JP2022185378A - Printer and control method of printer - Google Patents

Abstract

To suppress an increase in the number of types of components mounted on a printer.SOLUTION: A printer comprises: a conveyance roller which conveys a recording sheet P1 with a first sheet width provided with a plurality of detection portions BM in the longitudinal direction or a recording sheet P2 with a second sheet width narrower than the first sheet width and provided with a plurality of detection portions BM in the longitudinal direction; a plurality of optical sensors which include a first optical sensor S1 that is provided at a position through which the detection portions BM of the recording sheet P1 with the first sheet width pass and a second optical sensor S2 that is provided at a position through which the detection portions BM of the recording sheet P2 with the second sheet width pass; and a control unit which detects the detection portions BM of the recording sheet P1 with the first sheet width on the basis of the output from the first optical sensor S1 and detects the detection portions of the recording sheet P2 with the second sheet width on the basis of the output from the second optical sensor S2. The control unit detects conveyance of any of the recording sheet P1 with the first sheet width and the recording sheet P2 with the second sheet width on the basis of the output from the plurality of optical sensors S.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

The present invention relates to a printing device and a control method for the printing device.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-200010, there is known a printing apparatus capable of using recording paper of a plurality of types of paper widths. In this printing apparatus, a contact sensor detects the attachment state of a paper guide that regulates the position of the recording paper. In the case of a value indicating a paper width other than 1 paper width, the paper width setting value is changed to a value indicating the first paper width.

JP 2017-035857 A

Some printing apparatuses use a recording sheet provided with a plurality of detection sites in the longitudinal direction. This type of printing apparatus recognizes the position of the recording paper in the longitudinal direction by detecting the detection portion of the recording paper. If such recording paper is used in the printing apparatus disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-200010, a contact sensor for detecting the mounting state of the paper guide and a sensor for detecting the detection part of the recording paper are required. The number of varieties will increase. Further, since the printing apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1 uses a contact sensor, the risk of mechanical damage is higher than when using a non-contact sensor.

The printing apparatus of the present invention can be used for recording paper having a first paper width in which a plurality of detection portions are provided in the length direction, or a recording paper having a width narrower than the first paper width, in which a plurality of detection portions are provided in the length direction. a first optical sensor provided at a position through which a detection portion for recording paper having the first paper width passes; and a first optical sensor provided at a position through which a detection portion for recording paper having the second paper width passes. a plurality of optical sensors including a second optical sensor mounted thereon; detecting the detection portion of the recording paper having the first paper width based on the output from the first optical sensor; a control unit for detecting detection positions of the recording paper of the second paper width based on the output, wherein the control unit controls the recording paper of the first paper width and the recording paper of the second paper width based on the outputs from the plurality of optical sensors. , which recording paper is being conveyed.

The method of controlling a printing apparatus according to the present invention includes recording paper having a first paper width in which a plurality of detection portions are provided in the length direction, or recording paper having a width greater than the first paper width in which a plurality of detection portions are provided in the length direction. A conveying roller that conveys the recording paper of the second narrow paper width, a first optical sensor provided at a position where the detection portion of the recording paper of the first paper width passes, and the detection portion of the recording paper of the second paper width pass through. A method for controlling a printing apparatus, comprising: a plurality of optical sensors including a second optical sensor provided at a position; and a controller, wherein the controller controls output from the first optical sensor. a step of detecting a detection portion of a recording sheet having a first paper width based on the output from the second optical sensor; a step of detecting a detection portion of a recording sheet having a second paper width based on an output from the second optical sensor; and detecting which of the recording paper having the first paper width and the recording paper having the second paper width is conveyed based on the output from the.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the printing apparatus with the opening/closing cover closed; 1 is a perspective view of a printing device with an open/close cover opened; FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a printing device; FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a state in which a partition member is not attached to the roll paper holder; FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a state in which the first partition member is attached to the roll paper holder; 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the printer according to the first embodiment; FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the transport areas of recording paper of two types of paper widths, the black marks provided on each recording paper, and the two optical sensors; 6 is a flowchart showing recording paper detection processing according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a state in which a first partition member and a second partition member are attached to the roll paper holder; FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another positional relationship between the conveyance areas of recording paper of two types of paper widths, black marks provided on each recording paper, and two optical sensors; FIG. 8 is a diagram showing another example of black marks provided on the first recording paper; FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of a printing apparatus according to the second embodiment; FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the transport areas of recording paper of three types of paper widths, the black marks provided on each recording paper, and the three optical sensors; 9 is a flowchart showing recording paper detection processing according to the second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another positional relationship between the transport areas of recording paper of three types of paper widths, the black marks provided on each recording paper, and the three optical sensors; FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the positional relationship between the transport areas of recording paper of four types of paper widths, the black marks provided on each recording paper, and the three optical sensors;

[First embodiment]
An embodiment of a printing apparatus and a method of controlling the printing apparatus will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The printing apparatus 1 of this embodiment is used, for example, as a receipt printer in a POS (Point of sale) system. In the following, the directions of the XYZ orthogonal coordinate system or the X coordinate system shown in some of the drawings will be used, but these directions are for convenience of explanation only and do not limit the following embodiments in any way. do not have. In addition, in the drawings showing the XYZ orthogonal coordinate system, the vertical direction is the Z direction.

The external structure of the printing apparatus 1 will be described based on FIGS. 1 and 2. FIG. The printing device 1 includes a device main body 3 and an opening/closing cover 5 . The apparatus main body 3 is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape with an opening 6 provided on the -Y direction surface, and a roll paper holder 8 is provided inside the apparatus main body 3 . The roll paper holder 8 accommodates the roll paper R wound with the recording paper P, which is a print medium (see FIG. 3). The opening/closing cover 5 is rotatably attached to the end of the device main body 3 in the -Z direction, and opens and closes the opening 6 .

The printing apparatus 1 includes a body exterior portion 7 , an upper exterior portion 9 , and a cover exterior portion 11 as exteriors.

The body exterior portion 7 and the upper exterior portion 9 constitute the exterior of the device body 3 . The body exterior part 7 is formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped box shape with an open surface in the -Y direction. The upper exterior part 9 is provided in the +Z direction with respect to the opening/closing cover 5 . A discharge port 13 is provided at the boundary between the upper exterior portion 9 and the opening/closing cover 5 . The recording paper P drawn out from the roll paper R housed in the roll paper holder 8 is discharged from the discharge port 13 . The cover exterior part 11 constitutes the exterior of the opening/closing cover 5 .

Cover knobs 15 are provided at the ends of the opening/closing cover 5 in the -X direction and the +X direction. The cover knob portion 15 has a knob portion main body 15a and a knob portion locking portion 15b provided in the +Y direction of the knob portion main body 15a. The opening/closing cover 5 is maintained in a closed state by engaging the knob engaging portion 15b with a cover engaging portion (not shown) provided on the apparatus main body 3. As shown in FIG. The user opens the opening/closing cover 5 by pinching the knob main body 15a and releasing the locked state of the knob locking portion 15b.

