JP3096490U - Printer system with nozzle inclination correction function - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] [PROBLEMS] In a printer system, it is possible to prevent stitching and distortion of an image at a printing boundary portion due to nozzle inclination. SOLUTION: The alignment chart 60 has a first image 61 and a second image 62 printed by one movement of the print head 23, respectively. The first image 61 is a first line image 61 including a plurality of lines having different inclinations.
a, and the second image 62 has a first line image 61a
Has the same second line image 62a. According to the inclination in the nozzle arrangement direction, any one of the lines in the first line image 61a and the second line image 62a is printed in a state closest to a state where it is connected straight on the same line parallel to the paper feed direction. You. The inclination of the line closest to the straight connection with respect to the reference line 61a-7 is defined as an inclination correction value in the nozzle arrangement direction, and thereafter, the print data is corrected based on the inclination correction value.

Description

[Detailed description of the device]

[0001]

[Technical field to which the device belongs]

  The present invention uses a print head in which a plurality of nozzles for ejecting ink droplets are arranged. Related to a printer system for printing on a printer, the printer having a nozzle tilt correction function Regarding the system.

[0002]

[Prior art]

  Conventionally, print data is input to a printer from a terminal device such as a computer and There is a printer system in which a printer prints on paper based on the print data. The printer has a print head in which a plurality of nozzles are arranged. Mark by ejecting ink droplets from each nozzle while moving the Printing with a print width corresponding to the nozzle array length is performed by one movement of the printing head. Also , The printer prints the paper each time the print width is printed by one movement of the print head. The print head in units of print width in the direction perpendicular to the print head movement direction, and then move the print head. Printing is performed on the entire sheet by repeating the printing of the print width. Print head Print data input from the terminal device is used to move the printer, eject ink drops, and feed paper. It is controlled based on. On the other hand, the terminal device The printer driver to enable printing operation is installed, and the printer Create print data from the data prepared by the user for printing and print the print data. Printing data is input to the printer.

[0003]   In addition, an ink jet printer having a plurality of nozzles on a carriage that moves relative to the recording medium. Aiming to reduce the size of the power supply for an inkjet recording device equipped with a jet head All nozzles are divided into several nozzle groups, and each nozzle in the nozzle group is Driven from time to time, delaying each nozzle group by a predetermined time and driving sequentially In order to reduce the print misalignment at the print boundary, It is known that the following is set (for example, refer to Patent Document 1).

[0004]   Also, an ink jet printer having a head having a plurality of nozzles arranged in a staggered pattern. Regarding the printer, of the multiple nozzles arranged in a staggered pattern in the same main scan The line output from the first nozzle and the line output from the second nozzle The first image pattern that is composed of, the line output from the second nozzle, and the third Print a second image pattern composed of the line output from the nozzle of the eye Thus, the inclination of the head can be adjusted by changing the density between the first image pattern and the second image pattern. An evaluation chart that allows determination as a difference is known (for example, Patent Document 2).

[0005]   In addition, a bidirectional print that prints an image on the print medium while performing bidirectional main scanning in both directions. With respect to the printing apparatus, it is possible to reduce the misalignment of the nozzles in the main scanning direction in the forward and return paths. To avoid this, a representative nozzle array near the center of the multiple nozzles is used to Print the screen and print the bidirectional mark with the correction value determined based on this inspection pattern. It is known that the misalignment of the recording position along the main scanning direction during printing is corrected. (For example, see Patent Document 3).

[0006]

[Patent Document 1]           JP-A-7-214764

[Patent Document 2]           JP 2002-103576 A

[Patent Document 3]           JP 2001-18375 A

[0007]

[Problems to be solved by the device]

  By the way, in recent years, the number of nozzles arranged in the print head has been increased in order to increase the printing speed. Tends to ease. This is because when the number of nozzles arranged in the print head is increased, The print width that can be printed with one movement of the print head is increased, and as a result, the print head is This is because the number of movements of the printer is reduced and the printing speed is increased. However, When the number of nozzles that are lined up increases and the printing width for one printing increases, the nozzles are aligned in the direction of the paper. When tilted in a plane parallel to the plane, the positions of the nozzles at both ends from the original position The difference between the gaps becomes large. As a result, the image may be misaligned at the print boundary. Due to the occurrence of stitching, the print quality will not be ignored. Also, In conventional printer systems, printing within the print width due to nozzle tilt No measures have been taken to correct the distortion of the image itself. Na Even if the contents disclosed in Patent Documents 1 to 3 described above are applied, Can not solve the problem of.

[0008]   The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and is based on the inclination of the nozzle. It is possible to prevent the occurrence of stitching at the printing boundary, and A nozzle tilt correction function that can prevent the distortion of the printed image within the print width. The purpose is to provide a linter system.

