JP6340831B2 - Printing device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a printing apparatus that performs desired printing on a print medium.

  A printing apparatus that performs so-called preheating control during printing is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In this conventional printing apparatus, a plurality of pulse signals (including a main pulse and a sub pulse) are generated for each dot of print data. A heating element (heating element) provided in the printing means (thermal head) is driven by the main pulse or sub-pulse to generate heat, whereby a character string or the like is formed on the printing medium (paper).

  At this time, the preheating control is performed in order to smoothly perform the heat generation in the heat generating element. That is, when the heat generation by the main pulse is performed in one specific dot, a sub pulse is generated for a predetermined preheating target dot preceding the specific dot in the transport direction. As a result, heat generation by the main pulse is performed in the specific one dot in a state in which it is sufficiently preheated by the sub-pulse for the preheating target dot, so that it is possible to reliably perform color development in the specific dot.

JP 2013-10200 A

  However, the following problems exist in the above-described conventional technology. That is, depending on the pulse generation situation around the preheating target dot, the heating element is already heated to some extent at the driving timing corresponding to the dot, and if the subpulse is output by the preheating control, preheating is excessive. There is. When such excessive preheating occurs, there is a possibility that unnecessary color development may occur in dots that are originally intended to be non-colored other than dots that are originally intended to be colored.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a printing apparatus that can prevent unnecessary color development due to excessive preheating and improve printing quality.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention includes a conveying means for conveying the printing medium in a predetermined conveying direction, on the basis of print data representing a character string or iconography column, the string or the Rare column containing Peeled Based on the image data generated by the image data generating means, the image data generating means for generating a dot pattern consisting of a plurality of dots arranged in the transport direction and an orthogonal direction orthogonal to the transport direction. A pulse signal generating means for generating a plurality of pulse signals including one main pulse and at least one sub-pulse following the main pulse over time for each dot included in the dot pattern; Based on a case where the main pulse is generated for a specific dot included in the dot pattern. If (the N is a positive integer) N dot preceding the conveying direction adjacent to Tsu bets is not the main pulse is generated in a dot, executes the preheating process of generating the sub-pulse for each said N dot A printing apparatus comprising: a pre-heat treatment means; and a heating means that is driven by the main pulse or the sub-pulse to generate heat, and performs printing on the print medium, based on the image data, When the N dot from which the sub-pulse is generated by the pre-heat treatment includes a first dot and the main pulse is generated for a dot adjacent to the first dot in the orthogonal direction, the first dot to stop the generation of the sub-pulses in the dot, and the first stop processing unit, wherein the N dots based on said image data, wherein the sub-pulse is generated by the pre-heating A second stop processing means for stopping the generation of the sub-pulse in the second dot when the main pulse is generated for the second dot, and the second dot is included in the image data; Based on the dot in which the sub-pulse is generated by the pre-heat treatment, the dot is within M dots (M is a positive integer) adjacent to the dot and preceding in the transport direction, and the main pulse is generated A third stop processing means for stopping the generation of the sub-pulse in the third dot when the third dot, which is a dot to be processed, is included, and the first to third dots are plural in number In the case of overlapping, among the first to third cancel processing means, the cancel processing means corresponding to the dot number is applied with priority on the dot with the younger number .

  In the present invention, the printing means forms a desired print corresponding to the print data on the printing medium conveyed by the conveying means. In order to execute this print formation, image data generation means and pulse signal generation means are provided. The image data generation means includes a character string and a graphic string based on the input print data. Image data is generated by a dot pattern (consisting of a plurality of dots arranged in a transport direction and an orthogonal direction orthogonal to the transport direction). The pulse signal generation means generates a plurality of pulse signals (including one main pulse and at least one sub pulse) for each dot included in the dot pattern. The heating element provided in the printing means is driven by the main pulse or the sub pulse to generate heat, whereby the character string or the image string is formed on the print medium.

  At this time, in order to smoothly perform the heat generation corresponding to the dot pattern in the heat generating element, in the present invention, preheat treatment is performed by preheat treatment means. That is, when the heat generation by the main pulse is performed in one specific dot of the dot pattern, and the main pulse is not generated within N dots (for example, N = 3) preceding the specific dot in the transport direction. In order to perform preheating of the heating element prior to the heat generation, a sub-pulse is generated for each of the N dots (hereinafter referred to as preheating target dots as appropriate). As a result, heat generation by the main pulse is performed in the specific one dot in a state in which it is sufficiently preheated by the sub-pulse for the preheating target dot, so that it is possible to reliably perform color development in the specific dot.

  However, even if the main pulse is not generated within N dots preceding from a certain dot, depending on the pulse generation situation around the dot in the dot pattern (the heating element is already at the drive timing corresponding to the dot). When the sub-pulse is output by the pre-heat treatment, the pre-heating is excessive. When such excessive preheating occurs, unnecessary coloring may occur in dots that are originally supposed to be non-colored (other than dots that are originally intended to be colored).

  As an example, when a main pulse is generated in a dot adjacent to the preheating target dot in the orthogonal direction, heat generated by the main pulse in the adjacent dot is transferred to the orthogonal direction (thereby Thus, it is possible to obtain the same effect as the preheating by the sub-pulse in the preheating target dot), so that the generation of the sub-pulse is not necessary again.

  Therefore, in the present invention, when the first stop processing means includes dots (first dots) in which the main pulse is generated in the dots adjacent in the orthogonal direction as described above, Generation of the sub-pulse with one dot is stopped. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of unnecessary coloring due to excessive preheating as described above, and to improve the printing quality.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to prevent unnecessary coloring due to excessive preheating and improve the printing quality.

It is a perspective view showing the appearance of a tape printer concerning one embodiment of the present invention. It is a sectional side view showing the internal structure of a tape printer. It is a perspective view showing the appearance in the state where the 1st opening-and-closing cover, the 2nd opening-and-closing cover, and the front side opening-and-closing cover of a tape printer were opened. It is a perspective view showing the state which opened the 1st opening / closing cover, the 2nd opening / closing cover, and the front side opening / closing cover of the tape printer, and removed the tape cartridge and the ink ribbon cartridge. It is a perspective view showing the whole structure of a tape cartridge. It is a perspective view showing the whole structure of an ink ribbon cartridge. It is a functional block diagram showing the structure of the control system of a tape printer. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a flow of processing of print data. It is explanatory drawing showing the example of the dot pattern which forms image data. It is explanatory drawing showing the drive pulse output to a heat generating element corresponding to each dot of a dot pattern. It is a figure showing a basic pulse output pattern. It is a figure showing the output pattern after heat storage. It is a figure showing the output pattern after pre-heat treatment. It is a figure showing the output pattern after a preheating suppression process. It is a flowchart showing the control procedure which CPU performs. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing drive pulses output to a heating element corresponding to each dot of a dot pattern in a modification using two sub-pulses. It is a figure showing a basic pulse output pattern. It is a figure showing the output pattern after heat storage. It is a figure showing the output pattern after pre-heat treatment. It is a figure showing the output pattern after a preheating suppression process.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In addition, when there are notes “front”, “rear”, “left”, “right”, “upper”, “lower” in the drawings, “front (front)” “rear (rear)” in the description in the specification “Left (left)”, “right (right)”, “upper (upper)” and “lower (lower)” refer to the noted direction.

<Schematic configuration of printing device>
First, the schematic configuration of the tape printer according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

<Case>
1 to 4, a tape tape printing apparatus 1 (corresponding to a printing apparatus) of the present embodiment has a housing 2 that constitutes the outer shell of the apparatus. The housing 2 includes a housing body 2 a, a rear side opening / closing part 8, and a front side opening / closing cover 9.

  The housing main body 2a includes a first storage portion 3 provided on the rear side, and a second storage portion 5 and a third storage portion 4 provided on the front side.

  The rear side opening / closing part 8 is connected to the upper part on the rear side of the housing body 2a so as to be openable and closable. The rear opening / closing part 8 can be opened and closed above the first storage part 3 by rotating. The rear opening / closing part 8 is composed of a first opening / closing cover 8a and a second opening / closing cover 8b.

  The first opening / closing cover 8a can be opened / closed above the front side of the first storage unit 3 by rotating around a predetermined rotation axis K1 provided at the upper part on the rear side of the housing body 2a. is there. Specifically, the first opening / closing cover 8 a exposes the upper front side of the first storage unit 3 from the closed position (the state shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) covering the front upper side of the first storage unit 3. It can be rotated between the open position (the state shown in FIGS. 3 and 4).

  A head holder 10 is provided inside the first opening / closing cover 8a (see also FIG. 3). The first opening / closing cover 8a rotates around the rotation axis K1 so that the print head 11 (corresponding to printing means) provided in the head holding body 10 is provided in the housing body 2a. It is possible to move away from and approach the transport roller 12 relatively. Specifically, the first opening / closing cover 8a is opened from the closed position (the state shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) in which the print head 11 is close to the conveying roller 12 and from the closed position (see FIG. 1). 3 and the state of FIG. 4).

  The second opening / closing cover 8b is provided on the rear side of the first opening / closing cover 8a, and rotates around a predetermined rotation axis K2 provided at the upper end portion on the rear side of the housing body 2a. Thus, the rear upper side of the first storage part 3 can be opened and closed separately from the opening and closing of the first opening and closing cover 8a. Specifically, the second opening / closing cover 8b exposes the rear upper part of the first storage part 3 from the closed position (the state shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) covering the upper part of the first storage part 3 on the rear side. It can be rotated between the open position (the state shown in FIGS. 3 and 4).

  When the first opening / closing cover 8a and the second opening / closing cover 8b are in the closed state, the outer peripheral portion 18 of the first opening / closing cover 8a and the edge 19 of the second opening / closing cover 8b are substantially the same. It is configured to contact and cover substantially the entire upper part of the first storage unit 3.

  The front side opening / closing cover 9 is connected to the upper part of the front side of the housing body 2a so as to be openable and closable. The front opening / closing cover 9 can open and close above the third storage portion 4 by rotating around a predetermined rotation axis K3 provided at the upper end of the front side of the housing body 2a. Specifically, the front opening / closing cover 9 is opened from the closed position (the state shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) covering the upper side of the third storage unit 4 to expose the upper side of the third storage unit 4 (FIGS. 3 and 5). 4 state).

<Printed tape roll and its surroundings>
At this time, as shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, the tape cartridge TK (see FIG. 2) is attached to and detached from the first predetermined position 13 below the front opening / closing cover 9 in the closed state in the housing body 2a. Installed as possible. The tape cartridge TK includes a print-receiving tape roll R1 that is wound around an axis O1.

  That is, the tape cartridge TK includes a print-receiving tape roll R1 and a connecting arm 16, as shown in FIG. The connecting arm 16 includes a pair of left and right first bracket portions 20 and 20 provided on the rear side, and a pair of left and right second bracket portions 21 and 21 provided on the front side.

  The first bracket portions 20 and 20 sandwich the print-receiving tape roll R1 from both the left and right sides along the axis O1. When the tape cartridge TK is mounted on the housing body 2a, the print-receiving tape roll The roll R1 is rotatably held around the winding core 39 (see FIG. 2). The first bracket portions 20 are connected to each other while avoiding interference with the outer diameter of the print-receiving tape roll R1 by a first connection portion 22 extending substantially along the left-right direction at the upper end portion.

  The print-receiving tape roll R1 is rotatable when the tape cartridge TK is mounted inside the housing body 2a. The to-be-printed tape roll R1 includes a to-be-printed tape 150 (corresponding to a to-be-printed medium consumed by feeding). A to-be-printed layer 154, a base material layer 153, an adhesive layer 152, and a release material layer 151 are provided. Is wound around the core 39 having the axis O1 in the left-right direction in advance.

  By mounting the tape cartridge TK, the print receiving tape roll R1 is received from above and is stored in the first storage portion 3 in a state where the winding axis O1 of the print receiving tape 150 is in the left-right direction. The print-receiving tape roll R1 is in a predetermined rotation direction (A direction in FIG. 2) in the first storage unit 3 in a state where the print-receiving tape roll R1 is stored in the first storage unit 3 (a state where the tape cartridge TK is mounted). The tape to be printed 150 is fed out.

  In this embodiment, the case where the to-be-printed tape 150 provided with adhesiveness is used is illustrated. That is, the print-receiving tape 150 includes a print-receiving layer 154, a base material layer 153, an adhesive layer 152, and a release material layer 151 from one side in the thickness direction (upper side in FIG. 2) to the other side (in FIG. 2). The lower layers are stacked in this order. The print target layer 154 is a layer in which a desired print portion 155 (see a partially enlarged view in FIG. 2) is formed by thermal transfer of ink by the print head 11. The pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 152 is a layer for attaching the base material layer 153 to an appropriate adherend (not shown). The release material layer 151 is a layer that covers the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 152.

<Conveyance roller and print head>
2 to 4, the conveyance roller 12 (corresponding to a conveyance unit) is provided on the middle upper side of the first storage unit 3 and the second storage unit 5 in the housing body 2 a. The transport roller 12 is driven from a print-receiving tape roll R1 stored in the first storage unit 3 by being driven via a gear mechanism (not shown) by a transport motor M1 provided inside the housing body 2a. The fed print-receiving tape 150 is conveyed in a tape posture in which the tape width direction is the left-right direction.

  In addition, the print head 11 is provided in the head holding portion 10 provided in the first opening / closing cover 8a. As described above, the print head 11 can be relatively separated from and brought close to the transport roller 12 by the first opening / closing cover 8a rotating about the rotation axis K1. That is, when the first opening / closing cover 8a is in the closed state, the print head 11 comes close to the conveying roller 12, and when the first opening / closing cover 8a is in the opened state, the printing head 11 is separated from the conveying roller 12. The print head 11 includes a transport roller in the first opening / closing cover 8a in the closed state of the head holding unit 10 so as to sandwich the print-receiving tape 150 transported by the transport roller 12 in cooperation with the transport roller 12. 12 is disposed at a position facing above 12. Therefore, when the first opening / closing cover 8a is in the closed state, the print head 11 and the transport roller 12 are arranged to face each other in the vertical direction. The print head 11 forms a desired print on the print target layer 154 of the print target tape 150 sandwiched between the conveyance rollers 12 by using an ink ribbon IB of an ink ribbon cartridge RK described later. Thus, the printed tape 150 ′ is obtained.

<Ink ribbon cartridge>
As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the ink ribbon cartridge RK is detachable at a second predetermined position 14 below the first opening / closing cover 8a and above the tape cartridge TK when the casing body 2a is closed. It is attached to. The detailed structure of the ink ribbon cartridge RK is shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the ink ribbon cartridge RK includes a cartridge housing 80, a ribbon feeding roll R <b> 4 on which an unused ink ribbon IB is wound so as to be fed out, and a ribbon take-up roll R <b> 5. The cartridge housing 80 includes a rear-side feeding roll storage portion 81, a front-side take-up roll storage portion 82, and a connecting portion 83 that connects both the storage portions 81 and 82. The connecting portion 83 connects the take-up roll storage portion 82 and the supply roll storage portion 81 while exposing the ink ribbon IB fed from the ribbon feed roll R4 to the outside of the cartridge casing 80.

  The feeding roll storage unit 81 is configured by combining a substantially semi-cylindrical upper part 81a and a lower part 81b. The ribbon feeding roll R4 is rotatably supported in the feeding roll storage unit 81, and rotates in a predetermined rotation direction (D direction in FIG. 2) when the ink ribbon cartridge RK is mounted. The ink ribbon IB for performing print formation by the head 11 is fed out.

  The take-up roll storage unit 82 is configured by combining a substantially semi-cylindrical upper part 82a and a lower part 82b. The ribbon take-up roll R5 is rotatably supported in the take-up roll storage unit 82, and rotates in a predetermined rotation direction (E direction in FIG. 2) with the ink ribbon cartridge RK mounted. Then, the used ink ribbon IB after the printing is formed is wound up.

  That is, in FIG. 2, the ink ribbon IB fed out from the ribbon feeding roll R4 is further arranged on the print head 11 side of the print-receiving tape 150 in a state of being sandwiched between the print head 11 and the conveying roller 12, and the print head. 11 below. Then, after the ink from the ink ribbon IB is transferred to the print layer 154 of the print-receiving tape 150 by the heating from the print head 11 and the print formation is executed, the used ink ribbon IB is transferred to the ribbon take-up roll R5. Rolled up.

<Release material roll and its periphery>
As shown in FIG. 5, the connecting arm 16 of the tape cartridge TK includes, for example, a substantially horizontal slit shape. A peeling portion 17 is provided. The peeling portion 17 is a portion where the release material layer 151 is peeled off from the printed tape 150 ′ that is fed out from the print-receiving tape roll R 1 and conveyed forward. As shown in FIG. 2, the printed tape 150 ′ on which the printing has been formed as described above is peeled off by the peeling portion 17 to peel off the peeling material layer 151 and the other parts. The printed layer 154, the base material layer 153, and the pressure-sensitive adhesive layer 152 are separated into a printed tape 150 ″.

  As shown in FIGS. 2 and 5, the tape cartridge TK is formed by winding the peeled release material layer 151 around a core 29 having an axis O3. R3. That is, when the tape cartridge TK is mounted, the release material roll R3 is received from above into the second storage unit 5 and stored with the axis O3 in the left-right direction. The winding core 29 is in a state of being housed in the second housing portion 5 (a state in which the tape cartridge TK is attached) by a gear mechanism (not shown) by a release paper winding motor M3 provided in the housing body 2a. ) And is rotated in a predetermined rotation direction (C direction in FIG. 2) in the second storage unit 5 to wind up the release material layer 151.

  At this time, as shown in FIG. 5, the second bracket portions 21 and 21 of the tape cartridge TK sandwich the release material roll R3 from both the left and right sides along the axis O3. Is mounted on the casing body 2a, the core 29 (in other words, the release material roll R3) is held rotatably around the axis O3. The second bracket portions 21 and 21 are connected by a second connection portion 23 that extends substantially along the left-right direction at the upper end portion. The first bracket parts 20 and 20 and the first connection part 22 on the rear side, and the second bracket parts 21 and 21 and the second connection part 23 on the front side are a pair of left and right roll connection beam parts 24, 24 are connected.

  FIG. 5 shows a state before the release material layer 151 is wound around the core 29 and the release material roll R3 is formed (in the case of an unused tape cartridge TK). That is, the substantially circular roll flange portions f3 and f4 provided so as to sandwich both sides in the width direction of the release material layer 151 are illustrated, and a symbol “R3” is provided at a place where the release material roll R3 is formed for convenience. Is attached.

<Printed tape roll and its surroundings>
On the other hand, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, a winding mechanism 40 having a winding core 41 for sequentially winding the printed tape 150 ″ is received in the third storage portion 4 from above. The winding mechanism 40 is housed so that the winding core 41 is rotatably supported around the axis O2 in a state where the axis O2 of the printed tape 150 ″ is in the left-right direction. Then, in a state where the winding mechanism 40 is housed in the third housing portion 4, the winding core 41 is driven via a gear mechanism (not shown) by the adhesive winding motor M <b> 2 provided inside the housing body 2 a. Then, by rotating in a predetermined rotation direction (direction B in FIG. 2) in the third storage unit 4, the printed tape 150 ″ is wound around the outer periphery of the core 41 and stacked. A printed tape roll R2 is formed by sequentially winding the printed tape 150 ″ around the outer periphery of the core 41.

<Cutter mechanism>
Further, as shown in FIG. 2, a cutter mechanism 30 (corresponding to a cutting means) is provided on the downstream side of the print head 11 and the upstream side of the printed tape roll R2 along the tape transport direction.

  Although not shown in detail, the cutter mechanism 30 includes a movable blade and a traveling body that supports the movable blade and can travel in the tape width direction (in other words, the left-right direction). The traveling body travels by driving a cutter motor MC (see FIG. 7 described later), and the movable blade moves in the tape width direction, thereby cutting the printed tape 150 ″ in the width direction.

<Outline of operation of tape printer>
Next, an outline of the operation of the tape tape printer 1 having the above configuration will be described.

  That is, when the tape cartridge TK is mounted at the first predetermined position 13, the print-receiving tape roll R1 is stored in the first storage portion 3 located on the rear side of the housing body 2a, and the front side of the housing body 2a. The axis O3 side that forms the release material roll R3 is stored in the second storage portion 5 located in the position. In addition, a winding mechanism 40 for forming the printed tape roll R2 is stored in the third storage portion 4 located on the front side of the housing body 2a.

  In this state, the user manually peels off the release material layer 151 from the print-receiving tape 150 (printing has not started yet at this time), and the tip of the tape composed of the base material layer 153 and the adhesive layer 152 is moved to the above-described state. It is attached to the core 41 of the winding mechanism 40. When the transport roller 12 is driven, the print-receiving tape 150 fed out by the rotation of the print-receiving tape roll R1 stored in the first storage unit 3 is transported to the front side. Then, a desired print (the print section 55) is formed by the print head 11 on the print-receiving layer 154 of the print-receiving tape 150 being conveyed, and a printed tape 150 ′ is obtained. When the printed tape 150 ′ that has been printed is further conveyed to the front side and conveyed to the peeling portion 17, the peeling material layer 151 is peeled off at the peeling portion 17 to form a printed tape 150 ″. The peeled release material layer 151 is transported downward and introduced into the second storage section 5 and wound inside the second storage section 5 to form a release material roll R3.

  On the other hand, the printed tape 150 ″ from which the release material layer 151 has been peeled off is further conveyed forward and introduced into the third storage unit 4, and the core 41 of the winding mechanism 40 in the third storage unit 4. The printed tape roll R2 is formed by being wound around the outer peripheral side of the tape, and the cutter mechanism 30 provided on the downstream side (that is, the front side) in the transport direction cuts the printed tape 150 ″. Thereby, the printed tape 150 ″ wound around the printed tape roll R2 can be cut at a timing desired by the user, and the printed tape roll R2 can be taken out from the third storage unit 4 after the cutting.

  At this time, although not illustrated, the non-adhesive tape (without the adhesive layer 152 and the release material layer 151) may be wound around the print-receiving tape roll R1. Also in this case, the first receiving portion 3 receives the print-receiving tape roll R1 around which the non-adhesive tape is wound by the attachment of the tape cartridge TK from above, and the axis O1 for winding the non-adhesive tape is provided. It is stored in a state that is in the horizontal direction. The print-receiving tape roll R1 is in a predetermined rotation direction (A direction in FIG. 2) in the first storage unit 3 in a state where the print-receiving tape roll R1 is stored in the first storage unit 3 (a state where the tape cartridge TK is mounted). The non-adhesive tape is fed out by rotating in the direction.

  At this time, the chute 15 switches the transport path of the non-adhesive tape (or the print-receiving tape 150) between the side toward the printed tape roll R2 and the side toward the discharge port (not shown). (Refer FIG. 2) may be arranged. That is, by switching the tape path by the switching operation of the chute 15 by a switching lever (not shown), the non-adhesive tape (or the printed tape 150 ″) after printing is wound in the third storage portion 4 as described later. Without rotating, the housing 2 may be discharged out of the housing 2 as it is from a discharge port (not shown) provided on the second opening / closing cover 8b side, for example.

<Control system>
Next, the control system of the tape printer 1 will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 7, the tape printer 1 includes a CPU 212 that constitutes a calculation unit that performs a predetermined calculation. The CPU 212 is connected to the RAM 213 and the ROM 214. The CPU 212 performs signal processing in accordance with a program stored in advance in the ROM 214 while using the temporary storage function of the RAM 213, thereby controlling the entire tape printer 1.

  Further, the CPU 212 controls the driving of the motor M1 for driving the conveying roller M1 that drives the conveying roller 12 and the motor M2 for the adhesive winding that drives the core 41 of the winding mechanism 40. The motor drive circuit 219 for performing the above, the motor drive circuit 220 for performing the drive control of the release paper winding motor M3 for driving the release material roll R3, and the energization control for the heating elements (not shown) of the print head 11. A print head control circuit 221 (corresponding to a pulse signal generating means), a motor drive circuit 222 for controlling the drive of the cutter motor MC for running the traveling body having the movable blade, a display unit 215 for performing appropriate display, It is connected to an operation unit 216 through which a user can appropriately input operations. In this example, the CPU 212 is connected to the PC 217 serving as an external terminal. However, the CPU 212 may not be connected when the tape printer 1 operates alone (so-called all-in-one type).

  The ROM 214 stores a control program for executing a predetermined control process (including a program for executing the process of the flow of FIG. 15 described later). In the RAM 213, for example, print data (see Step S20 described later) generated in response to an operation by the operator on the operation unit 216 (or PC 217) is printed in a predetermined print region of the print layer 154. For this purpose, an image buffer 213a is provided for developing and storing dot pattern data (= corresponding to one unit print data, details will be described later). Based on the control program, the CPU 212 feeds out the print-receiving tape 150 by the transport roller 12 and one image corresponding to the dot pattern data stored in the image buffer 213a (= corresponding to a unit print image, details will be described later). Are repeatedly printed on the print-receiving tape 150 by the print head 11 (details will be described later).

<Features of the embodiment>
As described above, the feature of the present embodiment is a preheating suppression process that suppresses preheating of the print head 11 with respect to the heating elements when the one image is formed based on the dot pattern data developed from the print data. is there. Hereinafter, the details will be described in order.

<Outline of print data processing>
First, the flow of processing of the print data (generated corresponding to the operation of the operator) in the present embodiment will be described. The control circuit 212 of this embodiment is provided with the image buffer 213a, the image memory 213c, and the work memory 213b.

  As described above, the work memory 213b stores print data (specifically, a plurality of print object data, which will be described later) generated in response to an operation by the operator on the operation unit 216 (or PC 217). The stored print data is element data that constitutes each part of the target print content, and is created for each print object (character string or image string) such as text data, image data, and frame lines. ing.

  The image buffer 213a stores rewritable image data in which dot patterns corresponding to the respective print objects are arranged in a geometrical manner corresponding to print areas on the print layer 154 of the print target tape 150.

  In the image memory 213c, a plurality of types of dot pattern data created in advance corresponding to the characters and diagrams that can be printed by the tape printer 1 are stored in a non-rewritable manner.

  As shown in FIG. 8, when the operator operates the operation unit 216 (or PC 217) of the tape printer 1 to edit the print content on the print-receiving tape 150, the print content is a character string or Each image sequence is decomposed to generate corresponding print object data, and the plurality of print object data is stored in the work memory 213b. The CPU 212 performs image conversion processing on these print objects while referring to the dot pattern in the image memory 213c, thereby generating image data and storing the image data in the image buffer 213a. The print head 11 sequentially outputs the image data stored in the image buffer 213a for each print line data, thereby printing on the print layer 154 of the print tape 150 in the form of a print image (the print unit). 55).

  The image data stored in the image buffer 213a is electronic data composed of a dot pattern in which print line data that can be directly printed out by the print head 11 is arranged in the output order. That is, the print line data, which is an output unit of the print head 11, is a direction orthogonal to the transport direction when it corresponds to the print area of the print target layer 154 of the print target tape 150 (hereinafter simply referred to as “orthogonal direction” as appropriate). ) Dot data in one dot line.

<Dot pattern>
Examples of the dot pattern for forming image data are shown in FIGS. In the example shown in FIGS. 9A to 9G, for convenience of explanation, the dot pattern is a maximum of 16 lines of dot line data of 12 dots A to L per line in the image buffer 213a. A case where the storage area is formed so that it can be arranged up to will be described as an example.

  In the example shown in FIG. 9A, a dot pattern Pa including one on dot is formed. In other words, the dot pattern Pa includes E1 dots that are on dots.

  In the example shown in FIG. 9B, a dot pattern Pb including 10 on dots is formed. That is, the dot pattern Pb includes on dots, and includes E1, D1, D2, F2, E3, G3, D4, F4, E5, and G5 dots.

  In the example shown in FIG. 9C, a dot pattern Pc including 20 on dots is formed. That is, in the dot pattern Pc, C1-D1 dots, G1-H1 dots, C2-D2 dots, G2-H2 dots, E3-F3 dots, E4-F4 dots, C5-D5 dots, G5-H5 are used as on dots. Dots, C6 to D6 dots, and G6 to H6 dots are included.

  In the example shown in FIG. 9D, a dot pattern Pd including 54 on dots is formed. That is, the dot pattern Pd includes C1 to F1 dots, I1 to K1 dots, C2 to F2 dots, I2 to K2 dots, C3 to F3 dots, I3 to K3 dots, F4 to H4 dots, and F5 to H5 as on dots. Dots, F6 to H6 dots, C7 to F7 dots, I7 to K7 dots, C8 to F8 dots, I8 to K8 dots, C9 to F9 dots, I9 to K9 dots, F10 to H10 dots, F11 to H11 dots, F12 to H12 Contains dots.

  In the example shown in FIG. 9E, a dot pattern Pe including 96 on dots is formed. In other words, the dot pattern Pe is on-dotted and includes A1-D1 dots, I1-L1 dots, A2-D2 dots, I2-L2 dots, A3-D3 dots, I3-L3 dots, A4-D4 dots, I4- L4 dots, E5 to H5 dots, E6 to H6 dots, E7 to H7 dots, E8 to H8 dots, A9 to D9 dots, I9 to L9 dots, A10 to D10 dots, I10 to L10 dots, A11 to D11 dots, I11 to 11 L11 dots, A12 to D12 dots, I12 to L12 dots, E13 to H13 dots, E14 to H14 dots, E15 to H15 dots, and E16 to H16 dots are included.

  In the example shown in FIG. 9F, a dot pattern Pf including 12 on dots is formed. That is, the dot pattern Pf includes C1 to D1 dots, G1 to H1 dots, E3 to F3 dots, C5 to D5 dots, G5 to H5 dots, and E7 to F7 dots as on dots.

  In the example shown in FIG. 9G, a dot pattern Pg including 10 on dots is formed. That is, the dot pattern Pg includes C1 dots, G1 dots, C2 dots, G2 dots, E3 dots, E4 dots, C5 dots, G5 dots, C6 dots, and G6 dots that are turned on.

<Output of drive pulse for each ON dot>
In the present embodiment, a drive pulse is output from the print head control circuit 221 to the heating element of the print head 11 corresponding to each on-dot included in the dot pattern, and the heating element generates heat to generate the dot pattern. Perform the corresponding printing. That is, from the heating element, for each on-dot, for example, as shown in FIG. 10 (a), the drive comprising one main pulse m (corresponding to a pulse signal) and one sub-pulse s (corresponding to a pulse signal). A pulse is output. In FIG. 10A, the horizontal axis indicates time, and the vertical axis indicates voltage value (or current value). The main pulse m has a relatively long time width, and the input energy is relatively large. The sub-pulse s has a relatively short time width, and the input energy is relatively small. Note that FIG. 10B and FIG. 10C will be described later.

<Basic pulse output pattern>
Basic pulse output when a drive pulse (including the main pulse m and sub pulse s) is output for each on-dot in each dot pattern shown in FIGS. 9 (a) to 9 (g). FIG. 11 conceptually shows a pattern (hereinafter referred to as “basic pulse output pattern” as appropriate).

  FIG. 11A shows an output pattern of the drive pulse output to the heating element of the print head 11 in order to form the dot pattern Pa of FIG. 9A. As shown in the figure, in this example, the main pulse m and the sub pulse s are output for the E1 dot which is the on dot of the dot pattern Pa.

  FIG. 11B shows an output pattern of the drive pulse output to the heating element of the print head 11 in order to form the dot pattern Pb of FIG. 9B. As shown in the figure, in this example, with respect to the on dots of the dot pattern Pb, which are E1 dots, G1 dots, D2 dots, F2 dots, E3 dots, G3 dots, D4 dots, F4 dots, E5 dots, G5 dots The main pulse m and the sub pulse s are output.

  FIG. 11C shows an output pattern of the drive pulse output to the heating element of the print head 11 in order to form the dot pattern Pc of FIG. 9C. As illustrated, in this example, C1 to D1 dots, G1 to H1 dots, C2 to D2 dots, G2 to H2 dots, E3 to F3 dots, E4 to F4 dots, and C5, which are on dots of the dot pattern Pc. The main pulse m and the sub-pulse s are output for .about.D5 dots, G5 to H5 dots, C6 to D6 dots, and G6 to H6 dots.

  FIG. 11D shows an output pattern of the drive pulse output to the heating element of the print head 11 in order to form the dot pattern Pd of FIG. 9D. As illustrated, in this example, C1 to F1 dots, I1 to K1 dots, C2 to F2 dots, I2 to K2 dots, C3 to F3 dots, I3 to K3 dots, and F4, which are on dots of the dot pattern Pd. ~ H4 dots, F5 ~ H5 dots, F6 ~ H6 dots, C7 ~ F7 dots, I7 ~ K7 dots, C8 ~ F8 dots, I8 ~ K8 dots, C9 ~ F9 dots, I9 ~ K9 dots, F10 ~ H10 dots, F11 The main pulse m and the sub pulse s are output for .about.H11 dots and F12.about.H12 dots.

  FIG. 11E shows an output pattern of the drive pulse output to the heating element of the print head 11 in order to form the dot pattern Pe of FIG. 9E. As shown in the figure, in this example, A1 to D1 dots, I1 to L1 dots, A2 to D2 dots, I2 to L2 dots, A3 to D3 dots, I3 to L3 dots, A4, which are on dots of the dot pattern Pe. ~ D4 dots, I4 ~ L4 dots, E5 ~ H5 dots, E6 ~ H6 dots, E7 ~ H7 dots, E8 ~ H8 dots, A9 ~ D9 dots, I9 ~ L9 dots, A10 ~ D10 dots, I10 ~ L10 dots, A11 ~ D11 dots, I11 ~ L11 dots, A12 ~ D12 dots, I12 ~ L12 dots, E13 ~ H13 dots, E14 ~ H14 dots, E15 ~ H15 dots, E16 ~ H16 dots, main pulse m and sub pulse s are output Is done.

  FIG. 11F shows an output pattern of the drive pulse output to the heating element of the print head 11 in order to form the dot pattern Pf of FIG. 9F. As shown in the figure, in this example, with respect to C1 to D1 dots, G1 to H1 dots, E3 to F3 dots, C5 to D5 dots, G5 to H5 dots, and E7 to F7 dots, which are on dots of the dot pattern Pf. The main pulse m and the sub pulse s are output.

  FIG. 11G shows an output pattern of the drive pulse output to the heating element of the print head 11 in order to form the dot pattern Pg of FIG. 9G. As shown in the figure, in this example, with respect to the dot pattern Pg on dots C1, G1, D2, C2, G2, E3, E4, C5, G5, C6, and G6 The main pulse m and the sub pulse s are output.

<Outline of heat storage>
Here, when it is assumed that the drive pulse is output based on the basic pulse output pattern as shown in FIGS. 11A to 11G, the following concerns may occur. That is, when a plurality of dots having the output of the main pulse m exist continuously along the tape transport direction (the left-right direction in the figure), the heat generated at the output timing (drive timing) of the main pulse m to the preceding dot However, as a result of remaining (accumulating heat) at the output timing of the main pulse m to the succeeding dot, the heat generation of the heating element becomes excessive at the output timing of the main pulse m to the succeeding dot, resulting in excessive color development. The printing will be crushed easily. Therefore, in the present embodiment, so-called heat storage heat treatment (also referred to as history processing) is performed in order to avoid adverse effects due to heat storage of the heating elements.

  In the heat storage heat treatment in the present embodiment, when two or more on dots are consecutively adjacent in the dot direction in the dot pattern, the sub-pulse s is omitted for the second and subsequent on dots when the dots are consecutive. A driving pulse consisting only of the pulse m is output (see FIG. 10C). Thereby, the heat generation of the heat generating element at the output timing of the second and subsequent dots is reduced, and the heat storage is suppressed. However, even if it is the second and subsequent on dots, if there is no on dot adjacent to the dot in the orthogonal direction, heat can be dissipated to the adjacent dot portion, so that the exception That is, the output of the sub-pulse s is not omitted (a drive pulse including both the main pulse m and the sub-pulse s is output).

<Output pattern after heat storage>
11A to 11G conceptually shows an output pattern of a drive pulse when the heat storage heat treatment is applied (hereinafter, referred to as “output pattern after heat storage as appropriate”) when the heat storage heat treatment is applied. As shown in FIG.

  FIG. 12A shows an output pattern corresponding to FIG. In this case, in the dot pattern Pa, there is no continuous on dot adjacent in the transport direction, so the sub-pulse s is not omitted. That is, FIG. 12A has the same pattern as FIG.

  FIG. 12B shows an output pattern corresponding to FIG. Also in this case, since there is no continuous on dot adjacent in the transport direction in the dot pattern Pb, the sub-pulse s is not omitted. That is, FIG. 12B has the same pattern as FIG.

  FIG. 12C shows an output pattern corresponding to FIG. In this case, among the on dots in the dot pattern Pc of FIG. 11C, the C2 dot adjacent to the C1 dot, the C6 dot adjacent to the C5 dot, the D2 dot adjacent to the D1 dot, and D5 D6 dot adjacent to the dot, E4 dot adjacent to the E3 dot, E8 dot adjacent to the E7 dot, F4 dot adjacent to the F3 dot, F8 dot adjacent to the F7 dot, G1 At the output timing of the G2 dot adjacent to the dot, the G6 dot adjacent to the G5 dot, the H2 dot adjacent to the H1 dot, and the H6 dot adjacent to the H5 dot, from the corresponding heating element ( A drive pulse consisting only of the main pulse m (with the subpulse s omitted) is output.

  FIG. 12D shows an output pattern corresponding to FIG. In this case, among the on dots in the dot pattern Pd of FIG. 11D, C2 to C3 dots continuous to C1 dots, C8 to C9 dots continuous to C7 dots, D2 to D3 dots continuous to D1 dots, D7 D8 to D9 dots continuous to dots, E2 to E3 dots continuous to E1 dots, E8 to E9 dots continuous to E7 dots, F5 to F6 dots continuous to F4 dots, F11 to F12 dots continuous to F10 dots, G4 G5 to G6 dots continuous to dots, G11 to G12 dots continuous to G10 dots, H5 to H6 dots continuous to H4 dots, H11 to H12 dots continuous to H10 dots, I2 to I3 dots continuous to I1 dots, I7 I8 to I9 dots continuous with dots, J2 to J3 dots continuous with J1 dots, J7 dots Only the main pulse m from the corresponding heating element (sub pulse s is omitted) at the output timing of J8 to J9 dots continuous to K1, K2 to K3 dots continuous to K1 dot, and K8 to K9 dots continuous to K7 dot A drive pulse consisting of is output.

  FIG. 12E shows an output pattern corresponding to FIG. In this case, among the on dots in the dot pattern Pe of FIG. 11 (e), A2 to A4 dots continuous to A1 dots, A10 to A12 dots continuous to A9 dots, B2 to B4 dots continuous to B1 dots, B9 B10 to B12 dots continuous to dots, C2 to C4 dots continuous to C1 dots, C10 to C12 dots continuous to C9 dots, D2 to D4 dots continuous to D1 dots, D10 to D12 dots continuous to D9 dots, E5 E6 to E8 dots continuous to dots, E14 to E16 dots continuous to E13 dots, F6 to F8 dots continuous to F5 dots, F14 to F16 dots continuous to F13 dots, G6 to G8 dots continuous to G5 dots, G13 G14 to G16 dots continuous with dots, H6 to H8 continuous with H5 dots H14 to H16 dots continuous to H13 dots, I2 to I4 dots continuous to I1 dots, I10 to I12 dots continuous to I9 dots, J2 to J4 dots continuous to J1 dots, J10 consecutive to J9 dots J12 dots, K2 to K4 dots continuous to K1 dots, K10 to K12 dots continuous to K9 dots, L2 to L4 dots continuous to L1 dots, and L10 to L12 dots continuous to L9 dots, corresponding heat generation A drive pulse consisting only of the main pulse m (with the subpulse s omitted) is output from the element.

  FIG. 12F shows an output pattern corresponding to FIG. In this case, in the dot pattern Pf, there is no continuous on dot adjacent in the transport direction, so the sub-pulse s is not omitted. That is, FIG. 12 (f) has the same pattern as FIG. 11 (f).

  FIG. 12G shows an output pattern corresponding to FIG. In this case, C1 to C2 dots, C5 to C6 dots, E3 to E4 dots, G1 to G2 dots, and G5 to G6 dots, which are on dots in the dot pattern Pg, are adjacent to each other in the carrying direction, and two dots are continuous. However, none of the dots corresponds to the above exception because there is no on-dot adjacent in the orthogonal direction, and the sub-pulse s is not omitted.

  By executing the heat storage process (history process) as described above, the thermal history due to the heat storage of the heating elements of the print head 11 can be relaxed, and the printing can be prevented from being crushed.

<Outline of pre-heat treatment>
Here, the output of the drive pulse by the post heat storage output pattern as shown in FIGS. 12A to 12G (or the basic pulse output pattern of FIGS. 11A to 11G) may be output. Assuming that, the following concerns may arise: That is, when a drive pulse is output for one specific on-dot, the output of the drive pulse for the specific on-dot may not generate sufficient heat from the heat generating element, and printing may be blurred. Therefore, in the present embodiment, so-called pre-heat treatment is performed to prevent this.

  In the pre-heat treatment in the present embodiment, N dots preceding the conveyance direction adjacent to a specific one on-dot in the dot pattern (N = 3 in this example, where N may be another positive integer value). If possible, N ≦ 5 is preferable (the same applies hereinafter). If there is a dot within which the main pulse m is not generated, each dot within the above three dots (preheating) is performed in order to preheat the heating element in advance. A drive pulse consisting only of the sub-pulse s is output for the target dot) (see FIG. 10B). However, when there is an original on-dot having the main pulse m and the sub-pulse s within the preheating target dot range (within 3 dots above), the dot is excluded from the pre-heating target, and the original on-dot Drive pulses (main pulse m and sub pulse s) are output as they are.

<Pattern after pre-heat treatment>
12A to 12G, a drive pulse output pattern (hereinafter, appropriately referred to as “post-heat treatment output pattern”) when the pre-heat treatment is applied is conceptually shown in FIG. Is shown in FIG. The case where N = 3 is illustrated.

  FIG. 13A shows an output pattern corresponding to FIG. In this case, at the output timing of 3 dots adjacent to the E1 dot which is the ON dot of the dot pattern Pa of FIG. A drive pulse consisting only of the sub-pulse s is output.

  FIG. 13B shows an output pattern corresponding to FIG. In this case, within 3 dots preceding the on-direction of the dot pattern Pb of FIG. 12B and preceding in the transport direction, that is, D-1 to D1 dots preceding D2 dots, D1, preceding D4 dots D-2 dot, E-2 to E0 dot preceding E1 dot, E0, E2 dot preceding E3 dot, E2, E4 dot preceding E5 dot, F-1 to F1 dot preceding F2 dot, F4 dot Output timing of preceding F1, F3 dots, G-2 to G0 dots preceding G1 dots, G0, G2 dots preceding G3 dots, G2, G4 dots for G5 dots (Note: When overlapping as preheating targets) In the case of any one of the objects (the same applies hereinafter), a driving pulse consisting only of the sub-pulse s is output from the corresponding heating element.

  FIG. 13C shows an output pattern corresponding to FIG. In this case, within 3 dots preceding the on-dot of the dot pattern Pc in FIG. 12C and preceding in the transport direction, that is, C-2 to C0 dots preceding the C1 dot and C2 preceding the C5 dot. D2 to D0 dot preceding C4 dot, D1 dot, D2 to D4 dot preceding D5 dot, E0 to E2 dot preceding E3 dot, E4 to E6 dot preceding E7 dot, and F3 dot preceding F0 to F2 dots, F4 to F6 dots preceding F7 dots, G-2 to G0 dots preceding G1 dots, G2 to G4 dots preceding G5 dots, H-2 to H0 dots preceding H1 dots, H5 At the output timing of H2 to H4 dots preceding the dots, a driving pulse consisting only of the sub-pulse s is output from the corresponding heating element.

  FIG. 13D shows an output pattern corresponding to FIG. In this case, within 3 dots preceding in the transport direction adjacent to each ON dot of the dot pattern Pd in FIG. 12D, that is, C-2 to C0 dots preceding C1 dot, C4 dots preceding C7 dot ~ C6 dots, D-2 to D0 dots preceding D1 dots, D4 to D6 dots preceding D7 dots, E-2 to E0 dots preceding E1 dots, E4 to E6 dots preceding E7 dots, F4 dots F1-F3 dots preceding F10, F7-F9 dots preceding F10 dots, G1-G3 dots preceding G4 dots, G7-G9 dots preceding G10 dots, H1-H3 dots preceding H4 dots, H10 dots H7 to H9 dots preceding I, I-2 to I0 dots preceding I1, D4 to I6 dots preceding I7, J1 dots J-2 to J0 dots preceding J, J4 to J6 dots preceding J7, K-2 to K0 dots preceding K1, and K4 to K6 dots preceding K7 A driving pulse consisting only of the sub-pulse s is output from the heating element.

  FIG. 13E shows an output pattern corresponding to FIG. In this case, within 3 dots preceding in the transport direction adjacent to each ON dot of the dot pattern Pe in FIG. 12E, that is, A-2 to A0 dots preceding the A1 dot and A6 to preceding A9 dot. A8 dots, B-2 to B0 dots preceding B1 dots, B6 to B8 dots preceding B9 dots, C-2 to C0 dots preceding C1 dots, C6 to C8 dots preceding C9 dots, and D1 dots D2 to D0 dots preceding, D6 to D8 dots preceding D9 dots, E2 to E4 dots preceding E5 dots, E10 to E12 dots preceding E13 dots, F2 to F4 dots preceding F5 dots, F13 F10 to F12 dots preceding the dots, G2 to G4 dots preceding the G5 dots, G10 to G12 dots preceding the G13 dots, H2 to H4 dots preceding 5 dots, H10 to H12 dots preceding H13 dots, I-2 to I0 dots preceding I1 dots, I6 to I8 dots preceding I9 dots, J-2 preceding J1 dots ~ J0 dots, J6 ~ J8 dots preceding J9 dots, K-2 ~ K0 dots preceding K1 dots, K6 ~ K8 dots preceding K9 dots, L-2 ~ L0 dots preceding L1 dots, L9 dots At the output timing of L6 to L8 dots preceding to, a driving pulse consisting only of the sub-pulse s is output from the corresponding heating element.

  FIG. 13F shows an output pattern corresponding to FIG. In this case, within 3 dots preceding in the transport direction adjacent to each ON dot of the dot pattern Pf of FIG. 12F, that is, C-2 to C0 dots preceding the C1 dot and C2 preceding the C5 dot. D2 to D0 dot preceding C4 dot, D1 dot, D2 to D4 dot preceding D5 dot, E0 to E2 dot preceding E3 dot, E4 to E6 dot preceding E7 dot, and F3 dot preceding F0 to F2 dots, F4 to F6 dots preceding E7 dots, G-2 to G0 dots preceding G1 dots, G2 to G4 dots preceding G5 dots, H-2 to H0 dots preceding H1 dots, H5 At the output timing of H2 to H4 dots preceding the dots, a driving pulse consisting only of the sub-pulse s is output from the corresponding heating element.

  FIG. 13G is an output pattern corresponding to FIG. In this case, within 3 dots preceding the on-dot of the dot pattern Pg of FIG. 12 (g) and preceding in the transport direction, that is, C-2 dot to C0 dot preceding C1 dot, C3 preceding C5 dot , C4 dots, E0 to E2 dots preceding the E3 dots, G-2 to G0 dots preceding the G1 dots, and G3 and G4 dots preceding the G5 dots, from the corresponding heating element, the sub-pulse s A drive pulse consisting of only is output.

<Outline of Preheating Suppression Processing According to Embodiment>
By the way, when assuming the output pattern after pre-heat treatment as shown in FIGS. 13A to 13G, the following concerns may arise. That is, even when there is a dot in which the main pulse m is not generated within N dots preceding the specific on dot (N = 3 in the above example), depending on the pulse generation situation around the on dot in the dot pattern In some cases, the heating element is already at a certain high temperature at the drive timing corresponding to the dot, and if the sub-pulse s is output by the preheat treatment, the preheat may be excessive. When such excessive preheating occurs, there is a possibility that unnecessary color development may occur in dots that are originally intended to be non-colored other than dots that are originally intended to be colored.

<Example of excessive preheating to first dot>
As an example of the excessive preheating, first, the main pulse m is generated in a dot adjacent to the preheating target dot in the orthogonal direction. In this case, the heat generated by the main pulse m at the adjacent dot is transferred in the orthogonal direction to obtain the same effect as the preheating by the sub pulse s at the preheating target dot. There is no need to generate the sub-pulse s.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, first, in correspondence with the above, among the dots to be preheated, dots in which the main pulse m is generated by dots adjacent in the orthogonal direction (hereinafter referred to as “first dots” as appropriate). If included, the generation of the sub-pulse s at the first dot is stopped (hereinafter referred to as “first stop processing” as appropriate). By this first stop processing, it is possible to prevent unnecessary color formation due to excessive preheating in the first dots and improve the printing quality.

<Another example of excessive preheating-2nd dot>
Another example of excessive preheating is when the main pulse m is generated for the preheating target dot itself in the dot pattern. In this case, since the heat generating element is sufficiently heated by the heat generated by the main pulse m, it is not necessary to generate the sub pulse s again for preheating.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, in response to the above, when the dot that generates the main pulse m in the dot (hereinafter referred to as “second dot” as appropriate) is included in the preheating target dot, The generation of the sub-pulse s at the second dot is stopped (hereinafter referred to as “second stop processing” as appropriate). By this second cancellation process, it is possible to prevent unnecessary color formation due to excessive preheating in the second dots, and to reliably improve the print quality.

<Another example of excessive preheating to third dot>
Yet another example of excessive preheating is when the main pulse m is generated for dots within several dots preceding the preheating target dot in the transport direction in the dot pattern. In this case, because of the remaining heat generated by the heat generating element at the output timing of the main pulse m, the heat generating element maintains a certain high temperature even at the subsequent output timing corresponding to the preheating target dot. It is not necessary to generate the sub pulse s again.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, in correspondence with the above, the dots to be preheated are dots within M dots that are adjacent to the dots and precede the transport direction, and the main pulse m is generated. (as appropriate hereinafter "third dot" hereinafter) dots with (as appropriate hereinafter, "third stop processing") to the extent the that third generation of the sub pulse s at a dot is stopped. In this example, M = 3, but M may be another positive integer (preferably about M ≦ 5, and so on). Since the third stop processing can prevent unnecessary color formation due to excessive preheating in the third dots, the print quality can be improved more reliably.

  In addition, when it corresponds to several among the said 1st-3rd dots, it is sufficient to apply any one and to stop the production | generation of the subpulse s. In the following description, a description will be given on the assumption that, among the first to third dots, a dot with a lower number is preferentially applied to stop the generation of the subpulse s. That is, for example, when both the second dot and the third dot are applicable, it will be described that “the generation of the sub-pulse s is stopped by the second stop process” as the second dot.

<Pattern after preheating suppression treatment>
13A to 13G, the first stop process, the second stop process, and the third stop process (hereinafter appropriately referred to as “preheat suppression process”). FIG. 14 conceptually shows an output pattern of drive pulses (hereinafter, referred to as “output pattern after preheating suppression processing” as appropriate) when the above is applied. The case where M = 3 is illustrated.

  FIG. 14A shows an output pattern corresponding to FIG. In this case, there is no dot corresponding to the first dot, the second dot, and the third dot among the E-2 to E0 dots that are the preheating target dots in the dot pattern Pa of FIG. Accordingly, there is no generation stop of the sub-pulse s by the first stop process, the second stop process, and the third stop process. That is, FIG. 14A has the same pattern as FIG.

  FIG. 14B shows an output pattern corresponding to FIG. In this case, among the preheating target dots in the dot pattern Pb in FIG. 13B, the D1 dot corresponding to the first dot with respect to the D2 dot, the D3 dot corresponding to the first dot with respect to the D4 dot, and the E3 dot with respect to the D3 dot. E2 dot corresponding to the first dot, E4 dot corresponding to the first dot regarding E5 dot, F1 dot corresponding to the first dot regarding F2 dot, F3 dot corresponding to the first dot regarding F4 dot, G3 dot The output of the sub pulse s is omitted in each of the G2 dot corresponding to the first dot and the G4 dot corresponding to the first dot regarding the G5 dot.

  FIG. 14C shows an output pattern corresponding to FIG. In this case, among the preheating target dots in the dot pattern Pc of FIG. 13C, C2 dots corresponding to the second dots, C3 dots corresponding to the third dots with respect to the C1 dots, C4 dots, and the second dots D2 dot, D5 dot corresponding to D1, D4 dot, E4 dot corresponding to the first dot, E4 dot corresponding to the second dot, E7 dot corresponding to the second dot E5 dot, E6 dot, and F3 dot corresponding to the first dot, and F1 dot, F2 dot, F4 dot, F6 dot corresponding to the second dot, and the first dot. F5 dots, F6 dots, G2 dots corresponding to the second dot, and G5 dots For each of the G3 dot, G4 dot corresponding to the first dot, the H2 dot corresponding to the second dot, and the H3 dot corresponding to the third dot with respect to the H1 dot, the sub pulse s is output. Omitted.

  FIG. 14D shows an output pattern corresponding to FIG. In this case, among the dots to be preheated in the dot pattern Pd in FIG. 13D, C4 dots corresponding to the third dot with respect to C3 dots, C5 dots, C6 dots, and D4 corresponding to the third dots with respect to D3 dots. Regarding dots, D5 dots, D6 dots, E7 dots, E4 dots, E5 dots, E6 dots, F4 dots corresponding to the first dots, and F1, D2, F3, and F10 dots corresponding to the first dots. Regarding the F7 dot, F8 dot, F9 dot, and G6 dot corresponding to the first dot, the G1 dot, G8 dot, G9 dot, and H4 dot corresponding to the third dot, the H1 dot, H2 dot corresponding to the first dot, Corresponds to the first dot for H3 dots and H10 dots Regarding H7 dots, H8 dots, H9 dots, and I7 dots Regarding I4 dots, I5 dots, I6 dots, and J3 dots corresponding to the first dots, J4 dots, J5 dots, J6 dots, and K3 dots corresponding to the third dots The output of the sub-pulse s is omitted at each of the K4 dot, K5 dot, and K6 dot corresponding to the third dot.

  FIG. 14E shows an output pattern corresponding to FIG. In this case, among the dots to be preheated in the dot pattern Pe in FIG. 13E, A6 dots, A7 dots, and B4 dots that correspond to the third dot with respect to A4 dots, B6 dots and B7 that correspond to the third dot with respect to B4 dots, respectively. D6 dot, D7 dot, D8 dot, E2 dot corresponding to the first dot for the C6 dot, C7 dot, D9 dot corresponding to the third dot for the dot, C4 dot, E2 dot corresponding to the first dot for the E5 dot, E10 dots, E11 dots, E12 dots, and F8 dots that correspond to the first dot with respect to E3 dots, E4 dots, and E8 dots, and the third dot with respect to F10 dots, F11 dots, and G8 dots that correspond to the third dot. To G10 dots, G11 dots, and H5 dots The H2 dot, H3 dot, H4 dot, and H13 dot corresponding to the first dot, the H10 dot corresponding to the first dot, the H11 dot, the H12 dot, and the I6 dot corresponding to the first dot with respect to the I9 dot, Regarding I7 dots, I8 dots, and J4 dots, J6 dots, J7 dots, and K4 dots that correspond to the third dots, and K6 dots, K7 dots, and L4 dots that correspond to the third dots, L6 dots that correspond to the third dots. , The output of the sub pulse s is omitted in each of the L7 dots.

  FIG. 14F shows an output pattern corresponding to FIG. In this case, among the preheating target dots in the dot pattern Pf of FIG. 13 (f), C2 dots corresponding to the third dot with respect to the C1 dot, C3 dots, C4 dots, and D2 corresponding to the third dot with respect to the D1 dot. Regarding D1, D4, and D5 dots, D3 and E6 dots corresponding to the first dot, E4, E6, and E3 dots corresponding to the third dot, E1 and E6 dots corresponding to the first dot The E5 dot corresponding to the first dot, the F3 dot corresponding to the third dot, the F4 dot corresponding to the third dot, the F6 dot, the F5 dot corresponding to the first dot, the F1 dot corresponding to the first dot, and the F7 dot corresponding to the first dot. G corresponding to the third dot with respect to dots and G1 dots For the dots, G4 dots, and G5 dots, the output of the sub-pulse s is omitted in each of the G3 dots corresponding to the first dots and the H2 dots, H3 dots, and H4 dots corresponding to the third dots for the H1 dots. .

  FIG. 14 (g) shows an output pattern corresponding to FIG. 13 (g). In this case, among the preheating target dots in the dot pattern Pf in FIG. 13G, C2 dots corresponding to the third dot with respect to the C2 dots, C4 dots, G2 dots corresponding to the third dots with respect to the G2 dots, G4 For each dot, the output of the sub pulse s is omitted.

<Control Procedure of Printing Process of Embodiment>
A control procedure of the printing process executed by the CPU 212 in order to realize the method described above will be described with reference to the flow of FIG. In FIG. 15, for example, when the user turns on the power of the tape printer 1, this flow is started (“START” position).

  First, in step S10, the CPU 212 determines whether a creation start instruction signal for the printed tape 150 ″ corresponding to the user's creation start operation on the operation unit 216 (or on the PC 217) is input. If the creation start instruction signal corresponding to the user's intention to start creation is not input, the determination in step S10 is not satisfied (S10: NO), and the process waits for a loop. When satisfied (S10: YES), the process proceeds to step S15.

  In step S <b> 15, the CPU 212 determines whether or not full length data representing the total length along the transport direction of the printed tape 150 ″ to be created corresponding to the user operation on the operation unit 216 (or on the PC 217) has been input. If the full length data corresponding to the total length of the tape intended by the user is not input, the determination in step S15 is not satisfied (S15: NO), and the same procedure is repeated by returning to step S10. If entered, the determination in step S15 is satisfied (S15: YES), and the process proceeds to step S20.

  In step S <b> 20, the CPU 212 determines whether print data corresponding to one image to be repeatedly formed on the print-receiving tape 150 based on a user operation on the operation unit 216 (or on the PC 217). judge. If no print data is input, the determination in step S20 is not satisfied (S20: NO), and the same procedure is repeated by returning to step S10. When the print data is input, the determination in step S20 is satisfied (S20: YES), and the process proceeds to step S25.

  In step S25, as described above with reference to FIG. 8, the CPU 212 performs image conversion processing on the print data input in step S20 to generate image data (dot pattern data), which is developed in the image buffer 213a. (See also FIG. 9 above). When step S25 ends, the process proceeds to step S30. Note that the CPU 212 that executes step S25 functions as the image data generating means described in each claim.

  In step S30, the CPU 212 executes the above-described heat storage heat treatment on the dot pattern of the image data developed in the image buffer 213a (see FIG. 12 above). As a result, as described above, in the case where two or more on dots are adjacently continuous in the transport direction in the dot pattern, the sub pulse s is omitted for the second and subsequent on dots when the dots are consecutive. The data is set so that a drive pulse consisting only of the main pulse m is output. When step S30 ends, the process proceeds to step S35.

  In step S35, the CPU 212 performs the above-described pre-heat treatment on the dot pattern of the image data for which the heat storage heat treatment has been performed in the image buffer 213a in step S30 (see FIG. 13 above). As a result, as described above, in the dot pattern, there is a dot in which the main pulse m is not generated within N dots (N = 3 in this example) adjacent to one specific on-dot and preceding in the transport direction. In addition, the data is set so that a driving pulse consisting only of the sub-pulse s is output for each of the dots to be preheated within the N dots. In addition, CPU212 which performs this step S35 functions as a pre-heat treatment means as described in each claim. When step S35 ends, the process proceeds to step S40.

  In step S40, the CPU 212 executes the first cancellation process described above on the dot pattern of the image data for which the pre-heat treatment has been performed in the image buffer 213a in step S35 (see FIG. 14 above). As a result, as described above, when the first dot is included in the preheating target dots included in the dot pattern, the data setting is made so as to stop the generation of the sub-pulse s at the first dot. Is done. The CPU 212 that executes step S40 functions as a first cancellation processing unit described in each claim. When step S40 ends, the process proceeds to step S45.

  In step S45, the CPU 212 executes the second cancellation process described above on the dot pattern of the image data for which the first cancellation process has been executed in the image buffer 213a in step S40 (see FIG. 14 above). As a result, as described above, when the second dot is included in the dots to be preheated included in the dot pattern, the setting on the data is set so that the generation of the sub-pulse s at the second dot is stopped. Done. It should be noted that the CPU 212 that executes step S45 functions as a second cancellation processing unit described in each claim. When step S45 ends, the process proceeds to step S50.

  In step S50, the CPU 212 executes the above-described third cancellation process on the dot pattern of the image data for which the second cancellation process has been executed in the image buffer 213a in step S45 (see FIG. 14 above). As a result, as described above, when the third dot is included in the dots to be preheated included in the dot pattern, the data setting is made so that the generation of the sub-pulse s at the third dot is stopped. Is done. Note that the CPU 212 executing this step S50 functions as third cancellation processing means described in each claim. When step S50 ends, the process proceeds to step S55.

  In this example, as described above, the heat storage heat treatment, the preheat treatment, the first stop processing, the second stop processing, and the third stop processing are executed before starting the printing operation in step S55 and later. However, it is not limited to this. That is, some or all of these processes may be sequentially performed after the printing operation is actually started. In this case, the same effect is obtained.

  In step S55, the CPU 212 outputs a control signal to the motor drive circuits 218, 219, and 220, and starts driving the conveyance motor M1, the adhesive winding motor M2, and the release paper winding motor M3, and then the above-mentioned cover. The conveyance of the printing tape 150, the printed tape 150 ', and the printed tape 150 "(hereinafter simply referred to as" tape conveyance "as appropriate) and the winding of the printed tape 150" are started. When step S55 is completed. The process proceeds to step S60.

  In step S60, the CPU 212 determines, based on the print data acquired in step S204, whether or not the tape conveyance has reached the state where the print head 11 faces the corresponding print start position by a known method. . If the print start position has not been reached, the determination in step S60 is not satisfied (S60: NO), and the loop waits until this determination is satisfied. If the print start position is reached, the determination is satisfied (S60: YES), and the routine goes to Step S65.

  In step S65, the CPU 212 outputs a control signal to the print head control circuit 221 and energizes the heat generating element of the print head 11 to generate the image data (generated in step S25 and generated in step S35) to the print-receiving tape 150. -Repeated print formation of image data subjected to each processing in step S50) is started. At this time, reflecting the results of the above processes, the print head control circuit 221 includes the above-described drive pulses (including the main pulse m and the sub pulse s, including the main pulse m, and including only the sub pulse s. Is output to the heating element of the print head 11. When step S65 ends, the process proceeds to step S70.

  In step S70, the CPU 212 determines, based on the print data acquired in step S20, whether or not the tape conveyance has reached a state where the print head 11 faces the print end position by a known method. If the print end position has not been reached, the determination in step S70 is not satisfied (S70: NO), and the same procedure is repeated by returning to step S65. Thereby, the above-described print formation is continued. On the other hand, when the print end position is reached, the determination in step S70 is satisfied (S70: YES), and the process proceeds to step S75.

  In step S <b> 75, the CPU 212 outputs a control signal to the print head control circuit 221, stops energization of the heat generating elements of the print head 11, and stops print formation on the print-receiving tape 150. When step S75 ends, the process proceeds to step S80.

  In step S80, the CPU 212 transports the cutting position by the cutter mechanism 30 corresponding to the full length data acquired in step S20 (the printed tape 150 ″ wound as the printed tape roll R by the winding mechanism 40). It is determined whether or not the tape transport has reached the cutting position where the total length along the direction is the length intended by the operator) If the cutting position has not been reached, the determination in step S80 is not satisfied. (S80: NO) When the loop position is reached, the determination in step S80 is satisfied (S80: YES), and the process proceeds to step S85.

  In step S85, the CPU 212 outputs a control signal to the motor drive circuits 218, 219, and 220, and stops driving the conveyance motor M1, the adhesive winding motor M2, and the release paper winding motor M3. As a result, the conveyance of the print-receiving tape 150, the printed tape 150 ′, and the printed tape 150 ″ is stopped. When step S85 is completed, the process proceeds to step S90.

  In step S90, the CPU 212 outputs a control signal to the motor drive circuit 222 to drive the cutter motor MC, and cuts the printed tape 150 ″ by the operation of the cutter mechanism 30. When step S90 is completed, the step is completed. The process moves to S95.

  In step S95, the CPU 212 outputs a control signal to the motor drive circuit 219, starts driving the adhesive winding motor M2, and winds the printed tape 150 ″ around the outer periphery of the winding core 41 of the winding mechanism 40. When step S95 ends, the process proceeds to step S100.

  In step S100, the CPU 212 determines whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the cutting operation of the cutter mechanism 30 in step S95. If the predetermined time has not elapsed, the determination in step S100 is not satisfied (S100: NO), and a loop standby is performed. This predetermined time may be a time sufficient to sufficiently wind the printed tape 150 ″ around the core 41. When the predetermined time has elapsed, the determination in step S100 is satisfied (S100: YES), and the process proceeds to step S105.

  In step S105, the CPU 212 outputs a control signal to the motor drive circuit 219, and stops driving the adhesive winding motor M2. As a result, the printed tape 150 ″ generated by the cutting can be reliably wound onto the printed tape roll R2. Then, this flow is finished.

<Effects of this embodiment>
As described above, in the present embodiment, there is a possibility that excessive preheating may occur in the preheating process (for example, the first dot in which the main pulse m is generated in the dot adjacent to the orthogonal direction in the preheating target dot is generated. In the above case, the generation of the sub-pulse s at the first dot is stopped. Thereby, it is possible to prevent unnecessary color development due to excessive preheating, and to improve the printing quality.

  Further, as another case where there is a possibility that excessive preheating may occur, for example, a main pulse m may be generated for the preheating target dot itself. Therefore, particularly in the present embodiment, when the preheating target dot includes the second dot in which the main pulse m is generated with the dot as described above, the sub pulse s is generated with the second dot. Cancel. As a result, it is possible to prevent unnecessary color formation due to excessive preheating in the second dots, and it is possible to reliably improve the print quality.

  Furthermore, as another case in which the above preheating may occur, for example, the main pulse m may be generated with dots within several dots preceding the preheating target dot in the transport direction. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the third dot that generates the main pulse m within M dots (M = 3 in the above example) adjacent to a certain dot and preceding in the transport direction is the preheat. If included in the target dot, generation of the sub-pulse s at the third dot is stopped. As a result, it is possible to prevent unnecessary color formation due to excessive preheating in the third dots, and it is possible to improve the print quality more reliably.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and technical idea of the present invention. Hereinafter, such modifications will be described.
(1) In the case where two sub-pulses are used In the above embodiment, the drive pulse output (generated) for each on-dot in the dot pattern is basically one main pulse as shown in FIG. m and one sub pulse s. On the other hand, in this modification, as shown in FIG. 16A, one main pulse m and two subpulses s1 and s2 (hereinafter referred to as “first subpulse s1” and “second subpulse s2 as appropriate”). ”). Even in the case of such a pulse composition, the same effect can be obtained by using the same method as in the above embodiment. Hereinafter, a description will be given while simply comparing with the above embodiment. Components equivalent to those in the embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted or simplified as appropriate. Note that the present invention is not limited to the above, and three or more sub-pulses may be used.

<Basic pulse output pattern>
FIGS. 17A to 17G are diagrams showing basic pulse output patterns of this modification, and correspond to FIGS. 11A to 11G in the above embodiment, respectively. In FIG. 11, the drive pulses of the dot patterns Pa to Pg are composed of the main pulse m and the sub pulse s. However, in this modification, the drive pulses of the dot patterns Pa to Pg are the main pulses as shown in FIG. It is composed of a pulse m, a sub pulse s1, and a sub pulse s2.

<Output pattern after heat storage>
FIGS. 18A to 18G are diagrams showing output patterns after heat storage of this modification, and correspond to FIGS. 12A to 12G in the above embodiment, respectively. In FIG. 12, the sub pulse s is omitted for the dots to be subjected to heat storage among the dot patterns Pa to Pg. However, in this modification, as illustrated in FIG. The subpulses s1 and s2 are omitted. In this case, in the dot, as shown in FIG. 16C (corresponding to FIG. 10C above), the subpulses s1 and s2 are omitted, and a drive pulse consisting only of the main pulse m is output. Is done.

<Pattern after pre-heat treatment>
FIGS. 19A to 19G are diagrams showing output patterns after pre-heat treatment according to this modification, and correspond to FIGS. 13A to 13G in the above embodiment, respectively. In FIG. 13, preheating is performed using the sub-pulse s in the dots in which the preheat treatment is performed among the dot patterns Pa to Pg, but in this modification, as shown in FIG. Preheating is performed using the sub-pulse s2. That is, as shown in FIG. 16B (corresponding to FIG. 10B), a driving pulse consisting only of the sub-pulse s2 is output at the dot.

<Pattern after preheating suppression treatment>
FIGS. 20A to 20G are diagrams illustrating output patterns after the preheating suppression process of the present modification, and correspond to FIGS. 14A to 14G in the above embodiment, respectively. In FIG. 14, the generation of the sub-pulse s (which should be generated in the preheat treatment) is stopped in the dots in which the preheat suppression process is executed among the dot patterns Pa to Pg. As shown, the generation of the sub-pulse s2 (which should be generated in the pre-heat treatment) is stopped for the corresponding dot.

  Also in this modified example, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of unnecessary coloring due to excessive preheating and improve the printing quality, as in the above embodiment.

(2) Others Note that the present invention is applied to the tape printer 1 that prints out the print-receiving tape 150 (including the non-adhesive tape) from the print-receiving tape roll R1 whose axis is the left-right direction. Although the case where is applied has been described as an example, it is not limited thereto. That is, as an example of a printing apparatus, for example, a desired printing is performed on a printer for forming an image or printing characters on a normal printing paper of A4, A3, B4, B5 size or the like, or a printing tape for producing a label. The present invention may be applied to a print label producing apparatus that produces a print label. In this case, the same effect is obtained.

  In addition, in the above, the arrow shown in FIG. 7 shows an example of the signal flow, and does not limit the signal flow direction.

  Further, the flowchart shown in FIG. 15 does not limit the present invention to the procedure shown in the above-described flow, and the procedure may be added / deleted or the order may be changed without departing from the spirit and technical idea of the invention. Good.

  In addition to those already described above, the methods according to the above-described embodiments and modifications may be used in appropriate combination.

  In addition, although not illustrated one by one, the present invention is implemented with various modifications within a range not departing from the gist thereof.

1 Tape printer (printer)
11 Print head (printing means)
150 Printed tape (printed medium)
221 Print head control circuit (pulse signal generating means)
m Main pulse s, s1, s2 Sub pulse

Claims (1)

Conveying means for conveying the print medium in a predetermined conveying direction;
Based on print data representing a character string or iconography column, the dot pattern consisting of the character string or containing inaction image data the iconography columns, a plurality of dots arranged along the perpendicular direction perpendicular to the conveying direction and the conveying direction Image data generating means to generate in
Based on the image data generated by the image data generating means, a plurality of pulses including one main pulse and at least one sub-pulse following this main pulse with time for each dot included in the dot pattern Pulse signal generating means for generating a signal;
In the case where the main pulse is generated for one specific dot included in the dot pattern based on the image data, N dots preceding the specific dot in the transport direction (N is a positive integer) ), When there are dots for which the main pulse is not generated, pre-heat treatment means for performing pre-heat treatment for generating the sub-pulse for each of the N dots,
A printing unit that includes the heat generating element that generates heat by being driven by the main pulse or the sub-pulse, and performs printing on the print medium;
A printing device comprising:
When the N dots for which the sub-pulse is generated by the pre-heat treatment include a first dot based on the image data, and the main pulse is generated for a dot adjacent to the first dot in the orthogonal direction Includes first stop processing means for stopping the generation of the sub-pulse in the first dot ,
Based on the image data, when the N dot from which the sub-pulse is generated by the pre-heat treatment includes a second dot and the main pulse is generated for the second dot, the second dot Second stop processing means for stopping the generation of the sub-pulse in
Based on the image data, the dots in which the sub-pulse is generated by the pre-heat treatment are dots within M dots (M is a positive integer) adjacent to the dot and preceding in the transport direction, and A third stop processing means for stopping the generation of the sub-pulse in the third dot when a third dot that is a dot for generating a main pulse is included;
Have
When the first to third dots overlap with each other, among the first to third cancellation processing means, the cancellation processing means corresponding to the dot number is applied with priority on the dot with the younger number. <br/> A printing apparatus characterized by the above.

Images