JP4492061B2 - Printing device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a printing apparatus, an inspection method, and a printing system.

2. Related Art Inkjet printers are known as printing apparatuses that perform printing by ejecting ink onto various media such as paper, cloth, and film. This inkjet printer performs printing by ejecting ink from nozzles to form dots on a medium.
However, the nozzle may be clogged due to ink sticking or the like, and the ink may not be ejected from the nozzle. If there are nozzles that cannot eject ink, the image quality of the printed image will deteriorate.

Therefore, in order to detect the presence or absence of ink that cannot be ejected, a test pattern is formed by a nozzle, the test pattern is detected by a sensor, and a nozzle ejection test is performed.
JP 2002-13721 A

In the case of an inkjet printer, a sensor for detecting an inspection pattern is provided on a carriage or the like that moves a nozzle. This sensor is provided downstream of the nozzle in the transport direction in order to inspect the inspection pattern formed by the nozzle.
However, if the sensor is provided downstream of the nozzle in the transport direction, the dimension of the carriage in the transport direction becomes longer (see FIG. 28A).

The main invention is to move a medium along a conveyance direction and move a plurality of nozzles arranged along the conveyance direction and a conveyance unit capable of conveying the medium in a direction opposite to the conveyance direction. A body, and a sensor that is located between the nozzle on the most upstream side in the transport direction and the nozzle on the most downstream side in the transport direction with respect to the transport direction, and detects a pattern on the medium formed by the nozzle, After the pattern is formed on the medium, the transport unit transports the medium in the reverse direction, and the sensor detects the pattern. The moving body ejects a colored liquid. A plurality of colored liquid nozzles and a plurality of colorless liquid nozzles that discharge colorless liquid are moved, and each of the colorless liquid nozzles has a block-like colorless pattern. To form a liquid of the colored over a plurality of the colorless pattern to the nozzle for a plurality of colored liquid is applied at a lower resolution than the resolution of the colored pattern formed only by the nozzles for a plurality of colored liquid, the The sensor detects a bleeding state of the colored liquid at a position where the colorless pattern is to be formed, and detects a nozzle for colorless liquid that does not discharge the colorless liquid.
Other features of the present invention will become apparent from the description of the present specification and the accompanying drawings.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to reduce the dimension of the moving body (for example, a carriage) in the conveyance direction.

=== Summary of disclosure ===
At least the following matters will become clear from the description of the present specification and the accompanying drawings.

A transport unit for transporting the medium along the transport direction;
A plurality of nozzles arranged along the conveying direction;
A printing apparatus comprising a sensor for detecting a pattern on the medium formed by the nozzle,
The sensor is located between the nozzle on the most upstream side in the transport direction and the nozzle on the most downstream side in the transport direction with respect to the transport direction,
The printing apparatus, wherein the transport unit is capable of transporting the medium in a direction opposite to the transport direction.
A transport unit for transporting the medium along the transport direction;
A moving body that moves a plurality of nozzles arranged along the conveying direction;
A printing apparatus comprising: a sensor provided on the moving body and detecting a pattern on the medium formed by the nozzle;
The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the sensor is located between the nozzle on the most upstream side in the transport direction and the nozzle on the most downstream side in the transport direction with respect to the transport direction. According to such a printing apparatus, the dimension of the moving body in the transport direction can be reduced.

  In this printing apparatus, it is preferable that the transport unit can transport the medium in a direction opposite to the transport direction. Thereby, even if it is the pattern which the nozzle of the conveyance direction most downstream side formed, a sensor is detectable.

  In this printing apparatus, it is preferable that after the pattern is formed on the medium, the transport unit transports the medium in the reverse direction, and the sensor detects the pattern. Thereby, even if it is the pattern which the nozzle of the conveyance direction most downstream side formed, a sensor is detectable.

  In this printing apparatus, a transport roller provided on the upstream side in the transport direction with respect to the nozzle on the most upstream side in the transport direction, and a discharge provided on the downstream side in the transport direction with respect to the nozzle on the most downstream side in the transport direction. And a paper roller. Thereby, the distance between the conveyance roller 23 and the paper discharge roller 25 can be reduced. As a result, the overall size of the printer can be reduced, paper jams in the printer can be reduced, and the image quality of the printed image is improved.

  In this printing apparatus, after the transport unit transports the medium in the direction opposite to the transport direction, the leading end of the medium is positioned downstream of the paper discharge roller in the transport direction. desirable. Thereby, the detection pattern can be accurately detected.

  In this printing apparatus, the distance in the transport direction between the nozzles on the most downstream side in the transport direction among the plurality of nozzles and the sensor is determined so that the paper discharge is performed when the pattern is formed on the medium. It is desirable that the length of the medium discharged from the roller is shorter. Thereby, the detection pattern can be accurately detected.

  In this printing apparatus, after the transport unit transports the medium in a direction opposite to the transport direction, the pattern on the medium is positioned downstream of the transport roller in the transport direction. desirable. This eliminates the need for soiling the paper.

  In this printing apparatus, the distance in the transport direction between the nozzles on the most downstream side in the transport direction of the plurality of nozzles and the sensor is a distance until the pattern on the medium reaches the transport roller. It is desirable that it is shorter than the transport amount. This eliminates the need for soiling the paper.

  In this printing apparatus, the distance is preferably a distance from the center of the nozzle on the most downstream side in the transport direction to the center of the detection unit of the sensor.

  In this printing apparatus, the sensor is preferably an optical sensor. Thereby, a pattern can be detected in a non-contact manner. The sensor is preferably a sensor using diffuse reflected light. Thereby, it can be made a simple configuration.

  In such a printing apparatus, it is preferable that a discharge inspection of the nozzle is performed based on a detection result when the sensor detects the pattern. Thereby, clogging of the nozzle can be detected.

A pattern is formed on the medium using a plurality of nozzles arranged along the transport direction,
Transporting the medium on which the pattern is formed in a direction opposite to the transport direction;
A pattern on the medium formed by the nozzles is detected using a sensor located between a nozzle on the most upstream side in the transport direction and a nozzle on the most downstream side in the transport direction with respect to the transport direction. Pattern inspection method.
According to such a pattern inspection method, it is possible to detect a pattern formed by the nozzles using a sensor provided on a moving body having a short dimension in the transport direction.

A printing system comprising a computer and a printing device electrically connected to the computer,
The printing apparatus includes:
A transport unit for transporting the medium along the transport direction;
A moving body that moves a plurality of nozzles arranged along the conveying direction;
A sensor that is provided on the moving body and detects a pattern on the medium formed by the nozzle;
The printing system according to claim 1, wherein the sensor is located between a nozzle on the most upstream side in the transport direction and a nozzle on the most downstream side in the transport direction with respect to the transport direction.
According to such a printing system, the dimension of the moving body in the transport direction can be reduced.

=== Configuration of Printing System ===
Next, an embodiment of a printing system (computer system) will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the description of the following embodiments includes embodiments relating to a computer program and a recording medium on which the computer program is recorded.

  FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an external configuration of a printing system. The printing system 100 includes a printer 1, a computer 110, a display device 120, an input device 130, and a recording / reproducing device 140. The printer 1 is a printing apparatus that prints an image on a medium such as paper, cloth, or film. The computer 110 is electrically connected to the printer 1 and outputs print data corresponding to the image to be printed to the printer 1 in order to cause the printer 1 to print an image. The display device 120 has a display and displays a user interface such as an application program or a printer driver. The input device 130 is, for example, a keyboard 130A or a mouse 130B, and is used for operating an application program, setting a printer driver, or the like along a user interface displayed on the display device 120. As the recording / reproducing device 140, for example, a flexible disk drive device 140A or a CD-ROM drive device 140B is used.

  A printer driver is installed in the computer 110. The printer driver is a program for realizing the function of displaying the user interface on the display device 120 and the function of converting the image data output from the application program into print data. This printer driver is recorded on a recording medium (computer-readable recording medium) such as a flexible disk FD or a CD-ROM. Alternatively, the printer driver can be downloaded to the computer 110 via the Internet. In addition, this program is comprised from the code | cord | chord for implement | achieving various functions.

  The “printing apparatus” means the printer 1 in a narrow sense, but means a system of the printer 1 and the computer 110 in a broad sense.

=== Printer driver ===
<About the printer driver>
FIG. 2 is a schematic explanatory diagram of basic processing performed by the printer driver. The components already described are given the same reference numerals, and the description thereof is omitted.
In the computer 110, computer programs such as a video driver 112, an application program 114, and a printer driver 116 operate under an operating system installed in the computer. The video driver 112 has a function of displaying, for example, a user interface on the display device 120 in accordance with display commands from the application program 114 and the printer driver 116. The application program 114 has a function of performing image editing, for example, and creates data related to an image (image data). The user can give an instruction to print an image edited by the application program 114 via the user interface of the application program 114. Upon receiving a print instruction, the application program 114 outputs image data to the printer driver 116.

  The printer driver 116 receives image data from the application program 114, converts the image data into print data, and outputs the print data to the printer. Here, the print data is data in a format that can be interpreted by the printer 1, and is data having various command data and pixel data. Here, the command data is data for instructing the printer to execute a specific operation. The pixel data is data relating to pixels constituting an image to be printed (printed image). For example, data relating to dots formed at positions on the paper corresponding to a certain pixel (such as dot color and size). Data).

