JP2021126837A - Liquid discharge device and liquid discharge method - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a liquid discharge device that can appropriately discharge liquid with high accuracy.SOLUTION: A liquid discharge device (a printing device 10) which discharges liquid, comprises a head part 12, an ink supply part 20 which is a liquid supply part, a driving signal supply part 34, and a driving signal selecting part 32 which is a signal voltage setting part. The head part has ink supply ports 204c, m, y and k which are liquid receiving parts, and a plurality of nozzle rows. Respective nozzles in the nozzle rows discharge ink which is liquid supplied from the ink supply part through the ink supply ports. The driving signal selecting part 32 makes a voltage in at least some period of time different from a voltage in a normal-time signal, with respect to a driving signal to be supplied to at least some of a preset number of nozzles at either end side in at least some of the nozzle rows.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates to a liquid discharge device and a liquid discharge method.

Conventionally, a liquid discharge device that discharges a liquid by an inkjet method has been widely used. Further, as such a liquid ejection device, for example, an inkjet printer or the like is widely used (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In a liquid ejection device such as an inkjet printer, for example, a liquid such as ink is ejected from a nozzle array in which a plurality of nozzles are lined up.

JP-A-2017-209883

In a liquid ejection device such as an inkjet printer, there may be a difference in nozzle ejection characteristics. In this case, if there is an abnormal nozzle whose discharge characteristics deviate from the normal range, the quality of the product to be manufactured in the application of the liquid discharge device may be affected. For example, when printing is performed with an inkjet printer, periodic unevenness (printing unevenness, printing stripes) may occur due to the influence of abnormal nozzles, and the printing quality may deteriorate. Therefore, when an abnormal nozzle is present in the liquid discharge device, it is preferable to correct the discharge characteristics of the nozzle. Further, in this case, it is desired to correct the discharge characteristics by a more appropriate method in consideration of, for example, the cause of the abnormality of the discharge characteristics and the configuration of the liquid discharge device. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a liquid discharge device and a liquid discharge method that can solve the above problems.

In the liquid discharge device, a head portion having a nozzle row in which a plurality of nozzles are arranged may be used. Further, in this case, the liquid may be supplied from the liquid supply unit outside the head portion to the liquid receiving portion (liquid supply port) in the head portion, and the liquid may be supplied to the nozzle row via the liquid receiving portion. be. However, when the liquid is supplied in this way, due to the structure of the flow path (path) for supplying the liquid, the ejection characteristics of the nozzles differ depending on the position in the nozzle row, and an abnormal nozzle occurs. In some cases.

On the other hand, the inventor of the present application has focused on the fact that, among the plurality of nozzles constituting the nozzle row, the above-mentioned abnormalities in discharge characteristics are likely to occur near the end of the nozzle row. Then, it was considered to correct the discharge characteristics by changing the voltage of the drive signal supplied to at least a part of the nozzles in the portion where such an abnormality of the discharge characteristics is likely to occur. With this configuration, for example, when the liquid is supplied from the liquid supply unit to the liquid receiving unit in the head unit and the liquid is supplied to the nozzle train via the liquid receiving unit, abnormalities in discharge characteristics are likely to occur. The ejection characteristics can be appropriately corrected for the nozzle.

Further, in the liquid discharge device, a plurality of nozzle rows may be used for the purpose of discharging the liquid at high speed, for example. For example, in an inkjet printer, when attempting to perform high-speed printing with a small number of passes, it is conceivable to perform printing using a plurality of nozzle rows that eject ink of the same color. When liquid is supplied to a plurality of nozzle rows via the liquid receiving portion, the number of nozzles having the same relationship with the liquid receiving portion increases in the liquid flow path. If there is a difference in discharge characteristics, the effect of an abnormal nozzle is likely to occur. On the other hand, if it is configured as described above, even when a plurality of nozzle rows are used, the ejection characteristics can be appropriately corrected for the nozzles in which the ejection characteristics are likely to be abnormal.

In addition, the inventor of the present application has found the features necessary for obtaining such an effect through further diligent research, and has reached the present invention. In order to solve the above problems, the present invention is a liquid discharge device that discharges liquid, and includes a head portion that discharges the liquid by an inkjet method, a liquid supply portion that supplies the liquid to the head portion, and the like. A drive signal supply unit that supplies a drive signal for driving the head unit to the head unit and a signal voltage setting unit that sets the voltage of the drive signal are provided, and the head unit is supplied from the liquid supply unit. It has a liquid receiving portion which is a portion for receiving the liquid and a plurality of nozzle rows, and each of the nozzle rows is a row in which nozzles for discharging the liquid are arranged in a predetermined nozzle row direction, and each of the nozzles Each of the nozzles in the row discharges the liquid supplied from the liquid supply unit via the liquid receiving unit, and the drive signal supply unit corresponds to each of the nozzles in the plurality of nozzle rows. By supplying the drive signal to the head unit, the liquid is discharged to each of the nozzles, and the signal voltage setting unit supplies a plurality of different types of voltages for the voltage during at least a part of the drive signal. When the drive signal supplied to the nozzles that can be set and has a discharge characteristic within a predetermined normal range is defined as a normal signal, at least a part of the nozzle trains is located on either end side in advance. For the drive signal supplied to at least a part of the set number of the nozzles, the voltage in the at least a part period is made different from the voltage in the normal signal.

With this configuration, for example, when a liquid is supplied from the liquid supply unit to the liquid receiving unit in the head unit and the liquid is supplied to a plurality of nozzle rows via the liquid receiving unit, the ejection characteristics in the nozzle row It is possible to easily and appropriately correct the discharge characteristics of the nozzle at a position where the abnormality is likely to occur. Further, as a result, for example, in a liquid discharge device, liquid can be appropriately discharged with high accuracy.

Further, when the liquid is supplied to a plurality of nozzle rows via the liquid receiving portion, it is considered that an abnormality in the discharge characteristics is likely to occur at both ends of the nozzle row, particularly on the end side close to the liquid receiving portion. In this case, the preset number of nozzles is considered to be, for example, a nozzle located on the end side close to the liquid receiving portion in the flow path direction of the liquid supplied from the liquid receiving portion in at least a part of the nozzle rows. be able to. With such a configuration, for example, it is possible to appropriately correct the discharge characteristics for a nozzle in which an abnormality in the discharge characteristics is likely to occur. Further, depending on the structure of the flow path for supplying the liquid or the like, among the plurality of nozzles constituting the nozzle row, the discharge characteristic may be liable to be abnormal on the side far from the liquid receiving portion. In such a case, the preset number of nozzles can be considered as nozzles or the like located on the end side far from the liquid receiving portion in the liquid flow path direction.

Further, in this configuration, the liquid discharge device is, for example, an inkjet printer. In this case, it is conceivable to use ink as the liquid. Further, in this case, the plurality of nozzle rows can be considered as, for example, a plurality of nozzle rows for ejecting ink of the same color. Further, the liquid discharge device may be, for example, a modeling device for modeling a three-dimensional modeled object by an inkjet method. Further, in this configuration, regarding the drive signal when the voltage is different from the normal signal, for example, it is conceivable to make the voltage different so as to correct the discharge characteristic of the nozzle to which the drive signal is supplied. In this case, correcting the ejection characteristics of the nozzle can be considered, for example, to bring the ejection characteristics closer to the normal range.

Further, in this configuration, the head portion further has, for example, a liquid flow path for flowing the liquid supplied from the liquid receiving portion to the position of each nozzle in the nozzle row. Further, in this liquid flow path, the liquid flows from one end side to the other end side of the nozzle row, for example. In this case, the preset number of nozzles in the nozzle row can be considered, for example, a plurality of nozzles arranged on one end side or the other end side of the nozzle row. With this configuration, for example, it is possible to appropriately correct the ejection characteristics of the nozzles at positions in the nozzle row where abnormalities in the ejection characteristics are likely to occur.

Further, in this configuration, liquid is supplied to the plurality of nozzle rows from the liquid supply unit via, for example, a common liquid receiving unit. In this case, the signal voltage setting unit supplies a drive signal to at least a part of a preset number of nozzles in all of a plurality of nozzle trains to which liquid is supplied through a common liquid receiving unit, for example. It is preferable that the voltage in at least a part of the period is different from the voltage in the normal signal. With this configuration, for example, it is possible to more appropriately correct the ejection characteristics of the nozzles at positions in the nozzle row where abnormalities in the ejection characteristics are likely to occur.

Further, in this configuration, the head portion discharges the liquid to the liquid discharge target by performing the main scanning operation of discharging the liquid while moving in the preset main scanning direction, for example. In this case, the movement of the head portion may be a movement relative to the ejection target. Further, in this case, the nozzle row direction in which a plurality of nozzles are lined up in each nozzle row can be considered as, for example, a direction intersecting with the main scanning direction. Further, in this case, for example, by using a plurality of nozzle rows arranged in the main scanning direction, it is conceivable to discharge the liquid with a high resolution in each main scanning operation.

Further, the head portion having such a plurality of nozzle rows can be considered as, for example, a high-resolution head capable of ejecting a liquid at a high resolution in one main scanning operation. Then, in this case, for example, it is conceivable to reduce the number of passes, which is the number of main scanning operations in which the head portion passes through the position corresponding to each position of the discharge target, to discharge the liquid. With such a configuration, for example, the usage rate of each nozzle in each main scanning operation becomes high, so that the ejection characteristics of the nozzles are likely to be affected. Therefore, for example, when a large number of abnormal nozzles are generated at specific positions (for example, in the vicinity of the liquid receiving portion) in a plurality of nozzle rows, problems such as periodic unevenness are likely to occur. On the other hand, when configured as described above, for example, the occurrence of such a problem can be appropriately prevented.

Further, the voltage of the drive signal is changed by, for example, preparing a plurality of types of drive signals having different voltages for at least a part of the period and switching the drive signal supplied to each nozzle. Can be considered. In this case, the supply of the drive signal to the nozzle can be considered, for example, to supply the drive signal to the drive element (for example, the piezo element) that drives the discharge of the liquid from the nozzle. ..

