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of a relationship among a nozzle row of a recording head, a drive signal, and ink droplets. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the process of an image data. It is explanatory drawing of a multipass recording system. It is explanatory drawing of the image data converted by the resolution conversion process in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the production | generation process of the recording data in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the drive timing of the drive block in the 1st Embodiment of this invention, and the formation position of a dot. It is a one part enlarged view of FIG.8 (c). It is explanatory drawing of the drive timing of the drive block in the 2nd Embodiment of this invention, and the formation position of a dot. It is explanatory drawing at the time of arrange | positioning the dot of Fig.10 (a), and the dot of FIG.10 (b). It is explanatory drawing of the image data converted by the resolution conversion process in the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the production | generation process of the recording data in the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing of the drive timing of the drive block of the nozzle row for cyan ink in the 3rd Embodiment of this invention, and the formation position of the dot of cyan ink. It is explanatory drawing of the drive timing of the drive block of the nozzle row for magenta ink in the 3rd Embodiment of this invention, and the formation position of the dot of magenta ink. FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram when the cyan ink dots in FIG. 14C and the magenta ink dots in FIG. 15C are arranged. It is explanatory drawing of the drive timing of the drive block in the 4th Embodiment of this invention, and the formation position of a dot. It is explanatory drawing of the drive timing of the drive block in a comparative example, and the formation position of a dot. It is a one part enlarged view of FIG.18 (c).

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  In this specification, “recording” (sometimes referred to as “printing”) is not limited to the case of forming significant information such as characters and figures, but is not significant. In addition, “recording” means that images, patterns, patterns, etc. are widely formed on recording media, regardless of whether they are manifested so that humans can perceive them visually, or processing of media It also represents the case where “Recording media” is not only paper used in general recording equipment, but also a wide range of materials that can accept ink, such as vinyl, cloth, plastic film, metal plate, glass, ceramics, wood, leather, etc. Is also expressed. Furthermore, “ink” (sometimes referred to as “liquid”) is to be interpreted widely, and is applied on a recording medium to form an image, a pattern, a pattern, etc., and process the recording medium. Or a liquid that can be subjected to ink processing. Further, “recording element” (sometimes referred to as “nozzle”), unless otherwise specified, is a discharge energy generating element that generates energy used for discharging a discharge port, a liquid path communicating therewith, and ink. Will be summarized.

(First embodiment)
1 to 8 are diagrams for explaining the first embodiment of the present invention. First, the basic configuration of the recording apparatus will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5. FIG.

(Basic configuration of recording device)
FIG. 1A is a perspective view for explaining a configuration example of an ink jet recording apparatus (recording apparatus), FIG. 1B is a perspective view of FIG. 1B, and FIG. FIG. 1C is a block diagram of a control system in the recording apparatus.

  The four ink cartridges 101 store cyan (C), magenta (M), yellow (Y), and black (K) ink, respectively, and the recording head 102 ejects these inks toward the recording medium P. Thus, dots can be formed. The conveyance roller 103 and the auxiliary roller 104 convey the white recording medium P in the + Y direction (sub-scanning direction) by rotating in the direction of the arrow in the figure while suppressing the recording medium P. The paper feed roller 105 feeds the recording medium P and plays the role of suppressing the recording paper P, like the transport roller 103 and the auxiliary roller 104. The carriage 106 includes the ink cartridge 101 and the recording head 102 and moves in the ± X direction (main scanning direction) during an image recording operation. The carriage 106 stands by at the position (home position) h of the dotted line in FIG. 1A during a non-recording operation and a recovery operation of the recording head 102. The platen 107 stably supports the recording medium P at the recording position. The carriage belt 108 transmits a moving force that moves the carriage 106 in the ± X directions, and the carriage shaft 109 supports the carriage 106 so as to be movable in the arrows ± X directions.

  In FIG. 1C, the CPU 100 executes control processing of the operation of the recording apparatus, data processing, and the like. The ROM 111 stores programs for executing these processes, and the RAM 112 is used as a work area for executing these processes. When the CPU 100 supplies heater drive data (image data) and a drive control signal (heat pulse signal) to the head driver 102 </ b> A, ink is ejected from the recording head 102. The CPU 100 controls a carriage motor 113 for moving the carriage 106 in the main scanning direction via the motor driver 113A, and a conveyance motor 114 for conveying the recording medium P to + Y via the motor driver 114A. Control.

  In the recording apparatus of this example, the recording head 102 moves in the ± X direction together with the carriage 106 while ejecting ink, and the conveyance of the recording medium P in the + Y direction are alternately repeated to thereby apply the recording medium P to the recording medium P. Record an image.

  FIG. 2A is a plan view of the recording head 102 as viewed from the Z direction, and FIG. 2B is an enlarged view of a discharge port portion of the recording head 102. In the recording head 102, an ejection port array L (Lk, Lc, Lm, Ly) is formed. Black ink is ejected from the ejection port array Lk, cyan ink is ejected from the ejection port array Lc, magenta ink is ejected from the ejection port array Lm, and yellow ink is ejected from the ejection port array Ly. In the discharge port array L, a plurality of discharge ports 201 are arranged as shown in FIG.

  In the ejection port 201 of this example, the amount of ink droplets to be ejected is 2 pl, and 256 are arranged in the Y direction (predetermined direction) at 600 dpi intervals. A discharge energy generating element such as an electrothermal conversion element (heater) or a piezo element is disposed directly below the discharge port 201 (+ Z direction). In the case of this example, a heater is used as the ejection energy generating element, and the ink is foamed by the heat generation, and the ink is ejected from the ejection port 201 using the foaming energy.

  In a recording apparatus using the recording head 102 in which a large number of discharge ports 201 are arranged in this way, as a method for reducing the capacity of the power source, a plurality of heaters corresponding to each of the discharge ports 201 are divided into a plurality of sections (groups). There is a method of time-division driving divided into three). For example, 256 heaters corresponding to each of the discharge ports 201 are divided into 16 groups, and the drive timing is slightly shifted for each group. By such time-division driving, the number of heaters driven simultaneously can be reduced and the capacity of the power supply in the printing apparatus can be kept small.

  FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of the relationship between the ejection port array L, the drive signal applied to the heater, and the ink droplets ejected from the ejection port 201. The nozzle includes a discharge port 201, a liquid path communicating with the discharge port 201, and a heater (discharge energy generating element). The number of nozzles in one discharge port array (also referred to as “nozzle array” or “printing element array”) L is 256 corresponding to the discharge ports 201. As will be described later, nozzle numbers 1 to 256 are assigned to the respective nozzles. Is attached. These 256 nozzles are divided into 16 sections of 16 nozzles (from the first section to the 16th section). The 16 nozzles in each section belong to one of 16 drive blocks (from the first block B1 to the 16th block B16), and are time-division driven in units of blocks during the recording operation. Of the 256 nozzles, those belonging to the same drive block are driven simultaneously. More specifically, each nozzle is driven in a time-sharing manner by applying a pulse-like drive signal 301 to each heater in each nozzle. Thereby, the ink droplet 302 is discharged from the discharge port 201 in each nozzle.

