JP6324307B2 - Inkjet printing apparatus and printing method - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a printing apparatus, and more particularly, to an inkjet printing apparatus capable of performing variable printing (variable printing) on preprinted printing paper.

  Conventionally, variable data may be printed by reprinting on a printing paper on which a standard format image has already been printed, such as printing a form or an invoice. Such printing is generally called variable printing (variable printing). When variable printing is performed, first, for example, as shown in FIG. 21, a standard format image is printed on a printing paper. In the following, a standard format image that is printed on a printing sheet in advance before printing of variable data is referred to as a “pre-printed image”. In the example shown in FIG. 21, a preprinted image including the frame image in the address input field 91 and the frame image in the detail input field 92 is printed on the printing paper. After the preprinted image is printed by offset printing or the like, variable data reprint printing is performed on the preprinted printing paper using, for example, an inkjet printing apparatus. Thereby, for example, a print result as shown in FIG. 22 in which variable data is printed in the address input field 91 and the detail input field 92 is obtained.

  By the way, in the variable printing described above, the variable data is not always printed accurately at the target position in the pre-printed image. For example, when variable data is printed on the preprinted printing paper shown in FIG. 21, a printing result as shown in FIG. 23 may be obtained. In the example shown in FIG. 23, a part of variable data is printed on the frame of the address input field 91 and the detail input field 92. That is, a positional deviation has occurred. Possible causes of such misregistration include, for example, limitations on the accuracy of hardware and expansion / contraction of printing paper due to environmental changes such as temperature and humidity. For this reason, conventionally, when variable printing is performed, an operation for adjusting the print position of variable data to a target position in a pre-printed image (hereinafter, this operation is simply referred to as “alignment”). ")." In the following, printing performed for alignment is referred to as “test printing”.

  With reference to FIG. 24, an alignment procedure using a conventional inkjet printing apparatus will be described. First, the conveyance of the printing paper is started to perform test printing (step S900). Thereafter, the position of the preprinted mark on the printing paper is detected by a sensor provided in the vicinity of the inkjet head (step S910). Note that the pre-print mark is a mark that is printed in advance on a print sheet in order to determine a reference position when variable data is printed (follow-up printing). That is, the preprint mark is a part of the preprint image. However, the pre-print mark is usually printed in an area to be cut in a later process.

  When the position of the preprint mark is detected, a print position (a reference position for printing variable data) is set based on the detected position of the preprint mark (step S920). Thereafter, the printing paper is conveyed to the position of the inkjet head, and test printing is performed (step S930). In step S930, printing for one sheet may be performed, or printing for several sheets may be performed.

  After the test printing is performed, the conveyance of the printing paper is once stopped (step S940). Then, the operator checks the layout (printing state) by visually checking the test-printed printing paper (step S950), and determines whether there is a problem with the layout (step S960). As a result, if the operator determines that there is no problem with the layout, the main printing is started (step S990). On the other hand, if the operator determines that correction of the print position is necessary, the process proceeds to step S970.

  In step S970, the operator inputs a correction value to the control unit that controls the operation of the inkjet head. The input of the correction value is typically performed by designating numerically the amount of deviation in the main scanning direction and the amount of deviation in the sub-scanning direction. Thereafter, the print position is reset based on the correction value input in step S970 and the already set print position (step S980). Thereafter, the conveyance of the printing paper is resumed (step S985), and the process returns to step S930. Thus, test printing is performed based on the reset print position (step S930), and visual confirmation of the layout (step S950) is performed again after the printing paper conveyance is stopped (step S940).

  As described above, a series of operations including “test printing, visual layout confirmation, input of correction values” and the like are repeated until a desired layout is obtained. Since the layout confirmation is performed visually, this series of operations is usually repeated a plurality of times. In particular, when numerical data such as monetary amounts is printed as variable data in a small frame, the frame line and the numerical value overlap each other if the numerical data print position is slightly shifted from the target position. This work is repeated many times. As described above, the above series of operations is generally repeated about 5 times. As described above, occurrence of misalignment when variable printing is performed using an inkjet printing apparatus is prevented.

  The following prior art documents are known in relation to the present invention. Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-153208 includes a position detection sensor for detecting the position of a mark printed on a printing paper in advance and a speed detection sensor for detecting the conveyance speed of the printing paper, and the mark detected by the position detection sensor. An invention of an ink jet recording apparatus that controls a drive start timing of a recording head based on a position and a conveyance speed detected by a speed detection sensor is disclosed.

JP 2005-153208 A

  However, according to the alignment using the conventional inkjet printing apparatus, the conveyance of the printing paper is stopped each time when the test printing is performed and the visual layout confirmation is performed. For this reason, a great amount of time is required from the start to the end of the alignment operation. This will be described in detail below.

  As described above, a series of operations including “test printing, visual layout confirmation, correction value input” and the like are conventionally repeated about five times during the alignment operation. By the way, when printing is performed by the ink jet printing apparatus, it takes time to prepare and retreat the ink jet head. For example, a printing start operation (operation from when printing is stopped until printing is started) takes about one minute, and a printing end operation (operation from when printing ends until the apparatus stops) ) Takes about 1 minute. Therefore, when the above series of operations is repeated five times, the print start operation and the print end operation require a total time of about 10 minutes. Further, considering the actual printing time and the time required to determine and input the correction value, the alignment work takes about 30 minutes, for example. Thus, since much time is required for alignment, productivity of variable printing has been lower than before.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide an ink jet printing apparatus that can reduce the time required for alignment work when variable printing is performed.

A first invention is an inkjet printing apparatus that performs printing by ejecting ink onto a printing paper on which a preprinted image is printed,
A transport unit for transporting the printing paper;
A first mark detection unit for detecting a position of a first mark included in the preprinted image;
A print position setting unit that sets a print position based on the position of the first mark detected by the first mark detection unit;
A printing unit that performs printing on the printing paper based on the printing position set by the printing position setting unit;
An area designating unit for designating an area for checking a printing state among the areas on the printing paper;
An imaging unit that captures an image of an area designated by the area designation unit;
A display unit for displaying an image captured by the imaging unit;
A correction value input unit for inputting a correction value for adjusting a print position after an image captured by the imaging unit is displayed on the display unit;
When the correction value is input by the correction value input unit, the print position setting unit resets the print position based on the input correction value and the already set print position,
Until the printing by the printing unit is performed based on the printing position reset by the printing position setting unit after the printing is first performed by the printing unit after the conveyance of the printing paper by the conveyance unit is started. The conveyance of the printing paper by the conveyance unit is continued.