The printer 1 includes a power button 17 , a transport button 19 and a panel section 21 . The power button 17 and the transport button 19 are provided at the −X direction end of the −Y direction surface of the opening/closing cover 5 . The panel section 21 is provided at the +Z-direction end of the −Y-direction surface of the printing apparatus 1 . When the power button 17 is pressed, the printer 1 is switched between power-on and power-off. When the transport button 19 is pressed, a platen roller 35 (to be described later) rotates and the recording paper P is transported toward the discharge port 13 . The panel unit 21 displays various information such as errors to the user.

The internal structure of the printer 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 5. FIG. The printing apparatus 1 includes a thermal head 29, a cutter motor 31, a transport motor (not shown), a platen roller 35, a cutting mechanism 37, a sensor unit 39, a paper path 41, and a roll paper holder 8. ing. The platen roller 35 is an example of a "transport roller."

The thermal head 29 is provided near the +Z direction and the −Y direction of the apparatus main body 3 . The thermal head 29 includes a plurality of heating elements (not shown), and prints on the recording paper P fed out from the roll paper R. FIG. A force is applied to the thermal head 29 toward a platen roller 35 to be described later by a spring (not shown). Therefore, the thermal head 29 sandwiches the recording paper P between itself and the platen roller 35 .

The transport motor is provided at the end of the apparatus main body 3 in the +Z direction. The transport motor is a drive source for the platen roller 35 . As the transport motor, for example, a DC motor (DC: Direct Current) can be used.

The platen roller 35 is rotatably supported on the +Y direction surface of the opening/closing cover 5 . The platen roller 35 faces the thermal head 29 when the opening/closing cover 5 is closed. The platen roller 35 conveys the recording paper P sandwiched between itself and the thermal head 29 toward the discharge port 13 . That is, when the platen roller 35 rotates, the recording paper P is fed out from the roll paper R and conveyed toward the discharge port 13 . The platen roller 35 may be configured to apply force toward the thermal head 29 with a spring (not shown).

The cutting mechanism 37 includes a cutter motor 31 and a movable blade (not shown) that is driven by the cutter motor 31 to move. A movable blade and a fixed blade, which will be described later, are provided between the platen roller 35 and the discharge port 13, and move the recording paper P fed to the discharge port 13 in the width direction of the recording paper P behind the printed portion. That is, cutting is performed in the X direction. The cutter motor 31 is provided at the end of the device main body 3 in the +Z direction. The width direction of the recording paper P corresponds to the axial direction of the platen roller 35 . The cutting mechanism 37 performs a partial cut to cut the recording paper P, leaving a part of the recording paper P in the X direction so that the recording paper P remains in the discharge port 13 . More specifically, the movable blade of the cutting mechanism 37 moves while meshing with a fixed blade provided on the opening/closing cover 5 to cut the recording paper P. As shown in FIG. The movable blade is provided with a cutout portion, and the movable blade cuts the recording paper P with a blade portion other than the cutout portion while forming an uncut portion on the recording paper P at the cutout portion, thereby performing a partial cut. conduct. The movable blade may be described as the first blade, and the fixed blade may be described as the second blade.

The sensor unit 39 includes a plurality of optical sensors S. For the optical sensor S, for example, a reflective optical sensor can be used. A plurality of optical sensors S are arranged side by side in the axial direction of the platen roller 35, that is, in the X direction. That is, the plurality of optical sensors S are arranged such that their detection positions are aligned in the X direction. The sensor unit 39 is used for detecting the black mark BM on the recording paper P (see FIG. 7, etc.) and for detecting the paper width of the recording paper P. FIG.

A plurality of black marks BM are provided on one side of the recording paper P at the end in the -X direction with a predetermined gap therebetween. The other surface of the recording paper P is a printing surface on which printing is performed by the thermal head 29 . Also, the plurality of black marks BM provided on the recording paper P are all black rectangles elongated in the X direction and of the same size.

The paper path 41 is a path for conveying the recording paper P drawn out from the roll paper R toward the discharge port 13 . The printing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment can selectively use either the first recording paper P1, which is the recording paper P with a width of 80 mm, or the second recording paper P2, which is the recording paper P with a width of 58 mm. (See FIG. 7). The width of 80 mm is an example of the "first paper width", and the width of 58 mm is an example of the "second paper width".

The roll paper holder 8 accommodates the roll paper R around which the recording paper P is wound. When the roll paper R with a width of 58 mm is used, a first partition member 51 is attached to the −X direction end W1 of the roll paper holder 8 (see FIG. 5). The first partition member 51 has a first partition locking portion (not shown) formed in the -Z direction. It is positioned at the −X-direction end W1 of the roll paper holder 8 by being engaged with a stopper (not shown).

The first partition member 51 contacts the end surface of the roll paper R with a width of 58 mm in the -X direction, and regulates the position of the roll paper R with a width of 58 mm in the X direction. The 58 mm wide roll paper R also contacts the side surface 45 of the roll paper holder 8 in the +X direction. That is, the position of the roll paper R with a width of 58 mm in the X direction is restricted by the first partition member 51 and the +X direction side surface 45 of the roll paper holder 8 .

On the other hand, when the roll paper R with a width of 80 mm is used, the first partition member 51 is removed from the roll paper holder 8 as shown in FIG. The roll paper R with a width of 80 mm is restricted in its position in the X direction by the −X direction side surface 43 of the roll paper holder 8 and the +X direction side surface 45 of the roll paper holder 8 .

A hardware configuration of the printing apparatus 1 will be described based on FIG. The printing apparatus 1 includes a control section 100, a printing section 140, a first optical sensor S1, a second optical sensor S2, and a communication section 150 as main hardware components. Among them, the first optical sensor S1 and the second optical sensor S2 constitute a sensor unit 39. As shown in FIG.

The control unit 100 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 110 , a ROM (Read Only Memory) 120 and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 130 .

The CPU 110 performs various controls by developing various control programs stored in the ROM 120 in the RAM 130 and executing them. Note that the control unit 100 may use a hardware circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) as a processor instead of the CPU 110 . Also, the processor may be configured such that one or more CPUs and hardware circuits such as ASICs operate in cooperation with each other.

ROM 120 stores various control programs such as firmware 121 . The CPU 110 controls the hardware inside the printer 1 based on this firmware 121 . Based on the firmware 121, the CPU 110 also performs recording paper detection processing, which will be described later. In the recording paper detection process, the paper width of the recording paper P is detected.

The RAM 130 is used as a work area for the CPU 110 to perform various controls. The RAM 130 also has a setting value storage area 131 for storing various setting values. A paper width setting value indicating the paper width of the recording paper P and the like are stored in the setting value storage area 131 .