[0009]

[Means for Solving the Problems]

  In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the invention of claim 1 is a printing method which indicates a printing position on a sheet. The printer that prints on paper based on the data and the printing operation by this printer Terminal device operated by a printer driver, which is software for enabling And the printer moves in a predetermined direction with respect to the paper, and By ejecting ink droplets from a plurality of nozzles arranged in a direction substantially perpendicular to Prints on the paper along the specified direction in print width units corresponding to the nozzle array length The print head, the head feed means for moving the print head in a predetermined direction, and the print head. Each time the print width of the printer is completed, the paper is placed in the direction perpendicular to the print head movement direction. Paper feed means for moving the print width unit in the same direction, and the input from each nozzle of the print head. Head driving means for controlling ejection of ink, head driving means based on print data, Controls the print operation on the paper by controlling the head feeding means and the paper feeding means The terminal device has a print control means, and the terminal device is operated by the user to print on the printer. Create print data from the prepared data and input the print data to the printer. Print data generating means for determining the inclination of the nozzle array direction with respect to the paper feed direction. Print the alignment chart print data to print the alignment chart. In a printer system having a chart output means for inputting to the printer, The liment chart is within the print width by one movement of the print head in the specified direction. The first image to be printed on a sheet of paper, and the first image printed adjacent to the first image in the paper feed direction. A second image printed within the print width by one movement of the printing head in a predetermined direction; And the first image has different inclinations arranged in the direction perpendicular to the paper feeding direction. A first line image composed of a plurality of lines and each line of this line image are identified. And the line number is printed parallel to the nozzle array direction. , And one end of each line is the most upstream point in the paper feed direction within the print width. The identification number is located on the downstream side from the other end side of each line. The second line image that is the same as the first line image and the second line image And a second line image for identifying each line of the image. One end side of the printer is located at the most downstream point in the paper feed direction within the print width. It is located upstream from the other end of the line, and the terminal device Align with printer by printing data for alignment chart from steps A chart is printed, and the first line of the printed alignment chart is printed. The state that is closest to the state where the image and the second line image are directly connected A guide finger for entering the identification number corresponding to the printed line from the key operation unit. The screen is displayed on the image display section and the label corresponding to the identification number entered from the key operation section is displayed. A tilt correction value setting means for storing the in-tilt as a nozzle tilt correction value in a memory; , The print data created by the print data creation means, the tilt correction value setting means And a correction unit that corrects based on the stored inclination correction value.

[0010]   In this configuration, the first line image printed by the alignment chart The image and the second line image have a plurality of lines each having a different inclination. Lines that are printed parallel to the nozzle array direction (reference line) Is included.

[0011]   Therefore, in the alignment chart, the nozzle array direction is tilted with respect to the paper feed direction. If not, the reference line in the first image and the reference line in the second image Are printed so as to be connected on the same line parallel to the paper feeding direction. On the other hand, the nozzle arrangement If the row direction is tilted with respect to the paper feed direction, the reference line in the first image The reference line in the second image is inclined in accordance with its inclination, and therefore is connected on the same line. No Then, in this case, one of the lines in the first and second line images is Depending on the inclination of the nozzle array direction, it will be connected on the same line parallel to the paper feed direction. Printed to the closest condition. This allows you to refer to the alignment chart The line printed closest to the state of being connected on the same line parallel to the feed direction It is possible to easily determine the tilt angle of the nozzles in the arrangement direction by visually observing.

[0012]   Moreover, the first line image shows how to feed the paper so that one end side of each line is within the print width. The second line image is located at the most upstream point, and one end of each line is within the print width. It is located at the most downstream point in the paper feed direction. Therefore, the first line image and the second line image Since it is adjacent to the line image without a gap, it is connected on the same line parallel to the paper feed direction. The line printed in the state is one continuous line. By this, how to feed paper Visually check the line printed closest to the state of being connected on the same line parallel to the direction Judgment becomes easy.

[0013]   Also, when setting the tilt correction value, a guidance instruction for setting the tilt correction value is given. The image is displayed on the screen and the alignment chart is marked corresponding to the line. If you enter the printed identification number from the keypad, you can enter the label corresponding to that identification number. The inclination of the in (the inclination with respect to the reference line) is used as the inclination correction value in the nozzle array direction. Is set. This allows you to follow the guide instructions displayed on the screen and parallel to the paper feed direction. Printing corresponding to the line that is printed in the state closest to the state of being connected on the same line The tilt correction value can be set simply by entering the registered identification number from the keypad. It After that, the print data is corrected based on this tilt correction value, and this correction is performed. Printing is performed on the paper according to the print data thus created. This will print the image Indicates that the distortion due to the inclination of the nozzle array direction is corrected.

[0014]   According to the second aspect of the invention, the printing is performed on the paper based on the print data indicating the printing position on the paper. Printer and the software that enables this printer to print. Terminal device that operates with a printer driver that is a While moving in a predetermined direction with respect to the paper, it is arranged in a direction substantially perpendicular to this moving direction. By ejecting ink droplets from multiple nozzles, the nozzle array length can be adjusted. A print head that prints on paper in a predetermined direction in units of print width The head feed means for moving the After each operation, move the paper in print width units in the direction perpendicular to the print head movement direction. Paper feeding means for controlling the ejection of ink from each nozzle of the print head Drive means, head drive means based on print data, head feed means, and paper And a print control unit that controls the feeding unit and controls the printing operation on the paper. The end device prints from the data prepared by the user for printing on the printer. Print data creating means for creating data and inputting the print data to the printer, Print an alignment chart for determining the inclination of the nozzle array direction with respect to the paper feed direction. A char that inputs the print data for the alignment chart for printing to the printer. In the printer system having a printer output means, The first image printed within the print width by one movement of the printing head in the predetermined direction , The printhead is moved once in the predetermined direction to the upstream side of the first image in the paper feeding direction. A second image that is printed within the print width by the motion, the first image being the paper feed direction. A first line composed of a plurality of lines arranged in a direction perpendicular to This line image has a line that is printed in parallel with the nozzle array direction. The second image includes a second line image that is the same as the first line image. The terminal device has an alignment chart from the chart output means. Print the alignment chart with the printer according to the print data for A first line image and a second line image with respect to the prepared alignment chart The nozzle of the inclination of the line printed is the closest to the state where Skew correction value setting means for storing the skew correction value in the memory as The print data created by the step is stored in the tilt correction value setting means And a correction unit that corrects based on the value.

