JP5734584B2 - How to determine dot size - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an inkjet printer, a program, and a test pattern.

  Conventionally, ink jet printers that perform printing by an ink jet method have been widely used. An ink jet printer prints on a medium by ejecting ink droplets from the ink jet head toward the medium. The ink droplets ejected from the inkjet head become ink dots by landing on the medium, and are fixed on the medium.

JP-A-9-76605 JP 2000-307864 A

  In order to perform appropriate printing in an inkjet printer, it is necessary to form ink dots with an appropriate size according to the resolution. However, for example, even if the same ink jet printer is used and printing is performed under the same print condition setting, the size of the dots of ink formed may vary depending on, for example, the type of medium used.

  For this reason, when using an ink jet printer, it may be necessary to adjust the size of the ink dots by changing the setting of the printing conditions according to the type of the medium, for example. Further, for example, in order to perform this adjustment, it may be necessary to determine whether or not ink dots are formed in an appropriate size (dot size suitability).

  The determination of the dot size suitability may be performed using, for example, a special device having a function of magnifying and observing the dots. However, if such a special device is used, the required work increases, and for example, a user unaccustomed to the work may not be able to make an appropriate determination. As a result, for example, even when a problem that can be solved if the user can determine the size suitability by himself / herself, it may be necessary to request maintenance work or the like by a business trip from an engineer or the like of the inkjet printer manufacturer. There is also.

  Therefore, conventionally, there has been a demand for a method that allows the user himself / herself to determine the ink dot size suitability easily and appropriately without using a special measuring instrument or the like. SUMMARY An advantage of some aspects of the invention is that it provides an inkjet printer, a program, and a test pattern that can solve the above-described problems.

  Conventionally, various test patterns for confirming the printing state are known (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2). However, a configuration using the same test pattern for the same purpose as the present invention is not known.

In order to solve the above problems, the present invention has the following configuration.
(Configuration 1) A dot size determination method for determining the size suitability of dots formed by ink ejected from an ink jet head included in an ink jet printer that performs printing by an ink jet method. The test pattern used to check the operation is printed and the dot size suitability is determined by visually checking the test pattern . The test pattern is a white line portion formed by not ejecting ink from the inkjet head. A white line forming pattern portion in which a certain area is filled with ink ejected from the ink jet head, and the white line forming pattern portion is at least one dot formed by ink ejected from the ink jet head as a white line portion. A plurality of first direction first white lines that are a plurality of white line portions each extending in the first direction with a width, and a plurality of white line portions extending in the first direction with a width wider than the first direction first white line And a plurality of second direction first white lines which are a plurality of white line portions respectively extending in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction with a width of at least one dot. A plurality of second direction second white lines which are a plurality of white line portions each extending in the second direction with a width wider than the second direction first white line, and the test pattern includes the first direction first white line and It is possible to determine whether or not the size of the dots formed on the medium is appropriate by visually comparing the second white line in the second direction with the second white line in the first direction and the second white line in the second direction. If it is a pattern and the dot size is correct, The white line portions of the first direction first white line and the second direction first white line are in a state where at least a part of the area is filled with ink ejected from the inkjet head, and the first direction second white line and the second white line The white line portion of the direction second white line is in a state of being visible without being buried.

  For example, the ink jet printer performs a main scanning operation for scanning the ink jet head in a preset main scanning direction and a sub scanning operation for moving the ink jet head relative to the medium in a sub scanning direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction. By doing so, printing is performed at each position of the medium. In this case, the first direction is, for example, the main scanning direction. Further, the second direction is, for example, the sub-scanning direction.

  Each of the plurality of first direction first white lines is arranged at a constant interval in the second direction, for example. For example, each of the plurality of second white lines in the second direction is arranged at a constant interval in the first direction. In addition, each of the plurality of first direction first white lines is orthogonal to the plurality of second direction first white lines, for example.

  The first direction first white line and the second direction first white line are preferably white line portions having a width corresponding to, for example, 1 to 3 dots. Moreover, it is preferable that the width | variety of at least one of a 1st direction 1st white line and a 2nd direction 1st white line is a width | variety for one dot. In addition, when the dot shape is a symmetrical shape with respect to the first direction and the second direction, such as a circle or a substantially circular shape, the width of the first white line in the first direction and the width of the first white line in the second direction Is preferably the same, for example. In this case, for example, the width of the first white line in the first direction and the width of the first white line in the second direction may be set to a width corresponding to one dot. In addition, when the shape of the dot is an asymmetric shape with respect to the first direction and the second direction, for example, circular or substantially circular, the width of the first white line in the first direction and the width of the first white line in the second direction And may be different.

  When configured in this way, it is possible to appropriately check the state of printing by the ink jet head being used by forming a white line portion having the minimum line width in the resolution or a white line portion close to the minimum line width. Further, for example, by forming the white line portion in a state where the periphery is filled, the state of the white line portion can be more appropriately confirmed.

  Also, by forming the white line portion in two orthogonal directions as the white line portion, for example, when there is an abnormality in the state of the white line portion, whether or not it occurs only in a specific direction. Can be confirmed properly. For example, when the first and second directions are the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction, there is a cause in one of the main scanning operation and the sub-scanning operation, and there is a cause unrelated to both operations. And it becomes easy to distinguish. Further, for example, by forming a plurality of white line portions in each direction, it is possible to appropriately distinguish between a case where an abnormality occurs only in a white line portion at a specific position and a case where an abnormality occurs regardless of the position of the white line portion. .

  Therefore, if constituted in this way, the state of a printing result can be checked appropriately, for example. In addition, for example, it is possible to appropriately set the printing conditions in the ink jet printer, and high quality printing can be appropriately performed by the ink jet printer.