According to a second invention, in the first invention,
The printing unit stops printing on the printing paper during a period after printing on the printing paper until printing is performed based on the reset printing position.

According to a third invention, in the second invention,
The printing unit performs flushing during a period after printing on the printing paper until printing is performed based on the reset printing position.

According to a fourth invention, in any one of the first to third inventions,
When a correction value is input by the correction value input unit, an image printed after the print position is reset based on the correction value is displayed on the display unit as an image captured by the imaging unit. The correction value input unit stops accepting correction value input.

According to a fifth invention, in any one of the first to fourth inventions,
The display unit also displays a scale for measuring a distance when displaying an image captured by the imaging unit.

According to a sixth invention, in any one of the first to fifth inventions,
The printing unit prints a second mark when printing on the printing paper,
The image pickup unit picks up an image of a region specified by the region specifying unit with reference to the position of the second mark on the printing paper.

A seventh invention is a printing method for performing printing by discharging ink onto a printing paper on which a preprinted image is printed,
A first mark detection step of detecting a position of a first mark included in the preprinted image;
A print position setting step for setting a print position based on the position of the first mark detected in the first mark detection step;
A printing step for printing on the printing paper based on the printing position set in the printing position setting step;
An area designating step for designating an area for checking a printing state among the areas on the printing paper;
An imaging step of capturing an image of the area specified in the area specifying step;
A display step for displaying the image captured in the imaging step;
A correction value input step of inputting a correction value for adjusting the print position after the image captured in the imaging step is displayed in the display step,
After the correction value is input in the correction value input step, in the print position setting step, the print position is reset based on the correction value input in the correction value input step and the already set print position. ,
From the first printing in the printing step after the start of conveyance of the printing paper until the printing in the printing step is performed based on the printing position reset in the printing position setting step. It is characterized in that the conveyance of the is continued.

An eighth invention is an inkjet printing apparatus that performs printing by ejecting ink onto a printing paper on which a preprinted image is printed,
A first mark detection unit for detecting a position of a first mark included in the preprinted image;
A print position setting unit that sets a print position based on the position of the first mark detected by the first mark detection unit;
A printing unit that performs printing on the printing paper based on the printing position set by the printing position setting unit;
An imaging unit that images the first mark and a second mark printed on the printing paper when printing by the printing unit is performed;
A relative position detection unit that detects a relative position of the first mark and the second mark with respect to the other of the first mark and the second mark based on images of the first mark and the second mark captured by the imaging unit;
A storage unit for storing position data representing a position on the printing paper on the specifications of the first mark and the second mark;
A correction value calculation unit that calculates a correction value for adjusting the print position by comparing the position data stored in the storage unit and the relative position detected by the relative position detection unit;
The printing position setting unit resets the printing position based on the correction value calculated by the correction value calculation unit and the already set printing position.

In a ninth aspect based on the eighth aspect,
The correction value calculation unit includes a value corresponding to a difference in the conveyance direction of the printing paper between the position data and the relative position detected by the relative position detection unit, and a difference in a direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction of the printing paper. A value corresponding to is used as the correction value.

In a tenth aspect based on the eighth or ninth aspect,
The printing paper is composed of a real image area relatively located at the center and an out-of-frame area relatively located at the end,
The first mark and the second mark are printed in the out-of-frame area.

In an eleventh aspect based on the tenth aspect,
The first mark and the second mark are printed on one imaginary line parallel to the conveyance direction of the printing paper.

A twelfth invention is a printing method for performing printing by ejecting ink onto a printing paper on which a preprinted image is printed,
A first mark detection step of detecting a position of a first mark included in the preprinted image;
A print position setting step for setting a print position based on the position of the first mark detected in the first mark detection step;
A printing step for printing on the printing paper based on the printing position set in the printing position setting step;
An imaging step of imaging the first mark and a second mark printed on the printing paper when printing is performed in the printing step;
A relative position detecting step of detecting a relative position of the first mark and the second mark with respect to the other one based on the images of the first mark and the second mark imaged in the imaging step;
Correction for adjusting the print position by comparing position data representing the position on the print sheet with respect to the specifications of the first mark and the second mark and the relative position detected in the relative position detection step. A correction value calculation step for calculating a value,
In the print position setting step, the print position is reset based on the correction value calculated in the correction value calculation step and the already set print position.

In a thirteenth aspect based on the twelfth aspect,
Rewinding that rewinds the printing paper during a period from when printing is first performed at the printing step to when printing at the printing step is performed based on the printing position reset at the printing position setting step. The method further includes a step.

  According to the first aspect, the image of the area specified by the area specifying unit is displayed on the display unit after printing. The operator can determine a correction value for adjusting the printing position by looking at the image displayed on the display unit. Then, the print position is reset by the print position setting unit based on the correction value, and printing is performed based on the reset print position. Through the period in which such work (positioning work when variable printing is performed) is performed, the transport of the printing paper by the transport unit is continued. That is, the printing start operation and the printing end operation are each performed only once during the alignment operation. For this reason, the operator can quickly complete the alignment operation without spending a great deal of time for the print start operation and the print end operation. As described above, an ink jet printing apparatus capable of reducing the time required for the alignment operation when variable printing is performed as compared with the conventional art is realized.

  According to the second aspect, printing on the printing paper is stopped between the test printing and the next test printing during the alignment operation. For this reason, useless consumption of ink can be reduced.

  According to the third aspect, flushing is performed between the test print and the next test print during the alignment operation. For this reason, it is possible to reduce wasteful consumption of ink while preventing the nozzles from drying.