  In this example, for 256 nozzles, nozzle number 1 is assigned to the downstream side in the Y direction, and nozzle numbers 2, 3,..., 256 are assigned toward the upstream side in the Y direction. It was attached. Sixteen nozzles with nozzle numbers 1, 2, 3,..., 16 in the first section belong to the first block B1, the second block B2, the third block B3,. Further, the 16 nozzles of nozzle numbers 17, 18, 19,..., 32 in the second section belong to the first block B1, the second block B2, the third block B3,. . The same applies to the nozzles in the other sections, and the 16 nozzles of nozzle numbers 241, 242, 243,..., 256 in the 16th section are the first block B1, the second block B2, the third block B3, respectively. ... belonging to the 16th block B16. When the integer (0 to 15) of the number (16) corresponding to the first to sixteenth sections is “a”, the nozzle with the nozzle number (16 × a + 1) belongs to the first block B1, and the nozzle number is ( 16 × a + 2) nozzles belong to the second block B2. The same applies to nozzles with other nozzle numbers. That is, the nozzle with the nozzle number (16 × a + b) belongs to the b-th block Bb. As described above, the nozzles in each section periodically correspond to the first block B1 to the sixteenth block B16.

  In the example of FIG. 3, the nozzles in each section are in the order of belonging to the blocks B1, B5, B9, B13, B2, B6, B10, B14, B3, B7, B11, B15, B4, B8, B12, B16. Driven. The drive order from the block B1 to FIG. 16 is stored in the ROM 111 (FIG. 1C) in the recording apparatus, and the heater outputs a block selection signal output at a predetermined interval according to the drive order; It is driven based on a drive signal corresponding to the logical product of the recording data.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining the process of processing the image data.

  First, RGB original image signals of 256 gradations (0 to 255) are input at a resolution of 600 dpi from an image input device such as a digital camera or a scanner, or a computer (step S1). The RGB original image signal is converted into an R′G′B ′ signal by color conversion processing A (step S2), and the R′G′B ′ signal is a signal value corresponding to each color ink by color conversion processing B. (Step S3). In this example, the data is converted into data C1, M1, Y1, and K1 corresponding to inks of four colors of C (cyan), M (magenta), Y (yellow), and K (black). Each of the data C1, M1, Y1, and K1 has a gradation number of 256 (0 to 255) and a resolution of 300 dpi. Specifically, in the color processing B, a three-dimensional lookup table (not shown) that associates R, G, and B input values with C, M, and Y output values is used. For input values that deviate from the values of the grid points in the table, the output values are obtained by interpolating the output values of the grid points in the surrounding table. Hereinafter, the data C1 among the data C1, M1, Y1, and K1 will be described as a representative.

  The data C1 is subjected to gradation correction using the gradation correction table (step S4). Data C1 after gradation correction is referred to as data C2. By performing quantization processing on the data C2 by the error diffusion method, data C3 (also referred to as “gradation data”) having two gradations (gradation levels 0 and 1) and a resolution of 300 dpi × 300 dpi is obtained. Obtain (step S5). In addition to the error diffusion method, a dither method may be used for the quantization process. The gradation data C3 is subjected to resolution conversion using the resolution conversion processing table (step S6). The data after resolution conversion is assumed to be image data C4. The image data C4 is developed in two gradations “0” and “1” based on a dot arrangement pattern that defines the number of dots arranged and the arrangement position. Specifically, the image data C4 is composed of 1-bit information of “0” and “1” at a resolution of 600 dpi × 600 dpi. The resolution (600 dpi × 600 dpi) of the image data C4 is higher than the resolution (300 dpi × 300 dpi) of the data C3.

  By performing distribution processing on such image data C4, print data C5 corresponding to ejection or non-ejection of cyan ink for each pixel region is generated in each print scan (step S7). Similarly, the recording data M5 for magenta ink, the recording data Y5 for yellow ink, and the recording data K5 for black ink are also generated. The recording data C5, M5, Y5, and K5 are transmitted to the recording head 102 (step S8), and cyan, magenta, yellow, and black inks are ejected from the recording head 102 according to the recording data (step S8). S9).

  FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of the relationship between the recording medium and the used nozzles during the recording operation. In FIG. 5, the discharge port array Lk for black ink will be representatively described. The same applies to the other ejection port arrays Lc, Lm, and Ly. The multi-pass printing method employed in this example is a two-pass printing method in which an image of a predetermined area (A1, A2, A3) on a printing medium is completed by scanning the printing head 102 twice. The recording head 102 moves in a first direction (+ X direction) that intersects (orthogonally in this example) the nozzle arrangement direction, and in a second direction (−X direction) opposite to the first direction.

  First, in the first scan, the recording head 102 is moved in the + X direction (outward direction) together with the carriage 106, and nozzles 1 to 128 are used to record an image in the area A1 (outward recording). After the first scan, the recording medium P is conveyed by 128 nozzles in the + Y direction. In FIG. 5, for convenience of explanation, the recording head 102 is shown to move in the −Y direction. In the second scan, the recording head 102 is moved in the −X direction (return direction) together with the carriage 106, and the nozzle numbers 1 to 256 are used to record images in the areas A1 and A2 (return path recording). . After the second scan, the recording medium P is conveyed by 128 nozzles in the + Y direction. In the third scan, the recording head 102 is moved in the + X direction (forward direction) together with the carriage 106, and nozzles with nozzle numbers 1 to 256 are used to record images in the areas A2 and A3 (outward recording). After the third scan, the recording medium P is conveyed by 128 nozzles in the + Y direction. In the fourth scan, while moving the recording head 102 together with the carriage 106 in the −X direction (return direction), the nozzle numbers 129 to 256 are used to record an image in the area A3 (return path recording). Thereafter, the recording medium P is discharged in the + Y direction, and the recording operation is finished.