[0015]   In this configuration, the first line image printed by the alignment chart The image and the second line image have a plurality of lines each having a different inclination. Lines that are printed parallel to the nozzle array direction (reference line) Is included.

[0016]   Therefore, in the alignment chart, the nozzle array direction is tilted with respect to the paper feed direction. If not, the reference line in the first image and the reference line in the second image Are printed so as to be connected on the same line parallel to the paper feeding direction. On the other hand, the nozzle arrangement If the row direction is tilted with respect to the paper feed direction, the reference line in the first image The reference line in the second image is inclined in accordance with its inclination, and therefore is connected on the same line. No Then, in this case, one of the lines in the first and second line images is Depending on the inclination of the nozzle array direction, it will be connected on the same line parallel to the paper feed direction. Printed to the closest condition. This allows you to refer to the alignment chart The line printed closest to the state of being connected on the same line parallel to the feed direction It is possible to easily determine the tilt angle of the nozzles in the arrangement direction by visually observing.

[0017]   Then, print in the state closest to the state of being connected on the same line parallel to the paper feed direction. The inclination of the generated line (the inclination with respect to the reference line) is corrected in the nozzle array direction. Value, and the print data is corrected based on this tilt correction value. Printing is performed on the paper according to the print data that has been created. This will print the image The distortion due to the inclination of the nozzle array direction is corrected.

[0018]   A third aspect of the invention is a printer having a nozzle inclination correction function according to the second aspect. In the system, the alignment chart represents one line of each line of the first line image. The end side is located at the most upstream point in the paper feed direction within the printing width, and the second line One end of each line of the IN image is located at the most downstream point in the paper feed direction within the print width. It is something.

[0019]   In this configuration, the first line image and the second line image are adjacent to each other without a gap. Therefore, the first line image and the second line image have the same line parallel to the paper feeding direction. The line that is printed in a continuous state is one continuous line. By this And is printed in the state closest to the state of being connected on the same line parallel to the paper feed direction. The visual judgment of the line becomes easy.

[0020]

[Embodiment of device]

  Embodiments embodying the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In Figure 1 In the printer system 1, the printer 2 that prints on the paper S and the printer 2 A terminal device 3 such as a computer for controlling the printing operation by the computer The printer 2 and the terminal device 3 are connected by a communication cable 4. Terminal equipment The device 3 sends a print request signal including print data to the printer 2 via the communication cable 4. And the printer 2 includes in the print request signal received via the communication cable 4. Printing is performed on the paper S based on the print data to be printed. Printing sent from the terminal device 3 The data is data indicating the printing position on the paper S.

[0021]   First, the printer 2 will be described. 2 and 3, the printer 2 Is a communication unit 21, a buffer memory 22, a print head 23, and a head drive circuit. 24, the head feed motor 25, the head feed motor drive circuit 26, and the paper feed motor. A printer 27, a paper feed motor drive circuit 28, and a CPU 29. head The feed motor 25 and the head feed motor drive circuit 26 constitute a head feed means, The paper feed motor 27 and the paper feed motor 28 form a paper feed unit. Also, The head drive circuit 24 constitutes a head drive means, and the CPU 29 constitutes a print control means. Is made.

[0022]   The communication unit 21 receives a print request signal from the printer 3 via the communication cable 4. The buffer memory 22 is included in the print request signal received by the communication unit 21. The print data to be stored is temporarily saved.

[0023]   The print head 23 has a plurality of nozzles 2a-1 arranged in a staggered pattern at a predetermined pitch. , 2a-2, ..., 2a-n and in parallel with this, arranged in a staggered pattern at the same pitch. Further, it has a plurality of nozzles 2b-1, 2b-2, ..., 2b-n. This print The head 23 is integrally provided with an ink cartridge (not shown) filled with ink. The ink filled in the ink cartridge is ejected to the nozzles 2a-1 to 2a. It is ejected as ink droplets from a-n and 2b-1 to 2b-n.

[0024]   The head drive circuit 24, under the control of the CPU 29, controls each of the print heads 23. Discharging timing of ink droplets from the nozzles 2a-1 to 2a-n and 2b-1 to 2b-n To control. The head feed motor 25 has a mark (via a head feed mechanism (not shown)). The printing head 23 is moved in a predetermined main scanning direction. The driving circuit 26 drives the head feed motor 25 under the control of the CPU 29. . The paper feed motor 27 feeds the paper S to the print head 2 (via a paper feed mechanism (not shown)). The paper is fed in the sub-scanning direction perpendicular to the moving direction of 3 (main scanning direction). The drive motor drive circuit 28 drives the paper feed motor 27 under the control of the CPU 29. Move.

[0025]   The CPU 29 verifies the print data included in the print request signal received by the communication unit 21. Stored in the buffer memory 22, and based on the print data, the head drive circuit 24, By controlling the head feed motor drive circuit 26 and the paper feed motor drive circuit 28, The print process for S is executed.