  According to the fourth aspect, when a correction value is input, the correction value cannot be input until a printed image is displayed on the display unit after the print position is reset based on the correction value. It becomes. As a result, the operator can easily determine whether the captured image displayed on the display unit has been updated after the correction value is input.

  According to the fifth aspect, the scale for measuring the distance is displayed on the display unit together with the captured image, so that the operator can easily determine the correction value. This effectively shortens the time required for the alignment operation.

  According to the sixth aspect of the invention, in the ink jet printing apparatus in which the image of the area designated by the area designation unit is picked up based on the position of the second mark, any one of the first to fifth aspects of the invention Similar effects can be obtained.

  According to the seventh aspect, the same effect as the first aspect can be achieved in the invention of the printing method.

  According to the eighth aspect, when printing is performed, the first mark and the second mark are picked up by the image pickup unit, and based on the picked-up image, the relative position with respect to one of the first mark and the second mark. Is detected by the relative position detector. Then, the correction value for adjusting the print position is obtained by comparing the position data (relative position in the specification) held in the storage unit with the relative position detected by the relative position detection unit. Is calculated by Further, the print position is reset based on the correction value calculated by the correction value calculation unit. As described above, alignment is performed when variable printing is performed without requiring operator work. For this reason, the work efficiency of variable printing improves. In addition, the alignment operation can be completed in a short time without being related to the skill level of the operator. As described above, an ink jet printing apparatus capable of reducing the time required for the alignment operation when variable printing is performed as compared with the conventional art is realized.

  According to the ninth aspect, since the correction value is accurately calculated, the alignment is performed reliably.

  According to the tenth aspect of the invention, the same effect as that of the eighth or ninth aspect can be obtained while effectively utilizing the out-of-frame region of the printing paper.

  According to the eleventh aspect, the same effect as in the tenth aspect can be obtained.

  According to the twelfth aspect, the same effects as in the eighth aspect can be achieved in the invention of the printing method.

  According to the thirteenth aspect, since the printing paper is rewound between the test printing and the next test printing, it is possible to prevent a blank sheet from being generated between the two sheets on which the test printing is performed. It becomes. Therefore, it is possible to reduce wasteful consumption of printing paper.

1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an overall configuration of an inkjet printing apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure for demonstrating the specification regarding the position on the printing paper about the mark (pre-print mark and start mark) used in the said 1st Embodiment. In the said 1st Embodiment, it is a top view which shows one structural example of a printing part. In the said 1st Embodiment, it is a figure for demonstrating an area | region designation | designated part. In the said 1st Embodiment, it is a figure for demonstrating an area | region designation | designated part. In the said 1st Embodiment, it is a figure for demonstrating the correction value input part. In the said 1st Embodiment, it is a figure for demonstrating the correction value input part. In the said 1st Embodiment, it is a figure for demonstrating the correction value input part. In the said 1st Embodiment, it is a figure for demonstrating the correction value input part. In the said 1st Embodiment, it is a figure which shows the example of a screen which displayed the ruler with the captured image. In the said 1st Embodiment, it is a flowchart for demonstrating the procedure of alignment. It is a figure for demonstrating the operation example (1st example) in the said 1st Embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the example of operation (2nd example) in the said 1st Embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the example of operation (3rd example) in the said 1st Embodiment. It is a schematic diagram which shows the whole structure of the inkjet printing apparatus which concerns on the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. In the said 2nd Embodiment, it is a figure for demonstrating the detection of a relative position, and calculation of a correction value. In the said 2nd Embodiment, it is a figure for demonstrating the detection of a relative position. In the said 2nd Embodiment, it is a flowchart for demonstrating the procedure of alignment. It is a figure for demonstrating the example of operation (1st example) in the said 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the example of operation (2nd example) in the said 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating the variable printing by reprint. It is a figure for demonstrating the variable printing by reprint. It is a figure for demonstrating that variable data is not necessarily printed correctly in the target position in a preprinted image. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the procedure of the alignment in a prior art example.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

<1. First Embodiment>
<1.1 Configuration of inkjet printing apparatus>
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an overall configuration of an inkjet printing apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The inkjet printing apparatus 10 includes an unwinding unit 102, a first driving roller 103, a plurality of support rollers 104, a second driving roller 105, a winding unit 106, a control unit 110, a sensor 120, a printing unit 130, and a drying unit. The unit 140, the camera 150, and the display unit 160 are configured. The control unit 110 includes a print position setting unit 112, a correction value input unit 114, and an area designation unit 116. In FIG. 1, the printing paper is denoted by reference numeral 101.

  In the inkjet printing apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment, variable printing is performed on the preprinted printing paper 101. A pre-print mark is printed on the pre-printed printing paper 101 as in the prior art. Further, in the ink jet printing apparatus 10, for example, a start mark is printed on the printing paper 101 as a reference when imaging with a camera 150 described later is performed. The pre-printed printing paper 101 is typically provided in the form of roll paper.

  Here, with reference to FIG. 2, specifications regarding the positions on the printing paper for the marks (pre-print mark 31 and start mark 32) used in the present embodiment will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, the printing paper 101 includes an actual image area 33 that is an area on which an image to be included in a printed material as a finished product is printed, and out-of-frame areas 34 and 35 that are areas to be cut in a later process. Consists of. As can be understood from FIG. 2, both the preprint mark 31 and the start mark 32 are printed on the out-of-frame area 34. That is, if one virtual line parallel to the conveyance direction of the printing paper 101 is drawn in the out-of-frame region 34, the preprint mark 31 and the start mark 32 are both printed on the virtual line in terms of specifications. In the present embodiment, the preprint mark 31 and the start mark 32 are rectangular, and the sizes of both are the same. In the present embodiment, a coordinate 37 of a position advanced 16 mm in the conveyance direction of the printing paper 101 from the upper left coordinate 36 of the pre-print mark 31 is set as the origin of the print image. The start mark 32 is printed so that the upper left coordinate coincides with the origin of the print image. Therefore, when the start mark 32 is printed on the printing paper 101 as specified, the upper left coordinate of the start mark 32 coincides with the coordinate of the position advanced 16 mm from the upper left coordinate 36 of the pre-print mark 31 in the transport direction of the printing paper 101. To do.