The printing unit 140 is a mechanism for printing on the recording paper P and cutting the recording paper P, and includes a thermal head 29 , a transport motor, and a cutting mechanism 37 . The cutting mechanism 37 includes a movable blade that performs partial cutting and a cutter motor 31 that drives an auto cutter. The cutting mechanism 37 partially cuts the first recording paper P1 in the X direction and forms an uncut portion in the -X direction end of the second recording paper P2.

The first optical sensor S1 faces the paper path 41 and is provided at a position where the black mark BM, which is the detection portion of the first recording paper P1, passes (see FIG. 7). , the reflected light intensity of the irradiation light irradiated to the detection position is measured.

The second optical sensor S2 faces the paper path 41 and is provided at a position where the black mark BM, which is the detection portion of the second recording paper P2, passes (see FIG. 7). , the reflected light intensity of the irradiation light irradiated to the detection position is measured.

The control unit 100, which will be described later, determines that the output from the optical sensor S indicates "out of paper" when the reflected light intensity measured by the optical sensor S is equal to or less than the first threshold value. Further, when the reflected light intensity measured by the optical sensor S is larger than the first threshold and equal to or smaller than the second threshold larger than the first threshold, the control unit 100 determines that the output from the optical sensor S is "paper present and black It is determined that "marked" is shown. Further, when the reflected light intensity measured by the optical sensor S is greater than the second threshold value, the control unit 100 determines that the output from the optical sensor S indicates "paper present and no black mark".

The control unit 100 determines whether the outputs of the first optical sensor S1 and the second optical sensor S2 indicate "no paper", "paper present and black mark present", or "paper present and black mark absent". , detection of the black mark BM of the recording paper P and detection of the paper width are performed. “No paper” means that the recording paper P does not exist at the detection position of the optical sensor S. "Paper present and black mark present" means that the recording paper P is present at the detection position of the optical sensor S and the black mark BM is present. "Paper present and no black mark" means that the recording paper P is present at the detection position of the optical sensor S and the black mark BM is not present.

The communication unit 150 communicates with the host computer 200 via wireless communication or wired communication.

The control unit 100 performs printing on the recording paper P based on the print data transmitted from the host computer 200 with the above configuration. Further, the control unit 100 determines which of the first recording paper P1 with a width of 80 mm and the second recording paper P2 with a width of 58 mm is conveyed when the printer 1 is powered on and when the opening/closing cover 5 is closed. Recording paper detection processing (see FIG. 8) is performed to detect whether the recording paper is Further, the control unit 100 notifies the host computer 200 of the paper width detected by the recording paper detection process, and stores the paper width setting value indicating the paper width in the setting value storage area 131 .

When notified of the paper width from the printer 1, the host computer 200 displays the notified paper width on an edit screen (not shown) for editing print data or uses it for editing print data.

Based on the paper width setting value stored in the setting value storage area 131, the control unit 100 sets the torque of the transport motor during printing. More specifically, when the paper width setting value indicates a paper width of 80 mm, the control unit 100 sets the torque of the transport motor lower than when the paper width setting value indicates a paper width of 58 mm. This is because when the width of the recording paper P is wide, the portion where the recording paper P is interposed between the platen roller 35 and the thermal head 29 is larger when the platen roller 35 rotates than when the paper width is narrow. This is because the frictional force generated between it and the thermal head 29 is reduced. In this way, the control unit 100 can appropriately convey the recording paper P by setting the torque of the conveyance motor during printing based on the paper width setting value stored in the setting value storage area 131. It is possible to suppress deterioration of print quality.

Further, the control unit 100 determines the line feed position of the character string to be printed on the recording paper P based on the paper width setting value stored in the setting value storage area 131 . For example, when the paper width setting value indicates a paper width of 80 mm, the line feed position of the character string is determined so that the number of characters to be printed per line is greater than when the paper width setting value indicates a paper width of 58 mm. In this manner, the control unit 100 determines the line feed position of the character string to be printed on the recording paper P based on the paper width setting value stored in the setting value storage area 131 so that the paper width of the recording paper P is exceeded. Printing and generation of unnecessary margins in the width direction of the recording paper P can be suppressed.

Also, the control unit 100 determines the optical sensor S that detects the black mark BM based on the paper width setting value stored in the setting value storage area 131 . For example, when the paper width setting value indicates a paper width of 80 mm, the control unit 100 determines the first optical sensor S1 as the optical sensor S for detecting the black mark BM. That is, when the paper width setting value indicates a paper width of 80 mm, the controller 100 recognizes the position of the first recording paper P1 in the longitudinal direction based on the output from the first optical sensor S1 during printing. Further, when the paper width setting value indicates a paper width of 58 mm, the control unit 100 determines the second optical sensor S2 as the optical sensor S for detecting the black mark BM. That is, when the paper width setting value indicates a paper width of 58 mm, the controller 100 recognizes the position of the second recording paper P2 in the longitudinal direction based on the output from the second optical sensor S2 during printing. In this manner, the control unit 100 can accurately recognize the position of the recording paper P in the longitudinal direction by detecting the black mark BM during printing, and can also perform printing on the recording paper P and cutting of the recording paper P. can be done properly.

Note that the control unit 100 may be configured not to measure the reflected light intensity or ignore the output of the optical sensors S that are not used for detecting the black marks BM during printing.

Based on FIG. 7, the positional relationship between the transport areas of the recording paper P of two types of paper widths, the black marks BM provided on each recording paper P, and the two optical sensors S will be described.

7 shows a state in which the first recording paper P1 with a width of 80 mm and the second recording paper P2 with a width of 58 mm are conveyed in the conveying direction A in the paper path 41. FIG. As shown in FIG. 4, the position of the 80 mm-wide roll paper R from which the first recording paper P1 is delivered is regulated in the X direction by the −X direction side surface 43 and the +X direction side surface 45 of the roll paper holder 8. ing. Further, as shown in FIG. 5, the position of the 58 mm-wide roll paper R from which the second recording paper P2 is delivered is regulated in the X direction by the first partition member 51 and the +X direction side surface 45 of the roll paper holder 8. It is Therefore, the second transport area E2, which is the transport area for the second recording paper P2, is a partial area in the +X direction of the first transport area E1, which is the transport area for the first recording paper P1. Thus, in this embodiment, substantially the entire area of the second transport area E2 overlaps with the first transport area E1.

Also, as shown in FIG. 7, the first optical sensor S1 is arranged in the -X direction relative to the second optical sensor S2. Further, as described above, the first optical sensor S1 is provided at a position through which the black marks BM on the first recording paper P1 pass, and the second optical sensor S2 is provided at a position where the black marks BM on the second recording paper P2 pass. It is provided at a position where Also, the first optical sensor S1 is provided at a position corresponding to an area of the first transport area E1 that does not overlap with the second transport area E2. Also, the second optical sensor S2 is provided in an area of the second transport area E2 that overlaps the first transport area E1.