  The printer driver 116 performs resolution conversion processing, color conversion processing, halftone processing, rasterization processing, and the like in order to convert image data output from the application program 114 into print data. The resolution conversion process is a process for converting image data (text data, image data, etc.) output from the application program 114 into a resolution for printing on paper. The color conversion process is a process for converting RGB data into CMYK data represented by a CMYK color space. The halftone process is a process for converting high gradation number data into gradation number data that can be formed by a printer. The rasterization process is a process of changing matrix image data in the order of data to be transferred to the printer. The rasterized data is output to the printer as pixel data included in the print data.

<About printer driver settings>
FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of the user interface of the printer driver. The user interface of this printer driver is displayed on the display device via the video driver 112. The user can make various settings of the printer driver using the input device 130.

The user can select a print mode from this screen. For example, the user can select the high-speed print mode or the fine print mode as the print mode. Then, the printer driver converts the image data into print data so as to have a format corresponding to the selected print mode.
Further, the user can select the printing resolution (dot interval when printing) from this screen. For example, the user can select 720 dpi or 360 dpi as the print resolution from this screen. Then, the printer driver performs resolution conversion processing according to the selected resolution, and converts the image data into print data.
Further, the user can select a printing paper used for printing from this screen. For example, the user can select plain paper or glossy paper as the printing paper. If the paper type (paper type) is different, the ink bleeding and drying methods are also different, and the ink amount suitable for printing is also different. Therefore, the printer driver converts the image data into print data according to the selected paper type.
In this way, the printer driver converts the image data into print data according to the conditions set via the user interface. The user can make various settings of the printer driver from this screen, and can also know the remaining amount of ink in the cartridge.

=== Configuration of Printer ===
<Inkjet printer configuration>
FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the overall configuration of the printer of this embodiment. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of the overall configuration of the printer of this embodiment. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the overall configuration of the printer of this embodiment. Hereinafter, the basic configuration of the printer of this embodiment will be described.

  The printer of this embodiment includes a transport unit 20, a carriage unit 30, a head unit 40, a detector group 50, and a controller 60. The printer 1 that has received print data from the computer 110, which is an external device, controls each unit (the conveyance unit 20, the carriage unit 30, and the head unit 40) by the controller 60. The controller 60 controls each unit based on the print data received from the computer 110 and forms an image on paper. The situation in the printer 1 is monitored by a detector group 50, and the detector group 50 outputs a detection result to the controller 60. The controller that receives the detection result from the detector group 50 controls each unit based on the detection result.

  The transport unit 20 is for feeding a medium (for example, the paper S) to a printable position and transporting the paper by a predetermined transport amount in a predetermined direction (hereinafter referred to as a transport direction) during printing. That is, the transport unit 20 functions as a transport mechanism (transport means) that transports paper. The transport unit 20 includes a paper feed roller 21, a transport motor 22 (also referred to as a PF motor), a transport roller 23, a platen 24, and a paper discharge roller 25. However, in order for the transport unit 20 to function as a transport mechanism, all of these components are not necessarily required. The paper feed roller 21 is a roller for automatically feeding the paper inserted into the paper insertion slot into the printer. The paper feed roller 21 has a D-shaped cross section, and the length of the circumferential portion is set to be longer than the transport distance to the transport roller 23. 23 can be conveyed. The transport motor 22 is a motor for transporting paper in the transport direction, and is constituted by a DC motor. The transport roller 23 is a roller that transports the paper S fed by the paper feed roller 21 to a printable area, and is driven by the transport motor 22. The platen 24 supports the paper S being printed. The paper discharge roller 25 is a roller for discharging the printed paper S to the outside of the printer. The paper discharge roller 25 rotates in synchronization with the transport roller 23.

  The carriage unit 30 is for moving (scanning) the head in a predetermined direction (hereinafter referred to as a scanning direction). The carriage unit 30 includes a carriage 31 and a carriage motor 32 (also referred to as a CR motor). The carriage 31 can reciprocate in the scanning direction. (Thus, the head moves along the scanning direction.) The carriage 31 detachably holds an ink cartridge that stores ink. The carriage motor 32 is a motor for moving the carriage 31 in the scanning direction, and is constituted by a DC motor.

  The head unit 40 is for ejecting ink onto paper. The head unit 40 has a head 41. The head 41 has a plurality of nozzles that are ink discharge portions, and discharges ink intermittently from each nozzle. The head 41 is provided on the carriage 31. Therefore, when the carriage 31 moves in the scanning direction, the head 41 also moves in the scanning direction. Then, when the head 41 is intermittently ejected while moving in the scanning direction, dot lines (raster lines) along the scanning direction are formed on the paper.

  The detector group 50 includes a linear encoder 51, a rotary encoder 52, a paper detection sensor 53, an upstream optical sensor 54, and the like. The linear encoder 51 is for detecting the position of the carriage 31 in the scanning direction. The rotary encoder 52 is for detecting the rotation amount of the transport roller 23. The paper detection sensor 53 is for detecting the position of the leading edge of the paper to be printed. The paper detection sensor 53 is provided at a position where the position of the leading edge of the paper can be detected while the paper feed roller 21 feeds the paper toward the transport roller 23. The paper detection sensor 53 is a mechanical sensor that detects the leading edge of the paper by a mechanical mechanism. More specifically, the paper detection sensor 53 has a lever that can rotate in the transport direction, and this lever is disposed so as to protrude into the paper transport path. For this reason, since the leading edge of the paper comes into contact with the lever and the lever is rotated, the paper detection sensor 53 detects the position of the leading edge of the paper by detecting the movement of the lever. The upstream optical sensor 54 is attached to the carriage 31. The upstream optical sensor 54 detects the presence or absence of paper by the light receiving unit detecting reflected light of the light emitted from the light emitting unit to the paper. The upstream optical sensor 54 detects the position of the edge of the paper while being moved by the carriage 41. The upstream optical sensor 54 optically detects the edge of the paper, and therefore has higher detection accuracy than the mechanical paper detection sensor 53.

  In the present embodiment, the detector group 50 includes a downstream optical sensor 55. The downstream optical sensor 55 is attached to the carriage 31. The downstream optical sensor 55 detects the pattern formed on the paper when the light receiving unit detects the reflected light of the light irradiated on the paper from the light emitting unit. The configuration of the downstream optical sensor 55 will be described in detail later.

  The controller 60 is a control unit (control means) for controlling the printer. The controller 60 includes an interface unit 61, a CPU 62, a memory 63, and a unit control circuit 64. The interface unit 61 is for transmitting and receiving data between the computer 110 which is an external device and the printer 1. The CPU 62 is an arithmetic processing unit for controlling the entire printer. The memory 63 is for securing an area for storing the program of the CPU 62, a work area, and the like, and has storage means such as a RAM and an EEPROM. The CPU 62 controls each unit via the unit control circuit 64 in accordance with a program stored in the memory 63.

<About printing operation>
FIG. 7 is a flowchart of processing during printing. Each process described below is executed by the controller 60 controlling each unit in accordance with a program stored in the memory 63. This program has a code for executing each process.

  The controller 60 receives a print command from the computer 110 via the interface unit 61 (S001). This print command is included in the header of print data transmitted from the computer 110. Then, the controller 60 analyzes the contents of various commands included in the received print data, and performs the following paper feed processing, transport processing, ink ejection processing, and the like using each unit.

  First, the controller 60 performs a paper feed process (S002). The paper feed process is a process of supplying paper to be printed into the printer and positioning the paper at a print start position (also referred to as a cue position). The controller 60 rotates the paper feed roller 21 and sends the paper to be printed to the transport roller 23. The controller 60 rotates the transport roller 23 to position the paper fed from the paper feed roller 21 at the print start position. When the paper is positioned at the print start position, at least some of the nozzles of the head 41 are opposed to the paper.

  Next, the controller 60 performs dot formation processing (S003). The dot formation process is a process for forming dots on paper by intermittently ejecting ink from a head that moves in the scanning direction. The controller 60 drives the carriage motor 32 to move the carriage 31 in the scanning direction. Then, the controller 60 ejects ink from the head based on the print data while the carriage 31 is moving. When ink droplets ejected from the head land on the paper, dots are formed on the paper.

  Next, the controller 60 performs a conveyance process (S004). The conveyance process is a process of moving the paper relative to the head along the conveyance direction. The controller 60 drives the carry motor and rotates the carry roller to carry the paper in the carrying direction. By this carrying process, the head 41 can form dots at positions different from the positions of the dots formed by the previous dot formation process.

  Next, the controller 60 determines whether or not to discharge the paper being printed (S005). If there is still data to be printed on the paper being printed, no paper is discharged. Then, the controller 60 alternately repeats the dot formation process and the conveyance process until there is no data to be printed, and gradually prints an image composed of dots on paper. When there is no more data for printing on the paper being printed, the controller 60 discharges the paper. The controller 60 discharges the printed paper to the outside by rotating the paper discharge roller. The determination of whether or not to discharge paper may be based on a paper discharge command included in the print data.

  Next, the controller 60 determines whether or not to continue printing (S006). If printing is to be performed on the next paper, printing is continued and the paper feeding process for the next paper is started. If printing is not performed on the next paper, the printing operation is terminated.