(Characteristic configuration)
Next, a characteristic configuration of the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of image data converted by the resolution conversion process (step S6) in the present embodiment. The grayscale data (300 dpi) having the grayscale value “0” on the left side in FIG. 6A is converted to the image data (600 dpi) on the right side in FIG. 6 and “0” is entered in each pixel area in the image data. . The gradation data (300 dpi) having the gradation value “1” on the left side in FIG. 6B is converted into the image data (600 dpi) on the right side in FIG. 6, and “1” is entered in each pixel area in the image data. Dots are formed.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram of a process of generating print data using image data and a mask pattern. FIG. 7A is a diagram schematically illustrating 16 pixels 600 to 615 in a certain unit region. In this example, for convenience of explanation, a description will be given using a unit region composed of 16 pixels. FIG. 7B shows image data corresponding to the unit area. In the image data of FIG. 7B, for example, the pixel value of the pixel 700 is “1”, so that ink is ejected to the pixel 700. According to the image data in FIG. 7B, ink is ejected to all the pixels in the unit area. FIGS. 7C-1 and 7C-2 are explanatory diagrams of first and second mask patterns corresponding to the first scan and the second scan in the 2-pass printing method. By applying the first mask pattern shown in FIG. 7C-1 to the image data shown in FIG. 7B, print data used in the first scan is generated. Similarly, print data used in the second scan is generated by applying the second mask pattern shown in FIG. 7C-2 to the image data shown in FIG. 7B. One-bit information of “0” or “1” is set for each pixel in the first and second mask patterns.

  FIG. 7D-1 is an explanatory diagram of first print data generated by applying the first mask pattern of FIG. 7C-1 to the image data of FIG. 7B. is there. FIG. 7D-2 is an explanatory diagram of second print data generated by applying the first mask pattern of FIG. 7C-2 to the image data of FIG. 7B. is there. For example, in the pixel 600 of the first print data corresponding to the first scan (FIG. 7D-1), the pixel value of the image data is “1”, and the code value of the first mask pattern is “1”. ”, Ink ejection (“ 1 ”) is determined. Ink is ejected in the first and second scans based on the first and second print data generated in this way. For example, in the first scan, the pixel area on the recording medium for the pixels 700, 702, 705, 707, 708, 710, 713, and 715 is based on the first recording data in FIG. Ink is ejected.

  FIG. 7E shows recording data corresponding to the logical sum of the first and second recording data, and ink is ejected to a portion corresponding to the pixel value “1” of the image data in FIG. 7B. It will be. Thus, 1-bit print data used in each of a plurality of scans can be generated based on the image data and the mask pattern.

  FIG. 8A is an explanatory diagram of the drive order of the drive blocks (block B1 to block B16) at the time of forward printing and backward printing at one nozzle row (for example, a nozzle row for black ink). The numbers shown without parentheses in the second and third rows in FIG. 8A are in accordance with the driving order shown in the first row in FIG. 8A in each of the forward scan and the backward scan. The drive block to be driven is shown. The numbers shown in parentheses in the third column in FIG. 8A indicate the amount of deviation of the dot formation position in the backward scanning. During forward recording, the odd-numbered blocks (blocks B1, B3, B5,..., B15) are driven, and then the even-numbered blocks (blocks B2, B4, B6,. 1 order). That is, the drive order of the blocks B1, B3, B5,..., B15 is the first half of Nos. 1 to 8, and the drive order of the blocks B2, B4, B6,. It is the second half of the turn.

  On the other hand, at the time of return pass recording, the even-numbered blocks (blocks B1, B3, B5,..., B15) are driven after the even-numbered blocks (blocks B2, B4, B6,..., B16) are driven. (Second order). That is, the drive order of the blocks B2, B4, B6,..., B16 is the first half of Nos. 1 to 8, and the drive order of the blocks B1, B3, B5,. It is the second half of the turn.

  In this embodiment, as described in Patent Document 1, the driving order of time-division driving in the backward scanning is set to a different order from the reverse order of the driving order of time-division driving in the forward scanning. As a result, even when there is a shift in the dot formation position in the scanning direction between the forward scan and the backward scan, compared to the case where such a shift has not occurred, the dot coverage area That is, the degree of change in density can be suppressed.

  In the two-pass recording method of this example, the first and second recording data divided into two as shown in FIGS. 7 (d-1) and (d-2) are used. That is, the columns (column areas) extending in the respective arrow Y directions are recorded by forward recording (forward scanning) based on the first recording data and backward scanning based on the second recording data.

  FIG. 8B is an explanatory diagram of the drive timing of the drive block for each column, FIG. 8C is an explanatory diagram of ink dot formation positions, and FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of a part of FIG. FIG. The first column, the second column, the third column, and so on are located along the + X direction. In FIG. 9, for convenience of explanation, the dot D1 formed during forward scanning will be described as a column reference.

  The odd-numbered columns (first column, third column,...) Are nozzles of odd-numbered blocks (B1, B3, B5,..., B15) driven during forward scanning and even-numbered blocks driven during backward scanning. (B2, B4, B6,..., B16) and the nozzles. The even columns (second column, fourth column,...) Are nozzles of even blocks (B2, B4, B6,..., B16) driven during forward scanning and odd blocks driven during backward scanning. (B1, B3, B5,..., B15) and the nozzles.

  In the odd column, odd dots D1, D3, D5,... D15 are formed by the nozzles of the odd blocks (B1, B3, B5,..., B15) during forward scanning in which the recording head moves in the + X direction. The As shown in FIG. 9, these odd dots are shifted in the + X direction as the driving timing of the nozzles corresponding to them is later. Furthermore, these odd dots are positioned on the left side (−X direction side) in FIG. 9 because the driving order of the driving blocks corresponding to them is the first half of No. 1 to No. 8. For odd columns, even dots D2, D4, D6,... By nozzles of even blocks (B2, B4, B6,..., B16) at the time of backward scanning in which the recording head moves in the -X direction. -D16 is formed. As shown in FIG. 9, these even dots are shifted in the −X direction as the drive timing of the corresponding nozzles is delayed. Furthermore, these even dots are located on the right side (near the + X direction) in FIG. 9 because the driving order of the driving blocks corresponding to them is the first half of No. 1 to No. 8.

  In this way, the odd columns are odd dots D1, D3, D5,... D15 located on the left side in FIG. 9 and even dots D2, D4, D6,. It is recorded by the combination of D16.

  On the other hand, in the even column, even dots D2, D4, D6,... D16 are formed by the nozzles of the even blocks (B2, B4, B6,..., B16) during the forward scan in which the recording head moves in the + X direction. It is formed. As shown in FIG. 9, these even-numbered dots are shifted in the + X direction as the driving timing of the nozzles corresponding to them is later. Further, these even dots are located on the right side (near the + X direction) in FIG. 9 because the drive order of the drive blocks corresponding to them is the second half of No. 9 to No. 16. For even columns, odd-numbered dots D1, D3, D5,... By the nozzles of odd-numbered blocks (B1, B3, B5,..., B15) during backward scanning when the recording head moves in the -X direction. -D15 is formed. As shown in FIG. 9, these odd dots are shifted in the -X direction as the driving timing of the corresponding nozzles is delayed. These odd-numbered dots are located on the left side (−X direction side) in FIG. 9 because the driving order of the driving blocks corresponding to them is the latter half of Nos. 9 to 16.

