JPH1148463A - Ink jet recording apparatus and recording method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent the wastefulness of printing by detecting a state of an ink jet head to judge the quality of printing from the detection result. SOLUTION: In an ink jet recording apparatus having an ink jet head 1 applying printing to a recording medium on the basis of the data transmitted from a host computer, an imaging means detecting the state of the ink jet head 1 based on the imaging result by an imaging apparatus 9 and a means 20 sending out the imaging result by the imaging apparatus 9 are provided and the state of the ink jet head 1 is confirmed from the imaging result before printing to prevent printing poor in printing quality.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an ink jet printer having an image pickup means, which is designed so that the state of an ink jet head can be detected and the quality of printing can be determined from the detection result.

[0002]

In an ink jet printer, which is an example of a serial printer, ink is ejected from a plurality of fine nozzles formed in an ink jet head toward a recording medium such as printing paper and adhered thereto. The desired image is printed on the print paper. In such an ink jet printer, a situation may occur in which nozzles of the ink jet head are clogged and required ink is not partially discharged.

The elimination of clogging is performed by cleaning the ink jet head. Cleaning of the ink jet head is performed at a user's request or automatically at a predetermined timing.However, clogging may easily occur depending on use conditions, environment, etc. As a result of printing, it is often confirmed that clogging has occurred.

However, for example, when the printer is installed in a separate printing room apart from the host computer, it is difficult to visually confirm the printing result every time printing is performed, and the entire printing is completed. There is a problem that printing failure due to clogging may be noticed after the printing, and printing paper and printing time are wasted. Especially,
In the case of performing color printing using high-quality paper for color printing, a prior check is essential.

The present invention has been made in view of the above, and has been made in consideration of the above. An ink jet recording apparatus capable of detecting the state of an ink jet head and judging the quality of printing from the detection result to prevent waste of printing beforehand. It is an object to provide a recording method.

[0006]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided:
In an ink jet recording apparatus having an ink jet head for performing printing on a recording medium based on data transmitted from a host computer, an image pickup means for detecting a state of the ink jet head based on an image pickup result by an image pickup apparatus, and an image pickup result by the image pickup apparatus And a sending means for sending the image.

According to the first aspect, the state of the ink jet head can be confirmed from the image pickup result before printing, and printing with poor print quality can be prevented.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the ink jet recording apparatus according to the first aspect, the image pickup device includes a solid-state image pickup device and a light source.

Here, the image pickup device picks up an image of an object with a solid-state image pickup device such as a CCD and a light source.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the first or the second aspect, it is determined whether or not a predetermined print quality can be ensured based on the imaging result transmitted by the transmission means and the imaging result. In addition, the inkjet recording apparatus further comprises a determination unit that automatically executes cleaning of the ejection nozzles of the inkjet head when it is determined that the predetermined print quality cannot be ensured.

In the third aspect, the judgment means automatically executes the cleaning as needed based on the judgment from the image pickup result, so that good print quality is ensured.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the first or the second aspect, the communication with the host computer is possible by a communication means, and the sending means transmits the imaging result to the host computer via the communication means. An ink jet recording apparatus for transmitting to a computer.

[0013] In the fourth aspect, the user can observe the imaging result via the host computer.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the first or second aspect, communication with the host computer is possible by a communication means, and an imaging result transmitted by the transmission means is obtained, and the imaging result is transmitted to the host computer. The inkjet recording apparatus according to the present invention further includes a receiving unit that sends the data to the host computer via a communication unit, causes the user to make a determination based on the imaging result, and receives an instruction on the result.

In the fifth aspect, the user can determine whether or not desired print quality can be ensured by looking at the image pickup result, and can perform cleaning or the like via the reception unit as necessary. Printing can be prevented beforehand.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in any one of the first to fifth aspects, the image pickup apparatus directly faces the ink ejection end face of the ink jet head and directly takes an image of the end face during imaging. The feature is an ink jet recording apparatus.

Therefore, it is possible to determine whether or not a predetermined print quality can be obtained from the result of imaging the ejection end face of the ink jet head.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided the ink jet recording apparatus according to the sixth aspect, wherein the image pickup device is provided on the ink jet recording apparatus main body side.

Therefore, the image of the ejection end face can be obtained by moving the ink jet head so as to face the image pickup device provided in the ink jet recording apparatus main body.

An eighth aspect of the present invention is the ink jet recording apparatus according to the sixth aspect, wherein the image pickup device is provided on the ink jet head.

Accordingly, a desired imaging result can be obtained by imaging the ejection end face by the imaging device provided in the ink jet head.

A ninth aspect of the present invention is the ink jet recording apparatus according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein the image pickup device picks up an image of a print result by the ink jet head.

Therefore, it is possible to determine whether or not a predetermined print quality can be obtained from the image of the print result.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the ninth aspect, the image pickup apparatus is arranged so that the image pickup device is located downstream of the ink jet head in the recording medium feed direction so as to face the recording medium. An ink jet recording apparatus characterized by being extended in the width direction.

Therefore, immediately after printing or by transporting the printed recording medium, it is possible to image the printing result.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the ninth aspect, the imaging device is mounted on the inkjet head, and captures an image of the print result by relative movement of at least one of the inkjet head and the recording medium. There is provided an ink jet recording apparatus.

Therefore, by scanning the ink jet head simultaneously with or after printing of the ink jet head, or by transporting the printed recording medium,
The print result can be imaged.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, in any one of the ninth to eleventh aspects, there is further provided a test printing means for executing a test print, wherein the test print means performs a test print on the image pickup apparatus after the test print. An ink jet recording apparatus is characterized in that a print result is imaged.

In the twelfth aspect, the test printing means executes the test printing as needed, and the image pickup device takes an image of the result, thereby making it possible to determine whether or not a predetermined print quality can be obtained.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the twelfth aspect, there is provided a plurality of trays for accommodating the recording medium, and a trial printing recording medium for trial printing by the trial printing means on any one of the trays. In the ink jet recording apparatus.

Therefore, by storing the recording medium for trial printing in any of the trays, the recording medium for trial printing can be used at the time of trial printing.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in the twelfth aspect, in addition to the tray for storing the recording medium normally used, a recording medium for trial printing for trial printing by the trial printing means is stored. An ink jet recording apparatus comprising a tray.

Therefore, the recording medium for trial printing stored in the tray dedicated to the recording medium for trial printing can be used for trial printing.

A fifteenth aspect of the present invention is the ink jet recording apparatus according to the fourteenth aspect, wherein the test print recording medium is recyclable.

Therefore, by using a reproducible test print recording medium, it is possible to prevent unnecessary consumption of recording paper due to test print.

According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, in the twelfth aspect, a test printing transport path for transporting a test printing recording medium is provided separately from the normally used recording medium transport path. The test printing means is configured to perform test printing on the test print recording medium conveyed to the test print conveyance path.

In the sixteenth aspect, the test printing means can execute test printing on the test printing recording medium conveyed along the test printing conveyance path, and can prevent unnecessary consumption of the recording medium.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, in the sixteenth aspect, the test print transport path is for transporting an endless reusable test print recording medium. An ink jet recording apparatus comprising a removing unit for removing a test print printed on a recording medium for use in printing.