  The width of one dot is, for example, the width of one pixel corresponding to the printing resolution. The inkjet printer may perform multi-tone printing by, for example, forming dots of ink of a plurality of types as dots corresponding to each pixel. In this case, the ink jet printer fills the region other than the white line portion in the white line formation pattern portion with the dot having the maximum size among the dot sizes corresponding to each gradation.

  (Configuration 2) The test pattern is a test pattern used for determining the size suitability of dots formed on a medium. The determination of dot size suitability is, for example, determining whether dots are formed in a predetermined size on the medium being used.

  In addition, the dot being formed in a predetermined size means that the dot is formed in a size corresponding to the size of one pixel corresponding to the printing resolution, for example. The dot being formed in a predetermined size may mean that a dot having a size to be formed in the setting of printing conditions is formed.

  For example, when the size of the dot to be formed is smaller than the required size, the size of each dot constituting the painted portion around the white line portion becomes small, so the width of the white line portion becomes large. On the other hand, when the dot size is sufficiently large, the width of the white line portion becomes smaller. Therefore, with this configuration, for example, by confirming the appearance of the white line portion due to the difference in width, it is possible to appropriately determine the dot size suitability.

  More specifically, for example, when the dot size is sufficiently large, a white line portion having a narrow width, such as the width of one dot, is buried in the surrounding painted portion when observed from at least one of the angles. Then it disappears. On the other hand, when the dot size is insufficient, the width of the white line portion becomes large, so that the white line portion is not hidden when viewed from any angle, for example, the white line portion can be seen slightly. The state where the part remains can be confirmed. Therefore, with this configuration, for example, by observing the first white line in the first direction and the first white line in the second direction while changing the angle, it is possible to appropriately determine the dot size suitability.

  Here, the size of the ink dots varies depending on, for example, the combination of the medium to be used and the ink. Therefore, for example, when the ink to be used is determined, it is considered that the dot size reflects the property depending on the medium among the printability, that is, the suitability of the medium for the ink. Accordingly, with this configuration, for example, the suitability of the medium for ink can be determined appropriately.

  In addition, as an example of determining the dot size suitability, for example, it is conceivable to check the dot diameter. The diameter of the dot is, for example, the diameter when the shape of the ink dot is approximately circular. This circle may be a circumscribed circle of dots, for example. The confirmation of the diameter of the dots may be confirmation that the diameter of the dots has a sufficient size equal to or larger than a predetermined diameter.

  In addition, it is preferable that the widths of the first white line in the first direction and the first white line in the second direction are appropriately set to a width where the above determination can be appropriately performed. Further, under normal printing conditions, it is preferable that the width of at least one of the first white line in the first direction and the first white line in the second direction is a width corresponding to one dot. Further, when the dot shape is symmetrical with respect to the first direction and the second direction, the widths of the first direction first white line and the second direction first white line are both the width of one dot. Preferably there is.

  (Configuration 3) The test pattern is a test pattern visually confirmed, and each of the plurality of first white lines in the first direction is formed with a certain interval of 3 mm or more in the second direction. Each of the two-direction first white lines is formed with a certain interval of 3 mm or more in the first direction. The interval between the first white lines in the second direction is preferably the same as the interval between the first white lines in the first direction, for example. This interval may be, for example, 3 to 7 mm (for example, about 5 mm).

  When configured in this manner, for example, the first direction first white line and the second direction first white line are formed with a sufficient interval, thereby facilitating visual observation. Therefore, if comprised in this way, the dot size suitability etc. can be confirmed appropriately visually.

  (Configuration 4) The white line formation pattern portion is a line formed by ink ejected from the ink jet head, and a lead line formed on each extension line of the first direction first white line and the second direction first white line. Have.

  If comprised in this way, it will become easy to confirm the position of a 1st direction 1st white line and a 2nd direction 1st white line, for example. Therefore, for example, even when the dot size is sufficiently large and the white line portion is embedded in the surrounding area, the positions where the first direction first white line and the second direction first white line should be properly confirmed. This also makes it possible to more appropriately confirm the ink dot size suitability and the like.

  (Configuration 5) The white line forming pattern portion includes a plurality of first direction second white lines that are a plurality of white line portions each extending in the first direction with a width wider than the first direction first white line, It further has a plurality of second direction second white lines which are a plurality of white line portions each extending in the second direction with a width wider than the two-direction first white line.

  Since the first direction second white line and the second direction second white line are wider than the first direction first white line and the second direction first white line, for example, even when the dot size is sufficiently large, the surrounding fill is performed. It becomes difficult to be buried in the part. However, when the dot size is excessive, for example, the first direction second white line and the second direction second white line are also buried in the surrounding filled portions and are not visible.

  Therefore, with this configuration, for example, it is possible to appropriately confirm that the dot size is not excessive and is within a predetermined range. This also makes it possible to more appropriately confirm the ink dot size suitability and the like.

  The white line forming pattern portion includes a plurality of first direction third white lines that are a plurality of white line portions each extending in the first direction with a width wider than the second direction second white line, and a second direction second line. You may further have a some 2nd direction 3rd white line which is a some white line part each extended | stretched to a 2nd direction by the width | variety wider than a white line. In this case, the third white line in the first direction and the third white line in the second direction have a larger line width, so that even if the white line portion with a narrower width is filled with a larger dot size, it is clear. It remains here as a white line. Therefore, when checking the state of the narrower white line portion, for example, by comparing with the first direction third white line and the second direction third white line, it is appropriately determined whether the white line portion is visible. It becomes easy. For example, when the first direction third white line or the second direction third white line is not visible, it can be determined that the dot size is clearly excessive. This makes it possible to more appropriately confirm the ink dot size suitability and the like.

  For example, when the width of the first white line in the first direction and the first white line in the second direction is one dot, the width of the second white line in the first direction and the second white line in the second direction is equal to two dots. It is preferable. Moreover, it is preferable that the width | variety of a 1st direction 3rd white line and a 2nd direction 3rd white line shall be 3 dots.