  In this way, the even columns are odd dots D1, D3, D5,... D15 located on the right side in FIG. 9 and even dots D2, D4, D6,. It is recorded by the combination of D16. Therefore, both the odd-numbered column and the even-numbered column are recorded by a combination of dots positioned on the right side and the left side in FIG. 9, and the dots are distributed and arranged in each column.

  The numbers in the squares in FIG. 8B represent the amount of dot shift in the + X direction when the odd-numbered column dot D1 is used as a reference. Here, each column is divided into 16 in the X direction, the position on the leftmost side (−X direction) is set to “1”, and the amount of deviation increases by 1 from there to the right side (+ X direction). The position of (+ X direction) is described as “16”.

  The shift amount of dots formed during forward scanning (first scanning) corresponds to the drive order (first order) of blocks B1 to B16 corresponding to those dots as follows. At the time of forward scanning, since the driving order of the block B1 is No. 1, the formation position of the dot D1 corresponding to the block B1 is the leftmost, that is, the dot shift amount is “1”. A dot whose driving timing is later by one than that of the dot D1 is shifted to the right, and the amount of dot displacement increases by “1”. That is, at the time of forward scanning, the driving order of each printing element corresponds to the amount of deviation of the dot formation position.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8A, during forward scanning, blocks B1, B3, B5, B7, B9, B11, B13, B15, B2, B4, B6, B8, B10, B12, B14, B16 Driven in the order. Since forward scanning is scanning from the left to the right (+ X direction), even if the dots are recorded in the same column, the dot corresponding to the recording element driven at the previous timing is located on the left side. The dot corresponding to the recording element driven at a later timing is positioned on the right side. Here, it is assumed that in such forward scanning, ink is ejected from all of the printing elements corresponding to the blocks B1 to B16 to the same column. In this case, according to the driving order of the blocks B1, B3, B5, B7, B9, B11, B13, B15, B2, B4, B6, B8, B10, B12, B14, B16 from left to right. , Dots corresponding to them are formed.

  Accordingly, the amount of dot shift during forward scanning is “1” in block B1, “9” in block B2, “2” in block B3, “10” in block B4, “3” in block B5, and in block B6. “11”, “4” in block B7, and “12” in block B8. Similarly, “5” in block B9, “13” in block B10, “6” in block B11, “14” in block B12, “7” in block B13, “15” in block B14, “8” in block B15 ”,“ 16 ”in block B16.

  On the other hand, the shift amount of dots formed at the time of backward scanning (second scanning) and the driving order (second order) of blocks B1 to B16 corresponding to these dots correspond as follows. At the time of backward scanning, since the driving order of the block B2 is No. 1, the formation position of the dot D2 corresponding to the block B2 is the rightmost side, that is, the dot shift amount is “16”. A dot whose driving timing is later by one than that of the dot D2 is shifted to the left, so that the dot shift amount is decreased by “1”. That is, at the time of backward scanning, a value related to the difference between the maximum value of the driving order (16 in this case) and the driving order of each printing element, more specifically, the number obtained by adding 1 to the difference is the amount of dot formation position deviation. Correspond.

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8A, during backward scanning, blocks B2, B4, B6, B8, B10, B12, B14, B16, B1, B3, B5, B7, B9, B11, B13, B15. Driven in the order. Since the backward scan is a scan from right to left (−X direction), even if the dots are recorded in the same column, the dot corresponding to the recording element driven at the previous timing is positioned on the right side. The dot corresponding to the recording element driven at a later timing is positioned on the left side. Here, it is assumed that in such backward scanning, ink is ejected from all of the recording elements corresponding to the blocks B1 to B16 to the same column. In this case, according to the driving order of the blocks B15, B13, B11, B9, B7, B5, B3, B1, B16, B14, B12, B10, B8, B6, B4, B2 from left to right , Dots corresponding to them are formed.

  For example, since the block B1 is driven ninth, the dot formation position is “8”, which is the difference between 16 which is the maximum value in the driving order and 9 which is the driving order, plus 1. It becomes. Further, since the block B16 is driven eighth, the dot formation position is “9”, which is the difference between 16 which is the maximum value of the driving order and 8 which is the driving order, plus 1. Become. The same applies to the other blocks: “16” in block B2, “7” in block B3, “15” in block B4, “6” in block B5, “14” in block B6, “5” in block B7, It becomes "13" in block B8. Similarly, "4" in block B9, "12" in block B10, "3" in block B11, "11" in block B12, "2" in block B13, "10" in block B14, "1" in block B15 "

  As the numerical value in the square in FIG. 8B increases, the amount of dot shift in the + X direction increases. The average (average value C) of the deviation amounts in the + X direction of all dots in the first column is 8.5. The average value of dot shift in other columns is also 8.5. Thus, the average value of the amount of dot shift in each column means that the degree of variation in the X direction of the dot formation position in each column is substantially equal. The average value of such shift amounts can be obtained by dividing the total shift amount in the + X direction of each dot by a multiple of the number of divisions of time-division driving. In the case of this example, an average value of the deviation amounts was obtained by dividing the total deviation amount by the number of divisions 16.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the average of the shift amounts of the dot formation positions in each column is made equal. For such a setting, the driving order is directly set to the value A in the printing element driven during the forward scanning, and 1 is added to the difference between the maximum value of the driving order and the driving order for the printing element driven during the backward scanning. When the number is a value A, the average of the values A is made almost equal in each column. As a result, the degree of variation of the dot formation position in the column in the X direction can be made substantially equal, and in a gradation in which ink is ejected to almost all pixels as shown in FIG. ) As in () can be recorded.

(Comparative example)
18 and 19 are diagrams for explaining a comparative example, and the drive order of the drive blocks is set as shown in FIG. That is, in both the forward scan and the backward scan, after the odd-numbered blocks (blocks B1, B3, B5,..., B15) are driven, the even-numbered blocks (blocks B2, B4, B6,. B16) is driven.

  The odd-numbered columns (first column, third column,...) Are nozzles of odd-numbered blocks (B1, B3, B5,..., B15) driven during forward scanning and even-numbered blocks driven during backward scanning. (B2, B4, B6,..., B16). The even columns (second column, fourth column,...) Are nozzles of even blocks (B2, B4, B6,..., B16) driven during forward scanning and odd blocks driven during backward scanning. (B1, B3, B5,..., B15).