  Next, the operation of each component shown in FIG. 1 will be described. The unwinding unit 102 stores the printing paper 101 to be supplied to the printing mechanism. In the present embodiment, the preprinted printing paper 101 is stored in advance in the unwinding unit 102 before printing by the inkjet printing apparatus 10 is performed. The first drive roller 103 unwinds the printing paper 101 from the unwinding unit 102 and conveys the printing paper 101 to the center of the printing mechanism. The support roller 104 supports the printing paper 101 when the printing paper 101 is conveyed. The second drive roller 105 outputs the printing paper 101 from the inside of the printing mechanism to the winding unit 106. The winding unit 106 winds up the printed printing paper 101 and stores the rolled up printing paper 101.

  The printing unit 130 performs printing by ejecting ink onto the printing paper 101. FIG. 3 is a plan view illustrating a configuration example of the printing unit 130. As shown in FIG. 3, the printing unit 130 has C (cyan), M (magenta), Y (yellow), and K (black) colors arranged in the transport direction of the printing paper 101. It is composed of inkjet head rows 300C, 300M, 300Y, and 300K. Each inkjet head row is composed of a plurality of inkjet heads 310 arranged in a staggered pattern. Each inkjet head 310 includes a plurality of nozzles that eject ink. The configuration shown in FIG. 3 is an example, and the present invention is not limited to this.

  The sensor 120 detects the position of the preprint mark 31 on the print paper 101. The drying unit 140 dries the printing paper 101 after printing. The camera 150 captures an image of a region designated by the region designation unit 116 as described later with reference to the start mark 32 printed by the printing unit 130. The display unit 160 displays an image (captured image) captured by the camera 150.

  The area designating unit 116 accepts designation by the operator of an area on the printing paper 101 for confirming the printing state. The specification of this area will be described in detail. Here, it is assumed that printing by the inkjet printing apparatus 10 is performed on the printing paper 101 including the preprinted image as illustrated in FIG. FIG. 4 shows one sheet of printing paper 101. On the printing paper 101 shown in FIG. 4, the frame of the address input column 41 and the frame of the detail input column 42 are printed by pre-printing as images representing variable data areas. That is, in the inkjet printing apparatus 10, variable data is printed in the address input field 41 and the detail input field 42. The area designation unit 116 displays, for example, a layout screen for one sheet of the printing paper 101 (a layout screen as shown in FIG. 4) on the display unit 160, and accepts designation of the area by the operator. When the operator desires to perform alignment based on the printing state in the address input column 41, the operator designates an area as indicated by a thick frame 43 in FIG. Note that the method of designating the region is not limited to this, and for example, the operator may designate the coordinates of the four points that specify the region for confirming the printing state with numerical values. When an area is designated by the area designation unit 116 as described above, an image of the designated area is captured by the camera 150.

  The correction value input unit 114 receives an input by the operator regarding the correction value for alignment. This correction value input will be described in detail. Here, it is assumed that a print result (captured image) as shown in FIG. 7 is obtained when the address is desired to be printed in the address input field 41 as shown in FIG. In such a case, the operator inputs the correction value so that the printing position of the address moves as a whole in the upper left direction. At that time, the correction value input unit 114 displays a screen as shown in FIG. 8 on the display unit 160, for example, and accepts an input of a correction value by the operator. In the screen shown in FIG. 8, it is possible to specify the moving direction and moving distance of the printing position. More specifically, it is possible to designate a movement distance in the sub-scanning direction (“up” or “down”) and a movement distance in the main scanning direction (“left” or “right”). In the above example, the operator inputs a correction value as shown in FIG.

  When the captured image is displayed on the display unit 160, rulers (scales indicating distances) 44 and 45 may be displayed as shown in FIG. This facilitates determination of the correction value by the operator and effectively reduces the time required for the alignment operation.

  In addition, the correction value input unit 114 performs correction values until the printed image is displayed on the display unit 160 as a captured image after the correction value is input and the print position is reset based on the correction value. The acceptance of the input may be stopped. As a result, the operator can easily determine whether the captured image displayed on the display unit 160 has been updated after the correction value is input.

  The print position setting unit 112 sets a print position (a position serving as a reference when printing variable data) based on the position of the preprint mark 31 detected by the sensor 120. In addition, after the correction value is input by the correction value input unit 114, the print position setting unit 112 resets the print position based on the input correction value and the already set print position. When the printing position is reset by the printing position setting unit 112, the next printing by the printing unit 130 is performed based on the reset printing position.

  In the present embodiment, the first drive roller 103, the support roller 104, and the second drive roller 105 realize a conveyance unit, the sensor 120 realizes a first mark detection unit, and the camera 150 uses an imaging unit. Is realized.

<1.2 Positioning procedure>
Next, an alignment procedure using the inkjet printing apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  First, the operator uses the area designating unit 116 to designate an area for confirming the printing state among the areas on the printing paper 101 (step S100). The area specified in step S100 is an area where imaging by the camera 150 is performed. After designating the area, the conveyance of the printing paper 101 is started to perform test printing (step S110). Thereafter, the position of the pre-print mark 31 on the printing paper 101 is detected by the sensor 120 (step S120). Then, based on the position of the preprint mark 31 detected in step S120, the print position is set by the print position setting unit 112 (step S130).

  Thereafter, the printing paper 101 is conveyed to the position of the printing unit 130, and test printing is performed on the printing paper 101 by the printing unit 130 (step S140). After the test printing, the area designated in step S100 is imaged by the camera 150 (step S150). An image (captured image) obtained by imaging with the camera 150 is displayed on the display unit 160 (step S160). When the captured image is displayed on the display unit 160, the operator visually confirms the layout (printing state) based on the captured image (step S170), and determines whether there is a problem with the layout (step S170). S180). As a result, if the operator determines that there is no problem with the layout, the process proceeds to step S300. On the other hand, if the operator determines that the printing position needs to be corrected, the process proceeds to step S200.

  In step S <b> 200, the operator inputs a correction value using the correction value input unit 114. When the correction value is input, the print position is reset based on the input correction value and the already set print position (step S210). After the end of step S210, the process returns to step S140. Thus, test printing is performed from the next sheet based on the reset print position (step S140). Then, the designated area is imaged (step S150), the captured image is displayed (step S160), and the layout is visually confirmed (step S170).

  In step S300, the conveyance of the printing paper 101 is stopped (step S300). This process is performed, for example, when the operator presses a conveyance stop button provided in the inkjet printing apparatus 10. After the conveyance of the printing paper 101 is stopped, the operator confirms the layout (printing state) by visually observing the printing paper on which test printing has been completed (step S310). Thereafter, actual printing is started (step S320), and the alignment operation is completed.

  By the way, as understood from FIG. 11, in this embodiment, after the conveyance of the printing paper 101 is started in step S110, the conveyance of the printing paper 101 is stopped until the conveyance of the printing paper 101 is stopped in step S300. Will continue. That is, the operator performs an alignment operation while the printing paper 101 is continuously conveyed.

  In the present embodiment, the region designation step is realized by step S100, the first mark detection step is realized by step S120, the print position setting step is realized by step S130 and step S210, and the print step is executed by step S140. Realized, an imaging step is realized in step S150, a display step is realized in step S160, and a correction value input step is realized in step S200.

<1.3 Operation example>
Next, three examples will be described as operation examples of the alignment work. In the following three examples, the operations of the printing unit 130 are different from each other.

<1.3.1 First Example>
An operation mode in which test printing is continuously performed throughout the alignment period will be described as a first example. FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining the first example. First, as shown in FIG. 12A, the preprinted printing paper 101 is conveyed to the position of the printing unit 130, and test printing is performed on the sheet at the position of the printing unit 130. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 12B, the sheet on which the test printing has been performed is conveyed to the position of the camera 150, and the camera 150 images the sheet. The captured image is displayed on the display unit 160, and the operator determines a correction value based on the captured image displayed on the display unit 160. Then, as shown in FIG. 12C, the operator gives the correction value to the control unit 110 (inputs the correction value using the correction value input unit 114). Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 12D, the printing position reset by the control unit 110 is given to the printing unit 130, and test printing based on the reset printing position is performed.

  As described above, in the first example, the test sheet is continuously applied to the sheet passing through the position of the print unit 130 until the test print based on the reset print position is performed after the first test print is performed. Test printing is performed.

<1.3.2 Second Example>
A second example of an operation mode in which flushing is performed from a test print based on a certain print position to a next test print based on a reset print position during a period in which the alignment is performed Will be described. FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining the second example. First, as shown in FIG. 13A, the preprinted printing paper 101 is conveyed to the position of the printing unit 130, and test printing is performed on the sheet at the position of the printing unit 130. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 13B, the sheet on which the test printing has been performed is conveyed to the position of the camera 150. At this time, unlike the first example, after the test printing is performed on the first sheet, the printing unit 130 performs the flushing without performing the test printing. A sheet on which test printing has been performed is captured by the camera 150, and the captured image is displayed on the display unit 160. The operator determines a correction value based on the captured image displayed on the display unit 160. Then, as shown in FIG. 13C, the operator gives the correction value to the control unit 110 (inputs the correction value using the correction value input unit 114). Even during the period in which the operator determines the correction value and inputs the correction value in this way, the printing unit 130 performs flushing without performing test printing. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 13D, the printing position reset by the control unit 110 is given to the printing unit 130, and test printing based on the reset printing position is performed.

  As described above, in the second example, the printing unit 130 performs test printing on the printing paper 101 from the first test printing until the test printing based on the reset print position is performed. Keep flushing continuously.

<1.3.3 Third Example>
FIG. 14 is a diagram for explaining the third example. The operation example in which the operation of the printing unit 130 is stopped instead of the flushing in the second example is the third example. Therefore, detailed description of the third example is omitted. In the third example, during the period in which the alignment is performed, the printing unit 130 continues from the test printing based on a certain printing position until the next test printing based on the reset printing position. Stops working.

  By the way, in general, in an inkjet printing apparatus, flushing is performed so that ink is ejected from the nozzles as needed, as in the second example, so that the nozzles are not dried. In this regard, in the third example, since the printing unit 130 stops operating during a period in which the operator determines the correction value, inputs the correction value, and the like, there is a possibility that the nozzles are dried and defective discharge occurs. is there. Therefore, in order to employ this third example, it is necessary to take measures to prevent the nozzles of the inkjet head from drying out.

<1.4 Effect>
According to this embodiment, when variable printing is performed by the inkjet printing apparatus 10, an image of an area designated by the operator is displayed on the display unit 160 after test printing. The operator can determine a correction value for adjusting the printing position by looking at the image displayed on the display unit 160. Then, the print position is reset based on the correction value, and test printing is performed based on the reset print position. The conveyance of the printing paper 101 is continued throughout the period during which such alignment work is performed. That is, the printing start operation and the printing end operation are each performed only once during the alignment operation. Therefore, it is possible to quickly complete the alignment operation without spending a great deal of time for the print start operation and the print end operation. For example, when it takes about 10 minutes to adjust the printing position, assuming that each printing start operation and printing end operation take 1 minute each, the time required for the alignment operation is about 12 minutes. On the other hand, according to the conventional example, since the conveyance of the printing paper is stopped every time the test printing is performed, a great amount of time is spent on the printing start operation and the printing end operation. Therefore, according to the conventional example, as described above, it took about 30 minutes for the alignment work. Thus, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to significantly reduce the time required for alignment as compared with the conventional case. As described above, according to the present embodiment, an ink jet printing apparatus that can shorten the time required for the alignment operation when variable printing is performed as compared with the related art is realized.

<2. Second Embodiment>
<2.1 Configuration of inkjet printing apparatus>
FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing an overall configuration of an inkjet printing apparatus 20 according to the second embodiment of the present invention. The inkjet printing apparatus 20 includes an unwinding unit 202, a first driving roller 203, a plurality of support rollers 204, a second driving roller 205, a winding unit 206, a control unit 210, a sensor 220, a printing unit 230, and a drying unit. The unit 240 and the camera 250 are included. The control unit 210 includes a print position setting unit 212, a relative position detection unit 214, a storage unit 216, and a correction value calculation unit 218. In FIG. 15, the printing paper is denoted by reference numeral 201.