<About nozzle>
FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram of the configuration of the lower surface of the carriage. A head 41, an upstream optical sensor 54, and a downstream optical sensor 55 are provided on the lower surface of the carriage.
On the lower surface of the head 41, a yellow ink nozzle group Y, a magenta ink nozzle group M, a cyan ink nozzle group C, a matte black ink nozzle group MBk, a photo black ink nozzle group PBk, and a red ink nozzle group R A violet ink nozzle group V and a clear ink nozzle group FCL are formed. Each nozzle group includes a plurality (180 in this embodiment) of nozzles that are ejection openings for ejecting each ink.

  The plurality of nozzles of each nozzle group are aligned at a constant interval (nozzle pitch: k · D) along the transport direction. Here, D is the minimum dot pitch in the carrying direction (that is, the interval at the highest resolution of dots formed on the paper S). K is an integer of 1 or more. For example, when the nozzle pitch is 180 dpi (1/180 inch) and the dot pitch in the transport direction is 720 dpi (1/720), k = 4.

  The nozzles in each nozzle group are assigned a lower number in the downstream nozzle (# 1 to # 180). That is, the nozzle # 1 is located downstream of the nozzle # 180 in the transport direction. Each nozzle is provided with a piezo element (not shown) as a drive element for driving each nozzle to eject ink droplets.

  The upstream optical sensor 54 is provided at substantially the same position as the most upstream nozzle # 180 with respect to the position in the transport direction. On the other hand, the downstream optical sensor 55 is provided upstream by L (mm) from the nozzle # 1 on the most downstream side in the transport direction.

<Color ink and clear ink>
Here, the color inks are yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), black (a general term for matte black (MBk) and photo black (PBk)), red (R), violet (V), and the like. This is a colored non-transparent ink. These color inks are composed of dye ink, pigment ink, and the like.

  Clear ink is generally colorless and transparent ink as opposed to colored ink. Here, it is not limited to such colorless and transparent, but widely refers to inks that are difficult to detect using diffuse reflected light when ejected onto a medium, even if they are colored and transparent or colored and non-transparent. That is, colored non-transparent color inks such as yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (Bk) described above use an optical sensor when diffusely reflected light is used when attached to a medium. On the other hand, when the clear ink is attached to the medium, it is extremely difficult to specify whether or not the clear ink is attached even if diffuse reflected light is used. When this clear ink is attached to glossy paper, it has an effect of increasing the glossiness of the attached portion. However, even if this clear ink is attached to plain paper, the glossiness of the attached portion is not so improved.

=== Configuration of Optical Sensor ===
<Upstream optical sensor>
FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of the configuration of the upstream optical sensor 54. The right direction in the figure is the conveying direction, and the direction perpendicular to the paper surface in the figure is the scanning direction.
The upstream optical sensor 54 is a reflective optical sensor having a light emitting unit 541 and a light receiving unit 542. The light emitting unit 541 has, for example, an infrared LED (light emitting diode), and irradiates the paper with light. The light receiving unit 542 includes, for example, a phototransistor, and detects reflected light of light irradiated on the paper from the light emitting unit.
The light emitting unit 541 of the upstream optical sensor 54 irradiates the paper S with light obliquely. The light receiving unit 542 of the upstream optical sensor 54 is provided at a position symmetrical to the light emitting unit 541 and receives light emitted obliquely from the paper. Therefore, the light receiving unit 542 receives specularly reflected light emitted from the light emitting unit 541 onto the paper.
When there is no paper S in the region where the light emitting unit 541 emits light, the amount of reflected light received by the light receiving unit 542 decreases. When the paper S is in an area where the light emitting unit 541 emits light, the amount of reflected light received by the light receiving unit 542 increases. That is, since the amount of light received by the light receiving unit 542 varies depending on the presence or absence of paper, the controller can detect the presence or absence of paper based on the signal output from the light receiving unit 542.

<About downstream optical sensors>
FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of the configuration of the downstream optical sensor 55. The horizontal direction in the figure is the scanning direction, and the direction perpendicular to the paper surface in the figure is the transport direction.
The downstream optical sensor 55 is a sensor for detecting a pattern formed on the paper. The pattern detection using the downstream optical sensor 55 will be described later.

The downstream optical sensor 55 is a reflective optical sensor having a light emitting unit 551 and a light receiving unit 552. The light emitting unit 551 has, for example, a white LED (light emitting diode), and irradiates paper with light. The light receiving unit 552 includes, for example, a phototransistor, and detects reflected light of light irradiated on the paper from the light emitting unit.
The light emitting unit 551 of the downstream optical sensor 55 irradiates the paper S with light obliquely. The light receiving unit 552 of the downstream optical sensor 55 is provided at a position perpendicular to the paper S. Therefore, the light receiving unit 552 receives the diffuse reflected light of the light irradiated on the paper from the light emitting unit.
When there is a dark pattern at the position of the detection spot of the downstream optical sensor 55 (the area on the paper irradiated with light from the light emitting unit 551), the amount of light received by the light receiving unit 552 decreases. On the other hand, when there is a light-density pattern at the position of the detection spot of the downstream optical sensor 55 (including the case where no pattern is formed), the amount of light received by the light receiving unit 552 increases. That is, since the amount of light received by the light receiving unit 552 varies depending on the density of the pattern, the controller detects the density of the pattern in the detection spot (or the presence or absence of the pattern) based on the signal output from the light receiving unit 552. Can do. In addition, since the light emission part 551 of a downstream optical sensor is irradiating the light by white LED on paper, it can detect the pattern of a different color.

=== Discharge Inspection Procedure ===
The ink jet printer 1 can inspect whether the color ink and the clear ink of each color described above are properly ejected from the nozzles. In this ejection inspection, color ink and clear ink are actually ejected from the nozzles to form a predetermined inspection pattern on the paper. Then, as a result of the inspection, when a discharge failure such as clogging is found in the nozzle, a process for cleaning the nozzle is executed.

  FIG. 11 shows an example of a discharge inspection procedure. Each operation described below is realized by the controller controlling each unit in the printer. Control of each unit by the controller follows a program stored in the memory. This program is composed of codes for controlling each unit.

First, the printer discharges color ink or clear ink toward the paper to form a predetermined inspection pattern (S101). The inspection pattern formed here will be described in detail later.
Next, the printer uses the transport unit 20 to transport the paper in the reverse direction.
Next, the printer inspects the formed inspection pattern (S103). This inspection is performed using the downstream optical sensor 55 mounted on the carriage. The inspection pattern inspection using the downstream optical sensor 55 will be described in detail later.
After performing the check in this way, the printer determines the presence or absence of ejection failure of color ink or clear ink based on the detection result from the downstream optical sensor 55 (S104). If it is determined that there is an ejection failure, the printer executes nozzle cleaning (S105). This nozzle cleaning will be described in detail later. On the other hand, if no ejection failure is found, the printer ends the ejection inspection process.

=== Method for Forming Color Ink Inspection Pattern ===
<About inspection pattern>
FIG. 12 is an overall conceptual diagram of an inspection pattern group 70 used for ejection inspection of nozzles that eject color ink. FIG. 13A is an explanatory diagram of the inspection pattern 71 constituting the inspection pattern group 70. FIG. 13B is an example of an inspection pattern when there are nozzles that do not eject color ink. FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram of the configuration of the color ink test pattern 71. FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram of the block pattern BL constituting the inspection pattern 71.

  The inspection pattern group 70 includes a plurality of inspection patterns 71. The plurality of inspection patterns 71 are formed adjacent to each other along the scanning direction. Each inspection pattern is divided for each color ink. For example, the test pattern 71 described as “Y” in FIG. 12 is composed of only yellow ink. That is, in the drawing, the test pattern 71 described as “Y” is formed by nozzles that discharge yellow ink. As will be described later, the test pattern 71 is used for discharge inspection of nozzles that discharge yellow ink. The test patterns 71 of other colors are configured in the same manner.

  One inspection pattern 71 includes an inspection target area 72 and a non-inspection target area 73. The inspection target area 72 includes nine block patterns BL in the scanning direction and twenty block patterns BL in the transport direction, and is configured by a total of 180 block patterns BL. As will be described later, one block pattern BL corresponds to one nozzle. Therefore, the 180 block patterns BL in the inspection target area 72 are patterns for inspecting 180 nozzles. The non-inspection target area 73 is formed so as to surround the inspection target area 72. The non-inspection target area 73 includes a transport direction upper inspection margin 731, a transport direction lower inspection margin 732, a scanning direction left part inspection margin 733, and a scanning direction right part inspection margin 734. Each inspection margin is provided in order to prevent erroneous detection when the downstream optical sensor 55 detects the block pattern BL in the inspection target region 72. That is, when there is no non-inspection target region around the inspection target region 72, a block pattern formed inside the inspection target region and surrounded by another block pattern, and another block pattern formed at the outer edge of the inspection target region Since the detection result is different from the block pattern not surrounded by the block pattern, the block pattern is also formed outside the detection target region 72.