  (Configuration 6) The ink jet printer can change the ejection amount of ink ejected per one dot of ink, and the test pattern has a plurality of white line formation pattern portions respectively formed with different ejection amount settings. Is provided.

  With this configuration, for example, for a plurality of types of printing conditions having different ejection amount settings, it is possible to simultaneously confirm the size suitability of ink dots formed according to the respective printing conditions. In addition, this makes it easier to find a print condition setting suitable for realizing an appropriate dot size, for example.

  (Configuration 7) The test pattern is used for confirming the setting of the feed amount confirmation pattern portion used for confirming the setting of the feed amount for moving the medium relative to the ink jet head and the setting of the position of the dot formed on the medium. And a dot position confirmation pattern portion to be used.

  For example, if the setting of the transport amount of the medium and the setting of the dot position are inappropriate, white line-like stripes may occur in the print result even when the dot size is appropriate. Therefore, if the setting of the feed amount and the dot position is inappropriate, there is a possibility that the dot size suitability and the like cannot be properly confirmed.

  On the other hand, if constituted in this way, the propriety of the setting of a feed amount and the position of a dot can be checked appropriately, for example, by a feed amount check pattern portion and a dot position check pattern portion. This also makes it possible to correct the setting of the feed amount and the dot position correctly, for example, before confirming the dot size suitability. Therefore, with this configuration, for example, the size suitability of the ink dots can be more appropriately confirmed.

  (Configuration 8) A program for causing an inkjet printer including an inkjet head to eject ink droplets to perform printing, causing the inkjet head to print a test pattern used when confirming the operation of the inkjet printer. Except for the white line portion formed by not ejecting ink from the head, it is provided with a white line formation pattern portion in which a certain area is filled with ink ejected from the ink jet head. A plurality of first direction first white lines, which are a plurality of white line portions each extending in the first direction with a width of at least one dot formed by the ejected ink, and a first with a width of at least one dot. Extending in a second direction orthogonal to the direction of To have a plurality of a plurality of second direction the first white is white line portion. If comprised in this way, the effect similar to the structure 1 can be acquired, for example.

  This program is executed by, for example, a host PC that controls the operation of the ink jet printer. For example, the host PC sends print data indicating the test pattern to the ink jet printer according to the program, thereby causing the ink jet head of the ink jet printer to print the test pattern. Further, this program may be executed by the control unit of the ink jet printer.

  (Configuration 9) A test pattern printed by the inkjet head of the inkjet printer when confirming the operation of the inkjet printer, and is ejected from the inkjet head except for the white line portion formed by not ejecting ink from the inkjet head. A white line forming pattern portion in which a predetermined area is filled with ink, and the white line forming pattern portion has a width of at least one dot formed by ink ejected from the inkjet head as a white line portion in the first direction. A plurality of first direction first white lines that are a plurality of white line portions that respectively extend, and a plurality of white line portions that respectively extend in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction with a width of at least one dot. And a second white line in the second direction. This test pattern is, for example, a test pattern printed on a medium. If comprised in this way, the effect similar to the structure 1 can be acquired, for example.

  According to the present invention, for example, the state of a print result can be appropriately confirmed. In addition, for example, the size suitability of the ink dots in the printing result can be appropriately confirmed visually.

1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an inkjet printer 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows an example of a structure of the test pattern 100 used in this example. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining in more detail the feed amount confirmation pattern portion 104 and the dot position confirmation pattern portion 106. FIG. 3A is a diagram for explaining the feed amount confirmation pattern portion 104 in more detail. FIG. 3B is a diagram for explaining the dot position confirmation pattern portion 106 in more detail. It is a figure explaining in more detail about the white line formation pattern part. FIG. 4A is a diagram for explaining each part of the white line formation pattern part 102. FIG. 4B is a diagram illustrating an example of setting printing conditions.

  Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 shows an example of the configuration of an inkjet printer 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The ink jet printer 10 is a printing apparatus that performs printing on the medium 50 using an ink jet method, and includes an ink jet head 12 and a control unit 14.

  In this example, the inkjet printer 10 includes, for example, a main scanning operation that scans the inkjet head 12 in a preset main scanning direction, and an inkjet head 12 that is relatively relative to the medium in a sub-scanning direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction. Is printed at each position of the medium 50 by performing the sub-scanning operation for moving the image. In the main scanning operation, the inkjet printer 10 causes the inkjet head 12 to perform a scanning operation that moves in the main scanning direction while ejecting ink droplets. Further, the inkjet printer 10 sends the medium 50 relative to the inkjet head 12 in the sub-scanning operation.

  In addition to the illustrated configuration, the inkjet printer 10 appropriately includes a configuration necessary for a printing operation such as a main scanning operation and a sub-scanning operation. Moreover, the inkjet printer 10 may include a plurality of inkjet heads 12, for example. Each of the plurality of inkjet heads 12 ejects ink droplets of different colors such as, for example, each color of CMYK ink.

  The inkjet head 12 is, for example, a print head having a plurality of nozzles arranged in a predetermined nozzle row direction, and ink dots are formed on the medium 50 by ejecting ink droplets from these nozzles to the medium 50. Accordingly, the inkjet head 12 performs printing on the medium 50.

  The control unit 14 is a controller that controls the operation of the ink jet printer 10 and controls the operation of each unit of the ink jet printer 10 such as the ink jet head 12 according to the control of the host PC, for example. For example, based on print data received from the host PC, the control unit 14 causes the inkjet head 12 to print an image indicated by the print data.

  In this example, the ink jet printer 10 can change the ejection amount of ink ejected per ink dot. For example, when one dot is formed on the medium 50 by ink ejected from one nozzle of the inkjet head 12, the ejection amount of ink ejected per one ink dot is determined from the nozzle. This is the amount of ink ejected.