More specifically, in this case, as the drive signal supply unit, for example, a configuration capable of outputting a plurality of types of drive signals having different voltages for at least a part of the period is used. Then, for example, the signal voltage setting unit supplies the drive signal to each nozzle in each nozzle row by selecting the drive signal to be supplied to each nozzle from a plurality of types of drive signals for each nozzle. Set the voltage in the drive signal for at least a part of the period. With this configuration, for example, the voltage of the drive signal supplied to each nozzle can be appropriately changed. Further, in this case, as the plurality of types of drive signals, it is preferable to use, for example, three or more types (for example, about five types) of drive signals. With this configuration, for example, the voltage of the drive signal supplied to each nozzle can be changed in various ways and appropriately.

Further, when the discharge characteristic is corrected by changing the voltage of the drive signal, it is conceivable that the corrected part is rather conspicuous depending on the correction method. For example, in an inkjet printer, when correcting the ejection characteristics of an abnormal nozzle, there is a difference in the state after ejection at the boundary between the corrected nozzle and the uncorrected nozzle, resulting in unintended stripes (printing unevenness). ) Etc. may occur in the print result. Further, it is considered that such a problem is likely to occur when correction is performed for a certain number of nozzles or more that are continuously arranged in the nozzle row. Therefore, in this configuration, it is conceivable to select nozzles that supply a drive signal whose voltage is different from the normal signal for at least a part of the period so as not to be lined up excessively continuously in the nozzle row. Further, in this case, it is preferable to select the nozzles to be corrected so that the positions are dispersed in the nozzle row.

More specifically, in this configuration, a preset number of nozzles on either end side of the nozzle array can be considered, for example, a plurality of nozzles that are continuously arranged in the nozzle array. Then, in this case, in the signal voltage setting unit, for example, in at least a part of the nozzle rows, only the drive signal to be supplied to a part of the preset number of nozzles is normally voltageed for at least a part of the period. Make it different from the voltage at the time signal. With this configuration, for example, by targeting only a part of the nozzles out of a plurality of nozzles arranged in succession to the correction of the discharge characteristics, it is possible to appropriately prevent the corrected portion from being conspicuous. Can be done. Further, this makes it possible to appropriately prevent, for example, the occurrence of unintended fringes.

Further, in order to more appropriately prevent the corrected portion from being conspicuous, for example, it is conceivable to set a plurality of correction target ranges for the nozzle row and gradually change the correction strength. In this case, for example, a first range is set as a range to be corrected corresponding to a preset number of nozzles on either end side in the nozzle row, and a second range is set next to the range. Can be considered. Further, in this case, the ejection characteristics are corrected for at least a part of the nozzles included in the first range and the second range, and the second range is more affected by the correction than the first range. It is conceivable to correct the discharge characteristics so that In this configuration, for example, by sandwiching the second range between the range in which the nozzles that do not correct the discharge characteristics are lined up and the first range, the effect of the correction of the discharge characteristics becomes more noticeable. It can be prevented appropriately.

Further, more specifically, in this case, each of the first range and the second range in the nozzle row can be considered as, for example, a range in which a plurality of nozzles are continuously arranged in the nozzle row. The first range can be considered, for example, a range in which a preset number of nozzles are lined up in at least a part of the nozzle rows. Regarding the second range, for example, a range adjacent to the first range in the nozzle row and a range in which a predetermined part of the nozzles in the nozzle row are lined up on a side farther from the end of the nozzle row than the first range. I can think. Further, in this case, for example, in at least a part of the nozzle rows, the signal voltage setting unit normally applies a voltage for at least a part of the drive signal to be supplied to at least a part of the nozzles included in the first range. Different from the voltage in the signal. Further, with respect to the drive signal supplied to a part of the nozzle included in the second range, the voltage in at least a part of the period is made different from the voltage in the normal signal. Then, the signal voltage setting unit further makes the ratio in the second range smaller than the ratio in the first range with respect to the ratio of the nozzles that makes the voltage different from the voltage in the normal signal for at least a part of the period. With this configuration, for example, a plurality of correction target ranges can be set for the nozzle row, and the correction strength can be gradually changed. Further, this makes it possible to more appropriately prevent, for example, the influence of the correction of the discharge characteristic from being conspicuous.

Further, the range of correction targets set for the nozzle row may be three or more. In this case, it is conceivable to gradually reduce the strength of the correction as the distance from the first range increases. More specifically, in this case, it is conceivable to set a third range in the nozzle row on the side opposite to the first range with respect to the second range. Regarding the third range, for example, a range adjacent to the second range in the nozzle row and a range in which a predetermined part of the nozzles in the nozzle row are lined up on a side farther from the end of the nozzle row than the second range. I can think. Further, in this case, for example, in at least a part of the nozzle rows, the signal voltage setting unit normally supplies a voltage for at least a part of the drive signal to be supplied to a part of the nozzles included in the third range. Different from the voltage in the signal. Then, the signal voltage setting unit further makes the ratio in the third range smaller than the ratio in the second range with respect to the ratio of the nozzles that makes the voltage different from the voltage in the normal signal for at least a part of the period. With such a configuration, for example, it is possible to more appropriately prevent the influence of the correction of the discharge characteristic from being conspicuous.

Further, as the correction target range for the nozzle row, it is conceivable to further set a fourth range or the like. In this case, regarding these ranges, for example, a range adjacent to another range in the nozzle row and a range in which a predetermined part of the nozzles in the nozzle row are lined up on a side farther from the end of the nozzle row than the other range. I can think. Further, in this case, the signal voltage setting unit may, for example, reduce the ratio of nozzles that makes the voltage different from the voltage in the normal signal in a range farther from the first range, for example, in a range farther from the first range. Conceivable.

Further, the feature of the present invention can be considered in relation to, for example, a configuration in which the liquid supplied from the liquid receiving portion flows from one end side to the other end side of the nozzle row. In this case as well, as an effect of the present invention, for example, it can be considered that the ejection characteristics can be appropriately corrected for the nozzles at positions where abnormalities in the ejection characteristics are likely to occur in the nozzle row. Further, regarding the feature of the present invention, for example, it is possible to consider the feature of setting a plurality of correction target ranges for the nozzle row and gradually changing the correction strength. In this case, as an effect of the present invention, for example, it is conceivable to make the influence of the correction of the discharge characteristic less noticeable. Further, as the configuration of the present invention, it is conceivable to use a liquid discharge method or the like having the same characteristics as described above. In this case as well, for example, the same effect as described above can be obtained.

According to the present invention, for example, in a liquid discharge device, liquid can be appropriately discharged with high accuracy.

It is a figure which shows an example of the printing apparatus 10 which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 1A shows an example of the configuration of a main part of the printing apparatus 10. FIG. 1B shows an example of the configuration of the head portion 12 in the printing apparatus 10. It is a figure which explains the nozzle row part 202 for each color in the head part 12 in more detail. FIG. 2A shows an example of the configuration of a set of nozzle row portions 202 for each color and the ink supply port 204 in the head portion 12. FIG. 2B shows an enlarged part of the nozzle row portion 202 for each color. It is a figure which simplifies the structure of the plurality of nozzle row portions 202c to k for each color which the head portion 12 has. It is a figure explaining the method of correction of a discharge characteristic. FIG. 4A shows an example of how to correct the discharge characteristics. FIG. 4B shows another example of how to correct the discharge characteristics. It is a figure which shows further another example of the method of correction of a discharge characteristic. FIG. 5A shows an example in which two correction target ranges are set for one nozzle row 302. FIG. 5B shows an example in which three correction target ranges are set for one nozzle row 302. It is a figure for supplementary explanation about the method of correction of a discharge characteristic. 6 (a) and 6 (b) show a modified example of how to select the nozzle 312 to be corrected.

Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 shows an example of a printing apparatus 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1A shows an example of the configuration of a main part of the printing apparatus 10. FIG. 1B shows an example of the configuration of the head portion 12 in the printing apparatus 10. In this example, the printing device 10 is an inkjet printer which is an example of a liquid ejection device, and includes a head unit 12, a platen 14, a main scanning drive unit 16, a sub-scanning drive unit 18, an ink supply unit 20, and a control unit 22. Be prepared. Except as described below, the printing apparatus 10 may have the same or similar characteristics as known printing apparatus. Further, the printing apparatus 10 may further include the same or the same configuration as a known printing apparatus, in addition to the configuration of the main part shown in the drawing.

The head portion 12 is a portion having a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink by an inkjet method. In this case, the ink is an example of the liquid to be ejected in the liquid ejection device. Further, in this example, as shown in FIG. 1B, the head portion 12 has an ink ejection portion 102 that ejects inks of a plurality of colors. Further, the ink ejection unit 102 has a plurality of nozzle row portions 202 for each color and a plurality of ink supply ports 204. More specifically, in this example, as shown in the figure separately from the nozzle row portions 202c, 202m, 202y, and 202k for each color, the ink ejection portion 102 has nozzle row portions 202 for each color for four different colors. Have. Further, as shown separately from the ink supply ports 204c, 204m, 204y, and 204k in the figure, the ink supply ports 204 for four colors different from each other are provided.

The nozzle row portion 202 for each color is a portion having a nozzle row for ejecting ink of one color. In this case, the nozzle row can be considered, for example, a row in which the nozzles for ejecting ink are arranged in a predetermined nozzle row direction. Further, regarding the ejection of ink by the nozzle array, it can be considered that, for example, the nozzles constituting the nozzle array eject ink. Further, in this example, each color nozzle row portion 202 has a plurality of nozzle rows. Further, in this case, the plurality of nozzle rows in the nozzle row portion 202c for each color discharge cyan (C color) ink. The plurality of nozzle rows in the nozzle row portion 202m for each color discharge magenta (M color) ink. The plurality of nozzle rows in the nozzle row portion 202y for each color discharge yellow (Y color) ink. The plurality of nozzle rows in the nozzle row portion 202k for each color discharge black (K color) ink. Further, in this example, each color nozzle row unit 202 receives ink of each color from the ink supply unit 20 via the ink supply port 204.