Recording paper detection processing by the printing apparatus 1 will be described with reference to FIG. The recording paper detection process is triggered by turning on the printer 1 or closing the open/close cover 5 . In the following description, the 80 mm width is also referred to as the "first paper width", and the 58 mm width is also referred to as the "second paper width".

In step S01, the printing apparatus 1 conveys the recording paper P. As shown in FIG.

In step S02, the printer 1 determines whether or not the recording paper P has been conveyed by a certain length based on the amount of rotation of the conveying motor. The fixed length is, for example, 30 mm. When the printing apparatus 1 determines that the recording paper P has been conveyed by the predetermined length, the process proceeds to step S03. If the printer 1 determines that the recording paper P has not been conveyed by the predetermined length, the process returns to step S01.

In step S03, the printer 1 determines outputs of the two optical sensors S while the recording paper P is conveyed by a certain length. While the printing apparatus 1 conveys the recording paper P by a certain length, the outputs of the first optical sensor S1 and the second optical sensor S2 are both “paper present and black mark present” or “paper If it is determined that both of them indicate that there is a black mark and there is no black mark, that is, if it is determined that they both indicate that there is a paper, the process proceeds to step S04. If the printer 1 determines that the output of the first optical sensor S1 indicates "no paper" and the output of the second optical sensor S2 indicates "paper present," the process proceeds to step S07. Although not shown, the printer 1 displays error information on the panel section 21 when the outputs of the first optical sensor S1 and the second optical sensor S2 indicate something other than these.

In step S04, the printer 1 detects the recording paper P having the first paper width.

In step S05, the printing apparatus 1 notifies the host computer 200 that the recording paper P to be transported has the first paper width.

In step S06, the printing apparatus 1 stores the first paper width in the setting value storage area 131 as the paper width setting value.

In step S07, the printer 1 detects the recording paper P of the second paper width.

In step S08, the printing apparatus 1 notifies the host computer 200 that the recording paper P to be transported has the second paper width.

In step S09, the printing apparatus 1 stores the second paper width in the setting value storage area 131 as the paper width setting value.

As described above, the printing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment can use the first optical sensor S1 and the second optical sensor S2 both for detecting the black mark BM and for detecting the paper width. can be used, and the number of types of parts to be mounted can be suppressed. Further, since the printing apparatus 1 uses the optical sensor S, the risk of mechanical damage can be reduced compared to the case where the paper width is detected using a contact sensor.

Further, in the printing apparatus 1, the second transport area E2 overlaps the first transport area E1, so the space of the transport area of the paper path 41 can be saved. In addition, since the second optical sensor S2 is provided at a position corresponding to an area of the second transport area E2 that overlaps with the first transport area E1, the space for arranging the sensor unit 39 can be saved. .

Further, since the printing apparatus 1 includes the first partition member 51 that regulates the position of the roll paper R of the second paper width in the width direction, the recording paper P shifts in the X direction during printing. It is possible to suppress deterioration in quality.

In addition, since the printing apparatus 1 includes the cutting mechanism 37 that forms an uncut portion substantially in the center of the paper path 41 in the X direction, an uncut portion is formed on both the first recording paper P1 and the second recording paper P2. be able to.

Further, since the printing apparatus 1 includes a plurality of optical sensors S arranged side by side in the X direction, the space for arranging the sensor unit 39 can be saved.

In addition, in the first embodiment, the following modifications can be adopted.
[Modification 1-1]
In addition to the first partition member 51 , the printing apparatus 1 may be attachable with the second partition member 52 . Also, as the second recording paper P2, the recording paper P whose position in the X direction of the roll paper R is regulated by the first partitioning member 51 and the second partitioning member 52 may be used. That is, as the second recording paper P2, a recording paper P having a width narrower than 58 mm, which is the paper width of the second recording paper P2 shown in the first embodiment, such as 40 mm, may be used. FIG. 9 shows a state in which the first partition member 51 and the second partition member 52 are attached to the roll paper holder 8. As shown in FIG. Also, FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a second recording sheet P2 according to modification 1-1. The first partition member 51 and the second partition member 52 are not limited to those that can be attached to and detached from the roll paper holder 8, and may be those that can move in the roll paper holder 8 in the axial direction of the platen roller 35. .

As shown in FIG. 9, the second partition member 52 is attached to the end W2 (see FIG. 4) of the roll paper holder 8 in the +X direction. The second partition member 52 has a second partition locking portion (not shown) formed in the -Z direction. It is positioned at the end W2 of the roll paper holder 8 in the +X direction by being engaged with a stopper (not shown).

The first partition member 51 according to Modification 1-1 contacts the end surface of the 40 mm wide roll paper R in the -X direction, and regulates the position of the 40 mm wide roll paper R in the X direction. In addition, the second partition member 52 contacts the +X-direction end surface of the 40-mm-wide roll paper R, and regulates the position of the 40-mm-wide roll paper R in the X direction. That is, the position of the roll paper R with a width of 40 mm in the X direction is restricted by the first partition member 51 and the second partition member 52 .

In Modified Example 1-1, when the roll paper R with a width of 80 mm is used, the first partition member 51 and the second partition member 52 are removed from the roll paper holder 8 . Also, when roll paper R with a width of 40 mm is used, first partition member 51 and second partition member 52 are attached to roll paper holder 8 .

Further, in the modification 1-1, the second transport area E2, which is the transport area for the second recording paper P2, is a part of the substantially central part in the X direction of the first transport area E1, which is the transport area for the first recording paper P1. area. Thus, in the modification 1-1, substantially the entire area of the second transport area E2 overlaps with the first transport area E1.

Further, in the modified example 1-1, as in the first embodiment, the second optical sensor S2 is provided at a position through which the black marks BM of the second recording paper P2 pass. It is provided in an area overlapping with the first transport area E1.

Note that in the modification 1-1, the cutting mechanism 37 forms an uncut part at substantially the center of the first recording paper P1 and the second recording paper P2 in the X direction by partial cutting.

[Modification 1-2]
The recording paper P may be configured such that the black marks BM are provided not at the ends of the recording paper P in the -X direction, but over substantially the entire area of the recording paper P in the X direction. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a first recording sheet P1 according to modification 1-2. In modification 1-2, the printing apparatus 1 may detect the black marks BM on the first recording paper P1 based on the output of the second optical sensor S2. Although not shown, the printing apparatus 1 may also detect the black marks BM on the second recording paper P2 with a width of 58 mm or 40 mm based on the output of the second optical sensor S2. As described above, in the modification 1-2, the printing apparatus 1 may detect the black marks BM provided on the recording paper P having a plurality of types of paper widths based on the output of the common optical sensor S. .