  Therefore, in this example, the control unit 14 stores the setting of the ejection amount of ink ejected per one dot of ink, for example, in accordance with a user operation. In the printing operation, the control unit 14 causes ink droplets to be ejected from the nozzles of the inkjet head 12 in accordance with the set ink ejection amount.

  In this case, for example, the control unit 14 changes the ejection amount of ink ejected per dot by changing the number of ink droplets ejected from the nozzles to form one dot. . The control unit 14 may change the ejection amount of ink ejected per dot by changing the volume of the ink droplets ejected at a time.

  In this example, the inkjet printer 10 performs multi-tone printing by forming dots of a plurality of types as the dots corresponding to each pixel. For example, the inkjet printer 10 performs multi-tone printing by forming dots of three sizes, large, medium, and small. In this case, for example, the control unit 14 stores the setting of the ejection amount of the ink ejected per one ink dot for each size.

  In this example, the control unit 14 causes the inkjet head 12 to print a predetermined test pattern in accordance with, for example, an instruction from the host PC. This test pattern is, for example, a test pattern that is visually confirmed when the operation of the inkjet printer 10 is confirmed. Hereinafter, this test pattern will be described.

  FIG. 2 shows an example of the configuration of the test pattern 100 used in this example. In this example, the test pattern 100 is a test pattern used for confirming the diameter of dots formed on the medium 50, and includes a plurality of ejection amount designation patterns 150a to 150c.

  The confirmation of the diameter of the dot is one aspect of determining the dot size suitability, for example. Further, as described below, the dot size suitability can be appropriately determined by checking the dot diameter. The determination of dot size suitability is, for example, determining whether dots are formed in a predetermined size on the recording medium 50 being used. In this example, the shape of the dot is a shape that is symmetrical with respect to the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction, such as a circle or a substantially circle.

  Each of the plurality of ejection amount designating patterns 150a to 150c is a pattern formed by varying the ejection amount of ink ejected per one dot of ink. In this example, each of the discharge amount designation patterns 150 a to 150 c includes a white line formation pattern portion 102, a feed amount confirmation pattern portion 104, and a dot position confirmation pattern portion 106. As a result, the test pattern 100 includes a plurality of white line forming pattern portions 102 each formed by changing the discharge amount according to the discharge amount corresponding to each of the discharge amount specifying patterns 150a to 150c. A pattern unit 104 and a dot position confirmation pattern unit 106 are provided.

  The white line formation pattern portion 102 is a pattern portion used for confirming the diameter of the dots. The feed amount confirmation pattern portion 104 and the dot position confirmation pattern portion 106 are portions used for confirming conditions that are prerequisites for properly using the white line formation pattern portion 102.

  The setting of the discharge amount in the discharge amount specifying patterns 150a to 150c is a setting of the discharge amount when forming a large dot. In this example, as the setting of the discharge amount of the discharge amount designation pattern 150a, a setting (L3) in which the number of ink droplets per dot is three is used. As setting of the discharge amount of the discharge amount specifying pattern 150b, a setting (L6) is used in which the number of ink droplets per dot is six. Further, as the setting of the discharge amount of the discharge amount specifying pattern 150c, a setting (L9) is used in which the number of ink droplets per dot is nine.

  In this example, the ink jet printer 10 prints the test pattern 100 using one color ink. As this one color ink, for example, black (K) color ink can be suitably used. Further, for example, when the diameter of the ink dot of a color other than black (K) is to be confirmed, the inkjet printer 10 prints the test pattern 100 with the ink of that color. The inkjet printer 10 may print the test pattern 100 corresponding to each color using, for example, each color ink for each of a plurality of colors.

  Of the coordinate axes shown in the figure, the Y direction is the main scanning direction. The X direction is the sub-scanning direction. In this example, the inkjet printer 10 prints a plurality of discharge amount designation patterns 150a to 150c arranged in the main scanning direction. Further, in each of the ejection amount designation patterns 150a to 150c, the white line formation pattern portion 102, the feed amount confirmation pattern portion 104, and the dot position confirmation pattern portion 106 are printed side by side in the sub-scanning direction.

  Hereinafter, each of the white line formation pattern portion 102, the feed amount confirmation pattern portion 104, and the dot position confirmation pattern portion 106 will be described in more detail. First, the feed amount confirmation pattern portion 104 and the dot position confirmation pattern portion 106 will be described.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the feed amount confirmation pattern portion 104 and the dot position confirmation pattern portion 106 in more detail. FIG. 3A is a diagram for explaining the feed amount confirmation pattern portion 104 in more detail.

  The feed amount confirmation pattern portion 104 is a pattern used for confirming the setting of the feed amount for moving the medium 50 relative to the inkjet head 12. This feed amount is, for example, an amount by which the medium 50 is moved in one sub-scanning operation. The setting of the feed amount is, for example, a feed correction setting that is data for correcting the feed amount.

  In this example, the feed amount confirmation pattern portion 104 is a pattern formed by at least two successive main scanning operations. Further, the feed amount confirmation pattern portion 104 has a heading line indicating the boundary portion at the boundary portion of the portion formed by each main scanning operation.

  In the feed amount confirmation pattern portion 104, the portion formed by each main scanning operation is a pattern in which the whole is filled with a density lower than solid printing (dot density 100%) that forms all pixels with the maximum dot size. It is. The pattern of this part may be, for example, a shade pattern.

  When such a feed amount confirmation pattern portion 104 is printed, if the feed amount is set appropriately, it is formed by each main scanning operation as shown in the normal state in the central portion of FIG. The portions to be formed are continuously and uniformly formed without overlapping each other. Therefore, in this case, the boundary portion of each main scanning operation is not conspicuous.

  On the other hand, if the feed amount is set too large, a gap is generated in the portion formed by each main scanning operation as shown in the state of excessive feed amount in the upper part of FIG. Occurs. If the feed amount is set too small, as shown in the lower feed amount state in the lower part of FIG. 3A, the portions formed by each main scanning operation overlap to form a dark portion, and the boundary portion Black streaks appear. Therefore, in this example, when the setting of the feed amount is inappropriate, a streak appears at the position of the heading line of the feed amount confirmation pattern portion 104. Therefore, according to this example, for example, it is possible to appropriately confirm whether or not the setting of the feed amount is appropriate.

  FIG. 3B is a diagram for explaining the dot position confirmation pattern portion 106 in more detail. The dot position confirmation pattern unit 106 is a pattern used for confirming the setting of the positions of dots formed on the medium 50.

  In this example, the dot position confirmation pattern portion 106 is a pattern formed by at least two consecutive main scanning operations. Further, the dot position confirmation pattern portion 106 has a heading line indicating the boundary portion at the boundary portion of the portion formed by each main scanning operation.

  In the dot position confirmation pattern portion 106, a portion formed by each main scanning operation is a pattern in which a plurality of straight lines extending in the sub-scanning direction are arranged in the main scanning direction. Each straight line has a length corresponding to the entire width in the sub-scanning direction of a portion formed by one main scanning operation. In each straight line, the end on the boundary part side of the main scanning operation is thicker than the other parts in the straight line.

  In this case, if the dot positions are set appropriately, a plurality of straight lines formed in each main scanning operation are continuous in the sub-scanning direction, as shown in the normal state in the upper part of FIG. Connected. In this case, the vicinity of the boundary portion of the main scanning operation indicated by the header line is slightly darker than the other portions, but the density of the number of straight lines is not different from the other portions. Therefore, the number of straight lines in the boundary portion with respect to one straight line in other portions is one.

  On the other hand, when the position of the dot is improperly set and misalignment occurs, each dot is formed by successive main scanning operations as shown in the position shift state in the lower part of FIG. The position of a plurality of straight lines is displaced and cannot be connected. Therefore, at the boundary portion of the main scanning operation, two lines can be seen in a range where there is one line in other portions. As a result, the boundary portion becomes darker than the normal state. Therefore, according to the present example, for example, the presence or absence of positional deviation can be appropriately confirmed. In addition, for example, it is possible to appropriately confirm whether or not the position of the dots formed on the medium 50 is set appropriately.

  In addition to the above, various known patterns may be used as the feed amount confirmation pattern portion 104 and the dot position confirmation pattern portion 106. In this example, the feed amount confirmation pattern portion 104 and the dot position confirmation pattern portion 106 are formed with differently set ejection amounts in each of the plurality of ejection amount designation patterns 150a to 150c (see FIG. 2). The Therefore, according to this example, the setting of the feed amount and the dot position can be appropriately confirmed every time the discharge amount is set.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the white line formation pattern portion 102 in more detail. FIG. 4A is a diagram for explaining each part of the white line formation pattern part 102. In this example, the white line formation pattern portion 102 is a pattern in which a certain region (solid region 200) is filled with ink ejected from the inkjet head 12 except for the white line portion. The solid area 200 is an area in which solid printing is performed at a density of 100% by forming, for example, a large dot at the position of each pixel. The white line portion is, for example, a white line formed by not ejecting ink from the inkjet head 12 while the periphery is filled.

  In this example, the white line formation pattern portion 102 includes a plurality of Y direction 1 dot white lines 202, Y direction 2 dot white lines 204, Y direction 3 dot white lines 206, X direction 1 dot white lines 212, and X directions as white line portions. A two-dot white line 214 and a three-dot white line 216 in the X direction are included. In addition, as a marker indicating these positions, a lead line 402, a black circle 302, a black triangle 304, a black square 306, a white circle 312, a white triangle 314, and a white square 316 are provided.

  The plurality of Y-direction one-dot white lines 202 are an example of a plurality of first-direction first white lines, and have a width corresponding to one dot formed by ink ejected from the inkjet head 12, and are in the main scanning direction (Y-direction). Respectively. The main scanning direction is an example of a first direction. The width of one dot is, for example, the width of one pixel corresponding to the printing resolution.

  In addition, each of the plurality of one-dot white lines 202 in the Y direction is arranged at regular intervals in the sub-scanning direction, for example. The sub-scanning direction is an example of a second direction orthogonal to the first direction. This interval is preferably 3 mm or more, for example. This interval may be, for example, 3 to 7 mm (for example, about 5 mm).

  The plurality of Y-direction two-dot white lines 204 are an example of the first-direction second white line, and have a width corresponding to two dots and extend in the main scanning direction. The width for two dots is, for example, the width for two pixels according to the printing resolution. The plurality of Y-direction two-dot white lines 204 are formed, for example, in a region separated from the region where the plurality of Y-direction one-dot white lines 202 are formed in the sub-scanning direction. In addition, each of the plurality of Y-direction 2-dot white lines 204 is arranged at regular intervals in the sub-scanning direction, for example. This interval is preferably 3 mm or more, for example. This interval may be the same as the interval between the one-dot white lines 202 in the Y direction.

  The plurality of Y-direction three-dot white lines 206 are an example of a plurality of first-direction third white lines, and extend in the main scanning direction with a width corresponding to three dots. The width for three dots is, for example, the width for three pixels according to the printing resolution. The plurality of Y-direction 3-dot white lines 206 are formed, for example, in an area separated from the area where the plurality of Y-direction 1-dot white lines 202 and the plurality of Y-direction 2-dot white lines 204 are formed in the sub-scanning direction. In addition, each of the plurality of Y-direction 3-dot white lines 206 is arranged at regular intervals in the sub-scanning direction, for example. This interval is preferably 3 mm or more, for example. This interval may be the same as the interval between the one-dot white lines 202 in the Y direction.