  In the odd-numbered columns, the odd-numbered dots D1, D3, D5,... D15 formed during forward scanning are closer to the left side in FIG. It is located on the (−X direction side) side. In the odd-numbered columns, even-numbered dots D2, D4, D6,... D16 formed at the time of backward scanning are in the latter half of the 9th to 16th driving blocks corresponding to them. It is located on the left side (-X direction side). Thus, the odd columns are each formed by a combination of even dots and odd dots located on the left side in FIG.

  On the other hand, even-numbered dots D2, D4, D6,... D16 recorded during forward scanning in the even-numbered columns are in the second half of the 9th to 16th driving blocks corresponding to them, so that in FIG. It is located on the right side (on the + X direction side). Further, in the even-numbered columns, the odd-numbered dots D1, D3, D5,... D15 recorded at the time of backward scanning are in the driving order of the driving blocks corresponding to them in the first half of Nos. 1 to 8, so It is located on the right side (on the + X direction side). In this way, the even columns are each formed by a combination of even dots and odd dots located on the right side in FIG.

  FIG. 18B is an explanatory diagram of the amount of dot displacement in the + X direction. Like FIG. 8B, the numbers in the squares represent the amount of displacement in the + X direction of the formation positions of the dots D1 to D16. . The average value of the dot shift amount in the odd-numbered column was 4.5, and the average value of the dot shift amount in the even-numbered column was 12.5, and these values varied.

  The interval in the + X direction of the dots forming each column changes due to such a deviation in the positions of the dots and variations in the amount of deviation of the dots. For example, the interval between the dots forming the first column and the dots forming the second column is increased, and the interval between the dots forming the second column and the dots forming the third column is decreased. As a result, density unevenness tends to occur in the recorded image.

(Second Embodiment)
In the first embodiment, the drive order of the drive blocks in one nozzle row is set. In the second embodiment, when an effective drive order cannot be set for one nozzle row due to various restrictions, the drive order of drive blocks in a plurality of nozzle rows is set in a related manner. In this example, the driving order of the driving blocks in the two nozzle rows for cyan ink and magenta ink is set in relation.

  The drive order of the drive blocks in the cyan ink nozzle row is the same as that of the nozzle row in FIGS. 18A and 18B in the comparative example described above. As shown in FIG. Cyan ink dots are formed at similar positions. That is, each odd column is formed by a combination of an even dot and an odd dot located on the left side in FIG. 10A, and each even column is an even dot located on the right side in FIG. 10A. It is formed by a combination with odd dots. Accordingly, similarly to FIG. 18B, the average value of the dot shift amount in the odd-numbered column is 4.5, and the average value of the dot shift amount in the even-numbered column is 12.5.

  On the other hand, the driving blocks in the magenta ink nozzle row are odd numbers in both forward scanning and backward scanning, as in FIG. 8A in the first embodiment, similarly to the cyan ink nozzle row. The even block is driven after the block is driven. However, the drive blocks and columns in the magenta ink nozzle row have a relationship as shown in FIG. 10B, and this relationship is different from the relationship in FIG. 8B in the cyan ink nozzle row.

  That is, in the case of a magenta ink nozzle row, the odd-numbered columns include the nozzles of the even-numbered blocks (B2, B4, B6,..., B16) driven during the forward scanning and the odd-numbered blocks (B1) driven during the backward scanning. , B3, B5,..., B15). In such odd-numbered columns, even-numbered dots D2, D4, D6,... D16 formed during forward scanning are in the second half of the 9th to 16th driving blocks corresponding to them. (C) Located near the middle right side (+ X direction side). Further, in such odd columns, the odd dots D1, D3, D5,... D15 formed during the backward scanning are in the driving order of the driving blocks corresponding to them in the first half of No. 1 to No. 8, so It is located on the right side in FIG. 10 (c) (on the + X direction side). Thus, all the odd columns are formed by a combination of even dots and odd dots located on the right side in FIG.

  Further, in the case of a magenta ink nozzle row, the even-numbered columns include the nozzles of odd-numbered blocks (B1, B3, B5,..., B15) driven during forward scanning and the even-numbered blocks (B2) driven during backward scanning. , B4, B6,..., B16). In such an even-numbered column, the odd-numbered dots D1, D3, D5,... D15 formed during forward scanning are in the driving order of the driving blocks corresponding to them in the first half of Nos. 1 to 8, so FIG. (C) Located near the middle left side (−X direction side). Further, in such even columns, even dots D2, D4, D6,... D16 formed at the time of backward scanning are in the second half of the 9th to 16th driving blocks corresponding to them. It is located on the left side (-X direction side) in FIG. As described above, the even columns are each formed by a combination of even dots and odd dots located on the left side in FIG.

  Thus, in the case of magenta ink, the odd-numbered columns are formed by a combination of even-numbered dots and odd-numbered dots located on the right side in FIG. 10C, and the even-numbered columns are located on the left side in FIG. It is formed by a combination of even dots and odd dots. Therefore, in the case of magenta ink, contrary to the case of cyan ink, the average value of dot shift amounts in odd columns is 12.5, and the average value of dot shift amounts in even columns is 4.5.

  FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram in the case where such magenta ink and cyan ink dots are combined. The average value of misalignment between magenta ink and cyan ink in the odd number column is 8.5 (= (4.5 + 12.5) / 2). Similarly, the average value of the shift amount of dots of magenta ink and cyan ink in the odd number column is 8.5 (= (12.5 + 4.5) / 2). As a result, the occurrence of density unevenness in the recorded image can be suppressed.

(Third embodiment)
In this embodiment, the image data converted by the resolution conversion processing S6 in FIG. 4 is thinned out, and based on the thinned image data, two nozzle rows (in this example, for cyan ink and magenta ink) Nozzle row) is used to record an image.

  FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram of image data converted by the resolution conversion processing S6 (see FIG. 4) in the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 12A, when “0” of the gradation data (300 dpi) is input, the image data becomes “0” and no dot is formed. When gradation data “1” is input as shown in FIG. 12B, dots are arranged at positions corresponding to “1” of image data, and dots are arranged at positions corresponding to “0” of image data. Not.

  FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram of a process of generating recording data using image data and a mask pattern.

  FIG. 13A schematically shows 16 (= 4 × 4) pixels 1300 to 1215 in a certain unit region. Here, for convenience of description, a pixel area corresponding to 16 pixels will be described as a unit area.

  FIG. 13B shows image data corresponding to the unit area. In this image data, for example, since the pixel value of the pixel 1300 is “1”, ink is ejected to the pixel region corresponding to the pixel 1300. In addition, since the pixel value in the pixel 1301 is “0”, ink is not ejected to the pixel region corresponding to the pixel 1301. According to the image data of this example, pixels from which ink is ejected and pixels from which ink is not ejected are staggered. FIGS. 13C-1 and 13C-2 are explanatory diagrams of first and second mask patterns corresponding to the first scan and the second scan in the 2-pass printing method. By applying the mask pattern shown in FIG. 13C-1 to the image data shown in FIG. 13B, print data used in the first scan is generated. Similarly, print data used in the second scan is generated by applying the mask pattern shown in FIG. 13C-2 to the image data shown in FIG. 13B. For each pixel in the first and second mask patterns, 1-bit information of “0” or “1” is set.