[0026]   The print head 23 has no ink in the ink cartridge. It is detachable from the head feed mechanism so that it can be replaced when needed. The arrangement direction L of a-1 to 2a-n and 2b-1 to 2b-n and the paper feeding direction (sub-scanning direction) ) And are parallel to the head feed mechanism.

[0027]   The printing process on the paper S is performed as follows. First, the control of the CPU 29 The print head is driven by the head feed motor drive circuit 26 and the head feed motor 25. The head drive circuit 24 moves each nozzle 2a while moving the nozzle 23a in the main scanning direction. Control the ejection timing of ink droplets from -1 to 2a-n and 2b-1 to 2b-n . As a result, the nozzles 2a-1 to 2a-n and 2b-1 to 2b-n are arranged in the same array length. An image having a corresponding print width d is printed on the paper S. The control of the CPU 29 Originally, every time the printing of the print width d is completed, the paper feed motor drive circuit 28 and the paper feed The motor 27 moves the paper S in the sub-scanning direction in units of the print width d, and the print head is moved. Printing of the print width d is repeated while moving 23 in the main scanning direction. This allows Printing on the entire sheet S is performed. At this time, the CPU 29 displays the print data. The head drive circuit 24 and the head are arranged so that the ink droplets are ejected to the printing position on the paper S. The feed motor drive circuit 26 and the paper feed motor drive circuit 28 are controlled. By this The image content indicated by the print data is printed on the paper S.

[0028]   Next, the operation of the printer 2 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. . The CPU 29 first receives a print request signal from the terminal device 3 at the communication unit 21. It is determined whether or not (# 1). If the print request signal is received (YES in # 1), The print data included in the print request signal is stored in the buffer memory 22 (# 2). Next, the print data stored in the buffer memory 22 is analyzed (# 3). That The head so that the ink droplets are ejected at the printing position on the paper S indicated by the print data. Drive circuit 24, head feed motor drive circuit 26, and paper feed motor drive circuit 28 Is controlled to execute the printing process (# 4), and the printing on the paper S is completed (# 5).

[0029]   Next, the terminal device 3 will be described. The terminal device 3 prints including print data. The request signal is transmitted to the printer 2 via the communication cable 4 so that the print data is The printer 2 causes the printer 2 to print an image based on the data. Printer 2 For example, when the print head 23 is replaced, as shown in FIG. The arrangement direction L of 1 to 2a-n and 2b-1 to 2b-n is the paper feeding direction (sub scanning direction) There is a risk of tilting. In the terminal device 3, the nozzle array direction L of the printer 2 is tilted. Tilt angle θ in the nozzle array direction L so that the printed image is not distorted It has a function of correcting print data to be transmitted to the printer 2 in accordance with the above.

[0030]   The structure of the terminal device 3 is shown in FIG. The terminal device 3 includes a key operation unit 31 and an image signal. The input unit 32, the image display unit 33, the communication unit 34, the ROM 35, and the hard disk. It includes a clock 36, a RAM 37, and a CPU 38. This terminal device 3 Printer driver which is software for enabling printing operation by the printer 2 39 is installed and stored in the hard disk 36. CPU 38 and The printer driver 39 sets print data creating means, chart output means, and tilt correction value setting means. It constitutes a fixing means and a correcting means.

[0031]   The key operation unit 31 is for operating the terminal device 3, and is operated by the user. Made. By operating this key operation unit 31, a print instruction to the printer 2 is issued. , A tilt correction value for correcting the print data according to the tilt in the nozzle array direction L is set. Various operations of the terminal device 3, such as setting, are performed. Also, by operating this key operation unit 31, You can create document data consisting of characters, symbols, etc. for printing on the printer 2. It has become so. From the image signal input unit 32, a device other than the terminal device 3 can be used. You can enter the created image data.

[0032]   The image display unit 33 displays various images and displays various operations of the terminal device 3. Depending on the message image in the text and the document data created by inputting from the key operation unit 31 Displays a document image, an image based on the image data input from the image signal input unit 32, and the like. It The communication unit 34 transmits a print request signal to the printer 3 via the communication cable 4. It is something. The ROM 35 stores the operation program of the CPU 39.

[0033]   The hard disk 36 stores a printer driver 39 and also has a CPU. Under the control of the printer 38 and the printer driver 39, the tilt correction value The memory 39a and the tilt correction value table 39b are assigned. Tilt correction value memo An inclination 39a is used to correct the print data according to the inclination in the nozzle array direction L. The correction value is stored. Whether the tilt correction value table 39b is the key operation unit 31 or not It stores a table for determining a tilt correction value based on these input values.

[0034]   The RAM 37 is stored under the control of the CPU 38 and the printer driver 39. The print data creation area 39c and the buffer area 39d are assigned to the copy area. It The print data creation area 39c is prepared by the user for printing by the printer 2. Data, that is, the document data and the image signal input from the key operation unit 31. A region for creating print data based on the image data input from the input unit 32. is there. The buffer area 39d is an area for temporarily storing print data.

[0035]   The CPU 38 uses the data prepared by the user according to the printer driver 39. Image, that is, a document image based on the document data input from the key operation unit 31, And the image based on the image data input from the image signal input unit 32 is displayed on the printer 2. Print processing for printing is performed. The CPU 38 is used by the user in this printing process. Create print data indicating the coordinate position on the paper S to be printed from the desired data. It For example, when the data prepared by the user is document data, the CPU 38 On the paper S based on the character code, font data, format data, etc. that make up the document The print data indicating the coordinate position to be printed is created. Creating this print data The print data created in the print data creation area 39c is stored in the buffer area. It is temporarily stored in the area 39d.