In the seventeenth aspect, the test printing means can record on an endless reproducible test printing recording medium and can remove the test print after imaging, so that wasteful consumption of resources can be prevented.

According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, in any one of the first to the seventeenth aspects, the imaging means or the trial printing means sets the time elapsed from the end of the previous printing to a predetermined time or less when a print command is issued. In this case, the inkjet recording apparatus is started up in the case of (1).

In the eighteenth aspect, the state of the ink jet head is imaged only when there is a possibility that clogging may occur at the time of a print command, and printing with reduced print quality is prevented beforehand. it can.

According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, in any one of the first to the seventeenth aspects, the imaging means or the test printing means sets the time elapsed from the end of the previous printing at the time of a cleaning instruction from a user. An ink jet recording apparatus is characterized in that it is activated when a predetermined time or more has elapsed.

In the nineteenth aspect, when the possibility of clogging at the time of the cleaning command is low, the state of the ink jet head is observed from the image pickup result to prevent useless cleaning. it can.

According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, in any one of the first to seventeenth aspects, the imaging means or the test printing means is activated based on a command from a user. It is in.

In the twentieth aspect, by imaging the state of the ink jet head according to the user's judgment, it is possible to check whether a predetermined print quality can be obtained, and to eliminate unnecessary printing.

According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, in any one of the twelfth to twentieth aspects, the test printing means executes the test printing by printing a predetermined dot pattern. In the recording device.

Therefore, it is possible to determine whether a predetermined print quality can be ensured by performing a test print of a predetermined dot pattern.

According to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, in the twenty-first aspect, the test printing means discharges a plurality of dots adjacent to each other from the same discharge nozzle of the ink jet head to change the predetermined dot pattern. An ink jet recording apparatus characterized by printing.

Therefore, by enlarging one dot pattern formed by the same nozzle, observation by imaging becomes easy.

A twenty-third aspect of the present invention provides a twenty-first or a twenty-second aspect.
In the aspect, when the inkjet head is a color print head having ejection nozzles corresponding to a plurality of colors,
The test printing means forms the predetermined dot pattern by discharging dots from at least two types of discharge nozzles selected from the respective discharge nozzles so as to have a mixed portion where the dots overlap each other. In an inkjet recording device.

Therefore, for example, by observing a dot pattern of a color that is difficult to image in a mixed portion with another color, the dot pattern can be easily observed.

According to a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, in any one of the twenty-first to twenty-third aspects, the judging means includes print data of a predetermined dot pattern of the test print and data obtained by imaging the result of the test print. And determining whether or not a predetermined print quality can be ensured by comparing with the above.

In the twenty-fourth aspect, the determination means compares the print data of the dot pattern with the image pickup result to determine whether a predetermined print quality can be ensured.

According to a twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the ink jet recording apparatus according to any one of the ninth to twenty-fourth aspects, further comprising image reading means using the image pickup device as a scanner.

In the twenty-fifth aspect, the imaging device can be used as a scanner.

According to a twenty-sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the ink jet recording apparatus according to the twenty-fifth aspect, wherein the imaging device can capture a color image.

Therefore, when used as a scanner, a color image can be read.

According to a twenty-seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a host computer, and an ink jet head capable of communicating with the host computer via communication means and executing printing on a recording medium based on data transmitted from the host computer. In an ink jet recording system including an ink jet recording device, an image pickup device provided in the ink jet recording device for detecting a state of the ink jet head, and an image pickup result provided by the ink jet recording device and communicated by the image pickup device through the communication. Sending means for sending to the host computer via the means, and receiving the imaging result provided by the sending means provided in the host computer and determining whether or not a predetermined print quality can be ensured based on the imaging result. And judgment means In ink jet recording method according to.

In the twenty-seventh aspect, the state of the ink-jet head is imaged by an image pickup device, and the image pickup result is transmitted to a host computer, so that the judgment means judges whether or not a predetermined print quality can be ensured. And printing with poor print quality can be prevented in advance.

According to a twenty-eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a host computer, and an ink jet head capable of communicating with the host computer via communication means and executing printing on a recording medium based on data transmitted from the host computer. In an ink jet recording system including an ink jet recording device, an image pickup device provided in the ink jet recording device for detecting a state of the ink jet head, and an image pickup result provided by the ink jet recording device and communicated by the image pickup device through the communication. Sending means for sending to the host computer via the means; display means provided in the host computer for receiving and displaying the imaging result sent by the sending means to allow a user to make a determination; and providing to the host computer. And the display means Return means for receiving a command from the user based on the display result and returning a command to the ink jet recording apparatus based on the command, and command executing means provided in the ink jet recording apparatus for executing the command from the return means And an ink jet recording method characterized by having:

In the twenty-eighth aspect, the state of the ink-jet head is imaged by an imaging device, and the imaging result is transmitted to a host computer, so that the display means displays the image and whether or not the user can secure a predetermined print quality. Can be determined, and cleaning or the like can be performed in advance if necessary, so that printing with poor print quality can be prevented.

According to a twenty-ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an ink-jet recording method for printing on a recording medium by an ink-jet head based on data transmitted from a host computer. And a determining step of determining whether or not a predetermined print quality can be ensured based on an imaging result of the imaging device.

In the twenty-ninth aspect, the state of the ink jet head is imaged, and the judgment means can judge whether or not a predetermined print quality can be ensured based on the imaged result. Can be prevented.

According to a thirtieth aspect of the present invention, in the twenty-ninth aspect, if it is determined in the determining step that the predetermined print quality cannot be ensured, then the ejection nozzles of the ink jet head are cleaned. An ink jet recording method characterized by the following.

Therefore, since cleaning is performed in advance as needed, useless printing can be prevented.

According to a thirty-first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an ink-jet recording method for printing on a recording medium by an ink-jet head based on data transmitted from a host computer, wherein the state of the ink-jet head is detected based on the result of image pickup by an image pickup device. Step, a display step of displaying an imaging result by the imaging device, a receiving step of receiving an instruction from a user based on the displaying step, and the inkjet head as needed based on an instruction from the user in the receiving step. And an execution step of executing the cleaning of the ink jet recording method.

In the thirty-first aspect, the state of the ink-jet head is imaged, and the user can determine whether or not a predetermined print quality can be ensured based on the imaged result displayed by the display means. Since cleaning or the like can be performed, printing with reduced print quality can be prevented.

[0068]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the drawings.

(Embodiment 1) FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an ink jet printer according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram thereof. The ink jet printer according to the present embodiment has an existing structure. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a printer (printing apparatus) 11 includes a printer control unit 13 configured by a computer, and a printer control unit 13. And a printer mechanism unit 8 whose operation is controlled by the printer unit 13. The printer control unit 13 is connected to the host computer 10 via a communication means 12 such as a bidirectional interface or a network interface. When print data is transmitted from the host computer 10, the printer control unit 13 The print data is analyzed to form a print image, and the printer mechanism 8 is operated to execute printing.