[Second embodiment]
A second embodiment of the present invention will be described. The printing apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment described above includes two optical sensors S, and detects which width of the recording paper P is conveyed out of the two types of paper widths. The printing apparatus 1 includes three optical sensors S, and detects which width of the recording paper P is conveyed among the three types of paper widths. In addition, the recording paper P according to the present embodiment is provided with black marks BM at the ends of the recording paper P in the −X direction and the ends in the +X direction. Only points different from the first embodiment will be described below. In addition, in this embodiment, the same code|symbol is attached|subjected about the component similar to 1st Embodiment, and detailed description is abbreviate|omitted. Modifications applied to components similar to those of the first embodiment are also applied to this embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the printer 1 according to the second embodiment. The printing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment can selectively use any of the first recording paper P1 with a width of 80 mm, the second recording paper P2 with a width of 58 mm, and the third recording paper P3 with a width of 40 mm. . Further, the printing apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment has the first partition member 51 and the second partition member 52 in the roll paper holder 8 in the same manner as the printing apparatus 1 according to the modified example 1-1 shown in FIG. can be installed.

In the second embodiment, when roll paper R with a width of 80 mm is used, the first partition member 51 and the second partition member 52 are removed from the roll paper holder 8 . Also, when the roll paper R with a width of 58 mm is used, only the first partition member 51 is attached to the roll paper holder 8 . Also, when roll paper R with a width of 40 mm is used, first partition member 51 and second partition member 52 are attached to roll paper holder 8 .

In the second embodiment, the cutting mechanism 37 partially cuts the first recording paper P1 and the third recording paper P3 at substantially the center in the X direction and the -X direction end of the second recording paper P2. form a residue.

As shown in FIG. 12, the printer 1 according to the second embodiment has a configuration in which a third optical sensor S3 is added to the printer 1 (see FIG. 6) according to the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, the first optical sensor S1, the second optical sensor S2 and the third optical sensor S3 constitute a sensor unit 39. FIG. The third optical sensor S3 faces the paper path 41 and is provided at a position where the black mark BM, which is the detection portion of the third recording paper P3, passes (see FIG. 13). , the reflected light intensity of the irradiation light irradiated to the detection position is measured. The first optical sensor S1, the second optical sensor S2, and the third optical sensor S3 are arranged side by side in the axial direction of the platen roller 35, that is, in the X direction.

The control unit 100 controls that the outputs of the first optical sensor S1, the second optical sensor S2, and the third optical sensor S3 indicate "no paper," "paper present and black mark," and "paper present and black mark," respectively. Detecting the detection portion of the recording paper P and detecting the paper width are performed according to which of "none" is indicated.

Also, the control unit 100 determines the optical sensor S that detects the black mark BM based on the paper width setting value stored in the setting value storage area 131 . For example, when the paper width setting value indicates a paper width of 80 mm, the control unit 100 determines the first optical sensor S1 as the optical sensor S for detecting the black mark BM. That is, during printing, the control unit 100 recognizes the position of the first recording paper P1 in the longitudinal direction based on the output from the first optical sensor S1. Further, when the paper width setting value indicates a paper width of 58 mm, the control unit 100 determines the second optical sensor S2 as the optical sensor S for detecting the black mark BM. That is, during printing, the control unit 100 recognizes the position of the second recording paper P2 in the longitudinal direction based on the output from the second optical sensor S2. Further, when the paper width setting value indicates a paper width of 40 mm, the control unit 100 determines the third optical sensor S3 as the optical sensor S for detecting the black mark BM. That is, during printing, the control unit 100 recognizes the position of the third recording paper P3 in the longitudinal direction based on the output from the third optical sensor S3.

Based on FIG. 13, the positional relationship between the transport areas of the recording paper P of three types of paper widths, the black marks BM provided on each recording paper P, and the three optical sensors S will be described.

FIG. 13 shows a state in which a first recording paper P1 with a width of 80 mm, a second recording paper P2 with a width of 58 mm, and a third recording paper P3 with a width of 40 mm are transported in the transport direction A in the paper path 41 . The three optical sensors S are arranged in the order of the first optical sensor S1, the third optical sensor S3 and the second optical sensor S2 from the -X direction to the +X direction. The first optical sensor S1 is provided at a position through which the black mark BM passes at the -X direction end of the first recording paper P1. Also, the second optical sensor S2 is provided at a position through which the black mark BM passes at the +X direction end of the second recording paper P2. Also, the third optical sensor S3 is provided at a position through which the black mark BM passes at the -X direction end of the third recording paper P3.

Also, the first optical sensor S1 is provided at a position corresponding to an area in the first transport area E1 that does not overlap with the second transport area E2 and the third transport area E3. Also, the second optical sensor S2 is provided at a position corresponding to an area of the second transport area E2 that overlaps with the first transport area E1 but does not overlap with the third transport area E3. Also, the third optical sensor S3 is provided at a position corresponding to an area of the third transport area E3 that overlaps the first transport area E1 and the second transport area E2.

Recording paper detection processing according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. In the following description, the 80 mm width is also referred to as the "first paper width", the 58 mm width as the "second paper width", and the 40 mm width as the "third paper width". Steps S11 and S12 are the same as steps S01 and S02 of the recording paper detection process (see FIG. 8) according to the first embodiment.

In step S13, the printer 1 determines outputs of the three optical sensors S while the recording paper P is conveyed by a certain length. In the printing apparatus 1, the output of the first optical sensor S1, the second optical sensor S2, and the third optical sensor S3 while the recording paper P is being conveyed by a certain length is "paper present". , the process proceeds to step S14. Further, when the printer 1 determines that the output of the first optical sensor S1 indicates "no paper" and that the outputs of the second optical sensor S2 and the third optical sensor S3 indicate "paper present," Proceed to step S17. Further, when the printer 1 determines that the outputs of the first optical sensor S1 and the second optical sensor S2 indicate "no paper" and the output of the third optical sensor S3 indicates "paper present," Proceed to step S20. Although illustration is omitted, the printing apparatus 1 displays error information on the panel section 21 when the outputs of the three optical sensors S indicate something other than these.

In step S14, the printer 1 detects the recording paper P having the first paper width.

In step S15, the printing apparatus 1 notifies the host computer 200 that the recording paper P to be transported has the first paper width.

In step S16, the printing apparatus 1 stores the first paper width in the setting value storage area 131 as the paper width setting value.

In step S17, the printer 1 detects the recording paper P of the second paper width.

In step S18, the printing apparatus 1 notifies the host computer 200 that the recording paper P to be conveyed has the second paper width.

In step S19, the printing apparatus 1 stores the second paper width in the setting value storage area 131 as the paper width setting value.

In step S20, the printer 1 detects the recording paper P of the third paper width.

In step S21, the printing apparatus 1 notifies the host computer 200 that the recording paper P to be transported has the third paper width.

In step S22, the printer 1 stores the third paper width in the setting value storage area 131 as the paper width setting value.