Each ink supply port 204 is an example of a liquid receiving unit, and receives ink supplied from an ink supply unit 20 externally arranged on the head unit 12. Further, in this example, each of the ink supply ports 204c to k is arranged corresponding to each of the nozzle row portions 202c to k for each color, and the ink of each color received from the ink supply unit 20 is received from each of the corresponding colors. The ink is supplied to a plurality of nozzle rows in the nozzle row portion 202. More specifically, in this example, the ink supply port 204c receives cyan ink from the ink supply unit 20 and supplies it to a plurality of nozzle rows in each color nozzle row unit 202c. The ink supply port 204m receives magenta ink from the ink supply unit 20 and supplies the magenta ink to a plurality of nozzle rows in the nozzle row portion 202m for each color. The ink supply port 204y receives yellow ink from the ink supply unit 20 and supplies the yellow ink to a plurality of nozzle rows in the nozzle row portions 202y for each color. The ink supply port 204k receives black ink from the ink supply unit 20 and supplies it to a plurality of nozzle rows in the nozzle row unit 202k for each color.

In a modified example of the configuration of the ink ejection unit 102, the ink ejection unit 102 may eject ink other than each color of CMYK. In this case, for example, ink of a color other than each color of CMYK is used in the nozzle row portion 202 for each color and the ink supply port 204. Further, in the modified example of the configuration of the head portion 12, the head portion 12 may have a plurality of ink ejection portions 102. In this case, for example, it is conceivable that some ink ejection units 102 eject ink of a color other than each color of CMYK. Further, in this example, each color nozzle row portion 202 can be considered as, for example, a portion corresponding to an inkjet head for one color. In this case, for example, it is conceivable that the nozzle row portions 202 for each color are formed by a plurality of nozzle rows included in the inkjet head for one color. Further, each of the plurality of nozzle row portions 202 for each color may be a part of one inkjet head that ejects inks of a plurality of colors.

Further, the ink ejection portion 102 can be considered as, for example, a portion corresponding to an inkjet head for a plurality of colors. In this case, for example, it is conceivable to combine a plurality of inkjet heads, each of which corresponds to one nozzle row portion 202 for each color, to form the ink ejection portion 102. It is also conceivable that the ink ejection unit 102 is configured by one inkjet head that ejects inks of a plurality of colors. As these inkjet heads, an inkjet head having the same or the same configuration as that of a known inkjet head can be preferably used. A more specific configuration of the nozzle row portion 202 for each color in the ink ejection portion 102 will be described in more detail later.

The platen 14 is a trapezoidal member that supports the medium 50 to be printed. In this example, the platen 14 supports the medium 50 by placing the medium 50 on the upper surface thereof so that at least a part of the medium 50 faces the head portion 12.

The main scanning drive unit 16 is a drive unit that causes the head unit 12 to perform the main scanning operation. In this case, the main scanning operation can be considered, for example, an operation of ejecting ink while moving in the main scanning direction relative to the ink ejection target. Further, in this example, the main scanning direction is a direction parallel to the Y direction in the drawing. Regarding having the head portion 12 perform the main scanning operation, for example, it can be considered that the inkjet heads constituting at least a part of the head portion 12 perform the main scanning operation. Further, in this example, the main scanning drive unit 16 supplies the drive signal for driving the head unit 12 to the head unit 12 while moving the head unit 12 in the main scanning direction, so that the main scanning operation is performed on the head unit 12. To do. In this case, the supply of the drive signal to the head unit 12 can be considered, for example, to supply the drive signal to each nozzle that ejects ink in the head unit 12.

Further, regarding supplying the drive signal to the nozzle, for example, it can be considered that the drive signal is supplied to a drive element (for example, a piezo element or the like) that drives the discharge of the liquid from the nozzle. Further, the drive signal can be considered as, for example, a signal for driving the drive element for ejecting ink from the nozzle. More specifically, for example, when a piezo element is used as the drive element, the drive signal can be considered as, for example, a signal that displaces the piezo element due to a change in voltage and ejects ink from the nozzle. More specifically, in this example, as the drive signal, a signal that drives the drive element by changing the voltage is used.

Further, in this example, as the drive signal supplied to each nozzle, a signal selected from a plurality of types of drive signals is used. Further, as the plurality of types of drive signals, a plurality of types of signals having different voltages for at least a part of the period are used. These plurality of types of drive signals can be considered, for example, a plurality of types of signals used when ejecting droplets of ink having a predetermined same capacity from a nozzle. Further, in this case, regarding the relationship between the plurality of nozzles in the head unit 12 and the drive signals, for example, it is assumed that the drive signals corresponding to the respective nozzles are supplied to the head unit 12 and ink is ejected to each nozzle. I can think.

When ejecting ink droplets from a nozzle by an inkjet method, it is conceivable to change the volume of the droplets in a plurality of steps. Then, in this case, the drive signals used at the time of discharging different capacities can be considered as signals having different voltages. On the other hand, in this example, a plurality of types of drive signals are prepared for droplets having the same capacity. In this case, for example, by selecting a drive signal according to the discharge characteristics of each nozzle, it is possible to correct the discharge characteristics. Further, also in the head portion 12 of this example, the volume of the droplets ejected from each nozzle may be changed in a plurality of steps. In this case, for example, it is conceivable to prepare a plurality of types of drive signals for each capacitance.

Further, in order to cause the head unit 12 to perform the main scanning operation using a plurality of types of drive signals as described above, in this example, the main scanning drive unit 16 is the drive signal selection unit 32, the drive signal supply unit 34, and the like. And Y movement drive unit 36. The drive signal selection unit 32 is an example of a signal voltage setting unit, and selects a drive signal to be supplied to each nozzle in the head unit 12. In this case, the drive signal selection unit 32 selects one of a plurality of drive signals for each nozzle in the head unit 12, for example, according to the control of the control unit 22, for each nozzle. Determine the drive signal to supply. Further, as described above, in this example, as the plurality of types of drive signals, a plurality of types of signals having different voltages for at least a part of the period are used. In this case, the operation of selecting the drive signal to be supplied to each nozzle can be considered as the operation of setting the voltage of the drive signal. Further, in this case, it can be considered that a plurality of different types of voltages can be set for the voltage during at least a part of the drive signal.

Further, in this example, the drive signal selection unit 32 selects a predetermined standard drive signal (hereinafter referred to as a normal signal) as the drive signal to be supplied to the nozzle whose discharge characteristic is in the predetermined normal range. Further, a drive signal other than the normal signal is selected as the drive signal to be supplied to at least a part of the nozzles at a predetermined position in the nozzle row of the head unit 12. Further, in this case, the drive signal other than the normal signal can be considered as, for example, a signal having a correction voltage in which the voltage for at least a part of the period is different from the normal signal. The method of selecting the drive signal and the like will be described in more detail later.

The drive signal supply unit 34 is configured to supply the drive signal to the head unit 12. In this example, the drive signal supply unit 34 supplies the drive signal selected by the drive signal selection unit 32 to each nozzle in the head unit 12. Further, as a result, the drive signal supply unit 34 ejects ink to each nozzle. The Y movement drive unit 36 has a configuration in which the head unit 12 is moved in the main scanning direction. The Y-movement drive unit 36 moves the head unit 12 in the main scanning direction during the main scanning operation by moving the head unit 12 along, for example, a rail member (not shown). According to this example, the head portion 12 can appropriately perform the main scanning operation.

The sub-scanning drive unit 18 is a drive unit that causes the head unit 12 to perform a sub-scanning operation. In this case, the sub-scanning operation can be considered, for example, an operation of moving relative to the ink ejection target in the sub-scanning direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction. Further, the sub-scanning operation can be considered, for example, an operation of feeding the medium 50 in the sub-scanning direction relative to the head portion 12. In this example, the sub-scanning drive unit 18 changes the region of the medium 50 facing the head unit 12 by causing the head unit 12 to perform the sub-scanning operation between the main scanning operations. The sub-scanning direction is a direction parallel to the X direction in the drawing. Regarding causing the head unit 12 to perform the sub-scanning operation, for example, it can be considered that the inkjet heads constituting at least a part of the head unit 12 perform the sub-scanning operation.

The ink supply unit 20 is configured to supply ink to the head unit 12. In this example, the ink supply unit 20 has an ink storage unit and an ink flow path for each color of ink. In this case, the ink storage unit can be considered, for example, a configuration in which ink is stored outside the head unit 12. The ink flow path can be considered, for example, a flow path connecting the ink storage portion and the head portion 12. Further, in this case, one end of the ink flow path is connected to the ink storage portion, and the other end is connected to each ink supply port 204 in the head portion 12. As a result, the ink supply unit 20 supplies ink from the ink storage unit to the head unit 12 via the ink flow path. As the ink storage unit, an ink tank, an ink bottle, or the like can be preferably used. As the ink flow path, for example, a flexible tube or the like can be preferably used.

The control unit 22 is configured to include, for example, the CPU of the printing device 10, and controls the operation of each unit of the printing device 10. More specifically, the control unit 22 controls the main scanning operation and the sub-scanning operation by controlling the operations of the main scanning drive unit 16 and the sub-scanning drive unit 18, for example. Further, in this case, the drawing of the image on the medium 50 is controlled by ejecting ink to each nozzle of the head portion 12 based on the data indicating the image to be printed. According to this example, for example, the operation of printing on the medium 50 can be appropriately performed.

Further, in this example, the control unit 22 further controls the operations of the drive signal selection unit 32, the drive signal supply unit 34, and the like to select the drive signal to be supplied to each nozzle in the head unit 12. Control. In this case, as the drive signal supplied to each nozzle, for example, it is conceivable to use a drive signal selected in consideration of the discharge characteristics of each nozzle. With this configuration, for example, the drive signal can be appropriately supplied according to the ejection characteristics of the nozzle. Further, as a result, for example, printing with high quality can be appropriately performed.

Here, as described above, in this example, a plurality of types of drive signals having different voltages for at least a part of the period are used. Then, in this case, the drive signal supply unit 34 can be considered, for example, a configuration capable of outputting a plurality of types of drive signals having different voltages for at least a part of the period. Further, in this case, regarding the operation of the drive signal selection unit 32, for example, the drive signal to be supplied to each nozzle in each nozzle row of the ink ejection unit 102 is selected for each nozzle from a plurality of types of drive signals. By doing so, it can be considered that the voltage in the drive signal supplied to each nozzle is set for at least a part of the period. With this configuration, for example, the voltage of the drive signal supplied to each nozzle can be appropriately changed. Further, in this case, it is preferable to use three or more types (for example, about five types) of drive signals as the plurality of types of drive signals. With this configuration, for example, the voltage of the drive signal supplied to each nozzle can be changed in various ways and appropriately.