In the printer mechanism 8, the carriage 2 on which the ink jet head 1 is mounted is mounted.
Is mounted movably in the axial direction on a carriage shaft 3 mounted on a frame (not shown). A plurality of gears and a timing belt 5 (not shown) for the driving force of the driving motor 4
Is transmitted to the carriage 2 through the carriage 2 so that the carriage 2 on which the inkjet head 1 is mounted is moved to the carriage shaft 3.
Can move along. On the other hand, a platen 6 is provided on a frame (not shown) in parallel with the carriage shaft 3. The platen 6 can be rotated by the driving force of a transport motor 7, and a recording medium S such as paper fed from a paper feed roller (not shown) is wound around the platen 6 and transported. . Further, an image pickup device 9 for detecting the state of the ink jet head 1 is provided in the printer mechanism 8 so as to face the ink jet head 1. Further, a wiper 51, a cap 52, and a suction pump 53 for cleaning the head are provided on the side of the platen 6, which is the end of the carriage 2 in the moving direction. The wiper 51 performs a wiping process for wiping the ink ejection end face of the inkjet head 1, and the cap 52 and the suction pump 53 execute a suction process for sucking ink from the ink ejection nozzles. The cap 52 also caps the ink discharge end surface of the ink jet head 1 that has been waiting for printing for a predetermined time or more to prevent the ink discharge nozzles from drying.

Here, the cleaning process is performed at a predetermined timing, for example, when a command is issued from a user, or when printing is not performed for a predetermined time or more.
For example, flushing for idle ejection of ink from nozzles,
This is performed by executing a wipe process and a suction process.

The printer 11 is connected via the communication means 12.
The data and command received from the host computer 10 enter the control unit 13. The control unit 13 includes a storage unit 14
The printer program section 8 of the printer 11 is generally controlled by operating a control program or the like stored in the printer 11 by the CPU. The control unit 13 includes an interpretation unit 15,
It has a mechanism control unit 16, a detection processing execution unit 17, and a command execution unit 18. The printer 11 has a switch panel 29 for displaying various information and performing various operations.
Power switch 30 for turning on / off the power of the entire apparatus
Is provided. On the other hand, the host 10 is provided with a display unit 31 and a reception unit 32.

The interpreter 15 processes the data received from the host computer 10 and executes printing via the mechanism controller 16.

The mechanism control unit 16 includes a head drive control unit 24 that controls the head 1 based on data from the interpretation unit 15.
A carriage control unit 25 that drives the carriage drive motor 4 to control carriage movement, and a conveyance control unit 26 that drives the conveyance motor 7 to control the conveyance of the recording medium S.

The detection processing execution unit 17 is provided with an imaging unit 19
And a transmission unit 20, and activates the imaging unit 19 at a predetermined timing according to a command from a host or the like by a user.

The image pickup section 19 controls the image pickup device 9 to pick up an image of the ink ejection end face of the ink jet head 1, and detects the state of the ink jet head 1 from the image pickup result.
As the imaging device 9, for example, a CCD sensor or a contact sensor may be used.

The sending unit 20 sends the result of imaging by the imaging device 9 to the display unit 31 of the host 10 via the communication means 12 such as an interface.

The command execution unit 18 receives the command from the reception unit 32 of the host 10 and executes the above-described cleaning process of the ejection nozzles of the ink jet head 1.

The display unit 31 provided in the host 10
Receives the imaging result sent from the sending unit 20 of the printer 11. Further, the received imaging result is displayed on a display (display device), and the user is allowed to determine a subsequent process based on the display result.

The receiving section 32 receives a command from the user based on the display result displayed by the display section 31 and, based on the command, the printer 11 via the interface 12.
The command is returned to the command execution unit 18 of.

Here, the imaging device 9 controlled by the imaging unit 19 will be described.

In the present embodiment, the image pickup unit 19 controls the image pickup device 9 to directly pick up an image of the ink ejection end face of the ink jet head 1, and detects the state of the ink jet head 1 from the image pickup result. As shown in FIG. 1, the imaging device 9 includes a wiper 51 and a cap 52 on the side of the platen 6 around which the recording medium S of the printer body is wound and transported.
And is fixed adjacent to the suction pump 53 and the like so as to face the ejection end face of the inkjet head 1. In addition, the imaging device 9 has a two-dimensional solid-state imaging device such as a CCD and a light source in the present embodiment in order to image the ink ejection end face of the inkjet head 1.

Using the imaging device 9 of this embodiment, the carriage 2 on which the ink jet head 1 is mounted is moved in the main scanning direction and stopped at a position facing the imaging device 9. 9, the ink ejection end face of the inkjet head 1 can be directly imaged.

Hereinafter, the head state detection processing in this embodiment will be described.

The present embodiment is an example of head state detection processing using the above-described apparatus. When head state detection processing is executed by a user's command or the like, the user performs the operation based on the imaging result displayed on a display or the like. Determines the subsequent processing.

FIG. 3 shows a processing flow of the present embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 3, for example, when the print quality is deteriorated or the like, the ink jet head 1 is operated by a command from the user to the host 10 or an input to the operation panel 29.
Is issued (step S1:
YES), the detection process execution unit 17 is started in response to the command (step S2). Subsequent processing is performed by a head state detection processing subroutine of the present embodiment described below.

FIG. 4 shows a flowchart of a head state detection processing subroutine of this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 4, when the detection processing execution unit 17 is activated, the imaging unit 19
Is moved to a position where the ink ejection end face of the inkjet head 1 and the imaging device 9 face each other, and the imaging device 9 is controlled to execute imaging of the ink ejection end face of the inkjet head 1 (step S11). . Next, the transmitting unit 18 transmits the imaging result to the display unit 31 provided in the host 10 via the communication unit 12 such as an interface (Step S12). The display unit 31
The received imaging result is displayed on the display, and the user is allowed to determine the subsequent processing based on the imaging result (step S
13). Here, the subsequent processing is, in the present embodiment,
This is a determination as to whether to execute the cleaning of the ink jet head 1 and thereafter, to execute the printing. Thereafter, when the user determines that the cleaning of the inkjet head 1 is necessary and inputs a command to the host (step S14: YES), the receiving unit 32 receives the command from the user, and receives the command from the user. Command to the command execution unit 18 of the printer 11 (step S
15). Here, this command is a cleaning execution command for the inkjet head 1 in the present embodiment.
Command execution unit 1 of printer 11 receiving this command
Step 8 executes a cleaning process for the inkjet head 1 (step S16). In step S14,
If the user has not requested the execution of the cleaning of the ink jet head 1, the head state detection processing is ended as it is.

According to the present embodiment, the imaging result is displayed on the display device, and the subsequent processing can be determined by the user, so that the processing according to the user's request can be executed.

(Embodiment 2) This embodiment shows another example of the head state detecting process. As in the first embodiment, when the head state detecting process is executed by a user's command or the like, the printer is operated. A determination unit 21 further provided in 11 determines the state of the inkjet head 1 from the imaging result,
The user determines subsequent processing based on the determination result.

FIG. 5 shows functional blocks of the present embodiment.

The present embodiment is the same as the first embodiment except that the detection processing execution unit 17 further includes a judgment unit 21, as shown in FIG.