  FIG. 13D-1 is an explanatory diagram of the first print data generated by applying the first mask pattern of FIG. 13C-1 to the image data of FIG. 13B. is there. FIG. 13D-2 is an explanatory diagram of second print data generated by applying the second mask pattern of FIG. 13C-2 to the image data of FIG. 13B. is there. For example, in the pixel 1300 in the print data corresponding to the first scan (FIG. 13D-1), the pixel value is “1” and the code value of the first mask pattern is “1”. Discharge ("1") is determined. Ink is ejected in the first and second scans based on the first and second print data generated in this way. For example, in the first scan, ink is ejected to the pixel areas on the recording medium for the pixels 1300, 1302, 1305, and 1307 based on the first recording data in FIG.

  FIG. 13E shows recording data corresponding to the logical sum of the first and second recording data, and ink is ejected to a portion corresponding to the pixel value “1” of the image data in FIG. 13B. It will be. Thus, 1-bit print data used for each of a plurality of scans can be generated based on the image data and the mask pattern.

  FIG. 14A is an explanatory diagram of the drive order of the drive blocks (block B1 to block B16) at the time of forward recording and backward recording at the nozzle row for cyan ink. During forward recording, the odd-numbered blocks (blocks B1, B3, B5,..., B15) are driven, and then the even-numbered blocks (blocks B2, B4, B6,..., B16) are driven. On the other hand, at the time of return pass recording, the even-numbered blocks (blocks B1, B3, B5,..., B15) are driven after the even-numbered blocks (blocks B2, B4, B6,..., B16) are driven. .

  FIG. 14B is an explanatory diagram of the drive timing of the drive block in the cyan ink nozzle row, and FIG. 14C is an explanatory diagram of the formation positions of the cyan ink dots.

  During forward scanning in which the recording head moves in the + X direction, recording is performed in the order of the first and second columns. At that time, in the first column, dots are driven by the nozzles of odd blocks (B1, B5, B9, B13) thinned every other, and every other thinned out in the second column. The nozzles of the even blocks (B2, B6, B10, B14) are driven. The driving order of the former odd-numbered blocks (B1, B5, B9, B13) is the first half of No. 1, No. 3, No. 5, and No. 7 as shown in FIG. D9 and D13 are located on the left side (−X direction side) in FIG. Since the driving order of the latter even-numbered blocks (B2, B6, B10, B14) is the latter half of the ninth, eleventh, thirteenth, and fifteenth as shown in FIG. 14A, the corresponding dots D2, D6, D10 and D14 are located closer to the right side (+ X direction side) of 14 (c). Similarly, dots are formed in the other columns.

  During backward scanning in which the recording head moves in the −X direction, recording is performed in the order of the second and first columns. At that time, in the second column, dots are driven by the nozzles of even-numbered blocks (B4, B8, B12, B16) thinned out every other column, and every other thinned out in the first column. The nozzles of the odd blocks (B3, B7, B11, B15) are driven. The driving order of the former even-numbered blocks (B4, B8, B12, B16) is the first half of Nos. 2, 4, 6, and 8, as shown in FIG. Therefore, the dots D4, D8, D12, and D16 corresponding to them are located on the right side (+ X direction side) in FIG. The driving order of the latter odd-numbered blocks (B3, B7, B11, B15) is the second half of Nos. 10, 12, 14, and 16, as shown in FIG. Therefore, the dots D3, D7, D11, and D15 corresponding to them are located on the left side (-X direction side) in FIG. 14C. Similarly, dots are formed in the other columns.

  Thus, with the cyan ink, the odd-numbered columns are dots D1, D5, D9, and D13 that are positioned closer to the left side (−X direction side) in FIG. 14C, and similarly dots that are positioned closer to the −X direction side. D3, D7, D11, and D15. The average value of the shift amount of the dots in the odd column in the + X direction is 4. On the other hand, in the even-numbered column, the dots D2, D6, D10, and D14 located on the right side in FIG. 14C (close to the + X direction side) and the dots D4, D8, D12, and D16 located on the + X direction side in the same manner. And formed by. The average value of the shift amounts of the dots in the even column in the + X direction is 12.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 14B and 14C, a portion where a cyan ink dot is not formed (non-formed portion) is made different among a plurality of columns. Thereby, even when a deviation in the X direction suddenly occurs at the dot formation position between the previous recording scan and the next recording scan, the occurrence of density unevenness in the recorded image can be suppressed. Such a shift in the X direction at the dot formation position may occur depending on, for example, the scanning accuracy of the carriage 106 and the conveyance accuracy of the conveyance roller 103 and the auxiliary roller 104.

  FIG. 15A is an explanatory diagram of the drive order of the drive blocks (block B1 to block B16) at the time of forward printing and backward printing at the nozzle row for magenta ink. In forward recording, even-numbered blocks (blocks B1, B3, B5,..., B15) are driven after even-numbered blocks (blocks B2, B4, B6,..., B16) are driven. On the other hand, in the backward recording, the odd-numbered blocks (blocks B1, B3, B5,..., B15) are driven, and then the even-numbered blocks (blocks B2, B4, B6,..., B16) are driven. .

  FIG. 15B is an explanatory diagram of the drive timing of the drive block in the magenta ink nozzle row, and FIG. 15C is an explanatory diagram of magenta ink dot formation positions.

  During forward scanning in which the recording head moves in the + X direction, recording is performed in the order of the first and second columns. At that time, in the first column, dots are formed by nozzles in every other odd-numbered block (B1, B5, B9, B13). Is driven. In the second column, the nozzles of every other even block (B2, B6, B10, B14) are driven. The driving order of the former odd-numbered blocks (B1, B5, B9, B13) is the latter half of the ninth, eleventh, thirteenth, and fifteenth as shown in FIG. D9 and D13 are located on the right side (+ X direction side) in FIG. 14C. The driving order of the latter even-numbered blocks (B2, B6, B10, B14) is the first half of No. 1, No. 3, No. 5, and No. 7 as shown in FIG. D10 and D14 are located on the left side (−X direction side) in FIG. Similarly, dots are formed in the other columns.