Further, as described above, in this example, the printing apparatus 10 may further include the same or the same configuration as the known printing apparatus, in addition to the configuration of the main part shown in FIG. 1 and the like. More specifically, the printing apparatus 10 may further include, for example, ink fixing means, etc., in addition to the configuration shown in the figure. In this case, it is conceivable to use a fixing means that matches the characteristics of the ink to be used. For example, when an ink (evaporation-drying type ink) that is fixed to the medium 50 by evaporating the solvent is used, it is conceivable to use a heating means such as a heater as the fixing means. In this case, it is conceivable that the heating means is arranged in the platen 14, for example. Further, when an ultraviolet curable ink is used as the ink, it is conceivable to use an ultraviolet light source as the fixing means. In this case, it is conceivable that the ultraviolet light source is arranged at a position adjacent to the nozzle row in the head portion 12 in the main scanning direction, for example.

Subsequently, the configuration of the nozzle row portions 202 for each color in the head portion 12 and the like will be described in more detail. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining each color nozzle row portion 202 in the head portion 12 in more detail. FIG. 2A shows an example of the configuration of a set of nozzle row portions 202 for each color and the ink supply port 204 in the head portion 12. FIG. 2B is an enlarged view showing a part of the nozzle row portion 202 for each color in an enlarged manner. In this case, the set of the nozzle row portion 202 for each color and the ink supply port 204 are the nozzle row portion 202 for each color and the ink supply port 204 for supplying ink to the nozzle row portion 202 for each color. That is. Regarding the nozzle row portion 202 for each color and the ink supply port 204 shown in FIG. 2A, for example, the nozzle row portion 202 for each color and the ink supply port 204 for one color in the ink ejection portion 102 (see FIG. 1) and the like. You can think about it.

As described above, in the ink ejection portion 102, each color nozzle row portion 202 for each color has a plurality of nozzle rows 302. More specifically, in the configuration shown in FIG. 2, one nozzle row portion 202 for each color has four nozzle rows 302 as distinguished as nozzle rows 302a to d in the drawing. In this case, the plurality of nozzle rows 302 (nozzle rows 302a to d) in one nozzle row portion 202 for each color can be considered as, for example, a plurality of nozzle rows 302 for ejecting ink of the same color. Further, the plurality of nozzle rows 302 can be considered as, for example, nozzle rows of the same system that receive ink from the ink supply unit 20 (see FIG. 1) via the same ink supply port 204. Further, in this example, the nozzle row direction in each of the nozzle rows 302a to d is a direction parallel to the sub-scanning direction. Further, in each of the nozzle rows 302a to 302d, the plurality of nozzles 312 are arranged at a constant interval (nozzle pitch) in the sub-scanning direction, for example, as shown in FIG. 2B.

Further, the plurality of nozzle rows 302 in one nozzle row portion 202 for each color are arranged in the main scanning direction with one end side facing the ink supply port 204. In this case, the ink supplied from the ink supply unit 20 (see FIG. 1) via the ink supply port 204 is a nozzle in each nozzle row 302 by a flow path (liquid flow path) (not shown). It is supplied to 312. This flow path is formed, for example, along the array of nozzles 312 in each nozzle row 302, so that ink flows from one end side to the other end side of the nozzle row 302. Further, in this example, a drive element (not shown) is arranged at the position of each nozzle 312 in each nozzle row 302. Then, this drive element discharges the ink supplied to the position of each nozzle 312 from the nozzle 312 in response to the drive signal supplied from the drive signal supply unit 34 (see FIG. 1).

Further, as can be understood from the relationship between the broken line shown auxiliary in FIG. 2B and the position of the nozzle 312 in each of the nozzle rows 302a to d, in this example, a plurality of nozzle rows 302a to d are used. The nozzles 312 are arranged so that their positions in the sub-scanning direction deviate from each other by a distance less than the nozzle pitch in one nozzle row 302. In this case, the nozzle pitch in one nozzle row 302 can be considered, for example, the interval in the sub-scanning direction of the nozzles 312 constituting one nozzle row 302 (any of the nozzle rows 302a to d). Further, regarding the amount of displacement of the nozzle 312 in the sub-scanning direction between different nozzle rows 302, when the nozzle pitch is P and the number of nozzle rows 302 possessed by one nozzle row portion 202 for each color is n. It is conceivable to make the distance in the sub-scanning direction equal to P / n with the nozzle 312 closest in the sub-scanning direction among the nozzles 312 in the other nozzle row 302.

Further, in this example, regarding the arrangement of the nozzle rows 302 included in one nozzle row portion 202 for each color, for example, with respect to the plurality of nozzles 312 included in the plurality of nozzle rows 302, the positions in the main scanning direction are ignored and the secondary nozzle rows 302 are arranged. When focusing only on the position in the scanning direction, it can be considered that they are arranged with the interval in the sub-scanning direction set to P / n. Further, with respect to the plurality of nozzles 312 included in the plurality of nozzle rows 302, for example, it can be considered that the positions of the corresponding nozzles 312 in the respective nozzle rows 302 are not overlapped in the sub-scanning direction. The corresponding nozzle 312 nozzles in each nozzle row 302 can be considered, for example, a nozzle 312 or the like at a position where the number of nozzles 312 counted from one end side is the same in each nozzle row 302.

According to this example, for example, by using a plurality of nozzle rows 302 arranged in the main scanning direction for inks of each color, it is possible to eject ink with a high resolution in each main scanning operation. Further, with respect to the ink ejection portion 102 having such a plurality of nozzle rows 302 or the nozzle row portion 202 for each color, for example, a high resolution head capable of ejecting ink at a high resolution in one main scanning operation or the like. I can think.

Further, when a plurality of nozzle rows 302 having such a configuration are used, for example, it is possible to perform a printing operation with a small number of printing passes. In this case, the number of passes can be considered, for example, the number of main scanning operations in which the head portion passes through the position corresponding to the medium 50 to which the ink is ejected. Further, the number of passes when printing with a low pass may be, for example, 4 or less. The number of passes when printing with a low pass may be, for example, 2 or less. Further, the number of passes when printing with a low pass may be 1. Further, in the modified example of the configuration of the nozzle row portions 202 for each color, the plurality of nozzle row portions 202 for each color may be arranged without shifting the positions of the corresponding nozzle rows 302 in the sub-scanning direction. Also in this case, by using the plurality of nozzle row portions 202 for each color, for example, the resolution of the ejection position for ejecting ink in each main scanning operation can be increased in the main scanning direction. Further, this makes it possible to perform printing with a low pass, for example.

When printing with such a low pass, for example, it is considered that the ejection characteristics of the nozzle 312 are likely to be affected by increasing the usage rate of each nozzle 312 in each main scanning operation. Be done. Further, when ink is ejected using the nozzle row 302 in which a large number of nozzles 312 are lined up as in this example, the position in the nozzle row 302 is affected by the structure of the ink flow path (ink supply path) and the like. There may be a difference in the amount of ink ejected from each nozzle 312. Further, as a result, in the image drawn on the medium 50, periodic unevenness of density and the like may occur. More specifically, as in this example, ink supplied from the outside of the head portion 12 is received at the ink supply port 204, and ink is supplied to the nozzles 312 in each nozzle row 302 via the ink supply port 204. In this case, for example, it is conceivable that an abnormal nozzle is likely to occur in the nozzle 312 near the position closest to the ink supply port 204 in the flow path through which the ink flows. In this case, the abnormal nozzle can be considered as, for example, a nozzle whose discharge characteristic is out of the normal range. Further, when the discharge characteristic deviates from the normal range, it can be considered that, for example, the discharge characteristic when the normal signal described above is supplied deviates from the predetermined normal range.

Further, when a plurality of nozzle rows 302 are used as the nozzle rows 302 of the same system as in this example, if an abnormal nozzle is likely to occur at a specific position such as in the vicinity of the ink supply port 204, the respective nozzle rows 302 will be used. It is considered that problems such as periodic unevenness are likely to occur due to the superposition of the influence of the abnormal nozzle. On the other hand, in this example, as described above, a plurality of types of drive signals having different voltages for at least a part of the period are prepared, and a predetermined number of drive signals in the nozzle row 302 included in the head portion 12 is prepared. A drive signal other than the normal signal is selected as the drive signal to be supplied to the nozzle 312 at the position. With this configuration, for example, the discharge characteristics of the abnormal nozzle can be corrected by changing the voltage of the drive signal supplied to the abnormal nozzle. Further, as a result, for example, the influence of the abnormal nozzle can be appropriately reduced. Further, regarding such an operation, it can be considered that the voltage of the drive signal is changed by switching the drive signal supplied to each nozzle 312, for example.

Subsequently, a method of correcting the discharge characteristics for the abnormal nozzle and the like will be described in more detail. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a simplified configuration of a plurality of nozzle row portions 202c to k for each color included in the head portion 12, and each nozzle row 302 included in each of the nozzle row portions 202c to k for each color (FIG. 2). For each nozzle 312 (see FIG. 2) in (see), each nozzle 312 is shown in a distinguishable manner, focusing on the order counted from the side closest to the ink supply port 204 (see FIG. 1).

More specifically, as described above, in this example, each of the nozzle row portions 202c to k for each color has four nozzle rows 302a to d in FIG. 2, as shown separately from the nozzle rows 302a to d. It has a nozzle row 302. Therefore, in FIG. 3, for each of the nozzle row portions 202c to k for each color, these plurality of nozzle rows 302 are indicated by rows with letters a to d. Further, in FIG. 3, when 50 nozzles 312 are lined up in each nozzle row 302, the number (nozzle number) of the nozzle 312 at the end closer to the ink supply port 204 in each nozzle row 302 is set to 1. , The number of the nozzle 312 at the opposite end is set to 50, and the plurality of nozzles 312 in each nozzle row 302 are shown by distinguishing them by squares. In this case, the number of nozzles 312 possessed by each of the nozzle row portions 202c to k for each color is 200, which is the total of the four nozzle rows 302. Further, in this case, the row in which the nozzles 312 having the same number are arranged can be considered as the arrangement of the corresponding nozzles 312 in each nozzle column 302. Further, in the following, the method of correcting the discharge characteristics by selecting the drive signal and the like will be described in more detail while showing the nozzles 312 in each nozzle row 302 separately in the same manner as in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating how to correct the discharge characteristics. FIG. 4A shows an example of how to correct the discharge characteristics. As described above, when ink is ejected using the nozzle row 302 in which a large number of nozzles 312 are lined up, the amount of ink ejected from each nozzle 312 differs depending on the position in the nozzle row 302. In some cases. For example, as in this example, when ink supplied from the outside of the head portion 12 is received at the ink supply port 204 and the ink is supplied to the nozzles 312 in each nozzle row 302 via the ink supply port 204, the ink It is conceivable that an abnormal nozzle is likely to occur in the nozzle 312 near the position closest to the ink supply port 204 in the flow path through which the ink flows. In this case, in the nozzle 312 located near the ink supply port 204 in each nozzle row 302, for example, it is conceivable that an abnormality in which the ejection amount is smaller than that of a normal nozzle is likely to occur. Further, depending on the structure of the nozzle row portion 202 for each color, it is conceivable that the nozzle 312 located near the ink supply port 204 is likely to have an abnormality in which the ejection amount is larger than that of a normal nozzle, for example.