The determination unit 21 determines whether or not the ink discharge nozzles are not clogged and a predetermined print quality can be ensured, based on the result of the image pickup by the image pickup device 9.

In the present embodiment, the sending section 20 sends the image pickup result picked up by the image pickup device 9 to the judgment section 21. In addition, the result of the determination by the determination unit 21 is transmitted to the display unit 31 of the host 10 via the communication unit 12 such as an interface.

[0096] The display unit 31 displays the judgment result received from the sending unit 20 on a display, and allows the user to judge the subsequent processing based on the judgment result.

Hereinafter, the head state detection processing in this embodiment will be described.

In the present embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the detection processing execution unit 17 is activated by a user's instruction or the like, and the head state detection processing is executed.

FIG. 6 shows a flowchart of a head state detection processing subroutine of this embodiment.

When the detection processing execution section 17 is started by a command from the user in step S2 in FIG. 3, the imaging section 19 causes the carriage 2 on which the inkjet head 1 is mounted to discharge the ink from the inkjet head 1 as shown in FIG. The end face and the imaging device 9 are moved to positions facing each other, and the imaging device 9 is controlled to execute imaging of the ink ejection end face of the inkjet head 1 (step S21). Next, the determination unit 21 receives the imaging result and determines whether or not a predetermined print quality can be ensured based on the imaging result (Step S).
22). This determination is made based on whether or not the ink ejection end face is clogged. Thereafter, the sending unit 20 sends the result of the determination by the determining unit 21 to the display unit 31 of the host 10 (Step S23). The display unit 31 displays this determination result on a display, and causes the user to determine subsequent processing based on the determination result (step S24).

Here, the display of the judgment result indicates that cleaning of the ink jet head 1 is recommended, for example, if the judgment result by the judging section 21 in the present embodiment indicates that the predetermined print quality cannot be ensured, for example, A message such as "Clogging is recommended, cleaning is recommended." On the other hand, if it is determined that the predetermined print quality can be ensured, a message indicating that cleaning of the ink jet head 1 is not required, for example, "No cleaning is required because there is no clogging" is displayed.

Thereafter, referring to the display as described above, if the user requests cleaning of the head by inputting to the host 10 (step S25: YES), the receiving unit 3
Receiving the command, the printer 2 sends a command to execute cleaning of the inkjet head 1 to the command execution unit 18 (step S26). Upon receiving this command, the command execution unit 18 executes cleaning of the inkjet head 1 (step S27). Step S24
Then, if the user has not requested the execution of the cleaning, the head state detecting process ends.

In the present embodiment, as described above, the determination result is displayed on the display regardless of whether the determination unit 21 determines that there is clogging or determines that there is no clogging. However, for example, only when it is determined that there is clogging, the determination result may be displayed, and when there is no clogging, the process may be terminated as it is.

(Embodiment 3) This embodiment is still another example of the head state detection process. As in the first embodiment, the detection process execution unit 17 is activated by a command from the user, and under a predetermined condition. The printer 11 automatically performs cleaning of the head 1.

The present embodiment can be implemented by an apparatus shown by the same functional blocks as the embodiment 2 shown in FIG. 5, but the host 10 does not need to be provided with the display unit 31 and the reception unit 32.

In the present embodiment, the sending section 20 sends the result of the image picked up by the image pickup device 9 to the judging section 21.

Hereinafter, the head state detection processing of this embodiment will be described.

In this embodiment, the first embodiment shown in FIG.
Similarly to the above, the head state detection processing is executed by a command from the user.

FIG. 7 shows a flowchart of a head state detection processing subroutine of this embodiment.

In step S2 of FIG. 3, the detection processing execution unit 17
Is started, the imaging unit 19 moves the carriage 2 on which the inkjet head 1 is mounted to a position where the ink ejection end face of the inkjet head 1 and the imaging device face each other, as shown in FIG. Is executed to image the ink ejection end face of the inkjet head 1 (step S31). Next, the sending unit 20 sends the imaging result to the judging unit 21. The judging unit 21 receives the sent imaging result, and judges whether or not a predetermined print quality can be secured from the imaging result (step S32). ). This decision
As in the above-described embodiment, the determination is made based on the state of clogging of the ink discharge nozzle. Here, when the determination unit 21 determines that there is clogging and a predetermined print quality cannot be ensured (step S32: NO), the inkjet head 1
A command to execute the cleaning is sent to the command execution unit 18. In response to this command, the command execution unit 18 performs cleaning of the inkjet head 1 (step S
33). If the determination unit 21 determines in step S32 that there is no clogging and a predetermined print quality can be ensured, the process ends as it is.

According to the present embodiment, if the user issues a command to detect the state of the ink jet head 1 due to a decrease in print quality or the like, if the ink discharge nozzles of the ink jet head 1 are clogged, Automatically,
The cleaning of the inkjet head 1 is performed. Therefore, the user can easily secure good print quality.

(Embodiment 4) In this embodiment, the head state detection processing by the detection processing execution section 17 is executed under a predetermined condition when a print command is issued, not when a user command is issued. It is like that.

FIG. 8 shows functional blocks of the present embodiment. The device configuration of the present embodiment is basically the same as that of the first embodiment, and includes a measuring unit 22 and a timer 28 for measuring a time t from the end of the previous printing to the present, as shown in FIG. Is different from the first embodiment.

The measuring unit 22 obtains the time from the timer 28, compares the time t from the end of the previous printing to the present time with a predetermined time, and if the time t is longer, the detecting process execution unit A command to start the head state detection is sent to 17.

The imaging unit 19 receives an instruction from the measuring unit 22 and controls the imaging device 9 to directly image the ink ejection end face of the inkjet head 1 and detects the state of the inkjet head 1 from the imaging result.

Hereinafter, the head state detection processing of this embodiment will be described.

FIG. 9 shows a processing flow of this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 9, when print data is sent from the host 10 to the printer 11 via the interface 12 (step S41: YES), the measuring unit 22 measures the time from the timer 28 before printing. Is obtained, and the time t from the end of the previous printing is compared with a predetermined value (step S42). Here, if the time t is greater than the predetermined value, that is, if the printing process has not been performed for a predetermined time or more (step S42: NO), the detection process execution unit 1
7 is started, and a head state detection process is started (step S23). Thereafter, processing can be performed according to the head state detection processing subroutine of the first embodiment described above.

Here, in the present embodiment, the predetermined value serving as a criterion for determining whether or not to execute the head state detection processing is:
For example, the time is set to a time at which clogging of the ink discharge nozzles is expected to start due to drying of the ink attached to the ink discharge surface.

When the time t is shorter than the predetermined value in step S42, it is determined that there is no possibility that clogging has occurred, and the printing process is continued.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the inkjet head 1 can be cleaned as required by providing the measuring unit 22 and executing the head state detecting process before executing the printing process. Becomes Further, according to the present embodiment, it is also possible to completely automate the cleaning of the inkjet head 1, and it is possible to always maintain good print quality.

In the present embodiment, the head state detection processing of the first embodiment is executed. However, the present invention is not limited to this.
The head state detection processing of the second or third embodiment may be executed.