[0036]   Further, the CPU 38 uses the printer driver 39 in accordance with the printer driver 39 in the printing process. The print data once stored in the buffer area 39d is adjusted according to the inclination in the nozzle array direction L. To correct. This correction is performed by correcting the inclination stored in the inclination correction value memory 39a. This is performed in the print data creation area 39c based on the positive value.

[0037]   Further, the CPU 38 sets the inclination correction value according to the printer driver 39. Perform processing. In the inclination correction value setting process, the CPU 38 first An alignment checker that makes it possible to visually determine the tilt angle θ of the arrangement direction L with respect to the paper feed direction. The printer 2 causes the printer 2 to print the chart. Print this alignment chart By sending the print data for the alignment chart to the printer 2. Be seen. Then, the CPU 38 determines the user based on the printed alignment chart. The tilt angle θ in the nozzle array direction is visually judged by the key operation according to the tilt angle θ. Based on the value input from the work unit 31, the tilt correction value table 39b is referred to, and the tilt correction is performed. The positive value is stored in the tilt correction value memory 39a. The CPU 38 also corrects this inclination. In the value setting process, the setting screen that guides these series of operations and actions is displayed as an image. It is displayed on the part 33.

[0038]   Here, the alignment chart will be described with reference to FIG. 7. Arai The ment chart 60 includes a first image 61 and a second image 62 printed on the paper S. It consists of The alignment chart 60 shows how the nozzles of the printer 2 are arranged. The direction L is not inclined with respect to the paper feeding direction (sub-scanning direction), and the nozzle arrangement direction L is the paper This is a case where printing is performed in a state in which it is parallel to the feeding direction (see FIG. 3).

[0039]   The first image 61 is printed by one movement of the print head 23 in the main scanning direction. The second image 62 is adjacent to the first image 61 on the upstream side in the paper feeding direction. The image is printed in contact with the print head 23 once in the main scanning direction. It Therefore, the first image 61 and the second image 62 are respectively printed by the print head 23. Printing is performed with a print width d corresponding to the nozzle array length.

[0040]   The first image 61 includes a plurality of lines (each having different inclinations arranged in the main scanning direction). In the example shown in FIG. 7, a first line image 61a composed of 13 lines) and this line image 61a An identification number image 61b for identifying each line of the in-image 61a (example shown in FIG. 7 Has "1" to "13"). The first line image 61a shows the nozzle arrangement. It includes a line (reference line) printed in parallel with the column direction L. Example shown in Figure 7 Then, the inclination of each line is different by 0.1 ° in the order of arrangement, and the identification number The seventh line 61a-7 from the left corresponding to "7" in the image 61b is the reference line. Has become.

[0041]   The inclination angle of each line with respect to the reference line 61a-7 is determined by the identification number image 61b. The table associated with the numerical value indicated by is stored in the tilt correction value table 39b described above. Has been.

[0042]   In addition, the first line image 61a is a paper in which one end side of each line is within the print width d. The identification number image 61b is printed so as to be positioned at the most upstream point P in the feeding direction, Is printed on the downstream side of the other end of the line image 61a.

[0043]   The second image 62 includes a plurality of lines (each having a different inclination) arranged in the main scanning direction. The second line image 62a consisting of 13 lines in the example shown in FIG. An identification number image 62b for identifying each line of the in-image 62a (example shown in FIG. 7 Has "1" to "13").

[0044]   The second line image 62a is the same image as the first line image 61a. You That is, also in the second line image 62a, the lines are, for example, 0. The inclination is different by 1 °, and it is 7 from the left corresponding to “7” in the identification number image 62b. The sixth line 62a-7 is the reference line printed in parallel with the nozzle arrangement direction L. ing.

[0045]   In the second image 62, one end side of each line of the second line image 62a has a print width d. Is printed so as to be positioned at the most downstream point Q in the paper feed direction within the identification number image 6 2b is printed on the upstream side of the other end of the second line image 62a.

[0046]   Such an alignment chart 60 is a printing data for the alignment chart. Data is transmitted from the terminal device 3 to the printer 2 and printed by the printer 2. It The print data for the alignment chart is the image of the alignment chart 60. Data showing the printing position (ink drop position) on the paper S corresponding to the pattern The printer 2 prints based on the print data for this alignment chart. Movement of the head 23, paper feeding of the paper S, nozzles 2a-1 to 2a-n, 2b-1 to 2 The alignment timing on the paper S is controlled by controlling the timing of dropping ink droplets from b-n. The printer 60 is printed.

[0047]   According to such an alignment chart 60, the paper feeding direction is in the nozzle arrangement direction L. Direction (sub scanning direction) is not tilted (see FIG. 3), that is, the nozzle array When the direction L is parallel to the paper feeding direction, the reference line of the first image 61 61a-7 and the reference line 62a-7 of the second image 62 are parallel to the paper feed direction. Printed on. As a result, the reference line 61a-7 and the reference line 62a-7 are Printed as a single line connected straight on the same line parallel to the paper feed direction (See Figure 7).

[0048]   On the other hand, when the nozzle array direction L is tilted by an angle θ with respect to the paper feeding direction (Fig. 5), the alignment chart 60 is printed in the state shown in FIG. 8, for example. It That is, each line of the first line image 61a and the second line image 62a In each of the lines, the nozzle array direction L is inclined by the angle θ with respect to the paper feeding direction. Therefore, the printing is performed with an inclination angle θ with respect to the paper feeding direction.