  The plurality of X-direction 1-dot white lines 212 are an example of a plurality of second-direction first white lines, and extend in the sub-scanning direction (X-direction) with a width of one dot. In addition, each of the plurality of X-direction 1-dot white lines 212 is arranged at regular intervals in the main scanning direction, for example. This interval is preferably 3 mm or more, for example. This interval may be the same as the interval between the one-dot white lines 202 in the Y direction.

  The plurality of X-direction two-dot white lines 214 are an example of a plurality of second-direction second white lines, and each have a width corresponding to two dots and extend in the sub-scanning direction. The plurality of X direction two-dot white lines 214 are formed, for example, in a region separated from the region in which the plurality of X direction one-dot white lines 212 are formed in the main scanning direction. In addition, each of the plurality of X-direction 2-dot white lines 214 is arranged at regular intervals in the main scanning direction, for example. This interval is preferably 3 mm or more, for example. This interval may be the same as the interval between the one-dot white lines 212 in the X direction.

  The plurality of X-direction three-dot white lines 216 are an example of a plurality of second-direction third white lines and extend in the sub-scanning direction with a width corresponding to three dots. The plurality of X-direction three-dot white lines 216 are formed, for example, in a region separated in the main scanning direction from a region where the plurality of X-direction one-dot white lines 212 and the X-direction two-dot white lines 214 are formed. Further, each of the plurality of X-direction 3-dot white lines 216 is arranged at a constant interval in the main scanning direction, for example. This interval is preferably 3 mm or more, for example. This interval may be the same as the interval between the one-dot white lines 212 in the X direction.

  Further, in this example, each Y direction 1 dot white line 202, each Y direction 2 dot white line 204, and each Y direction 3 dot white line 206 are extended in the sub-scanning direction, so that each X direction 1 dot white line 212, The X direction 2 dot white line 214 and the X direction 3 dot white line 216 are orthogonal to each other. As a result, the white line forming pattern portion 102 is a lattice-like pattern in which vertical and horizontal white line portions with a gap of 1/2/3 dots are arranged in a solid pattern with a dot density of 100%. Note that the width of each white line portion formed in the white line forming pattern portion 102 may be appropriately set to a width other than the above, for example, depending on the application of the inkjet printer 10 or the like.

  The lead line 402 is a line formed by ink ejected from the inkjet head 12, and each Y direction 1 dot white line 202, each Y direction 2 dot white line 204, each Y direction 3 dot white line 206, and each X direction 1 dot. It is formed on an extension line of the white line 212, each X direction 2-dot white line 214, and each X-direction 3-dot white line 216. Therefore, according to this example, the position of each white line part can be appropriately confirmed visually based on the position of the lead line 402, for example.

  For example, when a defect such as a missing nozzle has occurred, a white line such as a white streak may occur in addition to the position where the white line portion is originally intended to be formed. In this case, for example, if there is no lead line 402, it is difficult to properly distinguish a white line portion that should originally be included in the white line formation pattern portion 102 from a white line generated due to a defect. On the other hand, according to this example, the white line portion that should originally be included in the white line formation pattern portion 102 can be properly identified. Further, for example, it is possible to appropriately find defects such as missing nozzles by confirming white streaks or the like generated at positions where there are no lead lines 402.

  The black circle 302, the black triangle 304, the black square 306, the white circle 312, the white triangle 314, and the white square 316 are markers indicating the type of the white line portion, and are formed in the vicinity of one end of each white line portion. The type of the white line part currently formed is shown. In this example, each of the black circle 302, the black triangle 304, and the black square 306 indicates the Y direction 1 dot white line 202, the Y direction 2 dot white line 204, and the Y direction 3 dot white line 206. Each of the white circle 312, the white triangle 314, and the white square 314 indicates an X-direction 1-dot white line 212, an X-direction 2-dot white line 214, and an X-direction 3-dot white line 216, respectively. According to this example, for example, the type of the formed white line portion can be easily and appropriately distinguished by visual observation.

  Hereinafter, a method of confirming the white line formation pattern portion 102 will be described. In the confirmation of the white line formation pattern portion 102, which white line portion state is to be determined first can be appropriately changed in addition to the order described below, depending on the item to be confirmed. In this example, the white line formation pattern portion 102 is confirmed by appropriately setting the feed amount and the dot position using the feed amount confirmation pattern portion 104 and the dot position confirmation pattern portion 106 (see FIG. 2). This is done after confirming that This is because, for example, if the setting of the feed amount and the dot position is inappropriate, the dot diameter may not be properly confirmed. According to this example, for example, the diameter of the ink dot can be more appropriately confirmed by setting the feed amount and the dot position first.

  Further, in this example, confirmation of the white line formation pattern portion 102 is performed by visually determining whether or not each white line portion is buried. The state in which the white line portion is filled is, for example, that the white line portion is buried in the surrounding painted portion and is not visible when viewed from at least one of the angles. In this state, for example, the position of the white line portion is embedded in the surrounding dots, and the color at that position is the same as the surrounding solid area. In addition, in this state, the position of the white line portion looks bright or looks like a groove when observed at a certain angle, but the white line portion may not be visible when observed at another certain angle. Moreover, even if it observes from any angle, the state which cannot see a white line part may be sufficient.

  Even when the white line portion is sufficiently buried in surrounding dots, the position of the white line portion may appear to rise or appear to be a groove due to the influence of light reflection depending on the observation angle. This is because the unevenness at the position of the white line portion becomes conspicuous depending on the angle due to the influence of light reflection. For this reason, it is preferable to observe the white line portion at an angle at which the surface of the printed material is not easily affected by light reflection.

  Moreover, the state in which the white line part is not buried is a state in which the white line part can be seen by visual observation from any angle, for example. This state may be, for example, a state in which at least a white line appears to remain even when observed from any angle.

  Further, in this example, whether or not the white line portion is filled is first determined for, for example, the Y direction 1 dot white line 202 and the X direction 1 dot white line 212 (hereinafter referred to as 1 dot white line). In this example, the one-dot white line is a white line portion used for determining whether the lower limit of the dot diameter, that is, whether the dot diameter is insufficient.

  When checking the 1-dot white line, for example, the user moves the printed line up, down, left, right in the horizontal direction (Y direction) of the black circle 302 and the vertical direction (X direction) of the white circle 312. Observe by visual observation from various angles. Thereby, the user observes whether or not the white line portion is visible at this position. If the white line portion is not visible at this position, it is determined that the one-dot white line is buried.

  Here, the state where the white line portion is not filled occurs, for example, when the diameter of dots formed around the white line portion is small and insufficient to fill the white line portion. Therefore, when the one-dot white line is not filled, it can be determined that the dot diameter is insufficient. If the dot diameter is insufficient, there is a high possibility that blurring or white streaks will occur in the printing result.

  On the other hand, the state where the white line portion is filled occurs, for example, when the diameter of dots formed around the white line portion is sufficiently large. Therefore, when the one-dot white line is filled, the dot diameter is larger than the necessary lower limit value and can be determined to be sufficient.

  Note that the ink dot diameter is sufficient when, for example, solid printing with a dot density of 100% is performed even when the dot position shift due to the feeding error caused by the machine accuracy of the ink jet printer is maximum. In addition, it means the diameter of a dot that can fill the medium 50 without a gap. For example, in the case of a resolution of 600 dpi × 600 dpi, the ideal diameter corresponding to the resolution of 600 dpi is 59 μm. On the other hand, when +0 to 30 μm is added in consideration of the feeding error of the ink jet printer 10, it becomes 59 to 89 μm. Further, in consideration of dot thinning in order to reduce light fringes, +40 μm is further added to obtain 100 to 130 μm. In addition to these, considering that the color density of the gap portion filled with dots is equivalent to the surrounding color density, the dot diameter is 100 to 130 μm and the color density of the solid portion and the gap portion is It is preferable to make the difference inconspicuous.

  Subsequently, when it can be determined that the dot diameter is sufficiently large from the one-dot white line, for example, whether the white line portion is filled is determined by determining whether the white line portion is filled with the Y-direction two-dot white line 204 and the X-direction two-dot white line. For 214 (hereinafter referred to as a 2-dot white line). In this example, the 2-dot white line is a white line portion used to determine whether the upper limit of the dot diameter, that is, whether the dot diameter is excessive. When confirming the 2-dot white line, the user observes the horizontal direction of the position of the black triangle 304 and the vertical direction of the position of the white triangle 314 in the same manner as in the case of the 1-dot white line.

  As for the 2-dot white line, it is normal that the white line portion is visible when viewed from any angle. In this case, it can be determined that the dot diameter is not excessive and is in an appropriate size range. On the other hand, when the 2-dot white line is also filled, it can be determined that the dot diameter exceeds the upper limit and is excessive.

  In this example, the Y-direction 3-dot white line 206 and the X-direction 3-dot white line 216 (hereinafter referred to as 3-dot white line) are preliminary white-line portions for use as clear white lines with a low possibility of being buried. is there. When judging whether or not the 1-dot white line and the 2-dot white line are visible, it is possible to appropriately determine whether or not the 1-dot white line and the 2-dot white line are visible by checking the contrast with the 3-dot white line. It becomes easy. Further, when any three-dot white line is not visible in the horizontal direction of the black square 306 or the vertical direction of the black square 306, it can be determined that the dot diameter is clearly excessive. .

  According to this example, for example, the diameter of the ink dot in the printing environment where printing is performed can be appropriately confirmed. In addition, for example, by forming each white line portion with a sufficient space in a state where the periphery is filled, visual observation can be easily performed. Further, by forming a plurality of each white line portion in two orthogonal directions, the state of the white line portion can be more appropriately confirmed.

  Therefore, according to the present example, it is possible to confirm whether or not the dot diameter is insufficient at the user level by an easy determination method without using a special measurement device or the like. Thereby, for example, the diameter of dots formed on the medium 50 can be appropriately confirmed.

  In addition, it is easy to prevent the occurrence of the white streak problem by checking by the user himself / herself about the shortage of the diameter of the dots that are likely to cause white streak. Also, for example, in the case of an image quality problem such as the occurrence of white streak in the user's environment, for example, by exchanging information with a manufacturer engineer by telephone or the like, using the white line formation pattern unit 102, It will be possible to receive confirmation and advice regarding lack of diameter. In addition, manufacturers' engineers can make more appropriate judgments and advice without going to the site.

  Here, in this example, the test pattern 100 (see FIG. 2) has a plurality of white line formation pattern portions 102 corresponding to the plurality of discharge amount designation patterns 150a to 150c formed with different discharge amount settings. . In the confirmation of the white line formation pattern portion 102, for example, first, it is determined whether or not a one-dot white line is filled in the white line formation pattern portion 102 of the discharge amount designation pattern 150c having the largest discharge amount setting. Is preferred.

  In this case, if the white line forming pattern portion 102 of the discharge amount specifying pattern 150c is in a state where one dot white line is filled, at least the printing environment in which the test pattern 100 is printed, for example, the inkjet printer 10, the medium 50, and the installation. It can be quickly determined visually that a sufficient dot diameter can be achieved in a combination of environments.

  In addition, in the white line formation pattern portion 102 of the ejection amount designation pattern 150c, it can be seen that when the one-dot white line is not filled, the dot diameter is insufficient in the printing environment. Therefore, for example, it can be appropriately determined at an early stage that the diameter of the dot is insufficient in the medium 50 being used. Further, this makes it possible to change the type of the medium 50 and the like, so that the use of the medium 50 with insufficient dot diameter is reduced.