(Embodiment 5) In this embodiment, when a head cleaning command is issued from a user, a head state detection process is executed under predetermined conditions.

The device configuration of the present embodiment is the same as that of the fourth embodiment. However, the measuring unit 22 of the present embodiment includes the timer 2
8 and a predetermined time is compared with the elapsed time t from the end of the previous printing, and when the elapsed time t is shorter, a command to start the head state detection processing is issued to the detection processing execution unit 1.
Send to 7. On the other hand, if the elapsed time t is longer, a cleaning execution command for the inkjet head 1 is sent to the command execution unit.

Hereinafter, the flow of the head state detecting process according to the present embodiment will be described.

FIG. 10 shows a processing flow of this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 10, the host 1
0, there is a cleaning execution command of the inkjet head 1 due to a command or the like (step S51: YE
S), the measuring unit 22 acquires the time from the timer 28, and compares the elapsed time t from the end of the previous printing with a predetermined value (step S52). Here, when the elapsed time t is longer than the predetermined time, that is, when the printing process has not been performed for the predetermined time or more (step S52: NO), the measuring unit 22 causes the command execution unit 18 to clean the head 1. A command is sent, and the command execution unit 18 receives the command and executes cleaning of the head 1 (step S53).
On the other hand, when the elapsed time t is shorter than the predetermined value (step S52: YES), there is a small possibility that clogging has occurred, so the measuring unit 22 detects a command to start detecting the state of the head 1. Sent to the processing execution unit 17 and the detection processing execution unit 1
7 is started (step S54). Thereafter, processing is performed in a head state detection processing subroutine of the present embodiment described later.

FIG. 11 shows a flowchart of a head state detection processing subroutine of this processing mode.

When the detection processing execution section 17 is started in step S54 of FIG. 10, the imaging section 19 is started as shown in FIG.
The carriage 2 on which the inkjet head 1 is mounted is moved between the ink ejection end face of the inkjet head 1 and the imaging device 9.
Move to a position where they face each other, and control the imaging device 9 to execute imaging of the ink ejection end face of the inkjet head 1 (step S61). Next, the sending unit 20 sends the imaging result to the judging unit 21. The judging unit 21 receives the sent imaging result, and judges whether or not a predetermined print quality can be ensured based on the imaging result (step). S62). Here, it is determined whether or not the ink ejection end face is clogged. If it is determined that the clogging is present and the predetermined print quality cannot be ensured (step S62: NO), a cleaning execution command for the inkjet head 1 is issued. To the command execution unit 18. The command execution unit 18 receives this instruction and executes cleaning of the inkjet head 1. On the other hand, when the determination unit 21 determines that the predetermined print quality can be ensured (step S62: YES), the transmission unit 2
0 sends the judgment result by the judgment unit 21 to the display unit 31 of the host 10, and the display unit 31 outputs the judgment result, for example,
"No cleaning is required because there is no clogging." Then, the user is caused to determine the subsequent processing based on the determination result (step S64).

Thereafter, referring to the display as described above, if the user requests cleaning of the head 1 by inputting to the host 10 (step S65: YES), the receiving unit 3
2 receives the command and sends a command to execute cleaning of the inkjet head 1 to the command execution unit 18 of the printer 11 (step S66).
Performs the cleaning (step S67). If the user has not requested the execution of the cleaning in step S65, the head state detection processing ends.

According to the present embodiment, when a command for cleaning the head 1 is given, if the predetermined time has not passed since the previous printing process, the state of the head is detected to execute useless cleaning. Can be avoided.

Further, in the present embodiment, the head state detection processing is not limited to that of the present embodiment, but is performed in the first to third embodiments.
May be performed.

(Embodiment 6) This embodiment shows an example in which the image pickup apparatus is mounted not on the apparatus main body but on the ink jet head 1 side.

FIG. 12 shows an outline of the image pickup apparatus of this embodiment.

The imaging device 9A of this embodiment is mounted on one end of the carriage 2 in the scanning direction of the ink jet head 1, unlike the above-described embodiment. Note that, in order to image the ink ejection end surface 1a of the ink jet head 1, a two-dimensional solid-state imaging device such as a CCD and a light source are the same as in the above-described embodiment.

More specifically, as shown in FIG.
The imaging device 9A includes a bottom portion 40 of a box-shaped fixing member 40.
a. The fixing member 40 is fixed to one end of the inkjet head 1 in the scanning direction so as to be rotatable 180 degrees around the pin 41.
As shown in (A), the ink ejection end surface 1a is held in a completely open state. Here, when the imaging unit 19 performs imaging of the ink ejection end face 1a by the imaging device 9A according to a command from the host 10 or the like, as shown in FIG. 12B, the fixing member 40 is connected to the imaging device 9A. The ink ejection end surface 1a is moved so as to face each other. This allows
The imaging unit 19 can control the imaging device 9A to image the ink ejection end face 1a. After the end of the imaging, the fixing member 40 is moved again to the position where the ink ejection end surface 1a is released.

In this embodiment, other configurations can be implemented by the same device as in the above-described embodiment. Further, the head state detection processing using the imaging device 9A of the present embodiment can be executed in any of the above-described embodiments.

(Embodiment 7) This embodiment is different from the above-described embodiments in that an ink jet head is obtained by imaging a printing result printed on the recording medium S instead of imaging the ejection end face of the inkjet head 1. 1 is to be detected.

In the present embodiment, an image pickup device 9B for picking up a print result is mounted on one end of the carriage 2 in the scanning direction of the ink jet head 1. The imaging device 9B includes:
In order to image a print result printed on the recording medium S, for example, a one-dimensional solid-state image sensor such as a line sensor and a light source are provided. Therefore, the image pickup device 9B can be scanned by moving at least one of the carriage 2 and the recording medium S, and thereby the print result of the inkjet head 1 is imaged.

Here, FIG. 13 and FIG. 14 show a schematic configuration of an imaging device 9B of the present embodiment.

In the example shown in FIG. 13, the image pickup device 9B is provided near the direction perpendicular to the recording medium transport direction of the ink jet head 1 and substantially parallel to the arrangement direction of the ink discharge nozzles 1b. Therefore, the inkjet head 1
At the same time, by scanning the imaging device 9B, it is possible to image a width corresponding to the length in which the ink ejection nozzles 1b are arranged. In this case, the printing result may be captured while the printing is being performed, or after the printing, the scanning for the capturing may be performed to capture the image. Further, the imaging device 9B is not limited to one, and may be an imaging device such as a color line sensor corresponding to each color.

In the example shown in FIG. 14, the image pickup device 9C
Is provided in the vicinity of the recording medium transport direction of the inkjet head 1 in a direction orthogonal to the arrangement direction of the ink discharge nozzles 1b. Therefore, the printing result can be imaged by transporting the recording medium S.

FIG. 15 shows functional blocks of the present embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 15, the apparatus according to the second embodiment is similar to the apparatus according to the second embodiment except that it further includes a test printing unit 23.
Is the same as

[0145] The test printing section 23 is a host
When the detection process execution unit 17 is started by a command to 0 or the like, a test print of a predetermined pattern is executed on the recording medium S, and an instruction to execute imaging of the print result is sent to the imaging unit 19.