On the other hand, in this example, as shown in the figure, the side of each color nozzle row portion 202 near the ink supply port 204 is set as the correction target range and supplied to the nozzle 312 included in the correction target range. As the drive signal, a drive signal other than the normal signal is selected. In this case, setting the correction target range for each color nozzle row portion 202 can be considered, for example, setting the correction target range for the nozzle row 302 of each color nozzle row portion 202. can. Further, regarding setting the correction target range for the nozzle row 302, for example, it can be considered that a part of the range in the nozzle row 302 is set as the correction target range. Further, the range of the correction target in the nozzle row 302 can be considered as, for example, a range in which the ejection characteristics are corrected for at least a part of the nozzles 312 selected from the range.

Further, as described above, in this example, the discharge characteristic is corrected by using a drive signal whose voltage is different from the normal signal during at least a part of the period. In this case, regarding the drive signal when the voltage is different from the normal signal, it is conceivable to make the voltage different so as to correct the discharge characteristic of the nozzle 312 to which the drive signal is supplied. Further, regarding the correction of the ejection characteristics of the nozzle 312, for example, it can be considered that the ejection characteristics are brought closer to the normal range. More specifically, for example, when the ejection amount when the normal signal is supplied to the nozzle 312 located near the ink supply port 204 in the nozzle row 302 is smaller than the normal range, the voltage of the voltage is increased in any period. It is conceivable to supply the nozzle 312 with a drive signal whose absolute value is larger than the normal signal. Further, in this case, as a period for making the absolute value of the voltage different, for example, it is conceivable to set a period during which the volume of the ink droplets ejected from the nozzle 312 changes. With this configuration, for example, the ejection characteristics of the nozzle 312 can be appropriately corrected so that the amount of ink ejected becomes large. Further, as a result, for example, an error (difference in discharge capacity) that occurs in the discharge amount can be appropriately reduced. On the contrary, when the ejection amount of the nozzle 312 located near the ink supply port 204 in the nozzle row 302 is larger than the normal range when the normal signal is supplied, the absolute value of the voltage is the absolute value in any period. It is conceivable to supply the nozzle 312 with a drive signal in which is smaller than the normal signal. With this configuration, for example, the ejection characteristics of the nozzle 312 can be appropriately corrected so that the amount of ink ejected becomes small.

Here, in each nozzle row 302 of the nozzle row portion 202 for each color, the abnormality of the ejection characteristic that occurs on the side close to the ink supply port 204 is about several at the end (for example, about 1 to 10, especially about 1 to 10). It is considered that it is likely to occur in the nozzle 312 (about 1 to 5). Therefore, regarding the correction target range in each color nozzle row portion 202, for example, a predetermined number (for example, about 3 to 20) from the side close to the ink supply port 204 in each nozzle row 302 of each color nozzle row portion 202. It is conceivable to set a range in which the nozzles 312 (preferably about 5 to 15) are lined up. Further, it is conceivable that the correction target range is set in the same manner for all the nozzle rows 302 in each of the nozzle row portions 202 for each color, for example. With this configuration, for example, the correction target range can be easily and appropriately set. Further, as a result, for example, the ejection characteristics of the nozzle 312 on the side close to the ink supply port 204 can be easily and appropriately corrected. Further, by correcting the ejection characteristics, for example, in the printing apparatus 10 (see FIG. 1), ink can be ejected appropriately with high accuracy.

Further, when considering the correction target range and the correction target nozzle 312 in a more generalized manner, the correction target range can be set only for a part of the nozzle rows 302 in the ink ejection unit 102, or one of the correction target ranges. It is also conceivable to supply a drive signal other than the normal signal to only the nozzle 312 of the unit. Then, in this case, regarding the operation of the drive signal selection unit 32 (see FIG. 1) that selects the drive signal to be supplied to each nozzle 312, for example, in advance in the vicinity of the end of the nozzle row 302 in at least a part of the nozzle row 302. Regarding the drive signal supplied to at least a part of the set number of nozzles 312, it can be considered that the voltage in at least a part period is different from the voltage in the normal signal. Further, in this case, the preset number of nozzles 312 in the nozzle row 302 can be considered as, for example, a plurality of nozzles 312 arranged on one end side near the ink supply port 204 in the nozzle row 302. With this configuration, for example, the ejection characteristics of the nozzle 312 on the side close to the ink supply port 204 can be appropriately corrected.

Further, in this case, the drive signal selection unit 32 supplies ink to at least a part of a preset number of nozzles in all of the plurality of nozzle rows 302 to which ink is supplied through the common ink supply port 204. It is preferable that the voltage for at least a part of the drive signal is different from the voltage for the normal signal. With this configuration, for example, it is possible to more appropriately correct the ejection characteristics of the nozzle 312 on the side closer to the ink supply port 204.

Further, when a drive signal other than the normal signal is supplied only to a part of the nozzles 312 within the correction target range, for example, the discharge characteristics of each nozzle 312 are individually confirmed, and each nozzle 312 is provided with a drive signal. It is conceivable to determine the drive signal to be supplied. With this configuration, for example, the discharge characteristics can be appropriately corrected with high accuracy. However, in this case, since it is necessary to individually confirm the ejection characteristics of each nozzle 312, it is conceivable that the labor and time required for the work for confirming the ejection characteristics will be greatly increased. On the other hand, regarding the correction of the ejection characteristics of the nozzle 312, it is not always necessary to make a strict correction for each nozzle 312, but the average ejection amount in the range including the peripheral nozzles 312 should be focused on. Is also possible. Then, in this case, for example, the ejection characteristics of the individual nozzles 312 are not necessarily strictly considered, and the nozzles 312 that supply drive signals other than the normal signal are used in advance, for example, as shown in FIG. 4 (b). It is also conceivable to select only some of the nozzles 312 that have been set.

FIG. 4B is a diagram showing another example of how to correct the discharge characteristics, and is a case where only a part of the nozzles 312 in the correction target range are selected to supply a drive signal other than the normal signal. An example of is shown. Further, more specifically, in the illustrated example, only the nozzle 312 shown with a dark shaded pattern is included in the correction target range set on the side closer to the ink supply port 204 for each nozzle row 302. However, a drive signal other than the normal signal is supplied. In this case, ink is ejected by supplying a normal signal to the nozzle 312 which does not have a dark shaded pattern. Even in this configuration, for example, the average discharge characteristic in the correction target region can be appropriately corrected to approach the normal range. Further, as a result, for example, the influence of the abnormal nozzle can be appropriately suppressed. Further, in this case, by predetermining the nozzle 312 that supplies the drive signal other than the normal signal, the ejection characteristics can be corrected more easily than in the case where the correction is performed strictly in units of one nozzle 312, for example. It can be carried out.

Here, also in the case shown in FIG. 4B, a plurality of nozzles 312 continuously arranged in the nozzle row 302 in the correction target range are preset on the side closer to the ink supply port 204 in the ink flow path direction. It can be considered as a number of nozzles 312 and the like. Further, in this case, regarding the operation of the drive signal selection unit 32, for example, at least a part of the drive signals to be supplied to a part of the preset number of nozzles 312 in at least a part of the nozzle rows 302. It can be considered that the voltage in the period is different from the voltage in the normal signal.

Further, when the discharge characteristic is corrected by changing the voltage of the drive signal, it is conceivable that the corrected part is rather conspicuous depending on the correction method. For example, in the printing apparatus 10 that prints by the inkjet method as in this example, when the ejection characteristics of the abnormal nozzle are corrected, the ejection is performed at the boundary portion between the corrected nozzle 312 and the uncorrected nozzle 312. It is also conceivable that a difference will occur in the later state, and unintended stripes (printing unevenness) or the like will occur in the printing result. Further, it is considered that such a problem is likely to occur when the ejection characteristics are corrected for a large number of nozzles 312 located close to each other. Further, in this case, for example, it is considered that the correction is likely to occur when a correction is performed on a plurality of nozzles 312 which are continuously arranged in the nozzle row 302 and have a certain number or more.

On the other hand, as in the example shown in FIG. 4B, for example, when a part of a plurality of nozzles 312 continuously arranged in the nozzle row 302 is selected in the correction target range and the ejection characteristics are corrected, they are close to each other. By reducing the number of nozzles 312 to be corrected among the nozzles 312 at the positions, it is possible to appropriately prevent the corrected portion from being conspicuous. Therefore, with such a configuration, for example, it is possible to appropriately prevent the occurrence of unintended fringes by correcting the discharge characteristics.

More specifically, in the example shown in FIG. 4B, the selection of the nozzle 312 that supplies a drive signal other than the normal signal is preset so that the positions of the nozzles 312 to be corrected are dispersed. Only a few nozzles 312 are selected. In this case, if the positions of the nozzles 312 are sufficiently dispersed, the nozzles 312 arranged adjacent to each other may be selected in a part of the correction target range. Further, the preset nozzle 312 may be arbitrarily selected by, for example, random selection. Further, if necessary, for example, it is conceivable to select the nozzles 312 to be corrected so that the nozzles 312 arranged adjacent to each other are not selected.

Further, in this case, as for the nozzle 312 that supplies a drive signal other than the normal signal, it is conceivable to select some preset nozzles 312 as described above. Further, in this case, it is conceivable that the drive signal supplied to the selected nozzle 312 is selected according to the ejection characteristics of the nozzle 312 confirmed by printing a test pattern or the like. More specifically, in this case, for example, the excess or deficiency of the discharge amount in the vicinity of the position corresponding to each selected nozzle 312 is estimated from the print result of the test pattern and supplied to each nozzle 312. It is conceivable to determine the drive signal to be used. With this configuration, for example, the discharge characteristics can be easily and appropriately corrected for each position within the correction target range.

Further, depending on the accuracy required for printing and the like, the drive signal to be supplied to the selected nozzle 312 may be determined in units of the entire correction target range, paying attention to the ejection characteristics in the entire correction target range. .. In this case, for example, it is conceivable to supply a common drive signal other than the normal signal to the nozzle 312 selected in the correction target range. In this case, the supply of a common drive signal can be considered, for example, to supply any one type of drive signal selected from the plurality of types of drive signals described above. Regarding the operation of supplying a common drive signal in this way, for example, among the nozzles 312 included in the first range 402 and the second range 404, all the nozzles 312 that supply a drive signal different from the normal signal are supplied. It can also be considered as an operation of supplying a common drive signal to the vehicle. Further, the common drive signal can be considered, for example, a drive signal having the same voltage in a period in which the voltage is different from that of the normal signal. With this configuration, for example, the strength of the correction with respect to the correction target range can be easily and appropriately adjusted.

Further, in order to more appropriately prevent the corrected portion from being conspicuous, for example, as shown in FIG. 5, a plurality of correction target ranges are set for the nozzle row 302, and the correction strength is gradually changed. It is also possible to let them do it. FIG. 5 shows yet another example of how to correct the discharge characteristics. Further, also in FIG. 5, in the same manner as in FIGS. 3 and 4, for each color nozzle row portion 202, the nozzles 312 (see FIG. 2) in each nozzle row 302 (see FIG. 2) are distinguished by squares. Shown. Further, similarly to FIG. 4, the nozzle 312 that supplies a drive signal other than the normal signal is shown with a dark shaded pattern. FIG. 5A is a diagram showing an example in which two correction target ranges are set for one nozzle row 302, and is an example of the first and second ranges, the first range 402 and the first range 402. An example in which two ranges 404 are set and the discharge characteristics are corrected is shown. In this case, each of the first range 402 and the second range 404 is a range in which a plurality of nozzles 312 are continuously arranged in the nozzle row 302 included in each color nozzle row portion 202.

More specifically, in this case, the range corresponding to the preset number of nozzles 312 on the side closer to the ink supply port 204 (see FIG. 2) in the ink flow path direction is set in the first range 402. , A second range 404 is set next to it. The first range 402 can be considered, for example, the range of the correction target corresponding to the correction target range in the example shown in FIG. Further, the second range 404 can be considered as, for example, a range to be corrected to be set in order to prevent the first range 402 from being conspicuous. Further, when considering the first range 402 and the second range 404 in a more generalized manner, the first range 402 includes, for example, a range in which a preset number of nozzles 312 in at least a part of the nozzle rows 302 are arranged. Can be thought of. Regarding the second range 404, for example, a range in which a predetermined part of the nozzles 312 in the nozzle 312 are lined up on the side adjacent to the first range 402 in the nozzle 312 and farther from the end of the nozzle row 302 than the first range 402. And so on. Further, in this case, the side farther from the end of the nozzle row 302 than the first range 402 can be considered as, for example, the side farther from the ink supply port 204 than the first range 402.

Further, in this case, the printing apparatus 10 (see FIG. 1) corrects the ejection characteristics of at least a part of the nozzles 312 included in the first range 402 and the second range 404, and corrects the ejection characteristics and second. Regarding the range 404, the discharge characteristics are corrected so that the influence of the correction is smaller than that of the first range 402. With this configuration, the second range 404 is sandwiched between the range (parts other than the first range 402 and the second range 404) where the nozzles 312 that do not correct the discharge characteristics are lined up and the first range 402. For example, it is possible to blur the boundary between the corrected portion and the uncorrected portion to more appropriately prevent the influence of the correction of the discharge characteristic from being conspicuous.

More specifically, in the case shown in FIG. 5, for example, as shown in the figure, for each of the first range 402 and the second range 404, some nozzles 312 in each range are selected. , A drive signal other than the normal signal is supplied to the selected nozzle 312. Further, regarding the ratio of the nozzle 312 selected as the nozzle 312 that supplies the drive signal other than the normal signal in each range, the ratio in the second range 404 is made smaller than the ratio in the first range 402. With this configuration, for example, a plurality of correction target ranges can be set for the nozzle 312, and the correction strength can be gradually changed. Further, this makes it possible to more appropriately prevent, for example, the influence of the correction of the discharge characteristic from being conspicuous.

Here, the operation of such correction can be considered more generalized by paying attention to the operation of the drive signal selection unit 32 (see FIG. 1), for example. In this case, regarding the operation of the drive signal selection unit 32, for example, in at least a part of the nozzle rows 302, the voltage of the drive signal supplied to at least a part of the nozzles 312 included in the first range 402 during at least a part of the period. Can be considered to be different from the voltage in the normal signal. Further, it can be considered that the drive signal supplied to a part of the nozzle 312 included in the second range 404 also has a voltage different from the voltage in the normal signal for at least a part of the period. Then, in this case, regarding the operation of the drive signal selection unit 32, and further, for example, regarding the ratio of the nozzle 312 that makes the voltage different from the voltage in the normal signal during at least a part of the period, the ratio in the second range 404 is first. It can be considered that it is smaller than the ratio in the range 402.

Further, in the case shown in FIG. 5, each of the first range 402 and the second range 404 is a range including 10 nozzles 312 that are continuously arranged in each nozzle row 302. The number of nozzles 312 arranged in one nozzle row 302 in the first range 402 and the second range 404 may be, for example, about 5 to 15. Further, as described above, the second range 404 can be considered as, for example, a range to be corrected to be set in order to prevent the first range 402 from being conspicuous. Then, in this case, it is conceivable to set a range that does not include the abnormal nozzle as the second range 404. In this case, the operation of supplying a drive signal other than the normal signal to the nozzle 312 included in the second range 404 is, for example, an operation of correcting the discharge characteristic to make the first range 402 inconspicuous. I can think.

Further, the range of correction targets set for the nozzle row 302 may be three or more, for example, as shown in FIG. 5 (b). FIG. 5B is a diagram showing an example in which three correction target ranges are set for one nozzle row 302, and the third range 406, which is an example of the third range, is set as the first range 402. An example is shown in which the discharge characteristics are corrected by further setting in addition to the second range 404. In this case, the third range 406 is also a range in which a plurality of nozzles 312 are continuously arranged in the nozzle row 302 included in each color nozzle row portion 202, similarly to the first range 402 and the second range 404. Regarding the third range 406, for example, a predetermined part of the nozzles in the nozzle row 302 is adjacent to the second range 404 in the nozzle row 302 and farther from the end of the nozzle row 302 than the second range 404. It can be thought of as the range in which the nozzles are lined up. Further, the third range 406 can be considered as, for example, a range opposite to the first range 402 with respect to the second range 404. Further, it is conceivable that the number of nozzles 312 arranged in the third range 406 is, for example, the same as that of the first range 402 and the second range 404.

Then, in this case, it is conceivable that the strength of the correction for each range is gradually reduced as the distance from the first range 402 is increased. More specifically, in the case shown in FIG. 5B, regarding the ratio of the nozzle 312 selected as the nozzle 312 that supplies the drive signal other than the normal signal in each range, the ratio in the second range 404 is the first. It is smaller than the ratio in the range 402, and the ratio in the third range 406 is smaller than the ratio in the second range 404. With this configuration, for example, the strength of correction can be gradually changed for a plurality of ranges to be corrected. Further, this makes it possible to more appropriately prevent, for example, the influence of the correction of the discharge characteristic from being conspicuous.

Further, regarding the operation of such correction, when focusing on the operation of the drive signal selection unit 32 and considering it in a more generalized manner, for example, in addition to the operation in the case shown in FIG. 5A, at least a part of the nozzles Regarding the drive signal supplied to a part of the nozzle 312 included in the third range 406 in the row 302, it can be considered that the voltage in at least a part of the period is different from the voltage in the normal signal. Then, in this case, regarding the operation of the drive signal selection unit 32, and further, for example, regarding the ratio of the nozzle 312 that makes the voltage different from the voltage in the normal signal during at least a part of the period, the ratio in the third range 406 is the second. It can be considered that it is smaller than the ratio in the range 404.

Further, as the correction target range to be set for the nozzle row 302, a larger range may be set. In this case, for example, it is conceivable to further set a fourth range or the like. Further, in this case, regarding these ranges, for example, a predetermined part of the nozzles in the nozzle row 302 are adjacent to the other ranges in the nozzle row 302 and farther from the end of the nozzle row 302 than the other ranges. It can be considered as a range in which 312 are lined up. Further, in this case, regarding the operation of the drive signal selection unit 32, for example, regarding the ratio of the nozzle 312 that makes the voltage different from the voltage in the normal signal during at least a part of the period, the ratio in the range farther from the first range 402 is increased. It can be thought of as making it smaller. With such a configuration, for example, it is possible to more appropriately prevent the influence of the correction of the discharge characteristic from being conspicuous.

Subsequently, supplementary explanations and the like regarding each configuration described above will be given. Further, in the following, for convenience of explanation, each configuration described above is collectively referred to as this example. In the above, an example of how to correct the ejection characteristics has been described, mainly focusing on the abnormality of the ejection characteristics that occurs on the side of the nozzle row 302 near the ink supply port 204. In this case, the abnormality in the ejection characteristics that occurs in the nozzle row 302 near the ink supply port 204 can be considered as, for example, an example of the abnormality in the ejection characteristics that occurs due to the structure of the nozzle row portion 202 for each color. can. Further, such an abnormality in the discharge characteristic can be considered as, for example, an abnormality peculiar to the device. Since the location where the abnormality is likely to occur is determined for such an abnormality in the discharge characteristic, it is effective to select a preset nozzle 312 and correct the discharge characteristic as in this example. be.