  At the time of backward scanning in which the recording head moves in the −X direction, recording is performed in the order of the second and first columns. At this time, the nozzles of every even-numbered block (B4, B8, B12, B16) are used in the second column. The dot is driven. In the first column, the nozzles of every other odd-numbered block (B3, B7, B11, B15) are driven. The driving order of the former even-numbered blocks (B4, B8, B12, B16) is the second half of Nos. 10, 12, 14, and 16, as shown in FIG. Therefore, the dots D4, D8, D12, and D16 corresponding to them are located on the left side (−X direction side) in FIG. The driving order of the latter odd-numbered blocks (B3, B7, B11, B15) is the first half of Nos. 2, 4, 6, and 8, as shown in FIG. Therefore, the dots D3, D7, D11, and D15 corresponding to them are located on the right side in FIG. 14C (on the + X direction side). Similarly, dots are formed in the other columns.

  Thus, with magenta ink, the odd-numbered columns are dots D1, D5, D9, and D13 positioned on the right side (+ X direction side) in FIG. 15C, and the dots D3 and D3 are also positioned on the + X direction side. D7, D11, and D15. The average value of the shift amount of the dots in the odd columns in the + X direction is 12. On the other hand, in the even-numbered column, dots D2, D6, D10, and D14 located on the left side (close to the −X direction side) in FIG. 15C and dots D4, D8, and D12 located on the −X direction side as well. , D16. The average value of the shift amounts of the dots in such an even column in the + X direction is 4.

  Further, as shown in FIGS. 15B and 15C, a portion where a magenta ink dot is not formed (non-formed portion) is made different between a plurality of columns. Thereby, even when a deviation in the X direction suddenly occurs at the dot formation position between the previous recording scan and the next recording scan, the occurrence of density unevenness in the recorded image can be suppressed. Such a shift in the X direction at the dot formation position may occur depending on, for example, the scanning accuracy of the carriage 106 and the conveyance accuracy of the conveyance roller 103 and the auxiliary roller 104.

  FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram in the case where such magenta ink and cyan ink dots are combined. The average deviation amount of magenta ink and cyan ink dots in odd columns is 8 (= (4 + 12) / 2). Similarly, the average deviation amount of magenta ink and cyan ink dots in odd columns is 8 ( = (12 + 4) / 2). As a result, the occurrence of density unevenness in the recorded image can be suppressed.

  The nozzle row for setting the drive order of the drive blocks in relation may be a nozzle row corresponding to the same color ink in addition to the nozzle row corresponding to different ink colors as in this example. Further, the size of the dots to be formed is not limited to the same size as in this example, and may be different sizes. Further, the nozzle row for setting the drive order of the drive blocks in relation is not limited to only a combination of nozzles having the same nozzle arrangement form as in this example. For example, a combination of a plurality of nozzle rows whose nozzle positions are shifted by half a pixel in the Y direction and nozzle rows whose nozzle positions are not shifted by a half pixel in the Y direction may be used. Further, the relationship between the image data and the pixel area is not limited to the example of FIG. Further, the drive order of the drive blocks may be set so that the deviation of the dot shift amount does not occur in each of the two nozzle rows.

(Fourth embodiment)
FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram of the present embodiment. The processing up to the distribution processing S7 in FIG. 4 for generating print data is the same as that of the first embodiment.

  FIG. 17A is an explanatory diagram of the drive order of the drive blocks (block B1 to block B16) at the time of forward recording and at the time of backward recording. The drive order of the drive blocks at the time of forward recording and at the time of backward recording is the same, and odd blocks and even blocks are driven alternately. That is, among the action orders from No. 1 to No. 16, the driving blocks B1, B2, B5, B6, B9. B10, B13, and B14 are driven. In the latter half 9th to 16th, the drive blocks B4, B3. B8. , B7. B12, B11, B16, and B15 are driven.

  FIG. 17B is an explanatory diagram of drive timing of the drive block, and FIG. 17C is an explanatory diagram of dot formation positions.

  The odd-numbered columns include the nozzles of the driving blocks (B1, B5,..., B16) that are driven oddly during the forward scanning and the driving blocks (B2, B6,..., That are driven evenly during the backward scanning. And B15) nozzles. Of the former driving blocks driven during forward scanning, the four driving orders of the half are the first half (No. 1 to No. 8), and the four driving orders of the other half are the second half (No. 9 to No. 16). . The same applies to the latter drive block driven at the time of backward scanning.

  On the other hand, the even columns include the nozzles of the drive blocks (B2, B6,..., B15) that are evenly driven during forward scanning and the drive blocks (B1, B5,...) That are driven oddly during backward scanning. ., B16). Of the former driving blocks driven during forward scanning, the four driving orders of the half are the first half (No. 1 to No. 8), and the four driving orders of the other half are the second half (No. 9 to No. 16). . The same applies to the latter drive block driven at the time of backward scanning.

  The shift amount in the + X direction of the dots in the odd and even columns recorded in this way is both 8.5, and density unevenness can be suppressed.

(Other embodiments)
In the above-described embodiment, the drive order of the drive blocks is set so that the difference in the shift amount of the dots in the + X direction between the columns is “0”. However, the difference is not necessarily zero, and by making it at least less than 3, the occurrence of density unevenness can be suppressed. Further, the number of divisions in the time division driving method is not limited to 16 as in the above-described embodiment, and is arbitrary. The multi-pass printing method is not limited to the two-pass printing method as in the above-described embodiment. Dots formed during the first scan and dots formed during the second scan according to the total number of times of the first scan and the second scan (multipass number) for forming an image in a predetermined area of the recording medium And the combination can be made different.

  The present invention supplies a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or apparatus via a network or a storage medium, and one or more processors in a computer of the system or apparatus read and execute the program This process can be realized. It can also be realized by a circuit (for example, ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

Claims (15)