The imaging unit 19 receives an instruction from the test printing unit 23 and controls the imaging device 9B to image a print result.

[0147] The determination unit 21 sends the image-capturing device 9 from the transmission unit 20.
B, the result of the imaging is received, and based on the imaging result, print data of a predetermined dot pattern of the test print and data obtained by imaging the result of the test print are compared to determine whether a predetermined print quality is ensured. .

Here, the determination of whether or not the predetermined print quality is ensured by the determination unit 21 is performed in detail by determining the number of actually printed dots calculated from the data obtained by capturing the result of the test print, the test print This is performed by comparing with a predetermined number of dots calculated from the print data of the predetermined dot pattern. Then, when the calculated actual number of dots is smaller than the predetermined number of dots, the determination unit 21 determines that the ink discharge nozzles are clogged and that the predetermined print quality is not ensured, and that they are equal. In this case, it is determined that there is no clogging and a predetermined print quality is ensured.

For example, in the case of detecting the head for color printing, for example, the clogging of the ink discharge nozzle may be slightly permitted for the yellow nozzle which is hardly resolved by human eyes. You may decide.

Here, a variety of test print patterns including color print patterns can be used according to the purpose. For example, as shown in FIG. 16A, a pattern in which a plurality of dots are ejected from the same ink ejection nozzle of the inkjet head 1 at positions substantially in contact with each other may be used. This one pattern 61 is formed by ejecting ink a plurality of times so as to be in contact with each other so that the image can be easily read by the imaging device 9B. As described above, whether or not a predetermined print quality can be ensured by imaging the predetermined pattern by the imaging device 9B and comparing the number of actually ejected dots calculated from the imaging result with the predetermined number of dots. That is, it is possible to detect whether or not the ink discharge nozzle is clogged.

When the ink jet head 1 has ink discharge nozzles corresponding to a plurality of colors such as yellow, magenta, cyan, and black, for example, FIG.
As shown in (B), the dots from each ink may be ejected from at least two types of ink ejection nozzles so as to have a mixing section 62 in which a part of the dots overlaps each other. Then, for example, the existence of the dot may be confirmed based on whether or not the mixing unit 62 exists. For example, using a single color ink such as yellow, FIG.
When the determination is made by using the pattern shown in FIG. 16, the number of dots cannot be calculated because yellow is difficult to resolve. However, by forming the mixing unit 62 as shown in FIG. It can be easily determined whether or not the print quality can be ensured.

Hereinafter, the head state detection processing of this embodiment will be described.

As described in each of the above embodiments, the head state detection processing in this embodiment is performed when there is a command from a user, when print data is sent, or when a request to clean the head 1 is made. This can be performed at any timing, such as when there is an error, and the detection process execution unit 17 is activated and is processed in a head state detection process subroutine of the present embodiment described later.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart of a head state detection processing subroutine of this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 17, the detection processing execution unit 17
Is activated, the test printing unit 23 prints the above-described predetermined pattern on the recording medium S by the inkjet head 1 and sends a command to image the print result to the imaging unit 19 (step S71). Upon receiving the instruction from the test printing unit 23, the imaging unit 19 controls the imaging device 9B to execute imaging of the print result printed on the recording medium S (Step S7).
2). Next, the sending unit 20 determines the imaging result by the determination unit 2
Send to 1. The determination unit 21 that has received the imaging result transmitted from the transmission unit 20 assures a predetermined print quality by comparing the number of dots calculated based on the imaging result with the predetermined number of dots, as described above. It is determined whether or not it is possible (step S73). Subsequent processing is the same as that of the second embodiment, and the sending unit 20 sends the determination result of the determining unit 21 to the display unit 32 of the host 10 (Step S74),
The display unit 32 displays the determination result on a display,
The subsequent processing is determined by the user based on the determination result (step S75). Then, when the cleaning of the inkjet head 1 is requested by a user input to the host 10 (step S76: YES), the receiving unit 32 sends a command to execute cleaning of the inkjet head 1 to the command execution unit 18 of the printer 11. The command is returned (step S77), and the command execution unit 18 executes cleaning (step S78). If the user has not requested the execution of the cleaning in step S76, the head state detection processing ends.

In the present embodiment, the same head state detection processing as that in the second embodiment is executed. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, as in the first embodiment, the imaging result is displayed on a display, and the user is subsequently provided with the image pickup result. The processing may be determined. Further, for example, similar to the third embodiment, the cleaning of the inkjet head 1 may be automatically executed based on the determination of the determination unit 21 of the printer.

(Embodiment 8) This embodiment is an example of an apparatus capable of executing test printing on a predetermined recording medium. The apparatus is different from the sheet feeding cassette for the recording medium S used in normal printing. It has a paper feed cassette for printing recording media.

FIG. 18 shows an outline of the apparatus of this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 18, in the ink jet recording apparatus of this embodiment, a test print recording medium S1 is stored at the rear of a sheet feed cassette 71 for a recording medium S used during normal printing. Is provided. Further, the paper feed cassettes 71 and 72 are provided with paper feed rolls 73A and 73B, respectively. The other configuration is the same as that of the seventh embodiment.

In the apparatus of this embodiment, when printing is normally performed, the recording medium S stored in the paper feed cassette 75 is conveyed by the paper feed roller 73A. When the test print is executed as described in the seventh embodiment, the test print recording medium S1 stored in the test print feed cassette 76 can be transported by the other feed roll 73B.

For example, by storing inexpensive printing paper, recording paper for easily recognizing the test printing result, or a recyclable recording medium in the test printing paper feed cassette 76, it is stored in the paper feeding cassette 76. For example, it is possible to avoid consuming a recording medium S such as expensive printing paper for color definition printing for test printing.

In the present embodiment, when the test printing unit 23 performs test printing, the test printing paper cassette 7 is automatically set.
2 may be selected, or when test printing is performed according to a user's instruction, the user may be asked for an instruction on which cassette to select.

In this embodiment, the number of paper feed cassettes is two. However, the present invention is not limited to this. A plurality of paper feed cassettes may be provided, and a test print recording medium may be stored therein. Good.

(Embodiment 9) This embodiment is an example of an apparatus in which an image pickup device is provided on the apparatus main body side to take an image of a print result. FIG. 19 shows a schematic configuration of this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 19, the apparatus of this embodiment includes an image pickup device 9D provided on the printer main body side and including a fixed image pickup element such as a line sensor and a light source. The imaging device 9D has an imageable range at least equal to the print width of the recording medium S, and the recording medium S is located downstream of the inkjet head 1 in the transport direction of the recording medium S.
Are provided opposite to each other. The other configuration is the same as that of the seventh embodiment.

In the present embodiment, the test print section 23 can perform the test print and simultaneously capture the test print result. Alternatively, the image may be separately captured after the printing is completed. For example, the printing result may be automatically captured by transporting the recording medium S in reverse after the printing is completed.

The head state detection processing using the device configuration of the present embodiment can be executed according to the flowchart of the seventh embodiment.

(Embodiment 10) This embodiment is another example of an apparatus for performing test printing on a predetermined recording medium, and executes test printing using a recyclable test printing recording medium S1. Things.