[0049]   As a result, the reference line 61a-7 of the first line image 61a and the second line image 61a-7 The reference line 62a-7 of the image 62a is printed straight on the same line. Absent. Then, according to the tilt angle θ in the nozzle array direction L, the first line image 61a And any line of the second line image 62b is in the paper feeding direction. It is printed in a state that is closest to the state of being directly connected on the same line parallel to.

[0050]   At this time, the reference line 61a-7 (or 62a-7) is flush with the nozzle array direction L. Since it is printed on the line, the reference line 61a-7 (or 62a-7) and the paper feeding method The angle formed with the direction is equal to the inclination angle θ of the nozzle arrangement direction L with respect to the paper feeding direction. Therefore, the line that is the closest to the straight line connected on the same line parallel to the paper feed direction Angle between the reference line 61a-7 (or 62a-7), that is, the paper feeding method The reference line 61 which is the line closest to the state of being directly connected on the same line parallel to the direction The inclination angle with respect to a-7 (or 62a-7) is approximately equal to the inclination angle θ in the nozzle arrangement direction L. Are equal.

[0051]   In the example shown in FIG. 8, "3" of the identification number image 61b in the first line image 61 is displayed. In the third line 61a-3 from the left and the second line image 62a. And the third line 62a-3 from the left corresponding to "3" in the identification number image 62b. Prints in a state that is the closest to a straight line on the same line parallel to the paper feed direction Has been done. Therefore, in this case, the reference line 61a-7 of the line 61a-3 Is substantially equal to the inclination angle θ of the nozzle array direction L with respect to the paper feed direction. ing. The inclination angle θ is different by 0.1 ° in the order in which each line is arranged. Therefore, it is approximately 0.4 °.

[0052]   In this way, the alignment chart 60 is arranged in the paper feeding direction of the nozzle array direction L. The tilt angle θ with respect to is most suitable when it is connected straight on the same line parallel to the paper feed direction. Marked as a tilt angle of the near line with respect to the reference line 61a-7 (or 62a-7). Printed. Therefore, in the printed alignment chart 60, in the paper feed direction The nozzle arrangement can be determined by visually recognizing the line that is the closest to the straight line. The inclination angle θ of the direction L with respect to the paper feeding direction can be easily determined.

[0053]   Next, the process of setting the tilt correction value of the terminal device 3 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. And a screen display example of FIGS. 10A and 10B will be described. Tilt correction value setting process Is a utility function of the printer driver 39 by operating the key operation unit 31. It is started by operating. In the inclination correction value setting process, first, the CPU 38 displays a screen for setting the tilt correction value on the image display unit 33 (# 11), and FIG. As shown in a), the setting screen 71 is instructed to print the alignment chart 60. A guide image 71a to that effect is displayed (# 12). In the example shown in FIG. Key in "P" on surface 71. Print the alignment chart A guide image 71a including a message "Masu" is displayed. The alignment chart is printed by looking at the guide image 71a.

[0054]   Next, the CPU 38 controls the alignment chart printing operation (that is, the key operation unit). When the “P” key is input from 31 (YES in # 13), the alignment check Data is created for smart card printing, and a print request signal containing the print data is sent. It is transmitted from the receiver 34 (# 14). As a result, the printer 2 prints on the paper S. Element chart 60 is printed.

[0055]   Then, the CPU 38, as shown in FIG. A guide screen to enter the identification number of the line that is directly connected to the top and bottom of 0 The images 71b and 71c are displayed (# 15), and the input number waiting state is displayed (# 16). In the example shown in FIG. 10A, the setting screen 71 displays “Alignment Char Key in the numbers of the lines that are directly connected to each other in the vertical direction. ” Guide image 71b consisting of a message saying, "Example: In the following cases, enter" 2 " Guide consisting of the message "Please" and an image showing an example of selecting the identification number The image 71c is displayed.

[0056]   The user sees the guide images 71b and 71c and sees the printed alignment chart. Visually judge the line that is directly connected up and down in the Any of the numerical values "1" to "13" of the identification number image 61b (or 62b) corresponding to Is input from the key operation unit 31. The example shown in FIG. 7 described above (the nozzle arrangement direction L is inclined If not), enter the numerical value "7" of the identification number image 61b (or 62b) To do. In the example shown in FIG. 8 described above, the identification number image 61b (or 62b) Enter the number “3”.

[0057]   The CPU 38 inputs the identification number (numerical value of the identification number image 61b (or 62b)) Then, (YES in # 17), the inclination correction value table 39b is referred to and the input is made. For the reference line 61a-7 (or 62a-7) of the line corresponding to the identification number The tilt angle, that is, the tilt angle θ of the nozzle array direction L with respect to the paper feeding direction is a tilt correction value. Is stored in the tilt correction value memory 39a (# 18) and the setting of the tilt correction value is completed. (# 19).

[0058]   Next, the printing process of the terminal device 3 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Reveal The printing process is started by instructing printing with the key operation unit 31. It In the printing process, first, the CPU 38 sends the data prepared by the user, that is, the key. -Document data input from the operation unit 31 and input from the image signal input unit 32 Print data showing the coordinate position on the paper S to be printed based on the image data etc. It is created in the print data creation area 39c and is temporarily stored in the buffer area 39d (# 2 1).