A recording head having a recording element array in which a plurality of recording elements are arranged in a predetermined direction;
Scanning means for performing scanning of the recording head in a first direction intersecting the predetermined direction and scanning of the recording head in a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to a unit area on the recording medium When,
Generating means for generating first recording data corresponding to an image recorded at the time of scanning in the first direction and second recording data corresponding to an image recorded at the time of scanning in the second direction;
In order to form dots in the unit area, the plurality of recording elements are driven in a time-sharing manner according to a first order when scanning in the first direction, and differ from the reverse order of the first order when scanning in the second direction. Drive means for time-sharing driving the plurality of recording elements according to a second order;
A recording device comprising:
When the dots formed when scanning in the first direction are first dots and the dots formed when scanning in the second direction are second dots, the generating means extend in the predetermined direction, respectively. (I) for the first column area and the second column area on the recording medium located at different positions in the first direction, (i) the first dot and the second dot in the first and second column areas, respectively. (Ii) the order of the first and second dots arranged in the predetermined direction in the first column area, and the first and second lines arranged in the predetermined direction in the second column area Generating the first and second recording data so that the dot order is different from each other;
The average shift amount of the formation positions of the first and second dots in the first direction in the first column region and the formation of the first and second dots in the first direction in the second column region. The recording apparatus, wherein the first order and the second order are set so that an average of positional deviation amounts is substantially equal.   The generating means may perform the first and second recording so that the non-formed portions where the first and second dots are not formed are formed at different positions in the predetermined direction with respect to the first and second column regions. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein data is generated.   In the printing element driven when scanning in the first direction, the order in the first order is the value A, and in the printing element driven when scanning in the second direction, the maximum in the second order. When the value A is a value related to the difference between the value and the order in the second order, the average of the shift amounts of the first and second dot formation positions in each of the first and second column regions is The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the recording apparatus corresponds to an average of the values A of the recording elements corresponding to the first and second dots in each of the first and second column regions.   In the printing element driven when scanning in the second direction, the value A is a number obtained by adding 1 to the difference between the maximum value in the second order and the order in the second order. The recording apparatus according to claim 3.   5. The recording apparatus according to claim 3, wherein a difference between the average of the values A in the first column area and the average of the values A in the second column area is less than 3. 5. The recording head has a second recording element array different from the recording element array,
The driving means drives the plurality of recording elements in the second recording element array in a time-sharing manner according to a third order when scanning in the first direction, and performs a third ordering operation when scanning in the second direction. 6. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of recording elements in the second recording element array are time-division driven in accordance with a fourth order different from the reverse order.   According to the number of scans performed on the unit area, the recording element driven when scanning in the first direction is different from the recording element driven when scanning in the second direction. The recording apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6.   The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the scanning unit performs the scanning in the first direction and the scanning in the second direction once each.   The average shift amount of the formation positions of the first and second dots in the first direction in the first column region and the formation of the first and second dots in the first direction in the second column region. 9. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first order and the second order are set so that an average of positional deviation amounts is equal.   The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of recording elements in the recording element array generate energy for ejecting ink of the same color. A recording head having a recording element array in which a plurality of recording elements are arranged in a predetermined direction;
Scanning means for performing scanning of the recording head in a first direction intersecting the predetermined direction and scanning of the recording head in a second direction opposite to the first direction with respect to a unit area on the recording medium When,
Generating means for generating first recording data corresponding to an image recorded at the time of scanning in the first direction and second recording data corresponding to an image recorded at the time of scanning in the second direction;
In order to form dots in the unit area, the plurality of recording elements are driven in a time-sharing manner according to a first order when scanning in the first direction, and differ from the reverse order of the first order when scanning in the second direction. Drive means for time-sharing driving the plurality of recording elements according to a second order;
A recording device comprising:
When the dots formed when scanning in the first direction are first dots and the dots formed when scanning in the second direction are second dots, the generating means extend in the predetermined direction, respectively. (I) for the first column area and the second column area on the recording medium located at different positions in the first direction, (i) the first dot and the second dot in the first and second column areas, respectively. (Ii) the order of the first and second dots arranged in the predetermined direction in the first column area, and the first and second lines arranged in the predetermined direction in the second column area Generating the first and second recording data so that the dot order is different from each other;
In the printing element driven when scanning in the first direction, the order in the first order is the value A, and in the printing element driven when scanning in the second direction, the maximum in the second order. When the value relating to the difference between the value and the order in the second order is value A, the average of the values A of the printing elements corresponding to the first and second dots in the first column region, and the second The first order and the second order are set so that the average of the values A of the recording elements corresponding to the first and second dots in the column region is substantially equal. .   In the printing element driven when scanning in the second direction, the value A is a number obtained by adding 1 to the difference between the maximum value in the second order and the order in the second order. The recording apparatus according to claim 11. A recording method for recording using a recording head having a recording element array in which a plurality of recording elements are arranged in a predetermined direction,
A scanning step in which scanning of the recording head in a first direction intersecting the predetermined direction and scanning of the recording head in a second direction opposite to the first direction are performed on a unit area on the recording medium. When,
A generating step of generating first recording data corresponding to an image to be recorded when scanning in the first direction and second recording data corresponding to an image to be recorded when scanning in the second direction;
In order to form dots in the unit area, the plurality of recording elements are driven in a time-sharing manner according to a first order when scanning in the first direction, and differ from the reverse order of the first order when scanning in the second direction. A driving step of time-sharing driving the plurality of recording elements according to a second order;
With
When the dots formed when scanning in the first direction are the first dots and the dots formed when scanning in the second direction are the second dots, in the generation step, each dot extends in the predetermined direction. (I) for the first column area and the second column area on the recording medium located at different positions in the first direction, (i) the first dot and the second dot in the first and second column areas, respectively. (Ii) the order of the first and second dots arranged in the predetermined direction in the first column area, and the first and second lines arranged in the predetermined direction in the second column area Generating the first and second recording data so that the dot order is different from each other;
The average shift amount of the formation positions of the first and second dots in the first direction in the first column region and the formation of the first and second dots in the first direction in the second column region. The recording method according to claim 1, wherein the first order and the second order are set so that an average of positional deviation amounts is substantially equal. A recording method for recording using a recording head having a recording element array in which a plurality of recording elements are arranged in a predetermined direction,
A scanning step in which scanning of the recording head in a first direction intersecting the predetermined direction and scanning of the recording head in a second direction opposite to the first direction are performed on a unit area on the recording medium. When,
A generating step of generating first recording data corresponding to an image to be recorded when scanning in the first direction and second recording data corresponding to an image to be recorded when scanning in the second direction;
In order to form dots in the unit area, the plurality of recording elements are driven in a time-sharing manner according to a first order when scanning in the first direction, and differ from the reverse order of the first order when scanning in the second direction. A driving step of time-sharing driving the plurality of recording elements according to a second order;
With
When the dots formed when scanning in the first direction are the first dots and the dots formed when scanning in the second direction are the second dots, in the generation step, each dot extends in the predetermined direction. (I) for the first column area and the second column area on the recording medium located at different positions in the first direction, (i) the first dot and the second dot in the first and second column areas, respectively. (Ii) the order of the first and second dots arranged in the predetermined direction in the first column area, and the first and second lines arranged in the predetermined direction in the second column area Generating the first and second recording data so that the dot order is different from each other;
In the printing element driven when scanning in the first direction, the order in the first order is the value A, and in the printing element driven when scanning in the second direction, the maximum in the second order. When the value relating to the difference between the value and the order in the second order is value A, the average of the values A of the printing elements corresponding to the first and second dots in the first column region, and the second The first order and the second order are set so that the average of the values A of the recording elements corresponding to the first and second dots in the column region is substantially equal. .   A program for causing a computer to execute the recording method according to claim 13 or 14.