FIG. 20 shows a schematic configuration diagram of the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 20, the apparatus according to the present embodiment is configured such that the removing device 81 that removes the test print printed on the test print recording medium S1 is provided downstream of the imaging device 9D in the transport direction. , And has a configuration similar to that of the ninth embodiment.
The removing device 81 wipes the surface of the test print recording medium S1 when the test print recording medium S1 is transported by coming into contact with the surface of the test print recording medium S1.

That is, in this embodiment, the test printing unit 2
3 performs the test printing, and at the same time, images the test printing result. Thereafter, the removing device 81 can remove the printing result,
It can be used for test printing again.

As described above, in this embodiment, the reproducible recording medium S1 for trial printing can be used as the recording medium at the time of trial printing, so that wasteful consumption of expensive printing paper and the like can be avoided. Can be.

It should be noted that the head state detection processing using the apparatus configuration of the present embodiment can also be executed according to the processing flow of the seventh embodiment.

(Embodiment 11) This embodiment is still another example of an apparatus for executing test printing on a predetermined recording medium, and a dedicated conveyance path for conveying the test printing recording medium S2 is provided. It is provided.

FIG. 21 shows a schematic configuration of the present embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 21, the present embodiment has a test print transport path 92 for transporting a test print recording medium S2, in addition to a transport path 91 for transporting a normally used recording medium S.
The test print transport path 92 is provided adjacent to the platen 6 around which the recording medium S is wound and transported, and can transport a trial print recording medium S2 such as roll paper, for example. Except for the test print transport path 92, the apparatus is the same as the apparatus of the above-described seventh embodiment.

On the other hand, the image pickup device 9E is provided on the downstream side of the ink jet head 1 on the main body side of the printer in the recording medium transport direction so as to face the test print exclusive paper S2.

In such a printing apparatus, when the test printing unit 23 performs the test printing, the test printing is executed on the recording medium S2 dedicated for the test printing, and at the same time, the print result can be imaged by the imaging device 9E. Of course, after the printing is completed, the recording medium for test printing S2 may be rewound to capture an image.

In any case, at the time of execution of the test printing, the test printing can be executed without inserting the recording medium for the test printing, and the wasteful consumption of expensive printing paper can be prevented. it can.

It should be noted that the processing for detecting the state of the head 1 using the apparatus configuration of the present embodiment can be executed according to the processing flow of the seventh embodiment.

(Embodiment 12) This embodiment is another example of an apparatus for executing test printing on a predetermined recording medium. FIG. 22 shows a schematic configuration of this embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 22, in this embodiment, a test print transport path 95 is provided at the same position as in the eleventh embodiment, and the test print transport path 95 is endlessly reproducible. The test print recording medium S3 is wound around two rollers and transported. Further, the recording medium is provided on the downstream side in the recording medium transport direction with respect to the inkjet head 1 so as to face the recording medium S3 dedicated for test printing, and the opposite side is printed on the recording medium S3 for test printing. Removal device 9 for removing a test print
6 are provided. The removing device 96 includes a recording medium S
The print width of the recording medium S3 is substantially the same as that of the recording medium S3. The other configuration is the same as that of the above-described seventh embodiment.

In the printing apparatus, when the test printing unit 23 performs the test printing, the test printing is executed on the test recording paper recording medium S3, and at the same time, the printing result is imaged by the imaging device 9F, and further removed. The printing result can be removed by the device 96. Of course, after the printing is completed, the test print paper S3 may be further conveyed and imaged, and the print result may be removed.

As described above, by providing the removing device 96 and using the reproducible recording medium S3 for test printing, it is possible to prevent the recording medium such as expensive printing paper from being wastefully consumed by the test printing. .

Note that the processing for detecting the state of the head 1 using the apparatus configuration of the present embodiment can be executed according to the processing flow of the seventh embodiment.

(Embodiment 13) This embodiment uses the image pickup apparatus of Embodiments 7 to 12, particularly, Embodiments 7 to 10, so that the apparatus can be used as a scanner. . FIG. 23 shows functional blocks of the present embodiment.

[0185] As shown in FIG.
Is basically the same as in Embodiments 7 to 12, except that it further has

The image reading section 35 controls the image pickup device, picks up an image printed on the recording medium S, and forms image data from the image pickup result. For example, when an imaging device is provided on the inkjet head 1 side,
By transporting the paper to be read and scanning the imaging device, desired image data can be obtained.If the device has an imaging device, by transporting the paper to be read, A desired image can be obtained.

As the sheet to be read, a sheet on which various images are formed can be used. Of course, a sheet printed by the printer may be used.

Further, after the read image data is temporarily stored in the storage section of the apparatus main body, the method of use is not particularly limited. For example, the image data may be transmitted to the host 10 and reused as image data.
After being sent to the printer or while being stored in the printer main body, it may be provided for printing as print data.

In the case where the image pickup apparatus is used as a scanner as described above, it goes without saying that a color image can be read if the image pickup apparatus has an image pickup element corresponding to color.

(Others) In the embodiments described above,
After performing a predetermined cleaning process after the head status detection process, the process is terminated. However, for confirmation, the head status may be detected again. In this case, the cleaning can be repeatedly performed until it is determined that the predetermined print quality can be obtained. Further, if the printing result is not improved even if the cleaning is repeated, a warning is issued and the printing is performed. Can be interrupted.

In addition, as the cleaning processing performed when it is determined that the predetermined print quality cannot be obtained after the detection of the nozzle state, the flushing, the wipe processing, and the suction processing in which the ink is ejected from the nozzles idle are exemplified. The processing is not limited to this, and is not particularly limited as long as it improves the nozzle state. Further, the processing to be executed may be changed according to the nozzle state.For example, when the state of clogging is light, only the flushing processing is executed, and when the state is considerably bad, the suction processing is executed. Is also good.

[0192]

As described above, according to the present invention, there is provided an image pickup apparatus for picking up an image of a print result printed on an ink discharge end face of an ink jet head or a recording medium, and a print result obtained by the image pickup apparatus is obtained. Since the data is transmitted to the computer, the imaging result can be displayed on the display and the state of the head can be confirmed. Also, the user can know the actual print result by looking at the display. Therefore, even if the printer is located at a position distant from the user, the user can determine the quality of printing while staying at the printer, and it is possible to prevent waste of printing due to poor printing.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an inkjet printer according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of the inkjet printer according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a head state detection process according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a head state detection processing subroutine according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram of an inkjet printer according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a head state detection processing subroutine according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a head state detection processing subroutine according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram of an inkjet printer according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a head state detection process according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a head state detection process according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart of a head state detection processing subroutine according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of an imaging device according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of an imaging device according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram of an imaging device according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a functional block diagram of an ink jet printer according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a test print pattern.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart of a head state detection processing subroutine according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a schematic configuration diagram of an ink jet printer according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a schematic configuration diagram of an inkjet printer according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a schematic configuration diagram of an ink jet printer according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a schematic configuration diagram of an ink jet printer according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a schematic configuration diagram of an inkjet printer according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a functional block diagram of an inkjet printer according to a thirteenth embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 1 inkjet head 2 carriage 3 carriage shaft 4 drive motor 5 timing belt 6 platen 7 transport motor 8 printer mechanism 9 imaging device 10 host computer 11 printer 12 interface 13 control unit 14 storage unit 15 interpreting unit 16 mechanism control unit 17 detection processing execution Unit 18 command execution unit 19 imaging unit 20 sending unit 21 determination unit 22 test printing unit 23 measuring unit 24 head drive control unit 25 carriage control unit 26 transport control unit 28 timer 29 display panel 30 power supply 31 display unit 32 reception unit S recording medium