Further, as described above, in this example, a common drive signal is supplied to the nozzle 312 selected as the correction target in the correction target range, for example. Further, when a plurality of ranges (first range 402, second range 404, etc.) are set as the correction target range, a common drive signal is transmitted to all the nozzles 312 of the correction target selected in the plurality of ranges. It is possible to supply. More specifically, in this case, a common drive signal is supplied to the nozzle 312 selected as the correction target in the first range 402 and the nozzle 312 selected as the correction target in the second range 404. Can be considered. With this configuration, the strength of the correction for a plurality of ranges such as the first range 402 and the second range 404 can be easily and appropriately adjusted. Further, in this case, for example, by making the number of nozzles 312 selected as correction targets in each range different from each other, the strength of correction in each range can be easily and appropriately made different.

Further, as can be understood from the above description and the like, how to set the correction target range such as the first range 402 and the second range 404, how to select the nozzle 312 to be selected as the correction target, and the like are required. It can be changed in various ways according to the print quality, the specific configuration of the printing apparatus 10, and the like. For example, the selection of the nozzle 312 to be corrected may be performed as shown in FIG. 6A. FIG. 6 is a diagram for supplementary explanation regarding how to correct the discharge characteristics. 6 (a) and 6 (b) show a modified example of how to select the nozzle 312 to be corrected.

In the case shown in FIG. 6A, a range including five nozzles 312 arranged continuously in each nozzle row 302 is set as each of the first range 402 and the second range 404. In this case, each of the first range 402 and the second range 404 can be considered as a range including 20 nozzles 312 in the four nozzle rows 302. Further, in the case shown in the drawing, eight nozzles 312 out of 20 nozzles 312 are selected as the nozzles 312 to be corrected in the first range 402. Further, as the nozzles 312 to be corrected in the second range 404, 5 nozzles 312 out of 20 nozzles 312 are selected. Even in such a configuration, for example, it is possible to appropriately correct the discharge characteristics while preventing the corrected portion from being conspicuous.

Further, depending on the structure or the like of the nozzle row portion 202 for each color, it is conceivable that an abnormality in the ejection characteristics due to the structure or the like may occur in the nozzle row 302 other than the side close to the ink supply port 204. For example, it is conceivable that an abnormality in the ejection characteristics is likely to occur in the vicinity of the end portion of the nozzle row 302 on the side farther from the ink supply port 204. Even in such a case, the discharge characteristics can be corrected in the same manner as described above by setting the range of the correction target and the nozzle 312 to be corrected according to the position where the abnormality of the discharge characteristics is likely to occur. Further, even in such a case, for example, by setting a plurality of correction target ranges for the nozzle row 302 and gradually changing the correction strength, it is appropriate that the influence of the correction of the discharge characteristics is conspicuous. Can be prevented.

Further, it is conceivable that the abnormality of the discharge characteristic is likely to occur near both ends of each nozzle row 302, for example. In this case, it is conceivable to correct the ejection characteristics of the nozzles 312 near both ends of each nozzle row 302 in the same manner as described above. Further, it is also conceivable that the abnormality of the discharge characteristic is likely to occur at a position other than the vicinity of the end of the nozzle row 302. For example, depending on the structure of the nozzle row portions 202 for each color, it is conceivable that an abnormality in the ejection characteristics is likely to occur near the center of each nozzle row 302. In this case, it is conceivable to correct the ejection characteristics of the nozzles 312 near the center of each nozzle row 302 in the same manner as described above. It is also conceivable that abnormalities in discharge characteristics are likely to occur between the edges and the center.

When the ejection characteristic abnormality is likely to occur at a position other than the vicinity of the end of the nozzle row 302, the position where the ejection characteristic abnormality is likely to occur is set as the center of the correction, and the ejection characteristic is set as shown in FIG. 6B, for example. It is conceivable to make corrections. More specifically, in the case shown in FIG. 6B, the first range 402 is set at a predetermined position other than the end of the nozzle row 302, and the second range 402 is located on both sides of the first range 402 in the nozzle row direction. 404 is set. Further, in this case as well, each of the first range 402 and the second range 404 can be considered as a range including 20 nozzles 312 in the four nozzle rows 302. Further, the strength of the correction for the first range 402 and the second range 404 is the same as the strength of the correction for the first range 402 and the second range 404 shown in FIG. 6A. Even in such a configuration, for example, it is possible to appropriately correct the discharge characteristics while preventing the corrected portion from being conspicuous. Further, such a configuration can be considered, for example, a configuration in which a predetermined position in the nozzle row 302 is set as the correction center and the strength of the correction is gradually changed to both sides of the center in the nozzle row direction.

Further, in the above, the configuration in which the ink supply port 204 is mainly arranged on the side of any end of the nozzle row 302 and the ink flows from one end side to the other end side of the nozzle row 302 will be described. Did. However, in the modified example of the configuration of the ink ejection portion 102, for example, regarding the supply of ink from the ink supply port 204 to the nozzle row 302, a position other than the end of the nozzle row 302 (for example, near the central portion of the nozzle row 302, etc.) ), Etc. can be considered. In this case, regarding supplying ink from the ink supply port 204 to the nozzle row 302 at a position other than the end of the nozzle row 302, for example, the ink supplied from the ink supply port 204 to each position of the nozzle row 302 flows. It can be considered that a position other than the end of the nozzle row 302 in the direction is the most upstream position in the nozzle row 302. Further, in this case, it is conceivable that the ink supply port 204 is arranged near a position other than the end of the nozzle row 302. When the ink is supplied to the nozzle row 302 in this way, it is conceivable that, for example, an abnormality in the ejection characteristics is likely to occur at a position other than the vicinity of the end of the nozzle row 302. On the other hand, even in such a case, for example, by correcting the discharge characteristic as shown in FIG. 6B, the corrected portion is prevented from being conspicuous, and the discharge characteristic is appropriately corrected. be able to.

Further, as the abnormality of the ejection characteristics of the nozzle 312, in addition to the abnormality peculiar to the device caused by the structure and the like, the abnormality caused by the fine shape variation of each nozzle 312 (hereinafter, the abnormality of the variation factor). ) Is also conceivable. In this case, it is preferable to correct the discharge characteristics even for such abnormalities in the discharge characteristics. More specifically, in this case, the nozzle 312 that is preset for the abnormality of the ejection characteristic that occurs at a specific position (for example, the side close to the ink supply port 204) in the nozzle row 302 is selected to obtain the ejection characteristic. In addition to making corrections, it is conceivable to make corrections for abnormalities of variation factors, for example, in the same manner as or in the same manner as known methods. Further, in this case, it is conceivable to correct the abnormality of the variation factor by, for example, identifying the abnormal nozzle and using a drive signal other than the normal signal as the drive signal to be supplied to the nozzle 312. Further, it is conceivable to correct the abnormality of the variation factor by a method other than changing the drive signal. In this case, for example, it is conceivable to set an alternative nozzle that ejects ink instead of the position where the ink is originally ejected in the abnormal nozzle, and perform printing without using the abnormal nozzle.

Further, as described above, in this example, by using the nozzle row portion 202 for each color having a plurality of nozzle rows 302, the printing operation with a small number of printing passes is performed. Will be possible. Further, by correcting the ejection characteristics of the nozzle 312 as described above, the influence of the abnormal nozzle can be appropriately reduced even at the time of printing with a low pass. Therefore, the printing device 10 (see FIG. 1) of this example can be suitably used, for example, for applications requiring high-speed printing. More specifically, the printing apparatus 10 can be suitably used for, for example, sublimation transfer printing. Further, in this case, for example, a transfer medium may be used as the medium to be printed.

Further, in the above description, the configuration of the printing apparatus 10 mainly when ink is ejected to the medium has been described. In this case, the printing device 10 can be thought of as an inkjet printer or the like that draws a two-dimensional image on a medium, as described above. Further, in a modification of the printing device 10, it is conceivable to use a 3D printer (3D printing device) or the like as the printing device 10 for modeling a three-dimensional modeled object by an inkjet method. In this case, the printing device 10 can be considered as, for example, a modeling device or the like as an example of a liquid ejection device. Further, in this case, the ink ejected from the nozzle by the inkjet method can be considered as, for example, a functional liquid used for modeling. Further, in this case, the modeling table that supports the modeled object being modeled and the modeled object being modeled can be considered as targets for ejecting ink. In this case as well, the ink can be ejected with high accuracy by correcting the ejection characteristics in the same manner as described above. Further, as a result, for example, it is possible to perform modeling of a modeled object with high quality.

The present invention can be suitably used for a liquid discharge device.

10 ... Printing device, 12 ... Head unit, 14 ... Platen, 16 ... Main scanning drive unit, 18 ... Sub-scanning drive unit, 20 ... Ink supply unit, 22 ... Control unit, 32 ... Drive signal selection unit, 34 ... Drive signal supply unit, 36 ... Y movement drive unit, 50 ... Medium, 102 ... Ink ejection unit, 202 ... For each color Nozzle row, 204 ... Ink supply port, 302 ... Nozzle row, 312 ... Nozzle, 402 ... 1st range, 404 ... 2nd range, 406 ... 3rd range

Claims (13)