As described above, the printing apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment is provided with three optical sensors S, and thus can detect three types of paper widths. Further, since the printing apparatus 1 can use the first optical sensor S1, the second optical sensor S2, and the third optical sensor S3 for both the detection of the black mark BM and the detection of the paper width, the number of types of mounted parts can be reduced. can be suppressed.

Further, since the third transport area E3 overlaps the first transport area E1 and the second transport area E2, the space of the transport area of the paper path 41 can be saved. In addition, since the third optical sensor S3 is provided at a position corresponding to an area in the third transport area E3 that overlaps with the first transport area E1 and the second transport area E2, the arrangement space of the sensor unit 39 can be saved. Can be spaced.

In addition to the first partition member 51, the printing apparatus 1 includes the second partition member 52 for regulating the position of the roll paper R having the third paper width in the width direction. During printing on the third recording paper P3, it is possible to prevent the third recording paper P3 from deviating in the X direction and degrading the print quality.

In addition, since the printing apparatus 1 is provided with the cutting mechanism 37 that forms an uncut portion substantially in the center of the paper path 41 in the X direction, any one of the first recording paper P1, the second recording paper P2 and the third recording paper P3 can be cut. Incomplete cutting can also be formed.

In addition, since the printing apparatus 1 includes three optical sensors S arranged side by side in the X direction, the installation space of the sensor unit 39 can be saved.

In addition, in the second embodiment, the following modifications can be adopted.
[Modification 2-1]
As in the first embodiment, the recording paper P may be configured such that the black marks BM are provided only at the ends of the recording paper P in the -X direction. FIG. 15 shows the positional relationship between the transport areas of the recording paper P of three different paper widths, the black marks BM provided on each recording paper P, and the three optical sensors S according to Modification 2-1. It is a diagram.

In modification 2-1, the printing apparatus 1 detects the black marks BM on the first recording paper P1 based on the output from the first optical sensor S1. The printing apparatus 1 also detects the black marks BM on the second recording paper P2 and the third recording paper P3 based on the output from the third optical sensor S3. Therefore, in modification 2-1, the second optical sensor S2 is not used for detecting the black marks BM, but is used for detecting the paper width. In this manner, the black marks BM of a plurality of types of recording paper P having different paper widths may be detected based on the output from the common optical sensor S.

[Modification 2-2]
The printing apparatus 1 may be configured to selectively use recording paper P of four widths shown in FIG. In this case, the printing apparatus 1 can use, for example, a fourth recording paper P4 having a width of 62 mm, in addition to the first recording paper P1, the second recording paper P2, and the third recording paper P3 according to the second embodiment. It's okay.

16A and 16B are diagrams showing the positional relationship between the transport areas of the recording paper P of four types of paper widths, the black marks BM provided on each recording paper P, and the three optical sensors S. FIG. In the modification 2-2, when the roll paper R that feeds out the fourth recording paper P4 with a width of 62 mm is used, the first partition member 51 is not attached to the roll paper holder 8, and the second partition member 52 is attached. (See Figure 9). The second partition member 52 comes into contact with the +X direction end face of the 62 mm wide roll paper R, and regulates the position of the 62 mm wide roll paper R in the X direction. That is, the position of the roll paper R with a width of 62 mm in the X direction is restricted by the −X direction side surface 43 of the roll paper holder 8 and the second partition member 52 . Therefore, the fourth transport area E4, which is the transport area for the fourth recording paper P4, is a partial area in the -X direction of the first transport area E1, which is the transport area for the first recording paper P1. Thus, in the modification 2-2, substantially the entire fourth transport area E4 overlaps the first transport area E1.

In modification 2-2, as shown in FIG. 16, the black mark BM provided at the edge in the -X direction of the fourth recording paper P4 is detected based on the output from the first optical sensor S1.

In modification 2-2, in step S13 of the flowchart of FIG. 14, the printing apparatus 1 detects the first optical sensor S1 and the third optical sensor S3 while conveying the recording paper P by a certain length. When it is determined that the output indicates "paper present" and the output of the second optical sensor S2 indicates "paper absent", the following steps are performed. The printing apparatus 1 detects the recording paper P having the fourth paper width, that is, the fourth recording paper P4. After detecting the fourth recording paper P4, the printer 1 notifies the host computer 200 of the fourth paper width, and sets the fourth paper width in the setting value storage area 131 as the paper width setting value.

[Modification 2-3]
The first recording paper P1 and the third recording paper P3 may be provided with the black marks BM only at the ends in the -X direction, and the second recording paper P2 may be provided with the black marks BM only at the ends in the +X direction. good. According to this configuration, as in the second embodiment, the first optical sensor S1, the second optical sensor S2, and the third optical sensor S3 are connected to the first recording paper P1, the second recording paper P2, and the third optical sensor S3, respectively. 3 can be used to detect the black mark BM on the recording paper P3.

Although two embodiments have been described above, the following modifications can be adopted in common to both embodiments.
[Modification 3-1]
As in the second embodiment, when black marks BM are provided at the edge of the recording paper P in the −X direction and the edge of the recording paper P in the +X direction (see FIG. 13), a plurality of optical sensors S may be used to detect the black mark BM. Similarly, when the black marks BM are provided over substantially the entire area of the recording paper P in the X direction (see FIG. 11) as in Modification 1-2, a plurality of optical sensors S are used to detect the black marks BM. may be detected. In these cases, the printing apparatus 1 recognizes the position of the recording paper P in the longitudinal direction based on the outputs from the plurality of optical sensors S. FIG. As described above, the plurality of optical sensors S are arranged so that their detection positions are aligned in the X direction. You should get an output stating "No marks". Therefore, by detecting the black marks BM using a plurality of optical sensors S, the printing apparatus 1 can suppress detection omissions and erroneous detections of the black marks BM.

[Modification 3-2]
In the recording paper detection process, the printing apparatus 1 detects the position of the black mark BM provided on the recording paper P in the X direction, and detects the black mark BM during printing based on the detected position of the black mark BM in the X direction. The optical sensor S to detect may be determined. In this case, in the recording paper detection process, the printing apparatus 1 detects the optical sensor S that outputs "paper present and black mark present" while the recording paper P is being conveyed by a certain length. , and the optical sensor S for detecting the black mark BM. According to this configuration, the optical sensor S that detects the black mark BM can be appropriately determined regardless of the position of the black mark BM on the recording paper P in the X direction.

[Modification 3-3]
As the optical sensor S, a transmissive optical sensor may be used. In this case, when the transmitted light intensity measured by the optical sensor S is equal to or less than the first threshold value, the control unit 100 determines that the output from the optical sensor S indicates "paper present and black mark present". Further, when the reflected light intensity measured by the optical sensor S is larger than the first threshold and equal to or smaller than the second threshold larger than the first threshold, the control unit 100 determines that the output from the optical sensor S is "paper present and black "No mark" is determined. Further, when the reflected light intensity measured by the optical sensor S is greater than the second threshold value, the control unit 100 determines that the output from the optical sensor S indicates "no paper".