  Each block pattern BL is a rectangular pattern composed of 56 dots at 1/720 inch intervals along the scanning direction and 18 dots at 1/360 inch intervals along the transport direction. Dots in the same block pattern BL are formed by ink droplets ejected from the same nozzle. For example, the block pattern BL described as “# 1” in FIG. 14 is formed only by ink droplets ejected from the nozzle # 1. Thus, each block pattern BL is associated with a nozzle that forms the block pattern BL. If there are ink non-ejection nozzles (no nozzles that do not eject ink), a rectangular blank pattern is generated in the test pattern 71 as shown in FIG. 13B. That is, by detecting the presence or absence of a blank pattern, it is possible to inspect whether or not there is an ink non-ejection nozzle. Further, if the position of the blank pattern can be detected, the ink non-ejection nozzle can be specified.

<Regarding the method for forming the inspection pattern>
FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram of a method for forming eleven block patterns in the first row of the inspection pattern 71. This figure shows dot rows (56 dot rows arranged in the scanning direction of FIG. 15) formed by a single dot formation process (S003: see FIG. 7). Further, the numbers on the left side of the figure indicate nozzle numbers, and the positions of the nozzle numbers indicate the positions of the nozzles with respect to the block pattern BL.

  First, the paper is fed so that the tip position on the downstream side in the transport direction of the inspection target region 72 faces the nozzle # 9. Thereafter, the printer executes a first dot formation process and intermittently ejects ink from nozzle # 9 at a position where the carriage 31 reaches a predetermined position. As a result, a dot row is formed at a downstream position of the block pattern corresponding to the nozzle # 9.

  Next, the printer transports the paper by the transport unit by half the nozzle pitch (1/360 inch). The printer then executes the second dot formation process and intermittently ejects ink from nozzle # 9 at the position where the carriage has reached a predetermined position. Thereby, a dot row is formed adjacent to the upstream side in the transport direction of the dot row formed by the first dot formation process.

  Next, the printer transports the paper by the transport unit by half the nozzle pitch. Then, the printer executes a third dot formation process. In the third dot formation process, the printer intermittently ejects ink from nozzle # 9 and nozzle # 8. A dot row is formed by the ink ejected from the nozzle # 9 adjacent to the upstream side in the transport direction of the dot row formed by the second dot formation process. In addition, a dot row is formed at a downstream position of the block pattern BL corresponding to the nozzle # 8 by the ink ejected from the nozzle # 8.

  Next, the printer transports the paper by the transport unit by half the nozzle pitch. Then, the printer executes a fourth dot formation process. Even in the fourth dot formation process, the printer intermittently ejects ink from nozzle # 9 and nozzle # 8, and is adjacent to the upstream side in the transport direction of the dot row formed by the third dot formation process. A row is formed. In this way, the dot formation process and the conveyance process are executed to form the dot row twice, and the nozzles for ejecting ink are increased one by one from the upstream side in the conveyance direction every two dot formation processes.

In the 18th dot formation process, a block pattern corresponding to nozzle # 9 is completed. Therefore, in the 19th dot formation process, the ejection of ink from the nozzle # 9 is stopped. Thereafter, the ink ejection is stopped one by one from the nozzle located upstream in the transport direction every two dot formation processes.
In the 34th dot formation process, 11 block patterns in the first row of the inspection target area 72 are completed.

  In the description so far, the method of forming 11 block patterns in the first row located on the most downstream side in the transport direction of the inspection target region 72 has been described. However, 11 block patterns in the first row are formed. In the meantime, 11 block patterns in other rows are formed at the same time. That is, the 180 nozzles from nozzle # 1 to nozzle # 180 are set to 20 nozzle groups each consisting of 9 consecutive nozzles, and 11 block patterns for each nozzle group follow the same procedure. Is formed. For example, when a dot row is formed by nozzle # 9, ink is ejected from nozzle # 9N (N is an integer) at the same timing.

  An interval between adjacent block patterns is equal to a dot interval of a dot row constituting each block pattern. Therefore, if there is no non-ejection nozzle, the density in the test pattern 71 becomes uniform, and it is difficult to recognize individual block patterns from the test pattern 71 with the naked eye.

=== Method for Forming Clear Ink Inspection Pattern ===
FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram of a test pattern 81 for nozzles that eject clear ink. FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram of the configuration of the clear ink test pattern 71. FIG. 19A is an explanatory diagram of a block pattern CBL formed with clear ink. FIG. 19B is an explanatory diagram of a pattern formed by color ink. FIG. 20A is an explanatory diagram of a state when the block pattern CBL is formed. FIG. 20B is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which a pattern made of colored ink is superimposed on the block pattern CBL. FIG. 20C is an explanatory diagram when the test pattern 81 is completed.

  The inspection pattern 81 is formed by superimposing a pattern 83 formed of color ink on a plurality of block patterns CBL formed of clear ink. As shown in the figure, 180 block patterns CBL formed by clear ink are formed. The clear ink test pattern 81 is formed on the lower side (upstream in the transport direction) of the color ink test pattern group 70 described above.

  Each block pattern CBL is 56 dots at 1/720 inch intervals along the scanning direction and 18 at 1/360 inch intervals along the transport direction, like the block pattern BL in the color ink inspection pattern described above. A rectangular pattern composed of dots. Dots in the same block pattern CBL are formed by clear ink droplets ejected from the same nozzle. For example, the block pattern CBL described as “# 1” in FIG. 18 is formed only by clear ink droplets ejected from the nozzle # 1. Thus, each block pattern CBL is associated with a nozzle that forms the block pattern CBL. If there is an ink non-ejection nozzle, a block pattern that is not formed is generated. That is, it is possible to check whether or not there is an ink non-ejection nozzle by detecting the presence or absence of a block pattern that is not formed. In addition, if the position of the block pattern that is not formed can be detected, the ink non-ejection nozzle can be specified.

  The pattern 83 formed by the color ink is formed so as to cover an area where all the block patterns CBL are distributed at an interval of 1/180 inch along the scanning direction and at an interval of 1/360 inch along the transport direction. Is done. In other words, with respect to the scanning direction, the resolution of the color ink pattern 83 is lower than the resolution of the clear ink block pattern CBL. Also, with respect to the scanning direction, the resolution of the color ink pattern 83 of the clear ink test pattern 81 is lower than the resolution of the block pattern BL of the color ink nozzle test pattern 71. The color ink pattern 83 has a relatively light density due to the wide dot interval.

  As a method of forming the clear ink test pattern 81, first, a block pattern CBL of clear ink is formed on a medium, and a color ink pattern 83 is formed so as to overlap the block pattern CBL. The method of forming the plurality of block patterns CBL with clear ink is substantially the same as the plurality of block patterns BL of the color ink test pattern 71 described above. If an appropriate margin is provided between the block patterns when the above-described block pattern BL is formed, a plurality of block patterns can be formed in an arrangement as shown in FIG. That is, 180 block patterns CBL with clear ink are formed by 34 dot formation processes. After the block pattern CBL is formed, the transport unit transports the paper in the reverse direction, and the head 41 forms a color ink pattern 83 so as to be superimposed on the block pattern CBL. Since the color ink pattern 83 is a long pattern in the transport direction, the upper pattern 831 is formed by two dot formation processes, and then the lower pattern 832 is formed by two dot formation processes (see FIG. 20B).

  FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram of a state near the upper left of the block pattern CBL of the test pattern 81. The corner indicated by the dotted line in the figure indicates the upper left corner of the block pattern CBL. Outside the dotted line in the figure, as is understood from the above-described method for forming an inspection pattern, only colored ink droplets have landed. Further, inside the dotted line in the figure, as understood from the above-described method of forming the test pattern, the color ink droplets land after the clear ink droplets land. In areas where clear ink droplets have not landed, when colored ink droplets land on the paper, the color ink dye penetrates in the thickness direction of the paper and dots are formed on the paper, as in normal dot formation. . On the other hand, when the color ink droplets land on the area where the clear ink droplets land, the color inks land on the paper surface wetted by the clear ink, so that the color inks spread. As a result, the color ink pigment spreads on the paper in a wider range than normal dots (the color ink pigment spreads in the plane direction of the paper). As a result, the density is higher in the area inside the block pattern CBL than in the area outside the block pattern CBL (pattern 83 of only color ink).

  Even if the block pattern is formed only with the clear ink, the downstream ink sensor 55 cannot detect the presence or absence of the block pattern with the clear ink because the clear ink is colorless and transparent. However, the color ink pattern is overlaid with the clear ink block pattern overlaid with the clear ink block pattern, so if the controller detects the density of this pattern, the controller detects the discharge of the nozzle that discharges the clear ink. It can be performed.

=== Conveying paper in the reverse direction ===
FIG. 22A is an explanatory diagram of a state before the paper is conveyed in the reverse direction. FIG. 22B is an explanatory diagram of a state after the paper is conveyed in the reverse direction. In the figure, the same reference numerals are given to the components already described, and the description thereof is omitted. In the paper S in the figure, a portion indicated by a thick line indicates that the aforementioned inspection pattern (inspection pattern 71 or inspection pattern 91) is formed at that position.