  In the inkjet printing apparatus 20 according to the present embodiment, variable printing is performed on the preprinted printing paper 201. A preprinted mark is printed on the preprinted printing paper 201 as in the prior art. Further, in the inkjet printing apparatus 20, for example, a start mark is printed on the printing paper 201 as a reference when imaging with a camera 250 described later is performed. In the present embodiment, this start mark is also used for alignment. The preprinted printing paper 201 is typically provided in the form of roll paper.

  Here, with reference to FIG. 2, specifications regarding the positions on the printing paper for the marks (pre-print mark 31 and start mark 32) used in the present embodiment will be described. As shown in FIG. 2, the printing paper 201 includes an actual image area 33 that is an area on which an image to be included in a printed material as a finished product is printed, and out-of-frame areas 34 and 35 that are areas to be cut in a later process. Consists of. As can be understood from FIG. 2, both the preprint mark 31 and the start mark 32 are printed on the out-of-frame area 34. That is, if one virtual line parallel to the conveyance direction of the printing paper 201 is drawn in the out-of-frame region 34, the preprint mark 31 and the start mark 32 are both printed on the virtual line in terms of specifications. In the present embodiment, the preprint mark 31 and the start mark 32 are rectangular, and the sizes of both are the same. In the present embodiment, the coordinate 37 of the position advanced 16 mm in the transport direction of the printing paper 201 from the upper left coordinate 36 of the pre-print mark 31 is set as the origin of the print image. The start mark 32 is printed so that the upper left coordinate coincides with the origin of the print image. Therefore, when the start mark 32 is printed on the printing paper 201 as specified, the upper left coordinate of the start mark 32 matches the coordinate of the position advanced 16 mm from the upper left coordinate 36 of the pre-print mark 31 in the conveyance direction of the printing paper 201. To do.

  Next, the operation of each component shown in FIG. 15 will be described. The unwinding unit 202 stores the printing paper 201 to be supplied to the printing mechanism. In the present embodiment, the preprinted printing paper 201 is stored in advance in the unwinding unit 202 before printing by the inkjet printing apparatus 20 is performed. The first drive roller 203 unwinds the printing paper 201 from the unwinding unit 202 and conveys the printing paper 201 to the center of the printing mechanism. The support roller 204 supports the printing paper 201 when the printing paper 201 is conveyed. The second driving roller 205 outputs the printing paper 201 from the inside of the printing mechanism to the winding unit 206. The winding unit 206 winds up the printed printing paper 201 and stores the rolled up printing paper 201.

  The printing unit 230 performs printing by ejecting ink onto the printing paper 201. FIG. 3 is a plan view illustrating a configuration example of the printing unit 230. As shown in FIG. 3, the printing unit 230 includes C (cyan), M (magenta), Y (yellow), and K (black) colors arranged in the transport direction of the printing paper 201. It is composed of inkjet head rows 300C, 300M, 300Y, and 300K. Each inkjet head row is composed of a plurality of inkjet heads 310 arranged in a staggered pattern. Each inkjet head 310 includes a plurality of nozzles that eject ink. The configuration shown in FIG. 3 is an example, and the present invention is not limited to this.

  The sensor 220 detects the position of the preprint mark 31 on the print paper 201. The drying unit 240 dries the printing paper 201 after printing. The camera 250 images the preprint mark 31 and the start mark 32 that are printed on the printing paper 201.

  The relative position detection unit 214 detects the relative position of the preprint mark 31 and the start mark 32 with respect to one of the other based on the images of the preprint mark 31 and the start mark 32 captured by the camera 250. For example, by making the densities of the preprint mark 31 and the start mark 32 different, the relative position detection unit 214 and the sensor 220 described above can distinguish the preprint mark 31 and the start mark 32 from each other.

  The storage unit 216 holds data (position data) indicating the position on the printing paper 201 regarding the preprint mark 31 and the start mark 32 on the specification. The correction value calculation unit 218 calculates a correction value for adjusting the print position by comparing the position data held in the storage unit 216 with the relative position detected by the relative position detection unit 214.

  Here, the detection of the relative position and the calculation of the correction value will be described in detail. Here, it is assumed that a printing result as shown in FIG. 16 is obtained by printing by the printing unit 230. In FIG. 16, when attention is paid to the upper left coordinate 36 of the preprint mark 31 and the upper left coordinate 38 of the start mark 32, the upper left coordinate 38 of the start mark 32 is 15 mm from the upper left coordinate 36 of the preprint mark 31 in the conveyance direction of the printing paper. It is at a position advanced by 2 mm to the right in the conveyance direction of the printing paper. In the present embodiment, the relative position detection unit 214 detects the position of the upper left coordinate 38 of the start mark 32 with respect to the upper left coordinate 36 of the preprinted mark 31 as a relative position. By the way, as described above, the upper left coordinate of the start mark 32 is in a position advanced 16 mm from the upper left coordinate 36 of the pre-print mark 31 in the conveyance direction of the printing paper as described above. Therefore, the difference between the relative position in the specification and the relative position detected by the relative position detection unit 214 is used as a correction value for adjusting the print position. In the example shown in FIG. 16, the upper left coordinate of the start mark 32 is located at a position advanced by 1 mm in the direction opposite to the printing paper conveyance direction and 2 mm to the right in the printing paper conveyance direction from the position on the specification. In order to eliminate such misalignment, the printing position by the printing unit 230 should be moved to a position advanced by 1 mm in the printing paper conveyance direction and 2 mm to the left in the printing paper conveyance direction. That is, when a printing result as shown in FIG. 16 is obtained, the data indicating that the print position is moved by “1 mm in the printing paper conveyance direction and 2 mm to the left in the printing paper conveyance direction” adjusts the printing position. It is a correction value for this. As described above, the numerical value representing the deviation amount in the sub-scanning direction and the numerical value representing the deviation amount in the main scanning direction are used as the correction values.

  Depending on how the printing position is shifted, it is conceivable that a part of the start mark 32 is not printed on the printing paper 201 as shown in FIG. Therefore, the relative position of the preprinted mark 31 and the start mark 32 relative to the other one may be detected based on the lower right coordinate 51 of the preprinted mark 31 and the lower right coordinate 52 of the start mark 32.

  The print position setting unit 212 sets a print position (a reference position for printing variable data) based on the position of the pre-print mark 31 detected by the sensor 220. In addition, after the correction value is calculated by the correction value calculation unit 218, the print position setting unit 112 resets the print position based on the calculated correction value and the already set print position. When the printing position is reset by the printing position setting unit 212, the next printing by the printing unit 230 is performed based on the reset printing position.

  In the present embodiment, the sensor 220 implements a first mark detection unit, and the camera 250 implements an imaging unit.

<2.2 Positioning procedure>
Next, an alignment procedure using the inkjet printing apparatus 20 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  First, conveyance of the printing paper 201 is started to perform test printing (step S400). Thereafter, the position of the pre-print mark 31 on the printing paper 201 is detected by the sensor 220 (step S410). Then, based on the position of the preprint mark 31 detected in step S410, the print position is set by the print position setting unit 212 (step S420).

  Thereafter, the printing paper 201 is conveyed to the position of the printing unit 230, and test printing is performed on the printing paper 201 by the printing unit 230 (step S430). After the test printing, the printing paper 201 is conveyed to the position of the camera 250, and the pre-print mark 31 and the start mark 32 printed on the printing paper 201 are imaged by the camera 250 (step S440). Thereafter, the conveyance of the printing paper 201 is stopped (step S450). Then, based on the captured image obtained in step S440, a relative position with respect to one of the pre-print mark 31 and the start mark 32 is detected (step S460). After the relative position is detected, a correction value is calculated by comparing the position data held in the storage unit 216 with the relative position detected in step S460 (step S470).

  Incidentally, in order to detect the relative position of one of the pre-print mark 31 and the start mark 32 to the other, typically, in step S430, test printing for one sheet is performed. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and test printing for a plurality of sheets may be performed in step S430, and the average value of the relative positions obtained for the plurality of sheets may be used for calculating the correction value in step S470. good.

  When the correction value is calculated in step S470, the print position is reset based on the calculated correction value and the already set print position (step S480). Thereafter, actual printing is started (step S490), and the alignment operation is completed. Note that, before the start of the main printing in step S490, test printing for confirming the printing state may be performed to perform visual layout confirmation.

  In the present embodiment, the first mark detection step is realized by step S410, the print position setting step is realized by step S420 and step S480, the print step is realized by step S430, and the imaging step is realized by step S440. In step S460, a relative position detecting step is realized, and in step S470, a correction value calculating step is realized.

<2.3 Operation example>
Next, two examples will be described as operation examples of the alignment work. In these two examples, after the alignment and before the start of the main printing, the test printing is performed and the layout is visually confirmed.

<2.3.1 First Example>
An operation mode in which the printing paper 201 is not rewound throughout the alignment period will be described as a first example. FIG. 19 is a diagram for explaining the first example. First, as shown in FIG. 19A, the preprinted printing paper 201 is conveyed to the position of the printing unit 230, and test printing is performed on the sheet at the position of the printing unit 230. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 19B, the test-printed sheet is conveyed to the position of the camera 250, and the pre-print mark 31 and the start mark 32 printed on the sheet are imaged by the camera 250. Is called. The control unit 210 resets the print position based on a correction value calculated by comparing the relative position detected from the captured image with the relative position on the specification. The reset printing position is given to the printing unit 230, and test printing based on the reset printing position is performed. Thereafter, the printing paper 201 is conveyed, and as shown in FIG. 19C, the operator visually confirms the layout of the sheet on which the test printing based on the reset printing position is performed.

<2.3.2 Second Example>
An operation mode in which the printing paper 201 is rewound once during the alignment period will be described as a second example. FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining the second example. First, as shown in FIG. 20A, the preprinted printing paper 201 is conveyed to the position of the printing unit 230, and test printing is performed on the sheet at the position of the printing unit 230. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 20B, the sheet on which the test printing has been performed is conveyed to the position of the camera 250, and the pre-print mark 31 and the start mark 32 printed on the sheet are imaged by the camera 250. Is called. Then, the print position is reset by the control unit 210 based on the correction value calculated by comparing the relative position detected from the captured image and the relative position on the specification, and the reset print position is set. Is given to the printing unit 230. At this time, the printing paper 201 is rewound as shown in FIG. Thereafter, as shown in FIG. 20D, the second sheet of the printing paper 201 is conveyed to the position of the printing unit 230, and test printing based on the reset printing position is performed. Thereafter, the printing paper 201 is conveyed, and as shown in FIG. 20E, the operator visually confirms the layout of the sheet on which the test printing based on the reset printing position is performed.

  In the first example, a blank sheet is generated between two sheets on which test printing is performed. According to this second example, the camera 250 performs imaging on the sheet on which the first test printing has been performed. Since the printing paper 201 is rewound once after being broken, a blank sheet does not occur between the two sheets on which test printing is performed. Therefore, useless consumption of the printing paper 201 can be reduced.

<2.4 Effect>
According to the present embodiment, when variable printing is performed by the inkjet printing apparatus 20, the preprint mark 31 and the start mark 32 printed by the printing unit 230 are captured by the camera 250, and the preprint is performed based on the captured image. The relative position of the mark 31 and the start mark 32 relative to the other one is detected by the relative position detector 214. Then, a correction value for adjusting the print position is calculated by the correction value calculation unit 218 by comparing the relative position on the specification held in the storage unit 216 with the relative position detected by the relative position detection unit 214. Calculated. Further, the print position is reset based on the correction value calculated by the correction value calculation unit 218. As described above, alignment is performed when variable printing is performed without requiring operator work. For this reason, the work efficiency of variable printing improves. In addition, the alignment operation can be completed in a short time without being related to the skill level of the operator. As described above, according to the present embodiment, an ink jet printing apparatus that can shorten the time required for the alignment operation when variable printing is performed is realized as compared with the related art.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10, 20 ... Inkjet printer 31 ... Pre-print mark 32 ... Start mark 101, 201 ... Printing paper 110, 210 ... Control part 112, 212 ... Print position setting part 114 ... Correction value input part 116 ... Area designation part 120, 220 ... Sensor 130, 230 ... Printing unit 140,240 ... Drying unit 150,250 ... Camera 160 ... Display unit 214 ... Relative position detection unit 216 ... Storage unit 218 ... Correction value calculation unit

Claims (13)

An inkjet printing apparatus that performs printing by ejecting ink onto a printing paper on which a preprinted image is printed,
A transport unit for transporting the printing paper;
A first mark detection unit for detecting a position of a first mark included in the preprinted image;
A print position setting unit that sets a print position based on the position of the first mark detected by the first mark detection unit;
A printing unit that performs printing on the printing paper based on the printing position set by the printing position setting unit;
An area designating unit for designating an area for checking a printing state among the areas on the printing paper;
An imaging unit that captures an image of an area designated by the area designation unit;
A display unit for displaying an image captured by the imaging unit;
A correction value input unit for inputting a correction value for adjusting a print position after an image captured by the imaging unit is displayed on the display unit;
When the correction value is input by the correction value input unit, the print position setting unit resets the print position based on the input correction value and the already set print position,
Until the printing by the printing unit is performed based on the printing position reset by the printing position setting unit after the printing is first performed by the printing unit after the conveyance of the printing paper by the conveyance unit is started. The inkjet printing apparatus, wherein the conveyance of the printing paper by the conveyance unit is continued.   The printing unit, after printing on the printing paper, stops printing on the printing paper through a period until printing is performed based on a reset printing position. Item 10. The inkjet printing apparatus according to Item 1.   3. The inkjet according to claim 2, wherein the printing unit performs flushing through a period after printing on the printing paper until printing is performed based on a reset print position. Printing device.   When a correction value is input by the correction value input unit, an image printed after the print position is reset based on the correction value is displayed on the display unit as an image captured by the imaging unit. The inkjet printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the correction value input unit stops accepting input of a correction value.   The inkjet printing according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the display unit also displays a scale for measuring a distance when displaying an image captured by the imaging unit. apparatus. The printing unit prints a second mark when printing on the printing paper,
The image pickup unit picks up an image of a region designated by the region designation unit on the basis of the position of the second mark on the printing paper. The inkjet printing apparatus according to item. A printing method for performing printing by ejecting ink onto printing paper on which a preprinted image is printed,
A first mark detection step of detecting a position of a first mark included in the preprinted image;
A print position setting step for setting a print position based on the position of the first mark detected in the first mark detection step;
A printing step for printing on the printing paper based on the printing position set in the printing position setting step;
An area designating step for designating an area for checking a printing state among the areas on the printing paper;
An imaging step of capturing an image of the area specified in the area specifying step;
A display step for displaying the image captured in the imaging step;
A correction value input step of inputting a correction value for adjusting the print position after the image captured in the imaging step is displayed in the display step,
After the correction value is input in the correction value input step, in the print position setting step, the print position is reset based on the correction value input in the correction value input step and the already set print position. ,
From the first printing in the printing step after the start of conveyance of the printing paper until the printing in the printing step is performed based on the printing position reset in the printing position setting step. The printing method is characterized in that the printing is continued. An inkjet printing apparatus that performs printing by ejecting ink onto a printing paper on which a preprinted image is printed,
A first mark detection unit for detecting a position of a first mark included in the preprinted image;
A print position setting unit that sets a print position based on the position of the first mark detected by the first mark detection unit;
A printing unit that performs printing on the printing paper based on the printing position set by the printing position setting unit;
An imaging unit that images the first mark and a second mark printed on the printing paper when printing by the printing unit is performed;
A relative position detection unit that detects a relative position of the first mark and the second mark with respect to the other of the first mark and the second mark based on images of the first mark and the second mark captured by the imaging unit;
A storage unit for storing position data representing a position on the printing paper on the specifications of the first mark and the second mark;
A correction value calculation unit that calculates a correction value for adjusting the print position by comparing the position data stored in the storage unit and the relative position detected by the relative position detection unit;
The ink jet printing apparatus, wherein the print position setting unit resets the print position based on the correction value calculated by the correction value calculation unit and the print position that has already been set.   The correction value calculation unit includes a value corresponding to a difference in the conveyance direction of the printing paper between the position data and the relative position detected by the relative position detection unit, and a difference in a direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction of the printing paper. The inkjet printing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein a value corresponding to is set as the correction value. The printing paper is composed of a real image area relatively located at the center and an out-of-frame area relatively located at the end,
The inkjet printing apparatus according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the first mark and the second mark are printed in the outside-frame region.   11. The inkjet printing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the first mark and the second mark are printed on one imaginary line parallel to a conveyance direction of the printing paper. A printing method for performing printing by ejecting ink onto printing paper on which a preprinted image is printed,
A first mark detection step of detecting a position of a first mark included in the preprinted image;
A print position setting step for setting a print position based on the position of the first mark detected in the first mark detection step;
A printing step for printing on the printing paper based on the printing position set in the printing position setting step;
An imaging step of imaging the first mark and a second mark printed on the printing paper when printing is performed in the printing step;
A relative position detecting step of detecting a relative position of the first mark and the second mark with respect to the other one based on the images of the first mark and the second mark imaged in the imaging step;
Correction for adjusting the print position by comparing position data representing the position on the print sheet with respect to the specifications of the first mark and the second mark and the relative position detected in the relative position detection step. A correction value calculation step for calculating a value,
In the printing position setting step, the printing position is reset based on the correction value calculated in the correction value calculation step and the already set printing position.   Rewinding the printing paper during the period from the first printing in the printing step to the printing in the printing step based on the printing position reset in the printing position setting step The printing method according to claim 12, further comprising a step.

Images