[Modification 3-4]
The black marks BM provided on the recording paper P are not limited to rectangular shapes, and may be of other shapes. Also, the plurality of black marks BM do not necessarily have to have the same size, and may include a plurality of sizes. For example, the plurality of black marks BM may include large size and small size that are alternately arranged in the longitudinal direction of the recording paper P. FIG. Also, the plurality of black marks BM are not necessarily provided at equal intervals in the longitudinal direction of the recording paper P, and may be provided at different intervals. For example, the plurality of black marks BM may be alternately arranged at a first interval and a second interval different from the first interval.

[Modification 3-5]
The printing apparatus 1 may recognize the position of the recording paper P by detecting a detection portion of the recording paper P other than the black marks BM. For example, the printing apparatus 1 may detect, as the detection portion, a portion where the end surface of the recording paper P in the X direction is notched in a concave or convex shape. Alternatively, the printing apparatus 1 may detect a plurality of holes provided in the lengthwise direction of the recording paper P as detection sites.

[Modification 3-6]
The printing apparatus 1 may detect the paper width of the recording paper P while the recording paper P is not being conveyed.

[Modification 3-7]
The second transport area E2 may be configured so that a part of the second transport area E2 overlaps the first transport area E1 rather than substantially the entire area thereof overlapping the first transport area E1. In the second embodiment, the third transport area E3 does not substantially entirely overlap the first transport area E1 and the second transport area E2, but partially overlaps the first transport area E1 and the second transport area E2. It may be configured to overlap with the transport area E2. Further, in the modified example 2-2, the fourth transport area E4 may partially overlap the first transport area E1 instead of substantially entirely overlapping the first transport area E1.

[Modification 3-8]
The printing apparatus 1 performs printing using a thermal transfer method, but may perform printing using another printing method such as an inkjet method. Further, the printing apparatus 1 prints on the recording paper P fed out from the roll paper R, but may print on continuous paper other than the roll paper R, such as fanfold paper. In addition, appropriate modifications are possible without departing from the gist of the present invention.

[Note]
The printing device and the method of controlling the printing device will be described below.
The printing apparatus 1 uses recording paper P of a first paper width provided with a plurality of detection sites in the length direction, or a second paper width narrower than the first paper width provided with a plurality of detection sites in the length direction. a platen roller 35 for conveying the recording paper P, a first optical sensor S1 provided at a position where the detection portion of the recording paper P of the first paper width passes, and the detection portion of the recording paper P of the second paper width passing through A detection portion of the recording paper P having the first paper width is detected based on outputs from a plurality of optical sensors S including a second optical sensor S2 provided at a position corresponding to the first optical sensor S1. , a control unit 100 for detecting the detection portion of the recording paper P having the second paper width based on the output from the second optical sensor S2, the control unit 100 detecting the output from the plurality of optical sensors S Based on this, it is detected which of the recording paper P having the first paper width and the recording paper P having the second paper width is conveyed.

The control method of the printing apparatus 1 is as follows: recording paper P having a first paper width on which a plurality of detection portions are provided in the length direction; A platen roller 35 for conveying the recording paper P of the second paper width, a first optical sensor S1 provided at a position where the detection portion of the recording paper P of the first paper width passes, and detection of the recording paper P of the second paper width. A control method for a printing apparatus 1 including a plurality of optical sensors S including a second optical sensor S2 provided at a position through which a portion passes, and a control unit 100, wherein the control unit 100 includes: a step of detecting a detection portion of the recording paper P of the first paper width based on the output from the first optical sensor S1; a step of detecting the detection portion; and a step of detecting which of the recording paper P having the first paper width and the recording paper P having the second paper width is conveyed based on the outputs from the plurality of optical sensors S. Run.

According to this configuration, the printing apparatus 1 can use the first optical sensor S1 and the second optical sensor S2 both for detection of the detection part and detection of the paper width. As a result, the number of types of parts to be mounted can be suppressed. Further, since the printing apparatus 1 uses the optical sensor S, the risk of mechanical damage can be reduced compared to the case where the paper width is detected using a contact sensor.

In the printing apparatus 1 described above, in the paper path 41 for the recording paper P of the first paper width and the recording paper P of the second paper width, at least part of the transport area of the recording paper P of the second paper width is the recording paper of the first paper width. The first optical sensor S1 is provided at a position corresponding to an area that overlaps with the transport area of the recording paper P of the first paper width and does not overlap with the transport area of the recording paper P of the second paper width. It is preferable that the second optical sensor S2 is provided at a position corresponding to an area in the transport area for the recording paper P having the second paper width that overlaps with the transport area for the recording paper P having the first paper width.

According to this configuration, in the printing apparatus 1, at least a part of the transport area for the recording paper P having the second paper width overlaps with the transport area for the recording paper P having the first paper width. can save space. Further, the second optical sensor S2 is provided at a position corresponding to an area of the transport area for the recording paper P having the second paper width that overlaps with the transport area for the recording paper P having the first paper width. can save space.

In the printing apparatus 1 described above, the roll paper holder 8 that accommodates the roll paper R on which the recording paper P is wound is in contact with the end face of the roll paper R of the second paper width, and in the width direction of the roll paper R of the second paper width It is preferable to further include a first partition member 51 that regulates the position.

According to this configuration, the printing apparatus 1 can regulate the position of the roll paper R having the second paper width in the width direction by the first partition member 51 .

In the printing apparatus 1 described above, the platen roller 35 is further provided with a plurality of detection portions in the length direction, is capable of conveying the recording paper P having a third paper width narrower than the second paper width, and has a plurality of optical sensors. The type sensor S further includes a third optical sensor S3 provided at a position through which the detection portion of the recording paper P of the third paper width passes. Detecting portions of the paper P are detected, and based on outputs from a plurality of optical sensors S, which one of the recording paper P having the first paper width, the recording paper P having the second paper width, and the recording paper P having the third paper width is conveyed. It is preferable to detect whether

According to this configuration, the printing apparatus 1 can detect three or more types of paper widths by further including the third optical sensor S3. In addition, since the printing apparatus 1 can use the first optical sensor S1, the second optical sensor S2, and the third optical sensor S3 for both detection of the detection part and detection of the paper width, the number of types of mounted parts can be reduced. be able to.

In the printing apparatus 1 described above, in the paper path 41, at least part of the transport area for the recording paper P having the third paper width is the transport area for the recording paper P having the first paper width and the transport area for the recording paper P having the second paper width. In the position corresponding to the area that does not overlap the transport area of the recording paper P of the second paper width and the transport area of the recording paper P of the third paper width among the transport areas of the recording paper P of the first paper width. The optical sensor S1 is provided in a region of the recording paper P having the second paper width that overlaps the recording paper P having the first paper width and does not overlap the recording paper P having the third paper width. A second optical sensor S2 is provided at a corresponding position, and of the recording paper P transport area of the third paper width, the transport area of the recording paper P of the first paper width and the transport area of the recording paper P of the second paper width overlap. It is preferable that the third optical sensor S3 is provided at a position corresponding to the area where the

According to this configuration, since at least a part of the transport area for the recording paper P having the third paper width overlaps with the transport area for the recording paper P having the first paper width and the transport area for the recording paper P having the second paper width, It is possible to save space in the transport area of the paper path 41 . Further, the third optical sensor S3 corresponds to the area overlapping the transport area of the recording paper P of the first paper width and the transport area of the recording paper P of the second paper width in the transport area of the recording paper P of the third paper width. Since it is provided at a position where the optical sensor S is located, the space for arranging the optical sensor S can be saved.

In the printing apparatus 1 described above, the first partition member 51 is in contact with one end surface of the roll paper R having the second paper width and one end surface of the roll paper R having the third paper width. A second partition member that regulates the position in the width direction of the roll paper R of the third paper width, contacts the other end surface of the roll paper R of the third paper width, and regulates the position of the roll paper R in the width direction of the third paper width. 52 is preferably further provided.

According to this configuration, the printing apparatus 1 uses the first partition member 51 to regulate the positions of the roll paper R having the second paper width and the roll paper R having the third paper width in the width direction, The position in the width direction of the roll paper R having a width of 3 papers can be regulated.

The printing apparatus 1 further includes a cutting mechanism 37 that cuts the conveyed recording paper P. The cutting mechanism 37 is a partial cutting mechanism that forms an uncut portion of the recording paper P of the third paper width in the axial direction of the platen roller 35. Cutting is preferred.

According to this configuration, the printing apparatus 1 is provided with the cutting mechanism 37, so that even when the recording paper P having the narrow third paper width is used, an uncut portion can be formed on the recording paper P.

In the printing apparatus 1 described above, it is preferable that the plurality of optical sensors S be arranged side by side in the axial direction of the platen roller 35 .

According to this configuration, in the printing apparatus 1, since the plurality of optical sensors S are arranged side by side in the axial direction of the platen roller 35, the space for arranging the plurality of optical sensors S can be saved. .

Reference Signs List 1 printing device 35 platen roller 37 cutting mechanism 41 paper path 51 first partitioning member 52 second partitioning member 100 control unit P recording paper R paper roll S ... optical sensor, S1 ... first optical sensor, S2 ... second optical sensor, S3 ... third optical sensor.

Claims (9)

Recording paper having a first width in which a plurality of detection portions are provided in the length direction, or recording paper having a second width narrower than the first width and having a plurality of detection portions in the length direction. a conveying roller for conveying;
A first optical sensor provided at a position through which the detection portion of the recording paper having the first paper width passes; and a second optical sensor provided at a position through which the detection portion of the recording paper having the second paper width passes. a plurality of optical sensors including;
Based on the output from the first optical sensor, the detection portion of the recording paper having the first paper width is detected, and based on the output from the second optical sensor, the recording paper having the second paper width is detected. A control unit that detects the detection site,
The control unit
A printing apparatus that detects whether the recording paper having the first paper width or the recording paper having the second paper width is conveyed based on outputs from the plurality of optical sensors. In the paper path of the recording paper of the first paper width and the recording paper of the second paper width, at least a part of the conveying area of the recording paper of the second paper width overlaps the conveying area of the recording paper of the first paper width. cage,
The first optical sensor is provided at a position corresponding to an area that does not overlap with the conveyance area of the recording paper of the second paper width in the conveyance area of the recording paper of the first paper width,
2. The second optical sensor is provided at a position corresponding to an area of the recording paper transport area of the second paper width that overlaps with the transport area of the recording paper of the first paper width. The printing device according to . a roll paper holder that accommodates the roll paper on which the recording paper is wound;
3. The printing according to claim 2, further comprising a first partition member that contacts an end face of the roll paper of the second paper width and regulates the position of the roll paper of the second paper width in the width direction. Device. The transport roller further
A plurality of detection portions are provided in the length direction, and recording paper having a third paper width narrower than the second paper width can be conveyed,
The plurality of optical sensors further includes a third optical sensor provided at a position through which the detection portion of the recording paper having the third paper width passes,
The control unit
detecting the detection portion of the recording paper having the third paper width with the third optical sensor;
According to outputs from the plurality of optical sensors, it is detected which of the recording paper having the first paper width, the recording paper having the second paper width, and the recording paper having the third paper width is conveyed. 4. The printing apparatus according to claim 3. In the paper path, at least a part of the transport area for the recording paper having the third paper width overlaps with the transport area for the recording paper having the first paper width and the transport area for the recording paper having the second paper width,
The first optical sensor is positioned at a position corresponding to an area of the recording paper transport area of the first paper width that does not overlap the transport area of the recording paper of the second paper width and the transport area of the recording paper of the third paper width. provided,
The second optical system is positioned at a position corresponding to an area of the recording paper transport area of the second paper width that overlaps the recording paper transport area of the first paper width and does not overlap the recording paper transport area of the third paper width. A formula sensor is provided,
The third optical sensor is positioned at a position corresponding to an area of the recording paper transport area of the third paper width that overlaps the transport area of the recording paper of the first paper width and the transport area of the recording paper of the second paper width. 5. The printing device of claim 4, wherein a printing device is provided. The first partition member is
contacting one end face of the roll paper of the second paper width and one end face of the roll paper of the third paper width, and regulating the positions in the width direction of the roll paper of the second paper width and the roll paper of the third paper width; death,
6. The apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising a second partition member that contacts the other end surface of the roll paper of the third paper width and regulates the position of the roll paper of the third paper width in the width direction. printing device. further comprising a cutting mechanism for cutting the conveyed recording paper,
The cutting mechanism is
7. The printing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein a partial cut is performed to form an uncut portion of the recording paper of the third paper width in the axial direction of the transport roller. The plurality of optical sensors are
8. The printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the printing apparatus is arranged side by side in the axial direction of the transport roller. Recording paper having a first width in which a plurality of detection portions are provided in the length direction, or recording paper having a second width narrower than the first width and having a plurality of detection portions in the length direction. a conveying roller for conveying;
A first optical sensor provided at a position through which the detection portion of the recording paper having the first paper width passes; and a second optical sensor provided at a position through which the detection portion of the recording paper having the second paper width passes. a plurality of optical sensors including;
A control method for a printing device comprising a control unit,
The control unit
detecting the detection portion of the recording paper having the first paper width based on the output from the first optical sensor;
detecting the detection portion of the recording paper having the second paper width based on the output from the second optical sensor;
and detecting which of the recording paper having the first paper width and the recording paper having the second paper width is conveyed based on outputs from the plurality of optical sensors. A method of controlling a printing device.

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