A liquid discharge device that discharges liquid
The head part that discharges the liquid by the inkjet method and
A liquid supply unit that supplies the liquid to the head unit,
A drive signal supply unit that supplies a drive signal for driving the head unit to the head unit,
A signal voltage setting unit for setting the voltage of the drive signal is provided.
The head portion
A liquid receiving unit, which is a portion that receives the liquid supplied from the liquid supply unit,
Has multiple nozzle rows and
Each of the nozzle rows is a row in which the nozzles for discharging the liquid are arranged in a predetermined nozzle row direction.
Each of the nozzles in each of the nozzle rows discharges the liquid supplied from the liquid supply unit via the liquid receiving unit.
The drive signal supply unit supplies the drive signal corresponding to each of the nozzles in the plurality of nozzle rows to the head unit, thereby discharging the liquid to each of the nozzles.
The signal voltage setting unit is
It is possible to set a plurality of different types of voltages for the voltage during at least a part of the drive signal.
When the drive signal supplied to the nozzles whose discharge characteristics are in a predetermined normal range is defined as a normal signal, a preset number on the side of any end of at least a part of the nozzle trains. A liquid discharge device, characterized in that, for the drive signal supplied to at least a part of the nozzles, the voltage during at least a part of the period is made different from the voltage in the normal signal. The preset number of the nozzles is a nozzle located on the end side close to the liquid receiving portion in the flow path direction of the liquid supplied from the liquid receiving portion in at least a part of the nozzle rows. The liquid discharge device according to claim 1. The drive signal supply unit can output a plurality of types of drive signals having different voltages during at least a part of the period.
The signal voltage setting unit selects the drive signal to be supplied to each of the nozzles in each of the nozzle rows from the plurality of types of drive signals for each nozzle, and thereby for each of the nozzles. The liquid discharge device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the voltage of the drive signal to be supplied is set for at least a part of the period. The range in which the preset number of the nozzles are lined up in the at least a part of the nozzle rows is defined as the first range in the nozzle row.
In the nozzle row, a range adjacent to the first range and in which a predetermined part of the nozzles in the nozzle row are lined up on a side farther from the end of the nozzle row than the first range is defined in the nozzle row. When defined as the second range
The signal voltage setting unit also applies a voltage during the at least a part of the drive signal to be supplied to a part of the nozzles included in the second range in the at least a part of the nozzle row at the normal time. Different from the voltage in the signal,
Moreover, regarding the ratio of the nozzle that makes the voltage different from the voltage in the normal signal during at least a part of the period, the ratio in the second range is made smaller than the ratio in the first range. The liquid discharge device according to any one of claims 1 to 3. In the nozzle row, a range adjacent to the second range and in which a predetermined part of the nozzles in the nozzle row are lined up on a side farther from the end of the nozzle row than the second range is defined in the nozzle row. When defined as the third range
The signal voltage setting unit also applies a voltage during the at least a part of the drive signal to be supplied to a part of the nozzles included in the third range in the at least a part of the nozzle row at the normal time. Different from the voltage in the signal,
In addition, regarding the ratio of the nozzle that causes the voltage in the at least a part of the period to differ from the voltage in the normal signal, the ratio in the third range is made smaller than the ratio in the second range. The liquid discharge device according to claim 4. The preset number of nozzles is a plurality of nozzles that are continuously arranged in the nozzle row.
The signal voltage setting unit normally supplies a voltage for at least a part of the drive signal to be supplied to a part of the preset number of nozzles in the nozzle row of at least a part of the nozzles. The liquid discharge device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the voltage is different from the voltage at the time signal. The liquid is supplied from the liquid supply unit to the plurality of nozzle rows via a common liquid receiving unit.
The signal voltage setting unit supplies the liquid to at least a part of the preset number of the nozzles in all of the plurality of nozzle trains to which the liquid is supplied through the common liquid receiving unit. The liquid discharge device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the drive signal has a voltage different from the voltage in the normal signal for at least a part of the period. The head portion further has a liquid flow path for flowing the liquid supplied from the liquid receiving portion to the position of each nozzle in the nozzle row.
The liquid discharge device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the liquid flows from one end side to the other end side of the nozzle row in the liquid flow path. A liquid discharge device that discharges liquid
The head part that discharges the liquid by the inkjet method and
A liquid supply unit that supplies the liquid to the head unit,
A drive signal supply unit that supplies a drive signal for driving the head unit to the head unit,
A signal voltage setting unit for setting the voltage of the drive signal is provided.
The head portion
A liquid receiving unit, which is a portion that receives the liquid supplied from the liquid supply unit,
Has multiple nozzle rows and
Each of the nozzle rows is a row in which the nozzles for discharging the liquid are arranged in a predetermined nozzle row direction.
Each of the nozzles in each of the nozzle rows discharges the liquid supplied from the liquid supply unit via the liquid receiving unit.
The drive signal supply unit supplies the drive signal corresponding to each of the nozzles in the plurality of nozzle rows to the head unit, thereby discharging the liquid to each of the nozzles.
The signal voltage setting unit is
It is possible to set a plurality of different types of voltages for the voltage during at least a part of the drive signal.
The drive signal supplied to the nozzle whose discharge characteristic is in a predetermined normal range is defined as a normal signal, and the range in which a predetermined part of the nozzles in the nozzle row is lined up is the first range in the nozzle row. When the range adjacent to the first range in the nozzle row and where the other predetermined part of the nozzles in the nozzle row are lined up is defined as the second range in the nozzle row.
The signal voltage setting unit relates to the drive signal supplied to at least a part of the nozzle included in the first range and the drive signal supplied to a part of the nozzle included in the second range. , The voltage in at least a part of the period is different from the voltage in the normal signal.
And,
Regarding the ratio of the nozzle that makes the voltage different from the voltage in the normal signal during at least a part of the period, the ratio in the second range is made smaller than the ratio in the first range. Liquid discharge device. A liquid discharge device that discharges liquid
The head part that discharges the liquid by the inkjet method and
A liquid supply unit that supplies the liquid to the head unit,
A drive signal supply unit that supplies a drive signal for driving the head unit to the head unit,
A signal voltage setting unit for setting the voltage of the drive signal is provided.
The head portion
A liquid receiving unit, which is a portion that receives the liquid supplied from the liquid supply unit,
A nozzle array in which the nozzles for discharging the liquid are arranged in a predetermined nozzle array direction, and
It has a liquid flow path for flowing the liquid supplied from the liquid receiving portion to the position of each nozzle in the nozzle row.
In the liquid flow path, the liquid flows from one end side to the other end side of the nozzle row,
Each of the nozzles in the nozzle row discharges the liquid supplied from the liquid supply unit via the liquid receiving unit.
The drive signal supply unit supplies the drive signal corresponding to each nozzle in the nozzle row to the head unit, thereby discharging the liquid to each nozzle.
The signal voltage setting unit is
It is possible to set a plurality of different types of voltages for the voltage during at least a part of the drive signal.
When the drive signal supplied to the nozzles whose discharge characteristics are in a predetermined normal range is defined as a normal signal, among the preset number of the nozzles on either end side in the nozzle row. A liquid discharge device, characterized in that the voltage in the at least a part of the drive signal supplied to at least a part of the above is different from the voltage in the normal signal. It is a liquid discharge method that discharges liquid.
The head part that discharges the liquid by the inkjet method and
A liquid supply unit that supplies the liquid to the head unit,
A drive signal supply unit that supplies a drive signal for driving the head unit to the head unit,
Using the signal voltage setting unit that sets the voltage of the drive signal,
The head portion
A liquid receiving unit, which is a portion that receives the liquid supplied from the liquid supply unit,
Has multiple nozzle rows and
Each of the nozzle rows is a row in which the nozzles for discharging the liquid are arranged in a predetermined nozzle row direction.
Each of the nozzles in each of the nozzle rows discharges the liquid supplied from the liquid supply unit via the liquid receiving unit.
By supplying the drive signal corresponding to each of the nozzles in the plurality of nozzle rows to the head unit by the drive signal supply unit, the liquid is discharged to each of the nozzles.
The signal voltage setting unit can set a plurality of different types of voltages for the voltage during at least a part of the drive signal.
When the drive signal supplied to the nozzle whose discharge characteristic is in a predetermined normal range is defined as a normal signal, the signal voltage setting unit causes at least a part of the nozzle train to be on the side of any end. A liquid discharge method, characterized in that, for the drive signal supplied to at least a part of a predetermined number of the nozzles, the voltage in the at least a part period is made different from the voltage in the normal signal. It is a liquid discharge method that discharges liquid.
The head part that discharges the liquid by the inkjet method and
A liquid supply unit that supplies the liquid to the head unit,
A drive signal supply unit that supplies a drive signal for driving the head unit to the head unit,
Using the signal voltage setting unit that sets the voltage of the drive signal,
The head portion
A liquid receiving unit, which is a portion that receives the liquid supplied from the liquid supply unit,
Has multiple nozzle rows and
Each of the nozzle rows is a row in which the nozzles for discharging the liquid are arranged in a predetermined nozzle row direction.
Each of the nozzles in each of the nozzle rows discharges the liquid supplied from the liquid supply unit via the liquid receiving unit.
By supplying the drive signal corresponding to each of the nozzles in the plurality of nozzle rows to the head unit by the drive signal supply unit, the liquid is discharged to each of the nozzles.
The signal voltage setting unit can set a plurality of different types of voltages for the voltage during at least a part of the drive signal.
The drive signal supplied to the nozzle whose discharge characteristic is in a predetermined normal range is defined as a normal signal, and the range in which a predetermined part of the nozzles in the nozzle row is lined up is the first range in the nozzle row. When the range adjacent to the first range in the nozzle row and where the other predetermined part of the nozzles in the nozzle row are lined up is defined as the second range in the nozzle row.
Regarding the drive signal supplied to at least a part of the nozzle included in the first range and the drive signal supplied to a part of the nozzle included in the second range by the signal voltage setting unit. , The voltage in at least a part of the period is different from the voltage in the normal signal.
And,
Regarding the ratio of the nozzle that makes the voltage different from the voltage in the normal signal during at least a part of the period, the ratio in the second range is made smaller than the ratio in the first range. Liquid discharge method. It is a liquid discharge method that discharges liquid.
The head part that discharges the liquid by the inkjet method and
A liquid supply unit that supplies the liquid to the head unit,
A drive signal supply unit that supplies a drive signal for driving the head unit to the head unit,
Using the signal voltage setting unit that sets the voltage of the drive signal,
The head portion
A liquid receiving unit, which is a portion that receives the liquid supplied from the liquid supply unit,
A nozzle array in which the nozzles for discharging the liquid are arranged in a predetermined nozzle array direction, and
It has a liquid flow path for flowing the liquid supplied from the liquid receiving portion to the position of each nozzle in the nozzle row.
In the liquid flow path, the liquid flows from one end side to the other end side of the nozzle row,
Each of the nozzles in the nozzle row discharges the liquid supplied from the liquid supply unit via the liquid receiving unit.
By supplying the drive signal corresponding to each of the nozzles in the nozzle row to the head unit by the drive signal supply unit, the liquid is discharged to each of the nozzles.
The signal voltage setting unit can set a plurality of different types of voltages for the voltage during at least a part of the drive signal.
When the drive signal supplied to the nozzle whose discharge characteristic is in a predetermined normal range is defined as a normal signal, the signal voltage setting unit presets the drive signal on either end side of the nozzle train. A liquid discharge method, characterized in that, for the drive signal supplied to at least a part of the number of nozzles, the voltage during at least a part of the period is made different from the voltage in the normal signal.

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