JP7094826B2 - Printing equipment and printing method - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a printing apparatus and a printing method.

Conventionally, an inkjet printer, which is a printing device that prints by an inkjet method, has been widely used. Further, as a configuration of an inkjet printer, a serial type configuration in which an inkjet head performs a main scanning operation (scanning operation) is widely used (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2018-11121

When printing is performed by the serial method, the area facing the inkjet head in the medium (media) to be printed is sequentially changed by causing the inkjet head to perform a sub-scanning operation between the main scanning operations. Further, in the sub-scanning operation, for example, the inkjet head is moved relative to the medium by transporting the medium by the transport amount (feed amount) determined according to the number of passes set as the printing condition.

Further, in the sub-scanning operation, for various reasons, an error may occur in the sub-scanning movement amount (for example, the transport amount of the medium), which is the distance for moving the inkjet head relative to the medium during the sub-scanning operation. be. When such an error occurs, an unintended striped pattern (banding) may occur in the print result, and the print quality may deteriorate. Therefore, it is preferable to appropriately correct the sub-scanning movement amount, rather than simply setting it according to the number of passes.

Regarding this point, for example, if the types of the number of passes that can be set in the inkjet printer are limited to several types, a parameter for correction is prepared in advance for each sub-scanning movement amount corresponding to each settable number of passes. It is conceivable to do. However, in recent years, due to the sophistication and diversification of performance required for inkjet printers, for example, the number of types of paths that can be set may become extremely large. More specifically, for example, when using a function such as MAPS (Mimaki Advanced Pass System) installed in an inkjet printer manufactured by Mimaki Engineering Co., Ltd., various paths including non-integers are set. .. In such a case, if a correction parameter is prepared in advance for each sub-scanning movement amount corresponding to each settable number of passes, the required correction parameter may become extremely large.

Therefore, conventionally, it has been desired to more appropriately correct the sub-scanning movement amount in a printing apparatus in which an inkjet head performs a main scanning operation and a sub-scanning operation. Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a printing apparatus and a printing method capable of solving the above problems.

When correcting the sub-scanning movement amount using only a smaller number of correction parameters, for example, a correction parameter for a predetermined printing condition is prepared as a standard parameter, and other printing conditions are prepared. When using, it is conceivable to adjust the parameters for correction according to the difference in printing conditions (for example, the difference in the number of passes, etc.). More specifically, in this case, an amount that changes the sub-scanning movement amount under predetermined printing conditions is prepared as a standard parameter, and the correction parameter is adjusted so as to be proportional to the sub-scanning movement amount. It is possible to do it.

However, the inventor of the present application actually performs various experiments, etc., in the case where the maximum value that can be taken as the sub-scanning movement amount becomes large, for example, when a large-sized inkjet head is used. It has been found that the error may be large in the result of the correction of the sub-scanning movement amount simply by making it proportional to the sub-scanning movement amount. More specifically, in this case, for example, when the correction amount required under the printing condition where the number of passes is 1 is used as a standard parameter, and when the correction amount required under the printing condition where the number of passes is 2 is used as the standard. In the result of comparison with the case of using as the parameter of, an error may occur in the value of the parameter after adjustment exceeding the dot-to-dot distance (dot-to-dot distance in the sub-scanning direction) corresponding to the printing resolution. If such an error occurs, banding or the like may not be appropriately prevented even if the sub-scanning movement amount is corrected.

On the other hand, the inventor of the present application considered to make the parameter for correction different depending on the magnitude of the basic movement amount corresponding to the sub-scanning movement amount before correction. More specifically, when the basic movement amount is within the predetermined first range, the first correction coefficient is used as the correction parameter, and the basic movement amount is smaller than the first range. When it is within the range of, it is considered to use the second correction coefficient as a parameter for correction. With this configuration, for example, even when the maximum value that can be taken as the scanning movement amount becomes large, it is possible to more appropriately correct the sub-scanning movement amount with higher accuracy. Further, in this case as well, since it is only necessary to prepare a limited number of correction coefficients, it is possible to appropriately correct the sub-scanning movement amount by using only a small number of correction parameters.

In addition, the inventor of the present application has found the features necessary for obtaining such an effect through further diligent research, and has reached the present invention. In order to solve the above problems, the present invention is a printing apparatus that prints on a medium, the inkjet head that ejects ink to the medium, and the medium in a preset main scanning direction. A main scanning drive unit that causes the inkjet head to perform a main scanning operation that ejects ink while moving relatively, and a sub-scanning operation that moves relative to the medium in a sub-scanning direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction. A movement amount setting for setting a sub-scanning drive unit for causing the inkjet head to move the inkjet head and a sub-scanning movement amount which is a distance for moving the inkjet head in the sub-scanning direction relative to the medium in the sub-scanning operation. A unit and a correction coefficient storage unit for storing a correction coefficient, which is a coefficient used for calculating a calculated correction value calculated as a correction value used for correcting the sub-scanning movement amount, are provided, and the movement amount setting unit is for printing. The sub-scanning movement amount is set based on the basic movement amount, which is the basic movement amount set according to the conditions, and the calculated correction value, and the correction coefficient storage unit uses at least the correction coefficient as the correction coefficient. The first correction coefficient used when the basic movement amount is within the first range, and the second correction coefficient used when the basic movement amount is within the second range smaller than the first range. When the correction coefficient is stored and the basic movement amount is within the first range, the movement amount setting unit performs the calculation correction based on the basic movement amount and the first correction coefficient. A value is calculated, and when the basic movement amount is within the second range, the movement amount setting unit calculates the calculated correction value based on the basic movement amount and the second correction coefficient. It is characterized by doing.

With this configuration, for example, it is possible to appropriately correct the sub-scanning movement amount with high accuracy. Further, in this case, for example, since it is only necessary to prepare a limited number of correction coefficients, it is possible to appropriately correct the sub-scanning movement amount by using only a small number of correction parameters. Further, in this configuration, as the first and second correction coefficients, for example, it is conceivable to use a coefficient indicating a linear function that associates the basic movement amount with the calculated correction value. Further, in this case, for example, it is conceivable to use a coefficient different from the first correction coefficient as the second correction coefficient.

Further, in this configuration, the inkjet head has, for example, a nozzle row in which a plurality of nozzles are arranged so as to be displaced from each other in the sub-scanning direction. In this case, as the first range, for example, it is conceivable to use a range including a case where the nozzle length, which is the width in the sub-scanning direction of the nozzle row of the inkjet head, and the basic movement amount are equal to each other. Further, as the second range, for example, it is conceivable to use a range including all basic movement amounts less than or less than a predetermined movement amount smaller than the nozzle length. Further, in this case, as the second correction coefficient, for example, it is conceivable to use a coefficient indicating that the calculated correction value is calculated in proportion to the basic movement amount. The calculation of the calculated correction value in proportion to the basic movement amount means that, for example, the linear function that associates the basic movement amount with the calculated correction value becomes a function indicating a straight line passing through the origin. With this configuration, for example, the first range and the second range can be appropriately separated. Further, for example, the calculated correction value can be appropriately calculated for the basic movement amount included in the second range.

Here, in this configuration, as the inkjet head, for example, it is conceivable to use a composite head (for example, a staggered head or the like) composed of a plurality of inkjet heads that eject ink of the same color. In this case, the nozzle row of the inkjet head is, for example, the nozzle row in the composite head. Further, the nozzle row in the composite head is, for example, a nozzle row formed by combining the nozzles of each of the plurality of inkjet heads constituting the composite head.

Further, in this configuration, it is conceivable to use, for example, a movement amount equal to half of the nozzle length as the predetermined movement amount. Further, in this case, as the first range, for example, it is conceivable to use a range including all the basic movement amounts larger than the predetermined movement amount. In this case, as the first correction coefficient, for example, the calculated correction value corresponding to the basic movement amount is linearly between the basic movement amount equal to half of the nozzle length and the basic movement amount equal to the nozzle length. It is conceivable to use a coefficient indicating that it changes. The linear change of the calculated correction value corresponding to the basic movement amount means that, for example, the relationship between the basic movement amount and the calculated correction value becomes a linear function. With this configuration, for example, the calculated correction value can be appropriately calculated for the basic movement amount included in the first range. Further, in this configuration, the slope in the linear relationship indicated by the first correction coefficient may be different from the slope in the proportional relationship indicated by the second correction coefficient. Further, in this case, as the linear function corresponding to the first range, for example, it is conceivable to use a function corresponding to a straight line not passing through the origin.

Further, in this configuration, the dot-to-dot distance corresponding to the resolution in the sub-scanning direction set according to the printing conditions is defined as the sub-scanning dot-to-dot distance, and the first case is the case where the basic movement amount is equal to the nozzle length. When the calculated correction value calculated based on the correction coefficient of is used as the first value and the value when the correction value is calculated according to the proportional relationship indicated by the second correction coefficient is used as the second value, the first value is used. It is conceivable that the difference between the second value and the second value will be larger than the distance between the sub-scanning dots. In such a case, for example, when the sub-scanning movement amount is corrected using only one type of correction coefficient, for example, when the basic movement amount becomes equal to the nozzle length, or when the basic movement amount becomes half of the nozzle length. It is conceivable that an error exceeding the distance between the sub-scanning dots may occur in the corrected sub-scanning movement amount in the above. If such an error occurs, banding or the like may not be appropriately prevented even if the sub-scanning movement amount is corrected. On the other hand, when the first correction coefficient and the second correction coefficient are used as described above, the occurrence of such an error can be appropriately prevented. Further, as a result, for example, it is possible to more appropriately correct the sub-scanning movement amount with higher accuracy.

Further, in the situation where the above error occurs, for example, if the correction value is calculated using only one proportional coefficient, the distance between the sub-scanning dots with respect to the ideal correction value in any of the sub-scanning movement amounts. It can also be considered as a situation where a larger difference occurs. More specifically, in this case, for example, a correction value for correctly setting the sub-scanning movement amount corresponding to each basic movement amount is defined as an ideal correction value, and only one proportional coefficient is used for the basic movement amount. When the correction value when the calculation correction value is set in proportion is defined as the simple proportional correction value, one proportional coefficient is equal to the ideal correction value and the simple proportional correction value for any of the basic movement amounts. When is set, the difference between the ideal correction value corresponding to the basic movement amount and the simple proportional correction value becomes larger than the distance between the sub-scanning dots with respect to any other basic movement amount. Even in such a case, the occurrence of such an error can be appropriately prevented by using the first correction coefficient and the second correction coefficient. Further, as a result, for example, it is possible to more appropriately correct the sub-scanning movement amount with higher accuracy.

Further, in this configuration, as a printing condition, for example, it is conceivable that at least the number of passes indicating the average number of main scanning operations performed for each position of the printing range on the medium is set. Further, in this case, as the basic movement amount, for example, it is conceivable to use a value obtained by dividing the nozzle length of the inkjet head by the number of passes. With this configuration, for example, the basic movement amount can be appropriately set.

Further, in this configuration, it is conceivable that a plurality of types of values including non-integer values can be set as the number of passes. Further, in this case, as a non-integer value, for example, it is conceivable to make it possible to set a value with a step size of at least 0.25 or less. In such a case, since various numbers of passes can be set, the values that can be taken as the basic movement amount also become various. On the other hand, when the input correction value is used as described above, the sub-scanning movement amount can be appropriately set even when there are many possible values as the basic movement amount. The step size of the number of passes is preferably 0.1 or less, more preferably 0.01 or less. Further, in this case, for example, it is conceivable that an arbitrary number of passes can be set with a numerical value having a predetermined number of digits after the decimal point.

Further, as the configuration of the present invention, it is conceivable to use a printing method or the like having the same characteristics as described above. In this case as well, for example, the same effect as described above can be obtained.

According to the present invention, for example, in a printing apparatus in which an inkjet head performs a main scanning operation and a sub-scanning operation, it is possible to more appropriately correct the sub-scanning movement amount.

It is a figure explaining the printing apparatus 10 which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 1A shows an example of the configuration of a main part of the printing apparatus 10. FIG. 1B shows an example of the configuration of the inkjet head 102. It is a figure explaining how to calculate the calculation correction value. FIG. 2A shows an example of the relationship between the specific basic feed amount associated with the correction coefficient and the correction value (system feed correction value). FIG. 2B is a graph showing the relationship between the basic feed amount and the correction value. It is a figure explaining how to calculate the calculation correction value. It is a figure which shows an example of the operation which calculates a calculation correction value. FIG. 4A shows an example of how to calculate the calculated correction value when the corresponding number of passes is in the range of 1 to 2. FIG. 4B shows an example of how to calculate the calculated correction value when the number of corresponding paths is 2 or more.

Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a printing apparatus 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1A shows an example of the configuration of a main part of the printing apparatus 10. The printing apparatus 10 may have the same or similar characteristics as a known inkjet printer, except for the points described below. For example, the printing apparatus 10 may further have the same or similar configuration as a known inkjet printer, in addition to the configuration described below.

The printing device 10 is an inkjet printer that prints on the medium (media) 50 to be printed by an inkjet method. Further, in this example, the printing device 10 includes a head unit 12, a platen 14, a guide rail 16, a main scanning drive unit 18, a sub-scanning drive unit 20, a storage unit 22, and a control unit 30.

The head portion 12 is a portion for ejecting ink to the medium 50. Further, in this example, the head portion 12 has a carriage 100 and a plurality of inkjet heads 102. The carriage 100 is a holding member that holds a plurality of inkjet heads 102. In this example, as shown in the figure, for example, the carriage 100 aligns the positions in the sub-scanning direction (X direction in the drawing) preset in the printing apparatus 10 and is orthogonal to the sub-scanning direction (main scanning direction). A plurality of inkjet heads 102 are held so as to be arranged in the Y direction in the figure).

Further, each of the plurality of inkjet heads 102 is an inkjet head that ejects inks of each color used for printing to the medium 50, and ejects inks of different colors from each other. More specifically, in this example, the head portion 12 ejects inks of yellow (Y) color, magenta (M) color, cyan (C) color, and black (K) color, respectively. It has a plurality of inkjet heads 102. Further, in this example, each inkjet head 102 has a nozzle row in which a plurality of nozzles are arranged so as to be displaced from each other in the sub-scanning direction, and ink of each color is ejected from each nozzle.

The platen 14 is a trapezoidal member that supports the medium 50 at a position facing the head portion 12. Further, the guide rail 16 is a rail-shaped member extending in the main scanning direction, and guides the movement of the head portion 12 in the main scanning direction.

The main scanning drive unit 18 is a driving unit that causes the head unit 12 to perform a main scanning operation (scanning operation). In this case, the main scanning operation is, for example, an operation of ejecting ink while moving in the main scanning direction. Further, having the head portion 12 perform the main scanning operation means, for example, causing the inkjet head in the head portion 12 to perform the main scanning operation. Further, in this example, the printing apparatus 10 executes the printing operation in the serial system by causing the head unit 12 to perform the main scanning operation. Further, during the main scanning operation of this example, the head portion 12 moves in the main scanning direction along the guide rail 16. Further, regarding the main scanning operation, the movement of the head portion 12 in the main scanning direction is a movement relative to the medium 50. Therefore, in the modified example of the printing apparatus 10, the position of the head portion 12 may be fixed and the platen 14 may be moved, for example, to move the side of the medium 50.

The sub-scanning drive unit 20 is a drive unit that causes the head unit 12 to perform a sub-scanning operation. In this case, the sub-scanning operation is, for example, an operation of moving relative to the medium 50 in the sub-scanning direction. Further, to make the head portion 12 perform the sub-scanning operation is, for example, to cause the inkjet head in the head portion 12 to perform the sub-scanning operation. Further, in this example, the sub-scanning drive unit 20 performs a sub-scanning operation on the head unit 12 by transporting the medium 50 in a transport direction parallel to the sub-scanning direction by using, for example, a belt member (not shown). Let me do it. Further, in this case, the sub-scanning drive unit 20 conveys the medium 50 by the amount of feed set by the control unit 30 according to the number of print passes or the like between each main scanning operation. In this case, the feed amount during the sub-scanning operation is an example of the sub-scanning movement amount. The sub-scanning movement amount is a distance for moving the inkjet head 102 in the sub-scanning direction relative to the medium 50 in the sub-scanning operation. Further, the transport of the medium 50 is not limited to the belt member, and may be performed by using, for example, a roller or the like. Further, in the modified example of the printing apparatus 10, the sub-scanning operation may be performed by fixing the position of the medium 50 and moving the side of the head portion 12.

The storage unit 22 is a storage unit for storing parameters that specify printing operations. In this example, the storage unit 22 is an example of the correction coefficient storage unit, and at least stores the correction coefficient, which is a parameter used for correcting the feed amount. In this case, the correction coefficient is a coefficient used when calculating the calculated correction value, which is the correction value (feed correction value) used for correcting the feed amount. Further, the correction of the feed amount is a correction performed to set the feed amount. The correction coefficient and the like will be described in more detail later.

The control unit 30 is, for example, the CPU of the printing device 10, and controls the operation of each unit of the printing device 10 according to a preset program. More specifically, for example, when the head unit 12 controls the main scanning operation, the printing device 10 ejects ink to each nozzle of the head unit 12 according to the image to be printed. Further, in this example, the control unit 30 is also an example of the movement amount setting unit, and sets the feed amount at the time of the sub-scanning operation according to the printing conditions. Further, in this case, the feed amount is corrected based on the parameters stored in the storage unit 22. The operation of setting the feed amount in the control unit 30 will be described in more detail later.

Here, as described above, the printing apparatus 10 of this example may have the same or similar characteristics as a known inkjet printer, except for the points described above and below. For example, it is conceivable to use various known types of ink as the ink ejected from each inkjet head 102 in the head portion 12. Further, in this case, it is preferable that the printing apparatus 10 further includes fixing means for fixing the ink on the medium 50, depending on the type of ink used. More specifically, when an ink (evaporation-drying type ink) that is fixed to the medium 50 by evaporating the solvent is used as the ink, it is conceivable to use a heater or the like that heats the medium or the ink as the fixing means. In this case, the heater is arranged, for example, in the platen 14 at a position facing the head portion 12 with the medium 50 interposed therebetween. Further, as such an evaporation-drying type ink, for example, various known water-based inks, solvent inks (solvent inks), and the like can be considered. Further, as the ink, for example, an ultraviolet curable ink (UV ink) that is cured by irradiation with ultraviolet rays may be used. In this case, as the fixing means, it is conceivable to use an ultraviolet irradiation means such as a UVLED. Further, in this case, it is conceivable that the ultraviolet irradiation means is arranged at a position adjacent to the plurality of inkjet heads 102 (adjacent position in the main scanning direction) in the head portion 12.

Further, as described above, in this example, the inkjet head 102 for each color has a nozzle row in which a plurality of nozzles are lined up with their positions shifted from each other in the sub-scanning direction. In this case, as the inkjet head 102 for each color, for example, as shown in FIG. 1 (b), a composite head (for example, a staggered head or the like) composed of a plurality of inkjet heads that eject ink of the same color is used. You may. FIG. 1B shows an example of the configuration of the inkjet head 102 when the stagger head is used as the inkjet head 102.

In the case shown in the figure, the inkjet head 102 for each color is composed of a plurality of unit heads 202 that eject ink of the same color. Each of the plurality of unit heads 202 is an inkjet head constituting a staggered head, and has, for example, as shown in the figure, a nozzle row in which nozzles are arranged in the sub-scanning direction. The plurality of unit heads 202 are arranged so as to be displaced in the sub-scanning direction so that the nozzle rows of the inkjet head 102 are formed by combining the nozzle rows of the unit heads 202. In this case, the nozzle row of the inkjet head 102 is formed by combining the nozzle rows of each of the plurality of unit heads 202, for example, as shown in the right side portion of FIG. 1 (b), each unit head. When focusing on the position of each nozzle in the sub-scanning direction in 202, one virtual nozzle row is formed. Further, in this case, this virtual nozzle array can be considered as the nozzle array of the inkjet head 102. Further, in this example, as the unit head 202, for example, an inkjet head having a length of about 4 inches in the sub-scanning direction is used. As a result, the length (width in the sub-scanning direction) of the nozzle row of the inkjet head 102 composed of the two unit heads 202 is 220 mm (220,000 μm).

Subsequently, the correction coefficient used for correcting the feed amount, the operation of setting the feed amount in the control unit 30, and the like will be described in more detail. In this example, the control unit 30 sets a basic feed amount corresponding to the feed amount before correction based on the printing conditions. In this case, the basic feed amount is an example of the basic movement amount, which is the basic movement amount set according to the printing conditions. Further, in this case, the control unit 30 uses, for example, the conditions specified in the print job indicating the image to be printed as the printing conditions. Further, as the printing conditions, the conditions specified by the user may be used. Further, in this example, the input pass value and the MAPS speed value are used as the printing conditions used for setting the basic feed amount. The input path value is a numerical value that is the basis for setting the number of paths, and an integer value of 1 or more is specified. In this case, the number of passes is a number indicating the average number of main scanning operations performed for each position in the print range on the medium. Further, in this example, the number of passes is set in consideration of the MAPS speed value described below in addition to the input pass value. In this case, the input pass value can be considered to correspond to, for example, a value obtained by subtracting the influence of the MAPS process from the number of passes set at the time of printing. Further, the input path value can be considered as, for example, a value corresponding to the number of paths set when the MAPS process is disabled (OFF).

The MAPS speed value is a value indicating the degree to which the MAPS (Mimaki Advanced Pass System) process is applied. In this case, the MAPS process is, for example, a process of adjusting the density (ejection density) of the ink ejected from each nozzle by applying a mask to make the banding less noticeable. In the MAPS process, for example, the discharge concentration is adjusted by using a gradation type mask instead of a checkered pattern mask or the like. Further, in this case, by reducing the feed amount according to the amount of lowering the discharge concentration according to the mask, the boundary portion of the path is overlapped and the boundary of the path is made inconspicuous. Therefore, when performing the MAPS process, the feed amount changes according to the MAPS movement speed. In addition, the number of paths to be set will change accordingly.

In addition, when performing MAPS processing, for example, as the number of passes, a non-integer value (halfway pass) is also set by adjusting the integer value specified as the input path value according to the MAPS speed value. You will get it. Therefore, the configuration for performing MAPS processing can be considered as an example of a configuration in which a plurality of types of values including non-integer values can be set. Further, in this case, in order to flexibly perform the MAPS process or the like with high accuracy, it is preferable that the non-integer value, which is the number of passes, can be set at least in a step size of 0.25 or less. The step size of the number of passes is preferably 0.1 or less, more preferably 0.01 or less. Further, in this case, for example, it is more preferable that an arbitrary number of passes can be set with a numerical value having a predetermined number of digits after the decimal point. Further, in this example, the number of passes is calculated according to the input pass value and the MAPS speed value, so that any value can be set in increments of 0.01. Further, in this case, the input pass value and the MAPS speed value can be considered as parameters for designating the number of passes as printing conditions.

Further, the MAPS velocity value can be considered as, for example, a parameter indicating the degree of dispersion of dots formed on the medium. Further, as the MAPS speed value, for example, it is conceivable to use a numerical value in the range of 0 to 100%. In this case, the state where the MAPS speed value is set to 100% indicates the state where the mask corresponding to the input path value is applied. Therefore, when the MAPS speed value is 100%, the number of passes is equal to the number of input passes. Further, when the MAPS speed value is smaller than 100%, the number of passes becomes larger than the input pass value according to the MAPS speed value. More specifically, for example, if the input pass value is 2 and the MAPS speed value is 100%, a mask corresponding to 2 passes is applied in the MAPS process. Further, if the input pass value is 2 and the MAPS speed value is 50%, a mask equivalent to 4 passes is applied in the MAPS process. Further, in this case, the smaller the setting of the MAPS speed value, the larger the width of the overlap at the boundary portion of the path (the overlap of the paths increases), so that the boundary of the path becomes difficult to see and the banding is suppressed. growing.

Further, in this example, the control unit 30 sets the number of passes and the basic feed amount based on the input pass value and the MAPS speed value specified as the printing conditions. In this case, the number of passes is the odd pass described above. Further, the control unit 30 further sets the basic feed amount based on the number of passes and the nozzle length of the inkjet head. More specifically, in this example, a value obtained by dividing the nozzle length of the inkjet head by the number of passes is set as the basic feed amount. Further, as described above, in this example, the number of passes is calculated according to the input pass value and the MAPS speed value, so that any value can be set in increments of 0.01. .. Therefore, various values can be set as the basic movement amount within the range of the nozzle length or less.

Further, the control unit 30 sets the feed amount actually used during the sub-scanning operation by correcting the basic feed amount calculated in this way. In this case, the operation of correcting the basic feed amount can be considered as the operation of correcting the feed amount. Further, in this case, the control unit 30 calculates the calculated correction value based on the correction coefficient stored in the storage unit 22, and corrects the basic feed amount by using the calculated correction value. Further, in this case, for example, the feed amount corrected by the basic feed amount is calculated by adding the calculated correction value to the basic feed amount.

Subsequently, a method of calculating the calculated correction value and the like will be described in more detail. 2 and 3 are diagrams for explaining how to calculate the calculated correction value. As described above, in this example, the control unit 30 calculates the calculated correction value based on the correction coefficient stored in the storage unit 22. Further, in this case, the storage unit 22 stores, for example, a correction coefficient set at the time of shipment or adjustment of the printing device 10. Therefore, it can be considered that the calculated correction value is calculated so as to indicate the correction amount preset in the printing apparatus 10. Further, in this case, the calculated correction value can be considered as an example of the system feed correction value preset in the printing apparatus 10. The system feed correction value is, for example, a correction value prepared in advance by the manufacturer of the printing device 10 or the service provider related to the printing device 10. More specifically, in this example, as the correction coefficient, for example, a coefficient that associates the basic feed amount with the correction value to be set for the basic feed amount is used.

FIG. 2A shows an example of the relationship between the specific basic feed amount associated with the correction coefficient and the correction value (system feed correction value). In this case, the specific basic feed amount associated with the correction coefficient is, for example, the basic feed amount corresponding to the boundary of the range of the basic feed amount described later. FIG. 2B is a graph showing the relationship between the basic feed amount shown in FIG. 2A and the correction value, and the points corresponding to each basic feed amount shown in FIG. 2A are plotted. Shows the state in which each point is connected by a straight line (line segment).

In this example, as the specific basic feed amount, the basic feed amount when the number of passes is 0, 1, and 2 is used. In this case, when the number of passes is 0, a virtual condition for using as the origin used when calculating the calculated correction value is shown. Further, as the correction value corresponding to each basic feed amount, a value to be set as a system feed correction value is used. It is conceivable that this correction value can be obtained by, for example, actually measuring the test chart by printing it at the time of shipment or adjustment of the printing apparatus 10. Further, 0 is set as the correction value when the number of passes is 0.

Here, when considering the correction values to be used for correcting the basic feed amount for various basic feed amounts, the relationship between the basic feed amount and the correction value is linear as long as the error does not exceed a certain allowable amount. It is thought that it will change to. Further, as will be described in more detail later, the inventor of the present application sets the basic feed amount in two ranges, one is in the range of 1 to 2 and the other is in the case of a normal inkjet printer. When considered separately, it was found that the above linear relationship holds appropriately in each range. Then, in this case, for the basic feed amount other than the basic feed amount shown in FIG. 2A, each basic feed amount corresponds to the relationship shown by the straight line shown in FIG. 2B. The correction value can be obtained. Further, in this case, the correction value thus obtained can be used as the calculated correction value described above.

FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the straight lines in the graph of FIG. 2 (b) in more detail, and shows a graph obtained by extending each straight line shown in FIG. 2 (b). More specifically, in the graph of FIG. 3, the straight line corresponding to the basic feed amount when the number of passes is 1 to 2 in FIG. 2 (b) is indicated by the reference numeral A. , Is extended using a broken line. Further, the straight line corresponding to the basic feed amount when the number of passes is not in the range of 1 to 2 is indicated by a reference numeral B, and is extended by using a alternate long and short dash line.

Further, in this example, the range of the basic feed amount corresponding to the case where the number of passes is in the range of 1 to 2 is an example of the first range. Further, among the basic feed amounts within this range, when the number of passes is 1, the basic feed amount is equal to the nozzle length in the inkjet head. Therefore, the first range can be considered as, for example, a range including a case where the nozzle length and the basic feed amount are equal to each other. Further, in this example, the fact that the number of passes is in the range of 1 to 2 means that, for example, the number of passes is in the range of 1 or more and less than 2. In the modified example of how to set the range, the case where the number of passes is equal to 2 may be included in the first range.

Further, the range of the basic feed amount corresponding to the basic feed amount when the number of passes is other than the range of 1 to 2 is an example of the second range. In this case, the second range is a range in which the basic feed amount is smaller than the first range. Further, the range in which the basic feed amount is smaller than the first range means that the basic feed amount included in the range is smaller than the basic feed amount included in the first range.

Further, in this example, the basic feed amount when the number of passes is 2, is an example of a predetermined movement amount smaller than the nozzle length. In this case, the second range can be considered, for example, a range including all basic feed amounts of less than or less than such a predetermined movement amount. Further, the above-mentioned first range can be considered as, for example, a range including all basic feed amounts larger than a predetermined movement amount. Further, in this example, this predetermined movement amount is equal to half of the nozzle length. Therefore, in this example, the range including all the basic feed amounts corresponding to the case where the number of passes is 2 or more is an example of the second range. In the modified example of how to set the range, the range including all the basic feed amounts less than the basic feed amount when the number of passes is 2 is considered as the second range without including the case where the number of passes is equal to 2. You may.

Further, in this example, the storage unit 22 stores a coefficient indicating a straight line in the graph as the correction coefficient. In this case, the coefficient indicating the straight line is, for example, a parameter indicating the slope and intercept of the straight line. Further, as the correction coefficient, a parameter for calculating the slope or the intercept may be stored instead of storing the parameter directly indicating the slope or the intercept. More specifically, in this case, for example, as in each value shown in FIG. 2A, a specific printing condition may be associated with a correction value and stored as a correction coefficient. Further, in this case, it is conceivable to use at least one of the number of passes and the basic feed amount as the printing condition.

More specifically, in this example, the storage unit 22 stores, as a correction coefficient, parameters indicating the slope and intercept of each of the two straight lines designated by the reference numerals A and B in the figure. In this case, the parameter corresponding to the straight line with the reference numeral A is an example of the first correction coefficient. The first correction coefficient is a correction coefficient used when the basic feed amount is within the first range. Further, the parameter corresponding to the straight line with the reference numeral B is an example of the second correction coefficient. The second correction coefficient is a correction coefficient used when the basic feed amount is within the second range.

Further, as described above, in this example, the calculated correction value is calculated using the straight line indicated by these correction coefficients. Therefore, the correction coefficient can be considered as a coefficient indicating a linear function that associates the basic feed amount with the calculated correction value, for example. Further, as is clear from the figures and the like, in this example, the straight line with the reference numeral A and the straight line with the reference numeral B have different slopes and intercepts. Therefore, the correction coefficient corresponding to the straight line with the reference numeral B and the correction coefficient corresponding to the straight line with the reference numeral A are different coefficients from each other.

Further, more specifically, in this example, as the correction coefficient indicating the straight line with the reference numeral A, the calculated correction value corresponding to the basic feed amount within the range of the basic feed amount corresponding to the number of passes of 1 to 2 is used. A coefficient is used to indicate that it changes linearly. In this case, the linear change of the calculated correction value corresponding to the basic feed amount means that the relationship between the basic feed amount and the calculated correction value becomes a linear function. More specifically, in this example, this linear function is a function corresponding to a straight line that does not pass through the origin, as shown in the figure.

Further, when the slope and the intercept of the straight line with the reference numeral A are obtained using the values shown in FIG. 2A, the slope is 0.002182 and the intercept is −40. Therefore, when the basic feed amount is x (μm) and the calculated correction value (system feed correction value) is y (μm), the relationship between x and y is as shown by y = 0.002182x-40. ..

Further, in this example, as the correction coefficient indicating the straight line with the reference numeral B, a coefficient indicating that the calculated correction value is calculated in proportion to the basic feed amount is used. The calculation of the calculated correction value in proportion to the basic feed amount means that, for example, the linear function for associating the basic feed amount with the calculated correction value becomes a function indicating a straight line passing through the origin. Further, in this case, as described above, the slope of the straight line with the reference numeral B is different from the slope of the straight line with the reference numeral A.

Further, when the slope and the intercept of the straight line with the reference numeral B are obtained using the values shown in FIG. 2A, the slope becomes 0.001818 and the intercept becomes 0. Therefore, the relationship between the basic feed amount x (μm) and the calculated correction value (system feed correction value) y (μm) is the relationship shown by y = 0.001818x.

Subsequently, the operation of calculating the calculated correction value will be described in more detail. FIG. 4 shows an example of an operation of calculating a calculated correction value. FIG. 4A shows an example of how to calculate the calculated correction value when the corresponding number of passes is in the range of 1 to 2. FIG. 4B shows an example of how to calculate the calculated correction value when the number of corresponding paths is 2 or more.

As described above, in this example, the calculated correction value is calculated by using the relationship shown by the straight line that associates the basic feed amount with the calculated correction value. In this case, the relationship shown by a straight line is the relationship between x and y shown above. Further, in this case, the relationship corresponding to different straight lines is used depending on the case of the basic feed amount in which the corresponding number of passes is 1 to 2 and the case where the corresponding number of passes is 2 or more.

More specifically, in the case of a basic feed amount in which the corresponding number of passes is in the range of 1 to 2, the control unit 30 follows the relationship shown by the straight line with reference numeral A as shown in FIG. 4 (a). , Calculate the calculation correction value corresponding to the basic feed amount. In this case, the straight line with the reference numeral A is the straight line with the reference numeral A described above with reference to FIG. Further, more specifically, for example, considering the case where the number of passes is 1.25 as an example of the number of passes in the range of 1 to 2, the corresponding basic feed amount is 176000 μm. Then, in this case, when this value is substituted for x in the relationship indicating the straight line with the reference numeral A, the value of y becomes 344 μm. Therefore, 344 μm is calculated as the calculated correction value in this case.

Further, in the case of a basic feed amount in which the number of corresponding paths is 2 or more, the control unit 30 corresponds to the basic feed amount according to the relationship shown by the straight line with the reference numeral B as shown in FIG. 4 (b). Calculation Calculate the correction value. In this case, the straight line with the reference numeral B is the straight line with the reference numeral B described above with reference to FIG. Further, more specifically, for example, considering the case where the number of passes is 3 as an example of the number of passes of 2 or more, the corresponding basic feed amount is 7333 μm. Then, in this case, when this value is substituted for x in the relationship indicating the straight line with the reference numeral B, the value of y becomes 133 μm. Therefore, 133 μm is calculated as the calculated correction value in this case.

As described above, according to this example, for example, the correction value appropriately calculated based on the correction coefficient corresponding to the straight line with the reference numeral A to the basic feed amount in which the corresponding number of passes is in the range of 1 to 2. Can be calculated. Further, the calculated correction value can be appropriately calculated based on the correction coefficient corresponding to the straight line with the reference numeral B for the basic feed amount having the corresponding number of passes of 2 or more. Further, by these, for example, the corresponding calculated correction value can be appropriately calculated for an arbitrary basic feed amount. Therefore, according to this example, for example, even when there are many values that can be taken as the basic feed amount, it is possible to appropriately correct the feed amount with high accuracy and set the feed amount appropriately. Further, in this case, as is clear from the above explanation, it is sufficient to prepare only a limited number of correction coefficients, so that the feed amount is appropriately corrected by using only a small number of correction parameters. be able to.

Subsequently, supplementary explanations and the like regarding each configuration described above will be given. As described above, the printing apparatus 10 of this example is a system that can take an arbitrary feed amount by setting various values as the MAPS speed value. Further, in this case, the system is such that the correction value corresponding to an arbitrary feed amount is automatically proportionally calculated and applied by calculating the calculation correction value according to the change of the basic feed amount. Therefore, according to this example, the correction value can be appropriately automatically adjusted even when the basic feed amount changes variously including the value corresponding to the number of non-integer passes. Further, such a configuration can be considered, for example, a configuration in which the correction value of the feed amount is changed according to the printing conditions.

Further, as described above, in this example, for the correction performed when the feed amount is set, the possible values of the basic feed amount are divided into a plurality of ranges, and different correction coefficients are used for each range. Regarding this point, when considering that the correction is performed more easily, it can be said that it is preferable to perform the correction using only the correction coefficient indicating one kind of straight line, for example.

However, when the nozzle length becomes large due to, for example, an increase in the size of the inkjet head, the error may exceed the permissible range if the correction is performed using only the correction coefficient indicating one type of straight line. More specifically, when using only a correction coefficient indicating one type of straight line, it is conceivable to use a correction value proportional to the basic feed amount. Further, the method of such correction can be considered, for example, a configuration in which the correction value is calculated using only one proportional coefficient. When the correction is performed in this way, it is conceivable that when the nozzle length becomes large, a difference larger than the distance between the sub-scanning dots occurs with respect to the ideal correction value in any of the feed amounts. In this case, the sub-scanning dot-to-dot distance is the inter-dot distance corresponding to the resolution in the sub-scanning direction set according to the printing conditions. Further, in this case, for example, a correction value for correctly setting the feed amount corresponding to each basic feed amount is defined as an ideal correction value, and a calculation correction is made in proportion to the basic feed amount using only one proportional coefficient. If the correction value when the value is set is defined as the simple proportional correction value, if one proportional coefficient is set so as to be equal to the ideal correction value and the simple proportional correction value for any of the basic feed amounts, the other It can also be considered that the difference between the ideal correction value corresponding to the basic feed amount and the simple proportional correction value is larger than the distance between the sub-scanning dots for any of the basic feed amounts. When such an error occurs, banding such as white streaks or black streaks may occur even if the feed amount is corrected when the feed amount with a large error is used. In addition, as a result, it may be difficult to print with high quality.

Regarding the conditions under which such an error occurs, for example, when a plurality of straight lines such as straight lines with reference numerals A and B are considered in FIG. 3 and the like and each straight line is extended, one of the basic feeds is used. It can also be considered that an error exceeding the distance between the sub-scanning dots occurs between the calculated correction value indicated by the straight line A and the calculated correction value indicated by the straight line B at the position of the quantity. Further, regarding such a condition, for example, when the basic feed amount is equal to the nozzle length, the calculated correction value calculated based on the correction coefficient corresponding to the straight line A is set as the first value, and the straight line B is set. The value when the correction value is calculated according to the proportional relationship indicated by the corresponding correction coefficient is used as the second value, and the difference between the first value and the second value becomes larger than the distance between the sub-scanning dots. You can also think. In such a case, for example, if the sub-scanning movement amount is corrected using only one type of correction coefficient, for example, when the basic feed amount becomes equal to the nozzle length, or the basic feed amount becomes half of the nozzle length. It is conceivable that an error exceeding the distance between the sub-scanning dots may occur in the corrected feed amount in such cases.

On the other hand, in this example, by dividing the possible value of the basic feed amount into a plurality of ranges and using different correction coefficients for each range, it is possible to appropriately prevent the occurrence of such an error. Further, this makes it possible to correct the feed amount more appropriately, for example, with higher accuracy. Therefore, according to this example, for example, even in a system in which the proportionality coefficient of the feed correction value changes depending on the magnitude of the feed amount, the feed amount can be appropriately corrected for each range of the feed amount. In this case, the system in which the proportionality coefficient of the feed correction value changes depending on the magnitude of the feed amount is, for example, when trying to calculate the correction value by a simple proportional relationship, the feed correction is performed depending on whether the feed amount is large or small. It is a system in which the proportionality coefficient of is different. Further, such a system can be considered as a system in which an appropriate correction cannot be made for all feed amounts with only one proportional coefficient. Further, regarding the configuration of this example, it can be considered that, for example, if only the correction coefficient indicating one kind of straight line is used, it can be particularly preferably used when the above error occurs.

Further, as described above, in this example, the number of paths corresponding to the possible value of the basic feed amount is divided into two ranges, that is, a range of 1 to 2 and a range other than that. ing. Regarding this point, for example, when the inkjet head becomes larger or the distance between the sub-scanning dots becomes smaller, the possible values of the basic feed amount are divided into more ranges, and different correction coefficients are used for each range. Can also be considered preferable. However, when considering the configuration of inkjet printers that are generally used today, it is usually appropriate to correct with high accuracy by dividing the possible values of the basic feed amount into two ranges as in this example. It is possible to do it. More specifically, for example, when the nozzle length is about 500 mm or less (for example, about 100 to 500 mm) and the print resolution in the sub-scanning direction is about 1200 dpi or less (for example, about 300 to 1200 dpi), the basic feed amount. By dividing the possible values of, into two ranges, it is possible to appropriately perform correction with high accuracy. Further, when the nozzle length is about 300 mm or less (for example, about 100 to 300 mm) and the print resolution in the sub-scanning direction is about 600 dpi or less (for example, about 300 to 600 dpi), the basic feed amount can be taken. By dividing the value into two ranges, it is possible to perform correction with high accuracy more appropriately.

Further, as described above, in this example, the storage unit 22 stores, for example, parameters indicating the slope of a straight line and the intercept as correction coefficients. Then, as such a parameter, for example, it is conceivable to directly store the values of the slope and the intercept. In this case, the inclination and intercept values stored in the storage unit 22 are considered to be, for example, a proportional coefficient for automatically proportionally calculating the feed correction value corresponding to each basic feed amount between specific basic feed amounts. You can also. The specific basic feed amount is, for example, a range of the basic feed amount in which the corresponding number of passes is 1 to 2, or a range of the basic feed amount in which the corresponding number of passes is 2 or more.

Further, as the correction coefficient, instead of directly storing the slope of the straight line and the value of the intercept, other numerical values that can calculate these values may be stored. More specifically, in this case, for example, a specific basic feed amount and a correction value corresponding to the basic feed amount, such as the basic feed amount and the correction value (system feed correction value) shown in FIG. 2A. And may be stored as a correction coefficient. In this case, the correction coefficient can be considered, for example, a unique feed correction value that serves as a reference when individually calculating the proportionality coefficient for a specific basic feed amount. Further, in this case, when the calculated correction value is calculated, the proportional coefficient calculation process for calculating the parameter indicating the straight line corresponding to the range including the basic feed amount is performed, and the result is used to correct the feed amount. Further, for a system that performs such proportional coefficient calculation processing, for example, the calculation standard for the proportional coefficient for automatically proportionally calculating the feed correction value corresponding to each basic feed amount between specific basic feed amounts. It can be considered as a system or the like that automatically calculates from the unique feed correction value.

Further, in the above description, regarding the correction value used when setting the feed amount, the case where the system feed correction value preset in the printing apparatus 10 is mainly used has been described. Further, in this case, as described above, the calculated correction value calculated in this example can be considered as a system feed correction value. Further, as the correction value used when setting the feed amount, for example, a user feed correction value which is a correction value set by the user's specification may be further used in addition to the system feed correction value. In this case, as the user feed correction value, for example, an offset value for adjusting the feed amount may be used. Further, regarding this offset value, for example, it is conceivable that the user who confirms the result of the printing actually performed by the printing apparatus 10 specifies to reduce the deviation of the feed amount. Further, in this case, it is conceivable that the printing apparatus 10 manages the user feed correction value specified by the user in association with the printing conditions. Then, when the printing conditions are changed after that, it is conceivable to adjust the offset value according to the change in the basic feed amount caused by the change in the printing conditions. In this case, for example, it is conceivable to adjust the offset value so as to be proportional to the basic feed amount. With this configuration, the user feed correction value can be appropriately changed by following the change in the printing conditions.

Further, in this case, it is conceivable to adjust the offset value by proportional calculation using, for example, the slope of the straight line used when calculating the calculated correction value as the proportional coefficient according to the range including the basic feed amount. With this configuration, for example, the user feed correction value can be appropriately changed according to the change in the system feed correction value. Further, it is considered that the offset value specified as the user feed correction value is usually smaller than the calculated correction value used as the system feed correction value. Therefore, the offset value can be appropriately adjusted with high accuracy without using different proportional coefficients for each range of the basic feed amount. Therefore, the offset value may be adjusted by a simple proportional calculation using only one proportional coefficient for the entire range of the basic feed amount. In this case, the simple proportional calculation is, for example, to make an adjustment using the relationship corresponding to the straight line passing through the origin.

The present invention can be suitably used for, for example, a printing apparatus.

10 ... printing device, 12 ... head unit, 14 ... platen, 16 ... guide rail, 18 ... main scanning drive unit, 20 ... sub-scanning drive unit, 22 ... storage Unit, 30 ... Control unit, 50 ... Medium, 100 ... Carriage, 102 ... Inkjet head, 202 ... Unit head

Claims (10)

A printing device that prints on media.
An inkjet head that ejects ink to the medium and
A main scanning drive unit that causes the inkjet head to perform a main scanning operation of ejecting ink while moving relative to the medium in a preset main scanning direction.
A sub-scanning drive unit that causes the inkjet head to perform a sub-scanning operation that moves relative to the medium in a sub-scanning direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction.
A movement amount setting unit that sets a sub-scanning movement amount, which is a distance for moving the inkjet head in the sub-scanning direction relative to the medium in the sub-scanning operation.
A correction coefficient storage unit for storing a correction coefficient, which is a coefficient used for calculating a calculated correction value calculated as a correction value used for correcting the sub-scanning movement amount, is provided.
The movement amount setting unit sets the sub-scanning movement amount based on the basic movement amount, which is the basic movement amount set according to the printing conditions, and the calculated correction value.
The correction coefficient storage unit has at least, as the correction coefficient,
The first correction coefficient used when the basic movement amount is within the first range, and
The second correction coefficient used when the basic movement amount is within the second range smaller than the first range is stored.
When the basic movement amount is within the first range, the movement amount setting unit calculates the calculated correction value based on the basic movement amount and the first correction coefficient.
When the basic movement amount is within the second range, the movement amount setting unit is characterized in that the calculated correction value is calculated based on the basic movement amount and the second correction coefficient. Printing equipment. The inkjet head has a nozzle row in which a plurality of nozzles are arranged so as to be displaced from each other in the sub-scanning direction.
The first range includes a case where the nozzle length, which is the width of the nozzle row of the inkjet head in the sub-scanning direction, and the basic movement amount are equal to each other.
The second range is a range including all the basic movement amounts of less than or less than a predetermined movement amount smaller than the nozzle length.
The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second correction coefficient is a coefficient indicating that the calculated correction value is calculated in proportion to the basic movement amount. The predetermined movement amount is a movement amount equal to half of the nozzle length.
The first range is a range including all the basic movement amounts larger than the predetermined movement amount.
The first correction coefficient is linearly between the basic movement amount in which the calculated correction value corresponding to the basic movement amount is equal to half of the nozzle length and the basic movement amount equal to the nozzle length. The printing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the printing apparatus is a coefficient indicating change. The printing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the inclination in the linear relationship indicated by the first correction coefficient is different from the inclination in the proportional relationship indicated by the second correction coefficient. The dot-to-dot distance corresponding to the resolution in the sub-scanning direction set according to the printing conditions is defined as the sub-scanning dot-to-dot distance, and the first said in the case where the basic movement amount becomes equal to the nozzle length. When the calculated correction value calculated based on the correction coefficient is used as the first value and the value when the correction value is calculated according to the proportional relationship indicated by the second correction coefficient is used as the second value, the second value is used. The printing apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the difference between the value 1 and the second value is larger than the distance between the sub-scanning dots. To define the inter-dot distance corresponding to the resolution in the sub-scanning direction set according to the printing conditions as the sub-scan dot-to-dot distance, and to correctly set the sub-scan movement amount corresponding to each of the basic movement amounts. When the correction value of is defined as an ideal correction value and the correction value when the calculated correction value is set in proportion to the basic movement amount using only one proportional coefficient is defined as a simple proportional correction value.
When the one proportional coefficient is set so as to be equal to the ideal correction value and the simple proportional correction value for any of the basic movement amounts, the basic movement is set with respect to any of the other basic movement amounts. The printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the difference between the ideal correction value corresponding to the amount and the simple proportional correction value is larger than the distance between the sub-scanning dots. The inkjet head has a nozzle row in which a plurality of nozzles are arranged so as to be displaced from each other in the sub-scanning direction.
As a printing condition, at least the number of passes indicating the average number of main scanning operations performed for each position in the printing range on the medium is set.
The amount of movement according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the basic movement amount indicates a value obtained by dividing the nozzle length, which is the width of the nozzle row of the inkjet head in the sub-scanning direction, by the number of passes. Printing equipment. The printing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein a plurality of types of values including non-integer values can be set as the number of passes. The printing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein a value having a step size of at least 0.25 or less can be set as the non-integer value. It is a printing method that prints on a medium.
To the inkjet head that ejects ink to the medium
A main scanning operation that ejects ink while moving relative to the medium in a preset main scanning direction, and
The sub-scanning operation of moving relative to the medium in the sub-scanning direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction is performed.
Correction of the sub-scanning movement amount at the time of setting the sub-scanning movement amount for setting the sub-scanning movement amount which is the distance for moving the inkjet head in the sub-scanning direction relative to the medium in the sub-scanning operation. Calculated as the correction value used in Based on this, the sub-scanning movement amount is set.
As the correction coefficient, at least,
The first correction coefficient used when the basic movement amount is within the first range, and
Using the second correction coefficient used when the basic movement amount is within the second range smaller than the first range,
When the basic movement amount is within the first range, the calculated correction value is calculated based on the basic movement amount and the first correction coefficient.
When the basic movement amount is within the second range, the printing method is characterized in that the calculated correction value is calculated based on the basic movement amount and the second correction coefficient.

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