  Further, when the white line formation pattern portion 102 of the discharge amount designation pattern 150c confirms that the diameter of the dot can be sufficient in the printing environment, for example, the white line formation pattern of the discharge amount designation pattern 150a and the discharge amount designation pattern 150b Further, based on the confirmation result of the unit 102, it is possible to set the printing conditions in accordance with the printing environment. Hereinafter, setting of printing conditions will be described in more detail.

  FIG. 4B is a diagram for explaining an example of setting of printing conditions, and shows an example of a table used for setting of printing conditions. The setting of the printing condition described below is a setting of the ejection amount of ink ejected per one dot of large ink (hereinafter referred to as “Large setting”). The setting value of the Large setting is changed by, for example, changing the setting of the dot diameter or the dot size in the profile information indicating the printing condition.

  In the table, L3 indicates the observation result of a one-dot white line in the discharge amount designation pattern 150a. L6 indicates the observation result of a one-dot white line in the discharge amount designation pattern 150b. L9 indicates an observation result of a one-dot white line in the discharge amount designation pattern 150c. Cases 1 to 3 show results in different printing environments.

  In the case of the printing environment indicated as Case 1, the 1-dot white line is not filled with the ink discharge amount at the settings of L3 and L6, and is filled at the setting of L9. Therefore, in this case, the Large setting is larger than that in the case of L6. For example, it is conceivable to set any one of 7, 8, and 9 as a guide.

  In the case of the printing environment shown as Case 2, the 1-dot white line is not filled with the setting of L3, and is filled with the settings of L6 and L9. Therefore, in this case, it is conceivable that the Large setting is set larger than that in the case of L3 and is set to any one of 5, 6, and 7 as values before and after L6.

  In the case of the printing environment indicated as Case 3, the 1-dot white line is filled with any setting of L3, L6, and L9. Therefore, in this case, it is conceivable that the Large setting is set to any one of 3, 4, and 5 less than L6.

  As described above, according to this example, for example, after preparing the printing environment, the test pattern 100 is printed, and the determination can be made by visual observation, whereby the printing conditions can be appropriately set. Further, in setting the printing conditions, for example, by observing visually the degree of filling of the one-dot white line in the discharge amount designation patterns 150a to 150c with different discharge amount settings and collating with a predetermined table, the large setting is set. Appropriate selection of settings.

  Thereby, for example, it is possible to appropriately set the printing conditions in the ink jet printer. Further, by appropriately setting the printing conditions, for example, high quality printing can be appropriately performed.

  As mentioned above, although this invention was demonstrated using embodiment, the technical scope of this invention is not limited to the range as described in the said embodiment. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications or improvements can be added to the above embodiment. It is apparent from the description of the scope of claims that embodiments with such changes or improvements can be included in the technical scope of the present invention.

  The present invention can be suitably used for an inkjet printer, for example.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... Inkjet printer, 12 ... Inkjet head, 14 ... Control part, 50 ... Medium, 100 ... Test pattern, 102 ... White line formation pattern part, 104 ... Confirm feed amount Pattern portion, 106... Dot position confirmation pattern portion, 150 a, 150 b, 150 c... Discharge amount designation pattern, 200... Solid region, 202. Direction 2-dot white line, 206 ... Y-direction 3-dot white line, 212 ... X-direction 1-dot white line, 214 ... X-direction 2-dot white line, 216 ... X-direction 3-dot white line, 302 ... Black circle 304, black triangle, 306 ... black square, 312 ... white circle, 314 ... white triangle, 316 ... white square, 402 ... leader line

Claims (5)

A method for determining the size of dots for determining the size suitability of dots formed by ink ejected from an inkjet head provided in an inkjet printer that performs printing by an inkjet method,
A test pattern used for checking the operation of the inkjet printer is printed on the inkjet head,
By visually checking the test pattern, determine the size suitability of the dots,
The test pattern is
Except for the white line portion formed by not ejecting ink from the inkjet head, it comprises a white line forming pattern portion that fills a certain area with ink ejected from the inkjet head,
The white line forming pattern part is the white line part.
A plurality of first direction first white lines that are a plurality of the white line portions each extending in the first direction with a width of at least one dot formed by ink ejected from the inkjet head;
A plurality of first direction second white lines that are a plurality of the white line portions respectively extending in the first direction with a width wider than the first direction first white line;
A plurality of second direction first white lines that are a plurality of the white line portions each extending in a second direction orthogonal to the first direction with a width of at least one dot;
A plurality of second direction second white lines that are a plurality of the white line portions respectively extending in the second direction with a width wider than the second direction first white line;
The test pattern is formed on the medium by visually comparing the first white line in the first direction and the first white line in the second direction with the second white line in the first direction and the second white line in the second direction. Is a pattern capable of determining whether the size of the dot is appropriate,
When the dot size is appropriate, in the test pattern, at least a part of the white line portion of the first direction first white line and the second direction first white line is ejected from the inkjet head. And determining the size of the dots so that the first white line in the first direction and the white line portion in the second white line in the second direction can be seen without being filled. . Each of the plurality of first direction first white lines is formed with a certain interval of 3 mm or more in the second direction,
2. The dot size determination method according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of second white lines in the second direction is formed with a certain interval of 3 mm or more in the first direction. The white line forming pattern portion is
It is a line formed by ink ejected from the inkjet head, and has a lead-out line formed on each extension line of the first white line in the first direction and the first white line in the second direction. Item 3. A method for determining a dot size according to Item 1 or 2. The inkjet printer can change the amount of ink discharged per one dot of the ink,
4. The dot size determination method according to claim 1, wherein the test pattern includes a plurality of the white line formation pattern portions that are formed with different settings of the ejection amount. 5. The test pattern is
A feed amount confirmation pattern portion used for confirming setting of a feed amount for moving the medium relative to the inkjet head;
5. The dot size determination method according to claim 1, further comprising a dot position confirmation pattern portion used for confirming the setting of the position of the dot formed on the medium.

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