In the present embodiment, the downstream optical sensor 55 is provided between the nozzle # 1 and the nozzle # 180. Therefore, when the inspection pattern is formed on the paper S, the block pattern corresponding to the nozzle # 1 of the inspection pattern is located on the downstream side of the position of the detection spot of the downstream optical sensor 55 on the paper. Therefore, since the downstream optical sensor 55 does not face the block pattern corresponding to the nozzle # 1 as it is, the block pattern corresponding to the nozzle # 1 cannot be detected, and the ejection inspection of the nozzle # 1 can be performed. Can not.
Therefore, in the present embodiment, after the inspection pattern is formed, the controller uses the transport unit 20 to reverse the transport direction so that the downstream optical sensor 55 can detect the block pattern corresponding to the nozzle # 1. The paper is conveyed in the direction (reverse conveyance). Since the downstream optical sensor 55 is provided upstream of the nozzle # 1 by L (mm) in the transport direction, the downstream optical sensor 55 moves in the reverse direction until it faces the block pattern corresponding to the nozzle # 1. The conveyance amount is at least about Lmm (specifically, Lmm + 9 dots (1 dot is 1/360 inch)).

  In this embodiment, after the inspection pattern is formed on the paper S, before the paper S is transported in the reverse direction, the leading edge of the paper S is larger than the transport amount L (mm) in the reverse direction by α (mm ) Is only discharged from the paper discharge roller. That is, in this embodiment, the inspection pattern is formed at a position away from the leading edge of the paper S by a predetermined distance so that the leading edge of the paper S is discharged from the paper discharge roller 25 by α (mm). ing. The reason for this will be described below.

  FIG. 23A is an explanatory diagram of a state before reverse conveyance in the first reference example. FIG. 23B is an explanatory diagram of a state after reverse conveyance in the first reference example. In the figure, the same reference numerals are given to the components already described, and the description thereof is omitted. In the first reference example, after the test pattern is formed on the paper S and before the paper S is conveyed in the reverse direction, the leading edge of the paper S is only β (mm) smaller than L (mm) from the paper discharge roller. This is different from the present embodiment in that it is discharged.

  In the case of the first reference example, when the paper S is reversely conveyed by about L (mm), the leading edge of the paper S passes through the paper discharge roller 25 and the paper discharge roller 25 is not in contact with the paper. That is, after the reverse transport, the paper S is transported only by the transport roller 23 (see FIG. 23B). If the inspection pattern is inspected from this state, the paper may be lifted from the platen, and therefore the downstream optical sensor 55 cannot accurately detect the inspection pattern.

  On the other hand, according to the present embodiment, since the leading edge of the paper S is previously discharged from the paper discharge roller 25 by α (mm), even if the paper S is reversely transported by the transport amount L (mm), the paper S Does not pass through the paper discharge roller 25. That is, after the reverse transport, the paper S is transported by the two rollers (the transport roller 23 and the paper discharge roller 25). In this state, the paper does not float from the platen 24 at the position of the detection spot of the downstream optical sensor 55, and the posture of the paper is stable. For this reason, in the printer of this embodiment, the inspection pattern can be accurately detected.

  In this embodiment, the distance L between the nozzle # 1 and the downstream optical sensor 55 is set to be smaller than the transport distance γ (mm) from the nozzle # 180 to the transport roller 23. ing. In other words, the downstream optical sensor 55 is provided upstream of the nozzle # 1 in the transport direction by a distance L (mm) smaller than the transport distance γ (mm) between the nozzle # 180 and the transport roller 23. It has been. The reason for this will be described below.

  FIG. 24A is an explanatory diagram of a state before reverse conveyance in the second reference example. FIG. 24B is an explanatory diagram of a state after reverse conveyance in the second reference example. In the figure, the same reference numerals are given to the components already described, and the description thereof is omitted. The second reference example is different from the present embodiment in that the downstream optical sensor 55 is provided on the upstream side in the transport direction by a distance L ′ (mm) larger than the transport distance γ. The conveyance amount in the reverse direction after forming the inspection pattern is about L ′ (specifically, Lmm + 9 dots) so that the downstream optical sensor 55 can detect the block pattern corresponding to the nozzle # 1. Become.

  In the case of the second reference example, when the paper S is reversely conveyed by about L ′ (mm), the inspection pattern formed on the paper S passes through the conveyance roller 23. That is, after the reverse conveyance, the driven roller provided facing the conveyance roller 23 comes into contact with the inspection pattern (FIG. 24B). When the driven roller and the inspection pattern come into contact with each other, the driven roller is contaminated by the color ink forming the inspection pattern. If the driven roller is soiled by ink, the paper to be printed thereafter is soiled.

  On the other hand, according to the present embodiment, the distance L between the nozzle # 1 and the downstream optical sensor 55 is made smaller than the transport distance γ (mm) from the nozzle # 180 to the transport roller 23. Is set. For this reason, even if the paper S is reversely conveyed by the conveyance amount L (mm), the inspection pattern formed on the paper S does not pass through the conveyance roller 23. That is, after the reverse conveyance, the inspection pattern does not contact the driven roller. For this reason, the printer according to the present embodiment does not stain the driven roller of the transport roller 23, and therefore does not stain the paper during subsequent printing.

  The “sensor position” refers to the position of the element where the sensor actually detects the pattern. For example, in the present embodiment, the “sensor position” is the position of the light receiving unit 552 of the downstream optical sensor 55. That is, in the present embodiment, the light receiving unit 552 of the downstream optical sensor 55 is located between the nozzle # 1 and the nozzle # 180 in the transport direction. In the present embodiment, the light receiving unit 552 of the downstream optical sensor 55 is positioned upstream of the nozzle # 1 in the transport direction by a distance L.

  More specifically, the “sensor position” refers to the position of the center of the element where the sensor actually detects the pattern. For example, in this embodiment, the “sensor position” is the center position of the light receiving unit 552 of the downstream optical sensor 55. That is, in the present embodiment, the center of the light receiving unit 552 of the downstream optical sensor 55 is located between the nozzle # 1 and the nozzle # 180 in the transport direction. In the present embodiment, the center of the light receiving unit 552 of the downstream optical sensor 55 is positioned upstream of the nozzle # 1 in the transport direction by the distance L.

=== Inspection of Inspection Pattern ===
Inspection of the inspection patterns (color ink inspection pattern 71 and clear ink inspection pattern 81) is performed by moving the carriage 31 in the scanning direction to scan the detection spot of the downstream optical sensor in the scanning direction. Done. Then, the controller alternately repeats the process of scanning the detection spot of the downstream optical sensor and the process of conveying the paper for one block in the conveyance direction until the inspection of all the inspection areas of the inspection pattern is completed. Then, the ejection inspection of each nozzle is performed by detecting the presence or absence of the block pattern (block pattern BL, block pattern CBL) corresponding to each nozzle.
Hereinafter, inspection of each inspection pattern will be described.

<About inspection of color ink inspection pattern>
FIG. 25A is an explanatory diagram of the inspection of the color ink inspection pattern 71. FIG. 25B is an explanatory diagram of the inspection result of the downstream optical sensor 55 when there is no non-ejection nozzle. FIG. 25C is an explanatory diagram of the inspection result of the downstream optical sensor 55 when there is a non-ejection nozzle. A circle SP in the figure indicates a detection spot of the downstream optical sensor 55.

  In the inspection of the color ink inspection pattern 71, the inspection is performed based on the output of the light receiving unit 552 of the downstream optical sensor 55. The light receiving unit 552 of the downstream optical sensor 55 outputs a higher voltage as the amount of received light increases, and outputs a lower voltage when the amount of received light is small.

  Since inspection is performed with diffuse reflected light using the light receiving unit 552 of the downstream optical sensor 55, the amount of light received by the light receiving unit 552 decreases when there is a pattern formed of color ink in the detection spot SP. The output voltage of the downstream optical sensor 55 becomes low. On the other hand, when there is no pattern formed with color ink in the detection spot SP, the amount of light received by the light receiving unit 552 increases, and the output voltage of the downstream optical sensor 55 increases.

  When the controller inspects the inspection pattern, the detection spot SP moves in the scanning direction and crosses the inspection pattern 71. If there is no blank pattern in the locus of the detection spot SP, the downstream optical sensor 55 outputs a low voltage while the detection spot SP crosses the inspection pattern 71. That is, if there is no non-ejection nozzle, the downstream optical sensor 55 outputs a low voltage while the detection spot SP crosses the inspection pattern 71 (see FIG. 25B).

  On the other hand, if there is a blank pattern in the locus of the detection spot SP, the downstream optical sensor 55 outputs a relatively high voltage when the detection spot SP is positioned on the blank pattern. That is, if there is a non-ejection nozzle, the downstream optical sensor 55 outputs a relatively high voltage when the detection spot is located on the block pattern BL corresponding to the non-ejection nozzle (FIG. 25C).

  Therefore, the controller sets the predetermined threshold value V1 in advance, and whether the output voltage of the downstream optical sensor 55 exceeds the threshold value V1 during the inspection of the inspection pattern 71 (while the detection spot SP crosses the inspection pattern 71). If this can be detected, the presence of a non-ejection nozzle can be detected. Information regarding the threshold value V1 is stored in advance in the memory. Further, by counting how many times the output voltage of the downstream optical sensor 55 exceeds the threshold value V1, it is possible to detect how many non-ejection nozzles are present.

  Further, the controller can specify the non-ejection nozzle based on the position of the detection spot SP when the output voltage of the downstream optical sensor 55 exceeds V1. Note that the position of the detection spot SP in the scanning direction can be detected based on the output of the linear encoder 51. Further, the position of the detection spot SP in the transport direction can be detected based on the output of the rotary encoder 52. For example, the controller can specify that the non-ejection nozzle is nozzle # 112 based on the detection result of the downstream optical sensor 55 as shown in FIG. 25C. In this case, information in which the position of each block pattern BL is associated with the nozzle number is stored in advance in the memory.

<About inspection of clear ink inspection pattern>
FIG. 26A is an explanatory diagram of the inspection of the clear ink inspection pattern 81. FIG. 26B is an explanatory diagram of the inspection result of the downstream optical sensor 55 when there is no non-ejection nozzle. FIG. 26C is an explanatory diagram of the inspection result of the downstream optical sensor 55 when there is a non-ejection nozzle. A circle SP in the figure indicates a detection spot of the downstream optical sensor 55.

  In the inspection of the clear ink inspection pattern 81, the inspection is performed based on the output of the light receiving unit 552 of the downstream optical sensor 55.

  Since the inspection is performed with diffuse reflected light using the light receiving unit 552 of the downstream optical sensor 55, when the pattern 83 formed only with the color ink exists in the detection spot SP, the pattern of only the color ink is compared. Since the density is low, the amount of light received by the light receiving unit 552 is relatively large, and the output voltage of the downstream optical sensor 55 is relatively high. On the other hand, when the block pattern CBL is present in the detection spot SP, since the color ink is smeared in the block pattern CBL, the density is relatively high, the amount of light received by the light receiving unit 552 is relatively small, and the downstream optical The output voltage of the sensor 55 becomes relatively low. However, when there is a non-ejection nozzle, the block pattern CBL corresponding to the nozzle is not formed, so the pattern at that position is a pattern of only color ink. That is, when there is a non-ejection nozzle, the pattern at the position corresponding to the nozzle is not in a state where the color ink is blotted, so the density is relatively low, and the amount of light received by the light receiving unit 552 is relatively large, and the downstream optical The output voltage of the sensor 55 becomes relatively high.

  When the controller inspects the inspection pattern, the detection spot SP moves in the scanning direction and crosses the inspection pattern 81. When the detection spot SP is located in the color ink only pattern 83, the downstream optical sensor 55 outputs a relatively high voltage (see FIG. 26B). On the other hand, when the detection spot SP is positioned in the block pattern CBL, the downstream optical sensor 55 outputs a relatively low voltage (see FIG. 26B).

  On the other hand, when there is a non-ejection nozzle, the downstream optical sensor 55 outputs a relatively high voltage when the detection spot SP is positioned on the block pattern CBL corresponding to the non-ejection nozzle (see FIG. 26C).

  Therefore, the controller sets the predetermined threshold value V2 in advance, and determines the number of times that the output voltage of the downstream optical sensor 55 becomes lower than V2 during the inspection of the inspection pattern 81 (while the detection spot SP crosses the inspection pattern 81). By counting, it is possible to detect the presence of a non-ejection nozzle. That is, if there is no non-ejecting nozzle, a phenomenon in which the output voltage of the downstream optical sensor 55 becomes lower than V2 occurs by one scanning (see FIG. 26B). On the other hand, if there is a non-ejection nozzle, the phenomenon that the output voltage of the downstream optical sensor 55 becomes lower than V2 by one scan is reduced (see FIG. 26C).

  In addition, if information regarding the position of the block pattern CBL is stored in the memory in advance, the controller performs non-ejection based on the output voltage of the downstream optical sensor 55 when the detection spot SP is at the position of the block pattern CBL. The presence of the nozzle can be detected. That is, when the detection spot SP is at the position of the block pattern CBL, if the output voltage of the downstream optical sensor 55 is higher than the threshold value V2, the block pattern CBL at that position is not formed, so there is a non-ejection nozzle. To be detected. Further, if information relating the position of the block pattern CBL and the nozzle number is stored in the memory in advance, the non-ejection nozzle can be specified. For example, the controller determines that the nozzle # 104 corresponding to the block pattern CBL in the twelfth row from the top and the fifth from the left is a non-ejection nozzle based on the detection result of the downstream optical sensor 55 as shown in FIG. 26C. It can be specified.

=== Nozzle cleaning ===
If there is a non-ejection nozzle as a result of the inspection pattern inspection, the controller executes a cleaning process in order to eliminate the ejection failure. Here, the following two types of cleaning processes executed by the controller can be considered. However, the cleaning process is not limited to these, and other methods may be used. In short, any process that eliminates clogging of nozzles that are defective in ejection may be used.

<About nozzle suction>
Nozzle suction is a process for forcibly sucking ink from the nozzles to eliminate ejection defects such as nozzle clogging. When the carriage 31 is in the standby position, the head 41 is covered with the cap. In this state, the controller makes a negative pressure in the cap by the pump, and sucks out the ink in the nozzle.

<About flushing>
Flushing is a process for forcibly ejecting ink from nozzles and eliminating ejection defects such as nozzle clogging. The controller drives the piezo element outside the printing area and ejects ink from the nozzle. Unlike ink ejection during printing, ink ejected during flushing does not land on the paper but is collected by a collection mechanism (not shown). If a non-ejection nozzle is specified, only that nozzle may be used for ejecting ink. In this way, waste of ink can be avoided.

=== Other Embodiments ===
The above embodiment is mainly described for a printer, but it goes without saying that the disclosure includes a pattern inspection method, a printing system, and the like.

  Moreover, although the printer etc. as one embodiment were demonstrated, said embodiment is for making an understanding of this invention easy, and is not for limiting and interpreting this invention. The present invention can be changed and improved without departing from the gist thereof, and it is needless to say that the present invention includes equivalents thereof. In particular, the embodiments described below are also included in the present invention.

<About sensor>
In the above-described embodiment, the downstream optical sensor 55 receives only diffuse reflected light. However, the downstream optical sensor 55 is not limited to this configuration.
FIG. 27 shows a downstream optical sensor 55 of another embodiment. The downstream optical sensor includes a light emitting unit 551, a first light receiving unit 552, and a second light receiving unit 553. It differs from the above-mentioned embodiment by having this 2nd light-receiving part 553. The second light receiving unit 553 receives specularly reflected light emitted from the light emitting unit 551 onto the paper. Even if the downstream optical sensor 55 is a sensor having such a configuration, it can detect the inspection pattern formed by the nozzle.

  By the way, when performing the discharge inspection of the clear ink, in the above-described embodiment, the inspection pattern 81 is formed using the color ink and the clear ink, and the downstream optical sensor 55 uses the diffuse reflected light to change the inspection pattern 55. It was detected. However, the test pattern 81 requires a larger amount of ink than the test pattern 71. On the other hand, even if the inspection pattern 71 is formed using only clear ink, the inspection pattern cannot be detected with diffuse reflected light because the clear ink is a colorless and transparent liquid. However, if the inspection pattern 71 made of only clear ink is formed on glossy paper, the amount of specular reflection light increases in the area where the clear ink is applied. Therefore, the inspection pattern is detected using specular reflection light. Can do. Therefore, when the downstream optical sensor 55 of the present embodiment is used, the second light receiving unit 553 can detect a test pattern of only clear ink formed on glossy paper. Thereby, ink consumption can be reduced.

<Sensor mounting position>
In the above-described embodiment, the sensor is attached to the carriage (that is, in the above-described embodiment, the carriage is a moving body that moves the nozzle). However, the mounting position of the sensor is not limited to this. For example, a sensor may be attached to the head 41. Even in this case, the dimension in the transport direction of the head 41 can be reduced, and as a result, the dimension in the transport direction of the carriage, which is a moving body, can be reduced (in this case, the head 41 moves). Functions as a body).

<About nozzle>
In the above-described embodiment, ink is ejected using a piezoelectric element. However, the method for discharging the liquid is not limited to this. For example, other methods such as a method of generating bubbles in the nozzle by heat may be used.

<About color ink>
In the above-described embodiment, yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), black (a general term for matte black (MBk) and photo black (PBk)), red (R), violet (V) ) Was used. However, the color ink used is not limited to this. For example, color inks such as light magenta, light cyan, and dark yellow may be used.

<About media>
In the above-described embodiment, plain paper or glossy paper is used as the medium. However, the medium for forming the inspection pattern is not limited to these. For example, inspection patterns can be formed on various media as shown in FIG. The printer forms an inspection pattern corresponding to the type of medium so that the downstream optical sensor can detect the inspection pattern.

=== Summary ==
FIG. 28A is an explanatory diagram of a comparative example. FIG. 28B is an explanatory diagram of the above-described embodiment. When the comparative example is compared with the above-described embodiment, the mounting position of the sensor is different. The above embodiments will be summarized below using these drawings.

(1) The printer (printing apparatus) of the above-described embodiment moves the transport unit 20 that transports paper (medium) along the transport direction and a plurality of nozzles (see FIG. 8) arranged along the transport direction. And a downstream optical sensor 55 (sensor) that is provided on the carriage 31 and detects the inspection pattern 71 or the inspection pattern 91 (pattern) on the paper formed by the nozzles. Usually, in order to inspect the inspection pattern formed by the nozzle, the downstream optical sensor is provided downstream of the nozzle in the transport direction.
However, if the sensor is provided downstream of the nozzle in the transport direction, the dimension of the carriage in the transport direction becomes longer (see FIG. 28A).
Therefore, in the above-described embodiment, the downstream optical sensor 55 is located between the nozzle # 180 (the nozzle on the most upstream side in the transport direction) and the nozzle # 1 (the nozzle on the most downstream side in the transport direction) with respect to the transport direction. (See FIG. 28B). Thereby, according to the above-mentioned embodiment, the dimension of the carriage 31 in the transport direction can be reduced. Since the carriage 31 can be reduced in size, the overall dimensions of the printer can be reduced.

(2) In the above-described embodiment, the transport unit 20 can transport paper (medium) in the direction opposite to the transport direction. That is, in this embodiment, the transport motor 22 of the transport unit 20 can rotate in the reverse direction. When the transport motor 22 rotates in the reverse direction, the transport roller 23 rotates in the reverse direction, and the paper is transported in the reverse direction. The
Thereby, the block pattern of the test pattern formed by the nozzle # 1 (the block pattern BL of the test pattern 71 or the block pattern CBL of the test pattern 81) is transported to a position facing the downstream optical sensor 55. It becomes possible. That is, the sensor can detect the pattern formed by the nozzle # 1 that is the nozzle on the most downstream side in the transport direction.

(3) In the above-described embodiment, after the test pattern (pattern) is formed on the paper (medium), the transport unit 20 transports the paper in the reverse direction, and the downstream optical sensor 55 (sensor) detects the test pattern. Was detected. For example, after the inspection pattern 71 is formed on the paper, the block pattern of the inspection pattern formed by the nozzle # 1 is conveyed back to a position facing the downstream optical sensor 55, and the downstream optical sensor 55 is connected to the nozzle # 1. The block pattern formed by 1 was detected.
Thereby, the sensor can detect the block pattern formed by the nozzle # 1. Then, for example, the discharge inspection of the nozzle # 1, which is the nozzle on the most downstream side in the transport direction, can be performed.

(4) In the above-described embodiment, the printer (printing apparatus) includes the transport roller 23 provided on the upstream side in the transport direction with respect to the nozzle # 180 (the nozzle on the most upstream side in the transport direction) and the nozzle # 1 (the top in the transport direction). And a paper discharge roller 25 provided on the downstream side in the transport direction with respect to the downstream nozzle).
According to such a printer, since the dimension in the carriage conveyance direction is small, the distance between the conveyance roller 23 and the paper discharge roller 25 can be reduced, and the overall dimensions of the printer can be reduced.

Further, if the distance between the transport roller 23 and the paper discharge roller 25 is reduced, the following effects are also produced.
First, paper jams in the printer can be reduced. That is, when the paper is fed, the paper is transported only by the transport roller 23 from when the front end of the paper passes through the transport roller 23 until the front end of the paper reaches the paper discharge roller 25. Therefore, when the paper is warped, the leading edge of the paper is lifted from the platen 24. If the distance between the transport roller 23 and the paper discharge roller 25 is long, the leading edge of the paper is greatly lifted from the platen 24. As a result, the leading edge of the paper cannot enter between the paper discharge roller and the driven roller of the paper discharge roller, and a paper jam occurs in the printer. On the other hand, when the distance between the transport roller 23 and the paper discharge roller 25 is short, the leading edge of the paper does not float so much from the platen 24. As a result, the leading edge of the paper accurately enters between the paper discharge roller and the driven roller of the paper discharge roller, and paper jam in the printer does not occur.

  Furthermore, the image quality of the printed image is improved. If the distance between the transport roller 23 and the paper discharge roller 25 is long, the leading edge of the paper will rise significantly from the platen 24. For this reason, the interval between the paper and the nozzle is reduced in the vicinity of the front end of the paper. As a result, the ink ejected from the nozzles does not land at the correct position, and the quality of the printed image is degraded. On the other hand, if the distance between the transport roller 23 and the paper discharge roller 25 is short, the leading edge of the paper does not rise so much from the platen 24. Therefore, in the vicinity of the leading edge of the paper, the distance between the paper and the nozzle is substantially equal to the normal distance. As a result, the ink ejected from the nozzles reaches the correct position, and the image quality of the printed image is maintained.

(5) In the above-described embodiment, after the transport unit 20 transports the paper (medium) in the direction opposite to the transport direction, the leading end of the paper is positioned downstream of the paper discharge roller 25 in the transport direction ( (See FIG. 22B of this embodiment and FIG. 23B of the first reference example).

  If the front end of the paper is positioned upstream of the paper discharge roller 25 in the transport direction after reverse transport, the paper is transported only by the transport roller 23 (see FIG. 23B). In this state, the leading edge of the paper may be lifted from the platen 24. When the leading edge of the paper is lifted from the platen, the inspection pattern detected by the downstream optical sensor 55 is also lifted from the platen 24, and the downstream optical sensor 55 cannot accurately detect the inspection pattern.

  On the other hand, after the reverse conveyance, if the leading edge of the paper is positioned downstream of the paper discharge roller 25 in the conveyance direction, the paper is conveyed by the conveyance roller 23 and the paper discharge roller 25 (see FIG. 22B). ). In this state, the paper does not lift from the platen at the position of the detection spot of the downstream optical sensor 55, and the posture of the paper is stable. For this reason, the printer can accurately detect the inspection pattern.

  Note that after the reverse conveyance, even if the leading edge of the paper is positioned upstream of the paper discharge roller 25 in the conveyance direction (see FIG. 23B), the downstream optical sensor 55 is connected to the nozzle # 1 and the nozzle # 180 with respect to the conveyance direction. If it is located between the two, the effect of reducing the size of the carriage can be obtained. However, in this case, the accuracy of detection of the inspection pattern is lowered.

(6) In the above-described embodiment, the distance L in the transport direction between the nozzle # 1 (the nozzle on the most downstream side in the transport direction among the plurality of nozzles) and the downstream optical sensor (sensor) is the paper (medium). Is shorter than the length α of the paper discharged from the paper discharge roller 25 when the inspection pattern (pattern) is formed (see FIG. 22A of this embodiment and FIG. 23A of the reference example).

  If the length β of the paper ejected from the paper ejection roller 25 when the test pattern is formed is shorter than the distance L in the transport direction between the nozzle # 1 and the downstream optical sensor. When the paper is reversely conveyed, the leading edge of the paper passes through the paper discharge roller. As a result, the paper is transported only by the transport roller 23 (see FIG. 23B). In this state, the inspection pattern detected by the downstream optical sensor 55 is lifted from the platen 24, and the downstream optical sensor 55 cannot accurately detect the inspection pattern.

  On the other hand, if the distance L in the transport direction between the nozzle # 1 and the downstream optical sensor is shorter than the length α of the paper ejected from the paper ejection roller 25 when the test pattern is formed, the opposite is true. Even if the paper is conveyed, the leading edge of the paper does not pass through the paper discharge roller (FIG. 22B). In this state, the paper does not lift from the platen at the position of the detection spot of the downstream optical sensor 55, and the posture of the paper is stable. For this reason, the printer can accurately detect the inspection pattern.

  Note that the length β of the paper ejected from the paper ejection roller 25 when the test pattern is formed is shorter than the distance L in the transport direction between the nozzle # 1 and the downstream optical sensor. However (see FIG. 23A), if the downstream optical sensor 55 is located between the nozzle # 1 and the nozzle # 180 in the transport direction, an effect of reducing the size of the carriage can be obtained. However, in this case, the accuracy of detection of the inspection pattern is lowered.

(7) In the above-described embodiment, after the transport unit 20 transports the paper (medium) in the direction opposite to the transport direction, the inspection pattern (pattern) on the paper is positioned downstream of the transport roller 23 in the transport direction. (See FIG. 22B of the present embodiment and FIG. 24B of the second reference example).
If at least a part of the inspection pattern is positioned upstream of the transport roller 23 after the reverse transport, at least a part of the inspection pattern passes through the transport roller 23. As a result, the driven roller provided facing the conveying roller 23 comes into contact with the inspection pattern (see FIG. 24B). As a result, the driven roller is soiled by the color ink forming the test pattern, and the paper to be printed thereafter is soiled.
On the other hand, after the reverse conveyance, if the inspection pattern is located on the downstream side in the conveyance direction with respect to the conveyance roller 23, the inspection pattern does not pass through the conveyance roller 23. As a result, since the inspection pattern does not contact the driven roller, the driven roller is not soiled, and the paper does not have to be soiled.
Note that, after the reverse conveyance, even if at least a part of the inspection pattern is located on the upstream side of the conveyance roller 23 (see FIG. 24B), the downstream optical sensor 55 is connected to the nozzle # 1 and the nozzle # 180 in the conveyance direction. If it is located between the two, the effect of reducing the size of the carriage can be obtained. However, in this case, there is a risk of soiling the paper.

(8) In the above-described embodiment, the distance L in the transport direction between the nozzle # 1 (the nozzle on the most downstream side in the transport direction among the plurality of nozzles) and the downstream optical sensor (sensor) is the paper (medium). The upper inspection pattern (pattern) is shorter than the conveyance amount γ until it reaches the conveyance roller (see FIG. 22B of this embodiment and FIG. 24A of the second reference example).
If the distance L ′ in the transport direction between the nozzle # 1 and the downstream optical sensor is longer than the transport amount γ, at least a part of the inspection pattern passes through the paper discharge roller during reverse transport. . As a result, there is a risk of soiling the paper for the same reason as described above.
On the other hand, if the distance L is shorter than the transport amount γ, the inspection pattern does not reach the transport roller even if transported in reverse. This saves the paper from getting dirty.
Even if the distance L in the transport direction between the nozzle # 1 and the downstream optical sensor is longer than the transport amount γ, the downstream optical sensor 55 is located between the nozzle # 1 and the nozzle # 180 in the transport direction. If so, the effect of reducing the size of the carriage can be obtained. However, in this case, there is a risk of soiling the paper.

(9) In the above-described embodiment, the distance L is the distance from the center of the nozzle # 1 to the center of the light receiving unit 552 of the downstream optical sensor 55.
However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the position on the most downstream side of the downstream optical sensor 55 may be used as a reference.

(10) In the above-described embodiment, the downstream optical sensor 55 (sensor) is an optical sensor. Thereby, the test pattern on the paper can be detected in a non-contact manner.
However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a mechanical / magnetic sensor may be employed as long as it can detect the inspection pattern. If such a sensor is located between the nozzle # 1 and the nozzle # 180 in the transport direction, an effect of reducing the size of the carriage can be obtained.

(11) According to the above-described embodiment, the downstream optical sensor 55 (sensor) is a sensor using diffuse reflected light. Thereby, it is possible to detect the inspection pattern formed on the paper with a simple configuration.
However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, an inspection pattern may be detected using a CCD camera. However, such a configuration is costly.

(12) According to the above-described embodiment, the printer (printing apparatus) performs nozzle ejection inspection based on the detection result when the downstream optical sensor 55 (sensor) detects the inspection pattern (pattern). It was. Thereby, clogging of the nozzle can be detected.
However, the application of the sensor is not limited to this. For example, the nozzle may form an adjustment pattern for adjusting the ink ejection timing during bidirectional printing, and the sensor may detect the formed adjustment pattern.
Even in such a printing apparatus, if the sensor is located between the nozzle # 1 and the nozzle # 180 in the transport direction, the effect of reducing the size of the carriage can be obtained. In short, it is important that the sensor for detecting the pattern formed by the nozzle is located between the nozzle # 1 and the nozzle # 180 in the transport direction.

It is explanatory drawing of the whole structure of a printing system. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of processing performed by a printer driver. 3 is an explanatory diagram of a user interface of a printer driver. FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an overall configuration of a printer. 1 is a schematic diagram of an overall configuration of a printer. 1 is a cross-sectional view of the overall configuration of a printer. It is a flowchart of the process at the time of printing. It is explanatory drawing which shows the arrangement | sequence of a nozzle. It is explanatory drawing of a structure of an upstream optical sensor. It is explanatory drawing of a structure of a downstream optical sensor. It is a flowchart of a discharge inspection procedure. FIG. 3 is an overall conceptual diagram of an inspection pattern group used for ejection inspection of nozzles that eject color ink. FIG. 13A is an explanatory diagram of inspection patterns constituting the inspection pattern group. FIG. 13B is an example of an inspection pattern when there are nozzles that do not eject color ink. It is explanatory drawing of the structure of the test pattern for color ink. It is explanatory drawing of the block pattern which comprises the pattern for a test | inspection. It is explanatory drawing of the formation method of 11 block patterns. It is explanatory drawing of the test pattern of the nozzle which discharges clear ink. It is explanatory drawing of a structure of the test pattern of clear ink. FIG. 19A is an explanatory diagram of a block pattern formed with clear ink. FIG. 19B is an explanatory diagram of a pattern formed by color ink. FIG. 20A is an explanatory diagram of a state when a block pattern is formed. FIG. 20B is an explanatory diagram of a state in which a pattern with color ink is superimposed on a block pattern. FIG. 20C is an explanatory diagram when the inspection pattern is completed. It is explanatory drawing of the mode of the upper left vicinity of the block pattern of a test pattern. FIG. 22A is an explanatory diagram of a state before the paper is conveyed in the reverse direction. FIG. 22B is an explanatory diagram of a state after the paper is conveyed in the reverse direction. FIG. 23A is an explanatory diagram of a state before reverse conveyance in the first reference example. FIG. 23B is an explanatory diagram of a state after reverse conveyance in the first reference example. FIG. 24A is an explanatory diagram of a state before reverse conveyance in the second reference example. FIG. 24B is an explanatory diagram of a state after reverse conveyance in the second reference example. FIG. 25A is an explanatory diagram of inspection of a color ink inspection pattern. FIG. 25B is an explanatory diagram of the inspection result of the downstream optical sensor when there is no non-ejection nozzle. FIG. 25C is an explanatory diagram of the inspection result of the downstream optical sensor when there is a non-ejection nozzle. FIG. 26A is an explanatory diagram of inspection of a clear ink inspection pattern formed on plain paper. FIG. 26B is an explanatory diagram of the inspection result of the downstream optical sensor when there is no non-ejection nozzle. FIG. 26C is an explanatory diagram of the inspection result of the downstream optical sensor when there is a non-ejection nozzle. It is explanatory drawing of a structure of the downstream optical sensor 55 of other embodiment. FIG. 28A is an explanatory diagram of a comparative example. FIG. 28B is an explanatory diagram of the above-described embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

1 printer,
20 transport unit, 21 paper feed roller, 22 transport motor (PF motor),
23 transport roller, 24 platen, 25 discharge roller,
30 Carriage unit, 31 Carriage,
32 Carriage motor (CR motor),
40 head units, 41 heads,
50 detector groups, 51 linear encoder, 52 rotary encoder,
53 paper detection sensor, 54 upstream optical sensor, 55 downstream optical sensor,
60 controller, 61 interface unit, 62 CPU,
63 memory, 64 unit control circuit,
100 printing system,
110 computers,
120 display device,
130 input device, 130A keyboard, 130B mouse,
140 recording / reproducing apparatus, 140A flexible disk drive apparatus, 140B CD-ROM drive apparatus,
112 video drivers, 114 application programs,
116 printer driver;
L Distance in the transport direction between the nozzle # 1 and the downstream optical sensor 55,
α The length of the paper ejected from the paper ejection roller when the inspection pattern is formed (embodiment),
β The length of the paper ejected from the paper ejection roller when the test pattern is formed (first reference example),
γ Transport amount until the inspection pattern on the paper reaches the transport roller,

Claims (9)

A transport unit capable of transporting the medium along the transport direction and transporting the medium in a direction opposite to the transport direction;
A moving body that moves a plurality of nozzles arranged along the conveying direction;
A sensor for detecting a pattern on the medium formed by the nozzle, located between the nozzle on the most upstream side in the transport direction and the nozzle on the most downstream side in the transport direction with respect to the transport direction;
After the pattern is formed on the medium, the transport unit transports the medium in the reverse direction, and the sensor detects the pattern,
The moving body moves a plurality of colored liquid nozzles that discharge a colored liquid and a plurality of colorless liquid nozzles that discharge a colorless liquid,
A block-like colorless pattern is formed on each of the colorless liquid nozzles, and the colored liquid is formed on the plurality of colored liquid nozzles from above the plurality of colorless patterns only by the plurality of colored liquid nozzles. A colorless liquid that is applied at a resolution lower than the resolution of the colored pattern and that causes the sensor to detect the bleeding of the colored liquid at a position where the colorless pattern is to be formed and does not discharge the colorless liquid. A printing apparatus for detecting a nozzle for printing. The printing apparatus according to claim 1,
A transport roller provided on the upstream side in the transport direction with respect to the nozzle on the most upstream side in the transport direction;
A paper discharge roller provided on the downstream side in the transport direction from the nozzle on the most downstream side in the transport direction;
The printing apparatus further comprising: The printing apparatus according to claim 2,
The printing apparatus, wherein after the transport unit transports the medium in a direction opposite to the transport direction, a leading end of the medium is positioned on the downstream side in the transport direction with respect to the paper discharge roller. The printing apparatus according to claim 2 or 3,
The distance in the transport direction between the nozzles on the most downstream side in the transport direction of the plurality of nozzles and the sensor is discharged from the paper discharge roller when the pattern is formed on the medium. A printing apparatus characterized by being shorter than the length of a medium. The printing apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 4,
The printing apparatus, wherein after the transport unit transports the medium in a direction opposite to the transport direction, a pattern on the medium is positioned downstream of the transport roller in the transport direction. The printing apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 5,
The distance in the transport direction between the nozzles on the most downstream side in the transport direction among the plurality of nozzles and the sensor is shorter than the transport amount until the pattern on the medium reaches the transport roller. Characteristic printing device. The printing apparatus according to claim 4 or 6,
The distance is a distance from the center of the nozzle on the most downstream side in the transport direction to the center of the detection unit of the sensor. The printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7,
The printing apparatus, wherein the sensor is an optical sensor. The printing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein
The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the sensor is a sensor using diffuse reflected light.