[0059]   Next, the CPU 38 tilts the print data stored in the buffer area 39d to Correction is performed using the tilt correction value stored in the correction value memory 39a (# 22). Inclination In the correction value memory 39a, the inclination angle θ of the nozzle arrangement direction L with respect to the paper feeding direction is stored. It is stored as a tilt correction value. This is the correction of print data using the tilt correction value. Based on the tilt angle θ of the nozzle array direction L, which is the tilt correction value, the nozzle array direction L The print position indicated by the print data so as to cancel the distortion of the print image caused by the tilt This is performed by correcting the target position (ink droplet ejection position). Print data like this By performing the correction as described above, the image printed on the paper S by the printer 2 is an image without distortion. Becomes

[0060]   Then, the CPU 38 transmits a print request signal including the corrected print data to the communication unit 3 4 to send (# 23). This allows the printer 2 to print data on the paper S. An image based on is printed. After that, the CPU 38 ends the printing process (# 2). 4).

[0061]   According to the printer system 1 having such a configuration, printing from the printer 2 onto the paper S is performed. With reference to the aligned chart 60, the alignment chart 60 should be aligned on the same line parallel to the paper feed direction. Visually judge the line that is printed in the state that is closest to the state of being connected directly. Thus, the inclination θ of the nozzle array direction L with respect to the paper feeding direction can be easily determined. Well Also, the identification number image 61b (or 62) printed on the alignment chart 60. The tilt correction in the nozzle array direction L can be performed only by inputting the numerical value of b) from the key operation unit 31. The value can be set.

[0062]   Further, a guide image for setting the tilt correction value is displayed on the image display unit 33. Therefore, the inclination correction value can be easily set by following the guidance. Also, print data Is corrected so as to cancel the distortion of the print image caused by the inclination of the nozzle array direction L. Therefore, the image printed on the paper S by the printer 2 is an image without distortion.

[0063]   The present invention is not limited to the configuration of the above embodiment, and various modifications can be made. For example, in the above embodiment, the first image 61 and the second image 62 are nozzles. Printing may be performed by the upper half nozzle or the lower half nozzle with respect to the arrangement direction L. First In the line image 61a, the one side of each line is not always fed within the print width d. The second line image 62a does not necessarily have to be located at the most upstream point P in the direction, One end of each line must be located at the most downstream point Q in the paper feed direction within the print width d There is no. The identification number images 61b and 62b do not necessarily have to be printed, and , Either the first image 61 or the second image 62 may be printed.

[0064]

[Effect of device]

  As explained above, according to the invention of claim 1, the alignment chart is used for printing. Each of the printed first image and second image is composed of a plurality of lines having different inclinations. Since it has the same line image, the paper in the printed alignment chart By visually judging the line that is closest to the state of being connected straight in the feed direction, The inclination angle of the nozzle array direction can be easily determined. Moreover, one of the first line images The end side is located at the most upstream point in the paper feed direction, and the one end side of the second line image is the paper feed direction. Since it is located at the most downstream point of the line, the line that is closest to the straight line is visible. This facilitates the determination, and the tilt angle in the nozzle array direction can be determined more easily. Also, By setting this tilt angle as the tilt correction value, the print data will have this tilt correction value. It is corrected by the value, and it is possible to correct the distortion of the printed image itself within the print width. Further, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of stitching at the printing boundary portion and improve the printing quality. Also, Guidance instructions for setting the tilt correction value are displayed on the image display, and the alignment check Enter the identification number printed on the chart line from the keypad. Since the tilt correction value is set by, the tilt correction value can be set easily. , Convenience is improved.

[0065]   According to the invention of claim 2, the first image printed by the alignment chart. And the second image are the same line image composed of a plurality of lines with different inclinations. Because it has, it is straight in the paper feed direction in the printed alignment chart. By visually recognizing the line that is closest to the state of The tilt angle can be easily determined. Also, set this tilt angle as a tilt correction value. The print data is corrected with this skew correction value. It is possible to correct the distortion of the printed image itself and prevent stitching at the print boundary. The printing quality is improved.

[0066]   According to the invention of claim 3, the one end side of the first line image is the most upstream point in the paper feeding direction. And the one end side of the second line image is located at the most downstream point in the paper feeding direction. This makes it easier to visually judge the line that is closest to the state of straight connection, The tilt angle in the arrangement direction can be more easily determined.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram showing a configuration of a printer system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an electrical block configuration diagram showing a configuration of a printer of the printer system.

FIG. 3 is a plan view showing the configuration of a print head of the printer, viewed from the nozzle side when the nozzle arrangement direction is not inclined.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the printer.

FIG. 5 is a plan view showing the configuration of a print head of the printer when viewed from the nozzle side when the nozzle arrangement direction is inclined.

FIG. 6 is an electrical block configuration diagram showing a configuration of a terminal device of the printer system.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a printing example of an alignment chart when the nozzle arrangement direction of the printer of the printer system is not inclined.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a printing example of an alignment chart when the nozzle arrangement direction of the printer of the printer system is tilted.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an operation of a tilt correction value setting process of the terminal device of the printer system.

10A and 10B are diagrams showing display examples of a guide image on a tilt correction value setting screen of the terminal device.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an operation of print processing of the terminal device.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 Printer System 2 Printers 2a-1, 2a-2, 2a-n, 2b-1, 2b-2,
2b-n Nozzle 3 Terminal device 4 Communication cable 23 Print head 24 Head drive circuit 25 Head feed motor 26 Head feed motor drive circuit 27 Paper feed motor 28 Paper feed motor drive circuit 29 CPU 31 Key operation unit 33 Image display unit 38 CPU 39 Printer driver 39a Tilt correction value memory 39b Tilt correction value table 60 Alignment chart 61 First image 61a First line image 61b Identification number image 62 Second image 62a Second line image 62b Identification number image d Printing width L Nozzle Arrangement direction P Most upstream point Q Most downstream point S Paper

Claims (3)

[Scope of utility model registration request] 1. A printer comprising: a printer for printing on a sheet based on print data indicating a print position on the sheet; and a terminal device operated by a printer driver which is software for enabling the printer to perform a printing operation. The printer corresponds to the arrangement length of the nozzles by moving ink in a predetermined direction with respect to the paper and ejecting ink droplets from a plurality of nozzles arranged in a direction substantially perpendicular to the moving direction. A print head that prints on the paper along the predetermined direction in print width units, a head feed unit that moves the print head in the predetermined direction, and every time printing of the print width by the print head ends To
Based on the print data, a paper feed unit that moves the paper in the print width unit in a direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the print head, a head drive unit that controls ejection of ink from each nozzle of the print head, and And a print control unit that controls the head drive unit, the head feed unit, and the paper feed unit to control the printing operation on the paper, and the terminal device is prepared by the user for printing with the printer. Print data creating means for creating the print data from the data and inputting the print data to the printer; and an alignment chart for printing an alignment chart for determining an inclination of the nozzle array direction with respect to the paper feeding direction. In a printer system having a chart output means for inputting print data to the printer The alignment chart is adjacent to a first image printed within the print width by one movement of the print head in the predetermined direction and an upstream side of the first image in the paper feeding direction. And a second image printed within the print width by one movement of the print head in the predetermined direction, the first image being in a direction perpendicular to the paper feed direction. It has a first line image composed of a plurality of lines each having an arrayed inclination and an identification number for identifying each line of the line image, and the line image is parallel to the array direction of the nozzles. Including a line to be printed, one end side of each line is located at the most upstream point in the paper feed direction within the printing width, and the identification number is located downstream from the other end side of each line. Yes, the second image is Serial identical to the first line image second
Line image and an identification number for identifying each line of this second line image. One end side of each line of the second line image is the maximum in the paper feed direction within the printing width. Located at the downstream point, the identification number is located upstream from the other end side of each line, the terminal device, the print data for the alignment chart from the chart output means to the printer The alignment chart is printed, and the printed alignment chart corresponds to a line printed in a state that is closest to a state where the first line image and the second line image are directly connected. A guide instruction for inputting the identification number from the key operation unit is displayed on the screen of the image display unit, and the line number corresponding to the identification number input from the key operation unit is displayed. Of the inclination correction value setting means for storing the tilt in the memory as a tilt correction value of the nozzle, the print data created by the print data generating means,
A printer system having a nozzle tilt correction function, comprising: a correction unit that corrects based on the tilt correction value stored by the tilt correction value setting unit. 2. A printer which prints on a sheet based on print data indicating a print position on the sheet, and a terminal device which operates by a printer driver which is software for enabling the printer to perform a printing operation. The printer corresponds to the arrangement length of the nozzles by moving ink in a predetermined direction with respect to the paper and ejecting ink droplets from a plurality of nozzles arranged in a direction substantially perpendicular to the moving direction. A print head that prints on the paper along the predetermined direction in print width units, a head feed unit that moves the print head in the predetermined direction, and every time printing of the print width by the print head ends To
Based on the print data, a paper feed unit that moves the paper in the print width unit in a direction perpendicular to the moving direction of the print head, a head drive unit that controls ejection of ink from each nozzle of the print head, and And a print control unit that controls the head drive unit, the head feed unit, and the paper feed unit to control the printing operation on the paper, and the terminal device is prepared by the user for printing with the printer. Print data creating means for creating the print data from the data and inputting the print data to the printer; and an alignment chart for printing an alignment chart for determining an inclination of the nozzle array direction with respect to the paper feeding direction. In a printer system having a chart output means for inputting print data to the printer The alignment chart includes a first image printed within the print width by one movement of the print head in the predetermined direction, and the first image on the upstream side of the first image in the paper feeding direction. A second image printed within the print width by one movement of the print head in the predetermined direction, the first image being arranged in a direction perpendicular to the paper feed direction. The first line image has a plurality of lines each having a different inclination, the line image includes a line printed in parallel with the nozzle array direction, and the second image is the second line image. 2nd which is the same as the 1st line image
The terminal device causes the printer to print the alignment chart according to the print data for the alignment chart from the chart output unit, and the terminal chart may include the first alignment chart, Correction value setting means for storing the inclination of the line printed in the state closest to the state in which the line image and the second line image are directly connected to each other in the memory as the inclination correction value of the nozzle, and the print data creation. Print data created by
A printer system having a nozzle tilt correction function, comprising: a correction unit that corrects based on the tilt correction value stored by the tilt correction value setting unit. 3. The alignment chart is based on the first chart.
One end side of each line of the line image is located at the most upstream point in the paper feed direction within the print width, and one end side of each line of the second line image is in the paper feed direction within the print width. The printer system having a nozzle inclination correction function according to claim 2, wherein the printer system is located at the most downstream point of the.