Claims (31)

[Claims] 1. An ink jet recording apparatus having an ink jet head for performing printing on a recording medium based on data transmitted from a host computer, wherein: an image pickup means for detecting a state of the ink jet head based on a result of image pickup by an image pickup device; An ink jet recording apparatus, comprising: sending means for sending a result of imaging by the imaging apparatus. 2. The ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image pickup device includes a solid-state image pickup device and a light source. 3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an image pickup result obtained by the transmission unit is acquired, and it is determined whether a predetermined print quality can be secured based on the image pickup result, and the predetermined print quality cannot be ensured. An ink jet recording apparatus, further comprising: a judging means for automatically executing the cleaning of the ejection nozzles of the ink jet head when the judgment is made. 4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the communication unit can communicate with the host computer by a communication unit, and the transmission unit transmits the imaging result to the host computer via the communication unit. Ink jet recording device. 5. The host computer according to claim 1, wherein said host computer is communicable with said host computer by a communication means, acquires an imaging result transmitted by said transmission means, and transmits the imaging result via said communication means. And an accepting unit for allowing the user to make a determination based on the imaging result and accepting an instruction of the result. 6. The ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image pickup device directly faces the ink discharge end face of the ink jet head and takes an image of the end face during image pickup. 7. The ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the image pickup apparatus is provided on a main body of the ink jet recording apparatus. 8. The ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the image pickup device is provided on the ink jet head. 9. The ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image pickup apparatus picks up an image of a print result obtained by the ink jet head. 10. The imaging device according to claim 9, wherein:
An ink jet recording apparatus, which is provided downstream of the ink jet head in a recording medium feed direction so as to face the recording medium and extend in a width direction of the recording medium. 11. The imaging device according to claim 9, wherein:
An ink jet recording apparatus mounted on the ink jet head and imaging the print result by relative movement of at least one of the ink jet head and the recording medium. 12. The test printing device according to claim 9, further comprising a test printing unit that executes a test printing, wherein the test printing unit causes the imaging device to image the test printing result after the test printing. Inkjet recording apparatus. 13. An ink jet printer according to claim 12, wherein a plurality of trays for storing said recording medium are provided, and a recording medium for test printing for test printing by said test printing means can be stored in any one of the trays. Recording device. 14. The apparatus according to claim 12, further comprising a tray for storing a test printing recording medium for the test printing by the test printing means, in addition to a tray for storing the recording medium normally used. Inkjet recording device. 15. The ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the recording medium for test printing is recyclable. 16. The test printing apparatus according to claim 12, further comprising a test printing transport path that is provided separately from a normally used recording medium transport path and transports a test printing recording medium. An ink jet recording apparatus for performing test printing on the test printing recording medium conveyed to a conveyance path. 17. The test print transport path according to claim 16, wherein the test print transport path transports an endless reproducible test print recording medium, and further includes a test print medium printed on the test print recording medium. An ink jet recording apparatus comprising a removing unit for removing printing. 18. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the imaging unit or the test printing unit is activated when a time elapsed from the end of the previous printing is equal to or less than a predetermined time when a print command is issued. Inkjet recording apparatus. 19. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the imaging unit or the test printing unit is activated when a time elapsed from the end of the previous printing is equal to or longer than a predetermined time at the time of a cleaning instruction from a user. An ink jet recording apparatus comprising: 20. An ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said image pickup means or said test print means is activated based on a command from a user. 21. The method according to claim 12, wherein
The ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the test printing unit executes the test printing by printing a predetermined dot pattern. 22. The ink-jet recording method according to claim 21, wherein the test printing means discharges a plurality of dots adjacent to each other from the same discharge nozzle of the ink-jet head to print the predetermined dot pattern. Recording device. 23. The ink jet head according to claim 21, wherein the ink jet head is a color print head having discharge nozzles corresponding to a plurality of colors, wherein the test printing means includes at least two types of discharge nozzles selected from each discharge nozzle. And ejecting the dots so as to have a mixed portion where the dots overlap each other to form the predetermined dot pattern. 24. The method according to claim 21, wherein
The determination unit may compare print data of a predetermined dot pattern of the test print with data obtained by imaging a result of the test print to determine whether a predetermined print quality can be ensured. Ink jet recording device. 25. The ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 9, further comprising an image reading unit using the image pickup device as a scanner. 26. The ink jet recording apparatus according to claim 25, wherein the image pickup apparatus can pick up a color image. 27. An ink jet recording apparatus comprising: a host computer; and an ink jet recording apparatus having an ink jet head capable of communicating with the host computer via communication means and performing printing on a recording medium based on data transmitted from the host computer. In the recording method, an imaging device provided in the inkjet recording device for detecting a state of the inkjet head; and the host computer provided in the inkjet recording device and receiving an imaging result of the imaging device via the communication unit. Sending means for sending to the host computer, determining means for receiving the imaging result sent by the sending means provided in the host computer, and determining whether a predetermined print quality can be ensured by the imaging result,
An ink jet recording method comprising: 28. An ink jet recording apparatus comprising: a host computer; and an ink jet recording apparatus having an ink jet head capable of communicating with the host computer via communication means and executing printing on a recording medium based on data transmitted from the host computer. In the recording method, an imaging device provided in the inkjet recording device for detecting a state of the inkjet head; and the host computer provided in the inkjet recording device and receiving an imaging result of the imaging device via the communication unit. Sending means for sending to the host computer, display means for receiving and displaying the imaging result sent by the sending means for displaying and judging the user, and displaying by the display means provided for the host computer. Based on the result Return means for receiving a command from a user and returning a command to the inkjet recording apparatus based on the command, and command execution means provided in the inkjet recording apparatus and executing the command from the return means. Characteristic inkjet recording method. 29. An inkjet recording method for printing on a recording medium by an inkjet head based on data transmitted from a host computer, wherein an imaging step of detecting a state of the inkjet head based on an imaging result of an imaging device; A determining step of determining whether a predetermined print quality can be ensured based on an imaging result. 30. The ink jet recording method according to claim 29, wherein when it is judged in the judging step that the predetermined print quality cannot be ensured, cleaning of the ejection nozzles of the ink jet head is executed thereafter. 31. An inkjet recording method for printing on a recording medium by an inkjet head based on data transmitted from a host computer, wherein: an imaging step of detecting a state of the inkjet head based on an imaging result of an imaging device; A display step of displaying an imaging result; a reception step of receiving an instruction from a user based on the display step; and an execution step of performing cleaning of the inkjet head as necessary based on an instruction from the user in the reception step. And an ink jet recording method comprising: