Drive waveform determination method, recording medium, liquid ejection device, and drive waveform determination system

Abstract

The present invention provides a driving waveform determination method, a recording medium, a liquid ejection device, and a driving waveform determination system with excellent usability. The driving waveform determination method is used to determine a driving waveform, which is a waveform of a driving pulse applied to a driving element in order to eject a liquid from a liquid ejection head. The driving waveform determination method includes: a first step of notifying first information, which is used for a user to determine which one of a first determination method for determining the driving waveform based on a user operation and a second determination method for determining the driving waveform without going through a user operation; and a second step of determining the driving waveform based on an instruction for the first information and according to the first determination method or the second determination method determined by the user.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a driving waveform determination method, a driving waveform determination program, a liquid ejection device, and a driving waveform determination system. Background Art

[0002] In a liquid ejection device such as an inkjet printer, usually, a driving pulse is applied to a driving element such as a piezoelectric element, so that a liquid such as ink is ejected from a nozzle. Here, a driving waveform, which is a waveform of the driving pulse, is determined so that the ejection characteristics of the ink from the nozzle become desired characteristics.

[0003] In the driving waveform determination method of Patent Document 1, the parameters of the waveform of the driving pulse are changed multiple times to eject ink from the nozzle, and the ejection characteristics are measured. Further, the parameters of the waveform of the actually applied driving pulse are set based on the ejection characteristics, thereby determining the driving waveform.

[0004] Here, when the user manually determines the driving waveform, it imposes an excessive burden on the user. In contrast, when the driving waveform is determined automatically, the burden on the user is reduced. However, there are cases where the user does not like the determination of the driving waveform by the automatic method. Therefore, simply determining whether to set the driving waveform to the manual method or the automatic method has drawbacks from the viewpoint of usability.

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2010-131910 Summary of the Invention

[0006] One aspect of the driving waveform determination method of the present invention is a method for determining a driving waveform, which is a waveform of a driving pulse applied to a driving element to eject a liquid from a liquid ejection head. The driving waveform determination method is characterized by including: a first step of notifying first information for the user to determine which of a first determination method for determining the driving waveform based on the user's operation and a second determination method for determining the driving waveform without the user's operation is to be implemented; and a second step of determining the driving waveform based on an instruction for the first information and in accordance with the first determination method or the second determination method determined by the user.

[0007] One aspect of the driving waveform determination program of the present invention is a program that causes a computer to execute the above-described driving waveform determination method.

[0008] One aspect of the liquid ejection device of the present invention includes: a liquid ejection head for ejecting liquid and having a driving element; a processing circuit that performs processing for determining the waveform of a driving pulse applied to the driving element, and the processing circuit executes the following steps: a first step of notifying first information for a user to determine which of a first determination method for determining the driving waveform based on a user operation and a second determination method for determining the driving waveform without a user operation is to be implemented; and a second step of determining the driving waveform based on an instruction for the first information and in accordance with the first determination method or the second determination method determined by the user.

[0009] One aspect of the driving waveform determination system of the present invention includes: a liquid ejection device having a liquid ejection head for ejecting liquid and having a driving element; an information processing device having a processing circuit that performs processing for determining the waveform of a driving pulse applied to the driving element, and the processing circuit executes the following steps: a first step of notifying first information for a user to determine which of a first determination method for determining the driving waveform based on a user operation and a second determination method for determining the driving waveform without a user operation is to be implemented; and a second step of determining the driving waveform based on an instruction for the first information and in accordance with the first determination method or the second determination method determined by the user. Description of the Drawings

[0010] Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing a structural example of the driving waveform determination system according to the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 2 To show as Figure 1 A diagram showing a functional structural example of the information processing device shown.

[0012] Figure 3 A diagram showing an example of a driving waveform.

[0013] Figure 4 A flowchart showing the driving waveform determination method according to the first embodiment.

[0014] Figure 5 A diagram showing a determination method selection screen.

[0015] Figure 6 A diagram showing a determination method selection screen.

[0016] Figure 7 A diagram showing a screen for the first determination method.

[0017] Figure 8 A figure showing the screen for the second determination method.

[0018] Figure 9 A figure showing the determination result display screen.

[0019] Figure 10 A figure showing a functional structural example of the information processing apparatus according to the second embodiment.

[0020] Figure 11 A figure showing the determination method selection screen according to the second embodiment.

[0021] Figure 12 A figure showing the determination method selection screen according to the second embodiment.

[0022] Figure 13 A flowchart showing the driving waveform determination method after the second time according to the second embodiment.

[0023] Figure 14 A figure showing a functional structural example of the information processing apparatus according to the third embodiment.

[0024] Figure 15 A flowchart showing the driving waveform determination method according to the third embodiment.

[0025] Figure 16 A figure showing the screen for the first determination method according to the third embodiment.

[0026] Figure 17 A figure showing a functional structural example of the information processing apparatus according to the fourth embodiment.

[0027] Figure 18 A flowchart showing the driving waveform determination method according to the fourth embodiment.

[0028] Figure 19 A figure showing the determination result display screen according to the fourth embodiment.

[0029] Figure 20 A figure showing a functional structural example of the information processing apparatus according to the fifth embodiment.

[0030] Figure 21 A flowchart showing the driving waveform determination method according to the fifth embodiment.

[0031] Figure 22 A figure showing the determination result display screen according to the fifth embodiment.

[0032] Figure 23 A figure showing the waveform adjustment screen according to the fifth embodiment.

[0033] Figure 24 A modified flowchart of the driving waveform determination method according to the fifth embodiment.

[0034] Figure 25 A diagram showing a modified example of the determination result display screen according to the fifth embodiment.

[0035] Figure 26 A schematic diagram showing a structural example of the liquid ejection device according to the sixth embodiment. Detailed Embodiments

[0036] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, in the drawings, the dimensions or scales of each part are appropriately different from the actual situation, and there are also parts schematically shown for easy understanding. Furthermore, as long as there is no description indicating a particularly limiting meaning for the present invention in the following description, the scope of the present invention is not limited to these embodiments.

[0037] 1. First Embodiment

[0038] 1-1. Outline of the Driving Waveform Determination System 100

[0039] Figure 1 A schematic diagram showing a structural example of the driving waveform determination system 100 according to the first embodiment. The driving waveform determination system 100 determines the waveform of the driving pulse PD, that is, the driving waveform, used when ejecting ink as an example of a liquid. The driving waveform determination system 100 executes the driving waveform determination method described later that can determine the driving waveform automatically or manually according to the user's needs. Thus, according to the driving waveform determination system 100, usability can be improved.

[0040] As Figure 1 shown, the driving waveform determination system 100 includes a liquid ejection device 200, a measurement device 300, and an information processing device 400 as an example of a computer. The information processing device 400, the liquid ejection device 200, and the measurement device 300 are respectively connected in a manner that enables mutual communication by wireless or wired means. In addition, in this connection, a communication network including the Internet may also be used.

[0041] 1-1a. Liquid Ejection Device 200

[0042] The liquid ejection device 200 is a printer that performs printing on a printing medium by an inkjet method. The printing medium only needs to be a medium on which the liquid ejection device 200 can perform printing, and is not particularly limited. For example, it can be various papers, various cloths, or various films, etc. In addition, the liquid ejection device 200 can be either a serial printer or a line printer.

[0043] As Figure 1 shown, the liquid ejection device 200 includes: a liquid ejection head 210, a moving mechanism 220, a power supply circuit 230, a drive signal generation circuit 240, a drive circuit 250, a storage circuit 260, and a processing circuit 270. In addition, although not shown, the liquid ejection device 200 has a communication module responsible for connecting to the information processing device 400 and the measurement device 300.

[0044] The liquid ejection head 210 ejects ink toward the printing medium. In Figure 1 it, as a structural element of the liquid ejection head 210, a plurality of piezoelectric elements 211, which are an example of a drive element, are illustrated. Although not shown, in addition to the piezoelectric elements 211, the liquid ejection head 210 also has a pressure chamber for accommodating ink and a nozzle communicating with the pressure chamber. Here, the piezoelectric elements 211 are provided for each pressure chamber, and by changing the pressure in the pressure chamber, ink is ejected from the nozzle corresponding to the pressure chamber. In addition, instead of the piezoelectric elements 211, a heater for heating the ink in the pressure chamber can also be used as a drive element.

[0045] Although in the example as Figure 1 shown, the number of liquid ejection heads 210 included in the liquid ejection device 200 is one, but this number can also be two or more. In this case, for example, two or more liquid ejection heads 210 are unitized. When the liquid ejection device 200 is serial, the liquid ejection head 210 or a unit including two or more of such liquid ejection heads 210 is used so that a plurality of nozzles are distributed across a part of the width direction of the printing medium. In addition, when the liquid ejection device 200 is line type, a unit including two or more liquid ejection heads 210 is used so that a plurality of nozzles are distributed across the entire area in the width direction of the printing medium.

[0046] The moving mechanism 220 changes the relative position between the liquid ejection head 210 and the printing medium. More specifically, in the case where the liquid ejection device 200 is a serial type, the moving mechanism 220 includes a conveyance mechanism that conveys the printing medium in a predetermined direction, and a moving mechanism that repeatedly moves the liquid ejection head 210 along an axis orthogonal to the conveyance direction of the printing medium. Further, in the case where the liquid ejection device 200 is a line type, the moving mechanism 220 includes a conveyance mechanism that conveys the printing medium in a direction intersecting the long side direction of a unit including two or more liquid ejection heads 210.

[0047] The power supply circuit 230 receives power supply from a commercial power supply (not shown) and generates various prescribed potentials. The various generated potentials are appropriately supplied to each part of the liquid ejection device 200. For example, the power supply circuit 230 generates a power supply potential VHV and a bias potential VBS. The bias potential VBS is supplied to the liquid ejection head 210. Further, the power supply potential VHV is supplied to the drive signal generation circuit 240.

[0048] The drive signal generation circuit 240 is a circuit that generates a drive signal Com for driving each piezoelectric element 211 included in the liquid ejection head 210. Specifically, the drive signal generation circuit 240 includes, for example, a DA conversion circuit and an amplification circuit. In the drive signal generation circuit 240, the waveform designation signal dCom (described later) from the processing circuit 270 is converted from a digital signal to an analog signal by the DA conversion circuit, and the amplification circuit amplifies this analog signal using the power supply potential VHV from the power supply circuit 230, thereby generating the drive signal Com. Here, the signal of the waveform included in the drive signal Com that is actually supplied to the piezoelectric element 211 is the drive pulse PD. In addition, the drive pulse PD will be described in detail below.

[0049] The drive circuit 250 switches, based on a control signal SI (described later), for each of the plurality of piezoelectric elements 211 whether to supply at least a part of the waveform included in the drive signal Com as the drive pulse PD. The drive circuit 250 is an IC (Integrated Circuit) chip that outputs a drive signal for driving each piezoelectric element 211 and a reference voltage.

[0050] The storage circuit 260 stores various programs executed by the processing circuit 270 and various data such as the printed data processed by the processing circuit 270. The storage circuit 260 is, for example, a semiconductor memory including one or both of a volatile memory such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) and a non-volatile memory such as a ROM (Read Only Memory), an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), or a PROM (Programmable ROM). The printed data processed by the processing circuit 270 is supplied, for example, from the information processing device 400. Alternatively, the storage circuit 260 may be configured as a part of the processing circuit 270.

[0051] The processing circuit 270 has a function of controlling the operations of the respective parts of the liquid ejection device 200 and a function of processing various data. The processing circuit 270 includes, for example, one or more processors such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). Alternatively, the processing circuit 270 may include a programmable logic device such as an FPGA (field-programmable gate array) instead of or in addition to the CPU.

[0052] The processing circuit 270 controls the operations of the respective parts of the liquid ejection device 200 by executing the programs stored in the storage circuit 260. Here, as signals for controlling the operations of the respective parts of the liquid ejection device 200, the processing circuit 270 generates signals such as the control signals SK, SI, and the waveform designation signal dCom.

[0053] The control signal SK is a signal for controlling the drive of the moving mechanism 220. The control signal SI is a signal for controlling the drive of the drive circuit 250. Specifically, the control signal SI designates whether the drive circuit 250 supplies the drive signal Com as a drive pulse PD to the liquid ejection head 210 at each prescribed unit period. By this designation, the amount of ink ejected from the liquid ejection head 210 and the like are designated. The waveform designation signal dCom is a digital signal for prescribing the waveform of the drive signal Com generated in the drive signal generation circuit 240.

[0054] 1-1b. Measuring device 300

[0055] The measuring device 300 is a device that measures the ejection results used to obtain the ejection characteristics of the ink. Examples of such ejection characteristics include ejection speed, the amount of ink ejected, the number of satellite droplets, the ejection area of the ink on the recording medium, and the ejection shape.

[0056] The measuring device 300 of the present embodiment includes an imaging device that captures the state of the ink ejected from the liquid ejection head 210 and landing on the printing medium. Specifically, the measuring device 300 includes, for example, an imaging optical system and an imaging element. The imaging optical system is an optical system including at least one imaging lens, which may include various optical elements such as prisms, and may also include a zoom lens or a focusing lens. The imaging element is, for example, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor or a CMOS (Complementary MOS) image sensor.

[0057] By providing the measuring device 300 with an imaging device, an image of the ink landing on the printing medium is obtained as the ejection result. Based on this ejection result, the information processing device 400 described later calculates, for example, the ejection area as an ejection characteristic.

[0058] In addition, in the present embodiment, the measuring device 300 captures the ink landing on the printing medium or the like, but for example, it may also capture the ink during flight. Furthermore, the measuring device 300 only needs to be able to obtain the ejection result used to obtain the ejection characteristics, and may also include devices other than the imaging device. For example, the measuring device 300 may be an electronic balance that measures the amount of ink ejected from the liquid ejection head 210. In addition, the waveform of the residual vibration generated in the liquid ejection head 210 can also be used as the ejection result.

[0059] 1-1c. Information processing device 400

[0060] The information processing device 400 is a computer that controls the operations of the liquid ejection device 200 and the measurement device 300. In addition, the information processing device 400 is a computer that executes the drive waveform determination program P. The drive waveform determination program P causes the information processing device 400 to execute a drive waveform determination method for determining the drive waveform of the drive pulse PD applied to the piezoelectric element 211. In this drive waveform determination method, the user is allowed to select whether to determine the drive waveform manually or automatically. Specifically, the user is allowed to select whether to set the state value indicating the state of the drive pulse PD manually or automatically. This state value is a parameter such as the amplitude of the drive pulse PD. In the drive waveform determination method, since the user can select whether to determine the drive waveform manually or automatically, the usability can be improved compared to the case where no selection is possible.

[0061] As Figure 1 shown, the information processing device 400 includes: a display device 410 as an example of a display unit, an input device 420, a storage circuit 430, and a processing circuit 440. These components are connected to each other through transmission lines so that they can communicate with each other. In addition, although not shown, the information processing device 400 has a communication module responsible for connecting to the liquid ejection device 200 and the measurement device 300.

[0062] The display device 410 is a device that notifies the user of various information. Under the control of the processing circuit 440, the display device 410 displays various images constituted by a GUI (Graphical User Interface). The display device 410 has various display panels such as a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL (electro-luminescence) display panel, for example. In addition, the display device 410 may be provided outside the information processing device 400. Further, the display device 410 may be a structural element of the liquid ejection device 200.

[0063] By having the display device 410, the information processing device 400 can notify the user in the form of an image. Therefore, the user can perform the process of determining the drive waveform while visually confirming the image. By notifying in the form of an image, the usability can be improved compared to the case of notifying only in the form of voice, for example.

[0064] In addition, instead of or in addition to the display device 410, the information processing device 400 may further include a voice output device such as a speaker. In this case, one or both of the display device 410 and the voice output device serve as a device for notifying the user of various information. Thus, the notification of various information is not limited to the notification achieved through display. For example, it may also be a notification achieved through voice.

[0065] The input device 420 is a device that accepts operations from the user. For example, the input device 420 includes an indicating device such as a touchpad, a touch panel, or a mouse. Here, when the input device 420 has a touch panel, it may also serve as the display device 410. In addition, the input device 420 may be provided outside the information processing device 400. Further, the input device 420 may also be a structural element of the liquid ejection device 200.

[0066] The storage circuit 430 is a device that stores various programs executed by the processing circuit 440 and various data processed by the processing circuit 440. The storage circuit 430 includes, for example, a hard disk drive or a semiconductor memory. In addition, part or all of the storage circuit 430 may be provided in an external storage device or a server outside the information processing device 400. Further, part or all of the above-mentioned various programs and various data may also be stored in an external storage device or a server outside the information processing device 400.

[0067] The storage circuit 430 stores the above-mentioned driving waveform determination program P. The driving waveform determination program P may be, for example, pre-downloaded or provided from an external device (not shown). In addition, the storage circuit 430 stores display data D1 related to the image to be displayed on the display device 410, ejection characteristic data D2 related to the ejection characteristics, and driving waveform data D3 related to the driving waveform.

[0068] The processing circuit 440 is a device that has the function of controlling each part of the information processing apparatus 400, the liquid ejection apparatus 200, and the measurement apparatus 300, and the function of processing various data. The processing circuit 440 has, for example, a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). In addition, the processing circuit 440 may be constituted by a single processor or may be constituted by a plurality of processors. Further, part or all of the functions of the processing circuit 440 may be implemented by hardware such as a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), a PLD (Programmable Logic Device), or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0069] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing a structural example of the functionality of the information processing apparatus 400 as shown in Figure 1 the figure. As shown in Figure 2 the figure, the processing circuit 440 reads the drive waveform determination program P from the storage circuit 430 and executes it, thereby functioning as a notification unit 441, an input reception unit 442, a determination unit 443, an ejection control unit 444, an ejection characteristic calculation unit 445, and a waveform determination unit 446.

[0070] The notification unit 441 notifies various information to the user. In the present embodiment, notification to the user is implemented by displaying an image on the display device 410. The notification unit 441 causes the display device 410 to display the information included in various data stored in the storage circuit 430. The input reception unit 442 receives an instruction from the user for various information via the input device 420. The determination unit 443 determines the instruction from the user based on the content received by the input reception unit 442. For example, the determination unit 443 determines whether the requirement for the method of determining the drive waveform by the user is manual. The ejection characteristic calculation unit 445 acquires the ejection result from the measurement apparatus 300 and obtains the ejection characteristics based on the ejection result. The waveform determination unit 446 executes the process of determining the drive waveform.

[0071] In addition, the above display data D1 includes first information D11, third information D13, and eighth information D18. The first information D11 is information used for the user to determine the method of determining the drive waveform. Specifically, the first information D11 is information for the user to determine which of the first determination method and the second determination method to implement. The first determination method is a determination method for determining the drive waveform based on the user's operation. That is, the first determination method is a determination method in which the user manually determines the drive waveform. The second determination method is a determination method for determining the drive waveform without going through the user's operation. That is, the second determination method is a determination method for automatically determining the drive waveform.

[0072] The third information D13 is information for determining the drive waveform by the first determination method. Specifically, the third information D13 at least includes: information for the user to set the state value of the drive pulse PD, information for performing pre-ejection using the set state value, and information for evaluating the ejection result during pre-ejection.

[0073] The eighth information D18 is information for determining the drive waveform by the second determination method. That is, the eighth information D18 is information for determining the drive waveform without going through the user's operation. Specifically, the eighth information D18 is information for enabling the user to recognize the situation where the drive waveform is being determined by the second determination method. More specifically, the eighth information D18 includes at least one of information related to the required time in the second determination method and information related to the number of drive waveforms tried during the execution of the second determination method.

[0074] The above ejection characteristic data D2 includes ejection result information D21 and ejection characteristic information D22. The ejection result information D21 is information indicating the ejection result of the measuring device 300. The ejection characteristic information D22 is information indicating the ejection characteristics calculated based on the ejection result. In addition, the ejection result information D21 and the ejection characteristic information D22 can be replaced, updated, or added respectively.

[0075] The above drive waveform data D3 includes initial waveform information D31, waveform candidate information D32, determined waveform information D33, and ejection waveform information D34. The initial waveform information D31 is information representing the initial waveform used when determining the drive waveform. The initial waveform information D31 is, for example, pre-stored in the storage circuit 430 before starting the drive waveform determination method. The waveform candidate information D32 is information representing the drive waveform pre-determined during the trial process in the drive waveform determination method. Specifically, the waveform candidate information D32 is stored during the determination process of the drive waveform implemented by the first determination method. In addition, the determined waveform information D33 is information representing the drive waveform determined by the drive waveform determination method. Regarding the determined waveform information D33, it is stored in association with whether the drive waveform is determined automatically or manually. In addition, the ejection waveform information D34 is information representing the drive waveform used in the actual printing of the liquid ejection device 200. In addition, the waveform candidate information D32, the determined waveform information D33, and the ejection waveform information D34 can be replaced, updated, or added respectively.

[0076] 1-2. Waveform of Drive Pulse PD

[0077] Figure 3 It is a diagram showing an example of the waveform of the drive pulse PD. In addition, the waveform of the drive pulse PD is not limited to the example shown in Figure 3 but can be any waveform.

[0078] As shown in Figure 3 the drive pulse PD is included in the drive signal Com for each unit period Tu. The potential E of the drive pulse PD rises from the reference potential E1 to the potential E2 and then drops to a potential E3 lower than the potential E1, and then returns to the potential E1.

[0079] Specifically, the potential E of the drive pulse PD is first maintained at the potential E1 over the first period P1 spanning from time t0 to time t1, and then rises to the potential E2 over the second period P2 spanning from time t1 to time t2. And, the potential E of the drive pulse PD is maintained at the potential E2 over the third period P3 spanning from time t2 to time t3, and then drops to the potential E3 over the fourth period P4 spanning from time t3 to time t4. Then, after being maintained at the potential E3 over the fifth period P5 spanning from time t4 to time t5, it rises to the potential E1 over the sixth period P6 spanning from time t5 to time t6. Then, it is maintained at the potential E1 over the seventh period P7 spanning from time t6 to time t7.

[0080] In the case of having as shown in Figure 3When the drive pulse PD of the drive waveform shown is applied, the volume of the pressure chamber of the liquid ejection head 210 changes as follows. The volume of this pressure chamber in the first period P1 is set as the reference volume. In the second period P2, this pressure chamber increases relative to the reference volume. In the third period P3, the increased state of this pressure chamber is maintained. In the fourth period P4, the volume of this pressure chamber decreases sharply. Due to the change in the volume of the pressure chamber in the second period P2, the third period P3, and the fourth period P4 involved, a part of the ink in this pressure chamber is ejected from the nozzle in the form of droplets. Then, in the fifth period P5, the state where the volume of the pressure chamber of the liquid ejection head 210 has decreased is maintained. Moreover, in the sixth period P6, the volume of this pressure chamber increases, and in the seventh period P7, the volume of this pressure chamber returns to the reference volume. By providing the fifth period P5 and the sixth period P6, it is possible to suppress the vibration of the meniscus generated due to the ejection of ink from the nozzle.

[0081] By setting the state values such as the above-mentioned periods and potentials, the required drive waveform is determined. As a result, the required ink ejection characteristics from the liquid ejection head 210 can be obtained.

[0082] 1-4. Drive Waveform Determination Method

[0083] Figure 4 It is a flowchart showing the drive waveform determination method of the first embodiment. The drive waveform determination method is a method for determining the waveform of the drive pulse PD applied to the piezoelectric element 211 in order to eject ink from the liquid ejection head. The drive waveform determination method is executed before the actual printing of the liquid ejection device 200. In the actual printing of the liquid ejection device 200, the drive pulse PD having the drive waveform determined by the drive waveform determination method is used. As a result, the desired ink ejection characteristics can be obtained.

[0084] The drive waveform determination method includes: a first step of notifying information for the user to select whether to determine the drive waveform manually or automatically, and a second step of determining the drive waveform according to the determination method determined by the user. Figure 4 Step S11 corresponds to the first step. Steps S13, S14, S15, and S16, or steps S13, S17, S18, and S19 correspond to the second step. Hereinafter, with reference to Figure 4 The drive waveform determination method will be described. In addition, the start of the drive waveform determination method is implemented, for example, by accepting the user's instruction using the above-mentioned input device 420 and executing the drive waveform determination program P.

[0085] First, in step S11, the notification unit 441 notifies the user of the first information D11. Specifically, in step S11, the notification unit 441 causes the display device 410 to display a decision method selection screen W10 indicating the first information D11.

[0086] Figure 5 And Figure 6 are diagrams respectively showing the decision method selection screen W10. The decision method selection screen W10 is displayed on the monitor 41 of the display device 410. The decision method selection screen W10 is a screen used for the user to decide which of the first decision method and the second decision method to adopt in an alternative manner.

[0087] The decision method selection screen W10 has a check box C11, a check box C12, and a decision button B10. The check box C11 is used for the user to select the first decision method. The check box C12 is used for the user to select the second decision method. When the user desires to manually decide the drive waveform, as Figure 5 shown, the check box C11 is selected. In addition, when the user desires to automatically decide the drive waveform, as Figure 6 shown, the check box C12 is selected.

[0088] The decision button B10 is used for the user to decide which of the first decision method and the second decision method to adopt. In addition, the decision button B10 is a button for transferring to a screen for deciding the drive waveform by the first decision method or a screen for deciding the drive waveform by the second decision method.

[0089] Next, in step S12, the input reception unit 442 receives the user's instruction regarding the decision method. Specifically, the input reception unit 442 receives the user's instruction regarding the decision method selection screen W10. More specifically, after the input reception unit 442 receives the user's operation on the check box C11 or C12, it receives the user's operation on the decision button B10.

[0090] Next, in step S13, the determination unit 443 determines whether the user's instruction regarding the decision method is the first decision method. That is, in step S13, the determination unit 443 determines whether the user's instruction is manual.

[0091] When the input reception unit 442 receives an operation of the user on the decision button B10 after receiving the check of the check box C11, the determination unit 443 determines that the determination method is the first determination method. That is, the determination unit 443 determines that it is the manual method. In addition, when the input reception unit 442 receives an operation of the user on the decision button B10 after receiving the check of the check box C12, the determination unit 443 determines that the determination method is not the first determination method but the second determination method. That is, the determination unit 443 determines that it is not the manual method but the automatic method.

[0092] In step S13, when the determination unit 443 determines that the user's instruction for the first information D11 is the first determination method, in step S14, the notification unit 441 notifies the user of the third information D13 for determining the drive waveform by the first determination method. That is, in step S13, when the determination unit 443 determines that it is the manual method, in step S14, the notification unit 441 causes the display device 410 to display the first determination method screen W20 indicating the third information D13.

[0093] Figure 7 FIG. showing the first determination method screen W20. The first determination method screen W20 is a screen used for the user to drive the drive waveform by the first determination method. As Figure 7 shown in the example, the first determination method screen W20 has a waveform determination area R21, a discharge result area R22, a discharge execution button B20, and a waveform determination button B22.

[0094] In the waveform determination area R21, information for setting the state value of the drive pulse PD is shown. The waveform determination area R21 includes: an image G21 representing the drive waveform of the drive pulse PD, and a drop-down list box group B21 for adjusting the state value.

[0095] The drop-down list box group B21 has a plurality of drop-down list boxes. The plurality of drop-down list boxes are used for setting the state value. The state value is the above-mentioned period and potential representing the state of the drive pulse PD. Specifically, as the state value, the above-mentioned second period P2, third period P3, fourth period P4, fifth period P5, and sixth period P6 can be cited. Moreover, as the state value, the potential differences V1 and V2 can be cited. The potential difference V1 is the difference between the above-mentioned potential E1 and potential E2, that is, the amplitude. The potential difference V3 is the difference between the above-mentioned potential E2 and potential E3. By setting the state value displayed in the drop-down list box group B21, the user can manually design the desired drive waveform.

[0096] The drive waveform is displayed in the image G21. Specifically, for example, before the operation of the user on the drop-down list box group B21, a waveform representing the initial waveform information D31 is displayed. In addition, after the operation of the user on the drop-down list box group B21, a waveform representing the waveform candidate information D32 is displayed.

[0097] The ejection execution button B20 is used to cause pre-ejection of the ink from the nozzles of the liquid ejection device 200. Pre-ejection means ejection using the drive waveform pre-determined in the trial before the final decision.

[0098] In the ejection result display area R22, the ejection result for evaluating the ejection result in the pre-ejection is shown. Specifically, the ejection result display area R22 displays the ejection result obtained by the measuring device 300. In the present embodiment, an image of the ink ejected onto the printing medium or the like is displayed. In addition, in the ejection result display area R22, in addition to or instead of the ejection result, ejection characteristics such as the area of the ink ejected onto the printing medium or the like may be displayed. Further, the waveform determination button B22 is used for the user to determine the drive waveform.

[0099] In step S15, the input reception unit 442 receives the user's instruction. Specifically, for example, the input reception unit 442 receives the operation of the user on the ejection execution button B20 after receiving the operation of the user on the drop-down list box group B21. Based on this operation, the waveform determination unit 446 generates the drive waveform designed by the user as the pre-determined drive waveform. The storage circuit 430 stores the information related to the pre-determined drive waveform as the waveform candidate information D32. In addition, the ejection control unit 444 sends the waveform candidate information D32 to the liquid ejection device 200. The liquid ejection device 200 that has received the waveform candidate information D32 generates a drive pulse PD based on the waveform candidate information D32 and causes the ink to be ejected from the nozzles.

[0100] After the ink is ejected from the nozzles, the ejection characteristic calculation unit 445 obtains the ejection result from the measuring device 300 and calculates the ejection characteristics based on the ejection result. In addition, the storage circuit 430 stores the obtained ejection result as the ejection result information D21 and stores the ejection characteristics as the ejection characteristic information D22. Further, the notification unit 441 notifies the user of the ejection result. As a result, the ejection result is displayed in the above-described ejection result display area R22.

[0101] The user visually confirms the ejection result displayed in the ejection result display area R22, thereby evaluating whether the ejection state of the ink is an ideal state. Moreover, when the user evaluates that it is not an ideal state, the user performs an operation on the drop-down list box group B21 again. On the other hand, when the user evaluates that it is an ideal state, the user performs an operation on the waveform determination button B22. In addition, the evaluation of whether the ejection state of the ink is an ideal state can also be performed by the waveform determination unit 446. In this case, the storage circuit 430 stores in advance the ejection result in which the ejection state of the ink is an ideal state as evaluation information. The waveform determination unit 446 compares the evaluation information with the ejection characteristic information D22 to evaluate whether the ejection state of the ink is an ideal state.

[0102] When the input reception unit 442 receives the operation of the user on the waveform determination button B22 in step S15, in step S16, the waveform determination unit 446 determines the waveform designed by the user as the new drive waveform. The storage circuit 43 stores this new drive waveform as the determined waveform information D33.

[0103] Moreover, in step S20, the waveform determination unit 446 finally determines this new drive waveform as the waveform of the drive pulse PD applied to the liquid ejection device 200 during actual printing. The storage circuit 430 stores this drive waveform as the ejection waveform information D34. The drive pulse PD of the drive waveform represented by the ejection waveform information D34 is recorded as the waveform of the drive pulse PD actually applied to the liquid ejection device 200. This drive waveform is used in the actual printing of the liquid ejection device 200.

[0104] In addition, when the determination unit 443 determines in step S13 that the user's instruction for the first information D11 is the second determination method, in step S17, the notification unit 441 notifies the user of the eighth information D18 used to drive the drive waveform by the second determination method. That is, when the determination unit 443 determines in step S13 that it is the automatic method, the notification unit 441 causes the display device 410 to display the second determination method screen W30 representing the eighth information D18. In addition, after the notification unit 441 starts the notification of the eighth information D18, the waveform determination unit 446 starts the process of determining the drive waveform by the second determination method.

[0105] Figure 8 FIG. for showing the second determination method screen W30. As Figure 8 shown, the second determination method screen W30 is a screen used to determine the drive waveform by the second determination method. In as Figure 8In the example shown, the second determination method uses the screen W30 which has a time display area R31, a trial count display area R32, and an abort button B31.

[0106] Within the time display area R31, information related to the required time in the second determination method is shown. As Figure 8 shown in the example, the remaining time until the drive waveform is determined in an automatic manner is displayed in the time display area R31. In addition, within the trial count display area R32, information related to the number of drive waveforms tried during the execution of the drive waveform determination process by the second determination method is shown. As Figure 8 shown in the example, within the trial count display area R32, the trial count is displayed in a countdown manner.

[0107] The abort button B31 is used to abort the determination of the drive waveform implemented by the second determination method. When the input reception unit 442 receives a user operation on the abort button B31, the waveform determination unit 446 aborts the process of determining the drive waveform by the second determination method.

[0108] In step S18, when the trial of the drive waveform ends, the waveform determination unit 446 determines the drive waveform based on the trial result. The storage circuit 430 stores this new drive waveform as the determined waveform information D33. In addition, the ejection control unit 444 sends the determined waveform information D33 to the liquid ejection device 200. The liquid ejection device 200 that has received the waveform candidate information D32 generates a drive pulse PD based on the waveform candidate information D32 and causes the ink to be ejected from the nozzle. After the ink is ejected from the nozzle, the ejection characteristic calculation unit 445 obtains the ejection result from the measurement device 300 and calculates the ejection characteristics based on this ejection result. In addition, the storage circuit 430 stores the obtained ejection result as the ejection result information D21 and stores the ejection characteristics as the ejection characteristic information D22.

[0109] In step S19, the notification unit 441 notifies the user of this ejection result. Specifically, the notification unit 441 causes the display device 410 to display a determination result display screen W35 indicating this ejection result. At this time, the notification unit 441 may also cause the display device 410 to display only the determination result display screen W35 indicating one ejection result, where the one ejection result is the ejection result that is automatically determined to have obtained the most preferable ejection result based on the ejection result information D21. In addition, the notification unit 441 may also cause the display device 410 to display a plurality of determination result display screens W35 indicating a plurality of ejection results in a state where the display can be switched.

[0110] Figure 9FIG. showing a determination result display screen W35. As Figure 9 shown, the determination result display screen W35 includes a status value display area R351 and a result display area R352.

[0111] In the status value display area R351, the status value of the determined drive waveform is displayed. Additionally, in the status value display area R351, the determined drive waveform may also be displayed. Further, in the result display area R352, the ejection result obtained by the measuring device 300 is displayed. In the present embodiment, an image of the ink ejected onto a printing medium or the like is shown. Additionally, in the result display area R352, ejection characteristics such as the area of the ink ejected onto a printing medium or the like may be displayed in addition to or instead of the ejection result.

[0112] By visually confirming the determination result display screen W35 in question, the user can know the status value of the drive waveform determined in an automatic manner and the ejection result. Additionally, although step S19 is provided in the present embodiment, step S19 may be omitted. That is, the determination result display screen W35 may not be displayed.

[0113] After the notification unit 441 notifies the determination result display screen W35, in step S20, the waveform determination unit 446 finally determines the new drive waveform as the waveform of the drive pulse PD applied to the liquid ejection device 200 during actual printing. The storage circuit 430 stores this drive waveform as ejection waveform information D34. The drive pulse PD of the drive waveform represented by the ejection waveform information D34 is recorded as the waveform of the drive pulse PD actually applied to the liquid ejection device 200. This drive waveform is used in the actual printing of the liquid ejection device 200.

[0114] By the above method, the drive waveform is determined manually or automatically. As described above, the drive waveform determination method has a first process and a second process. In step S11, which is the first process, the notification unit 441 notifies the user of a first piece of information D11, which is information for the user to determine which of a first determination method of determining the drive waveform based on the user's operation and a second determination method of determining the drive waveform without the user's operation is to be implemented. In the second process, based on the instruction for the first piece of information D11, the drive waveform is determined according to the first determination method or the second determination method determined by the user. When it is determined in step S13 that the determination method determined by the user is the first determination method, steps S14, S15, and S16 are executed. Additionally, when it is determined in step S13 that the determination method determined by the user is the second determination method, steps S17, S18, and S19 are executed.

[0115] By making the drive waveform determination method have step S11, the user can select whether to determine the drive waveform manually or automatically. Therefore, usability can be improved. For example, when the user is not skilled in the process of determining the drive waveform, by allowing the user to select automatic processing, an excessive burden can be reduced. On the other hand, for example, when the user is skilled in the process of the drive waveform, by allowing the user to select manual processing, the user can efficiently set an ideal drive waveform.

[0116] In addition, as described above, when the instruction for the first information D11 is the first determination method, the drive waveform determination method notifies the user of the third information D13 for determining the drive waveform through the user's operation. In the present embodiment, when it is the first determination method, a first determination method screen W20 showing the third information D13 is displayed in step S14. Therefore, the user can set the drive waveform using the first determination method screen W20.

[0117] Moreover, as described above, the third information D13 at least includes information for setting the state value of the drive waveform, information for performing pre-ejection through the set state value, and information for evaluating the ejection result in the pre-ejection. In the present embodiment, the first determination method screen W20 having a waveform determination area R21 and an ejection result area R22 is displayed on the monitor 41. By providing the waveform determination area R21, the user can simply design a desired drive waveform by setting the state value. In addition, by providing the ejection execution button B20, pre-ejection can be performed using the drive pulse PD having a pre-determined drive waveform. Moreover, by providing the ejection result area R22, the user can visually confirm the ejection result of the ink after the pre-ejection. Therefore, the user can evaluate whether the ejection state of the ink after the pre-ejection is an ideal state by himself / herself. Thus, the user can determine the drive waveform when the state is ideal based on the ejection result, and re-implement the setting of the drive waveform when it is not ideal. Therefore, the usability is good for users who are skilled in the process of determining the drive waveform.

[0118] On the other hand, in the case where the indication for the first information D11 is the second determination method in the drive waveform determination method, in step S17, the eighth information D18 including at least one of the information related to the required time in the second determination method and the information related to the number of drive waveforms tried during the execution of the second determination method is notified to the user. In the present embodiment, the second determination method screen W30 having the time display area R31 and the trial number display area R32 is displayed on the monitor 41. By providing the time display area R31 or the trial number display area R32, the user can grasp the progress of the process for determining the drive waveform. Therefore, it is convenient for users who are not proficient in the process of determining the drive waveform as compared with the case where the second determination method screen W30 is not displayed.

[0119] According to the above drive waveform determination method, the usability for both users who are proficient in the process of determining the drive waveform and users who are not proficient in the process of determining the drive waveform can be improved. Therefore, according to the above drive waveform determination method, the usability for various people can be improved.

[0120] In addition, the above drive waveform determination method can be implemented multiple times. In the first drive waveform determination, a new drive waveform is determined by adjusting the initial waveform. In the drive waveform determination after the second time, for example, the next new drive waveform is determined by adjusting the drive waveform determined previously. By implementing the drive waveform determination multiple times, a further improvement in the ejection characteristics can be achieved. In addition, by implementing the drive waveform determination regularly, the stabilization of the ejection characteristics can be achieved. Moreover, for example, when the type of ink or the printing content is changed, by implementing the drive waveform determination before actually ejecting the ink, appropriate ejection characteristics corresponding to the type of ink or the printing content can be obtained. Therefore, printed matter with excellent quality can be produced.

[0121] 2. Second Embodiment

[0122] The second embodiment will be described. In addition, for elements having the same functions as those in the first embodiment in the following respective examples, the symbols used in the description of the first embodiment are used, and the detailed description of each is appropriately omitted.

[0123] 1-1c. Information Processing Device 400

[0124] Figure 10A diagram showing a functional structural example of the information processing apparatus 400 according to the second embodiment. In the storage circuit 430 included in the information processing apparatus 400 of the present embodiment, display data D1 including second information D12 and previous decision method data D4 are stored.

[0125] The second information D12 is information for the user to decide whether to omit the notification of the first information D11 in the decision of the previous drive waveform. Specifically, the second information D12 is information for the user to decide whether to need to execute again the following instruction in step S11 when deciding the previous drive waveform, the instruction being an instruction on which one of the first decision method and the second decision method is to be decided when deciding the next drive waveform. That is to say, the second information D12 is information for the user to decide, for example, whether to omit the display of the decision method selection screen W10 in the decision process of the second drive waveform during the decision process of the first drive waveform.

[0126] The previous decision method data D4 includes information related to the previous decision method. The previous decision method data D4 includes decision method information D41 and omission necessity information D42. The decision method information D41 is information indicating whether the decision method selected in step S11 is the first decision method or the second decision method. The omission necessity information D42 is information related to the omission instruction of the notification of the first information D11. The decision method information D41 and the omission necessity information D42 are associated with each other. The decision method information D41 and the omission necessity information D42 can be replaced, updated, or added.

[0127] 1-4. Drive waveform decision method

[0128] In the present embodiment, there is a difference between the first drive waveform decision method and the drive waveform decision methods after the second time. The first drive waveform decision method follows the flowchart as shown in the first embodiment. However, in the first drive waveform decision method, for step S11, the decision method selection screen W10A is displayed in Figure 4 or Figure 11 or Figure 12 or

[0129] Figure 11 and Figure 12 are diagrams respectively showing the decision method selection screen W10A of the second embodiment. In step S11, the notification unit 441 causes the display device 410 to display the decision method selection screen W10A showing the first information D11 and the third information D13. The decision method selection screen W10 has a check box C13 for omission in addition to the check box C11, the check box C12, and the decision button B10.

[0130] The omission check box C13 is used for the user to decide whether it is necessary to implement again the indication of which one of the first decision method and the second decision method when deciding the next drive waveform. The omission check box C13 is associated with the check box C12. Therefore, in the case of automatically deciding the drive waveform, it is possible to select whether to omit the indication of the decision method in the decision process of the next drive waveform. In addition, in the present embodiment, in the case of manually deciding the drive waveform, it is not possible to select whether to omit the decision method in the decision process of the next drive waveform.

[0131] When the input reception unit 442 receives the check of the omission check box C13 after receiving the check of the check box C12 in step S12, the determination unit 443 determines in step S13 that the decision method is the second decision method. In this case, the storage circuit 430 stores the decision method information D41 indicating the case of the second decision method and the omission necessity information D42 indicating the case where an omission instruction is received.

[0132] In addition, when the input reception unit 442 does not receive the check of the omission check box C13 after receiving the check of the check box C12 in step S12, the determination unit 443 determines in step S13 that the decision method is the second decision method. In this case, the storage circuit 430 stores the decision method information D41 indicating the case of the second decision method and the omission necessity information D42 indicating the case where an omission instruction is not received.

[0133] In addition, when the input reception unit 442 receives the check of the check box C11 in step S12, the determination unit 443 determines in step S13 that the decision method is the first decision method. In this case, the storage circuit 430 stores the decision method information D41 indicating the case of the first decision method and the omission necessity information D42 indicating the case where an omission instruction is not received.

[0134] Figure 13 It is a flowchart showing the drive waveform decision method after the second time in the second embodiment. As Figure 13 shown, in the drive waveform decision method after the second time, step S21 is added compared to the drive waveform decision method of the first time.

[0135] In step S21, the determination unit 443 determines whether the indication for the second information D12 in step S11 when determining the previous drive waveform is negative. That is, in step S21, the determination unit 443 determines whether it is necessary to re-implement the indication of which of the first determination method and the second determination method is to be determined in the process of determining the current drive waveform. Specifically, the determination unit 443 determines whether there is an omission indication in the process of determining the previous drive waveform based on the determination method information D41 and the omission necessity information D42.

[0136] When in step S21, the determination unit 443 determines that the indication for the second information D12 is negative, that is, when it is determined that there is an omission indication, the third process of determining the drive waveform according to the determination method when the previous drive waveform was determined is executed. As Figure 13 shown in steps S17 and S18 is equivalent to the third process. Therefore, when there is an omission indication, the notification unit 441 notifies the user of the eighth information D18. That is, in the case of an omission indication, the notification unit 441 omits the display of the determination method selection screen W10 and causes the display device 410 to display the second determination method screen W30. Therefore, the user can perform the next drive waveform determination process without having to re-implement the selection of the determination method by implementing an omission indication during the previous drive waveform determination process. Thus, the number of user operations can be reduced. Thereby, the drive waveform determination process can be further simplified.

[0137] Here, a user who is not proficient in determining the drive waveform is more likely to feel burdened when the number of drive waveform determination processes is large compared to a proficient user. Therefore, by enabling an omission indication to be made when determining the drive waveform in an automatic manner, the burden on users who are not proficient in determining the drive waveform can be reduced.

[0138] In addition, when in step S21, the determination unit 443 determines that the indication for the second information D12 is required, that is, when it is determined that there is no omission indication, the first process and the second process are implemented. Therefore, in the case of no omission indication, the same process as the first drive waveform determination method is implemented. Thus, for example, the convenience for users who want to change the determination method every time the drive waveform determination process is implemented can be ensured.

[0139] According to the above second embodiment, usability can also be improved. In addition, although in this embodiment, an omission indication can be made when the second determination method is selected, it can also be set that an omission indication can be made when the first determination method is selected.

[0140] 3. Third Embodiment

[0141] A description will be given of the third embodiment. In addition, elements having the same functions as those in the first embodiment in the following respective examples are assigned the same reference numerals as those used in the description of the first embodiment, and their respective detailed descriptions are appropriately omitted.

[0142] 1-1c. Information processing apparatus 400

[0143] Figure 14 FIG. is a diagram showing a functional structural example of the information processing apparatus 400 according to the third embodiment. In the storage circuit 430 included in the information processing apparatus 400 of the present embodiment, display data D1 including fourth information D14 is stored. The fourth information D14 is information for switching from the first determination method to the second determination method during the process of performing the drive waveform determination process by the first determination method.

[0144] 1-4. Drive waveform determination method

[0145] Figure 15 FIG. is a flowchart showing the drive waveform determination method according to the third embodiment. Figure 16 FIG. is a diagram showing the screen W20B for the first determination method according to the third embodiment. In the drive waveform determination method of the present embodiment, step S22 is added to the drive waveform determination method of the first embodiment. In addition, the screen W20B for the first determination method has a part different from the screen W20 for the first determination method of the first embodiment.

[0146] When the user's instruction for the first information D11 in step S13 as shown in Figure 15 is the first determination method, in step S14, the notification unit 441 notifies the user of the third information D13 and the fourth information D14. Specifically, when the determination unit 443 determines in step S13 that it is the manual mode, in step S14, the notification unit 441 causes the display device 410 to display the screen W20B for the first determination method indicating the third information D13.

[0147] As Figure 16 shown, the screen W20B for the first determination method has, in addition to the waveform determination area R21, the ejection result area R22, the ejection execution button B20, and the waveform determination button B22, a switching button B23. The switching button B23 is used to switch from the first determination method to the second determination method.

[0148] In step S15, the input reception unit 442 receives the user's instruction. When the input reception unit 442 receives the user's instruction, in step S22, the determination unit 443 determines whether the instruction is a switching instruction. That is, the determination unit 443 determines whether the input reception unit 442 has received the user's operation on the switching button B23.

[0149] When the user's operation on the switching button B23 is not received, in step S16, similar to the first embodiment, the waveform determination unit 446 generates a drive waveform according to the user's instruction received by the input reception unit 442.

[0150] On the other hand, when the user's operation on the switching button B23 is received, step S17 is executed. That is, when the user's operation on the switching button B23 is received, the waveform determination unit 446 ends the determination process of the drive waveform by the first determination method and starts the determination process of the drive waveform by the second determination method.

[0151] As described above, in the present embodiment, during the process of executing the determination process of the drive waveform by the first determination method, the fourth information D14 for switching from the first determination method to the second determination method is notified to the user. Therefore, for example, when the user tries to determine the drive waveform manually but fails, the user can switch from the manual method to the automatic method. Therefore, compared with the case where there is no means for switching from the first determination method to the second determination method, the usability of the user can be improved.

[0152] According to the above third embodiment, the usability can be improved. In addition, although in the present embodiment, it is possible to switch from the first determination method to the second determination method, it is also possible to switch from the second determination method to the first determination method.

[0153] 4. Fourth Embodiment

[0154] The fourth embodiment will be described. In addition, for the elements having the same functions as those in the first embodiment in the following examples, the symbols used in the description of the first embodiment are used, and the detailed descriptions thereof are appropriately omitted.

[0155] 1-1c. Information Processing Apparatus 400

[0156] Figure 17A diagram showing a functional structural example of the information processing apparatus 400 according to the fourth embodiment. In the storage circuit 430 included in the information processing apparatus 400 of the present embodiment, display data D1 including fifth information D15 and sixth information D16 is stored. The fifth information D15 is information for the user to determine whether the drive waveform can be used as the waveform of the drive pulse PD actually applied after the drive waveform is determined by the second determination method. That is, the fifth information D15 is information for the user to determine whether the drive waveform determined automatically is set as the waveform used in the actual printing of the liquid ejection apparatus 200. The sixth information D16 is information for the user to determine whether it is necessary to perform the drive waveform determination process by the second determination method again after the drive waveform is determined by the second determination method.

[0157] 1-4. Drive Waveform Determination Method

[0158] Figure 18 A flowchart showing the drive waveform determination method according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 19 A diagram showing the determination result display screen W35C according to the fourth embodiment. In the drive waveform determination method of the present embodiment, steps S23 and S24 are added to the drive waveform determination method of the first embodiment. In addition, the determination result display screen W35C has a part different from the determination result display screen W35 of the first embodiment.

[0159] In Figure 18 As shown in step S18, when the trial of the drive waveform ends, the waveform determination unit 446 determines the drive waveform based on the trial result. The storage circuit 430 stores the new drive waveform as the determination waveform information D33.

[0160] In step S19, the notification unit 441 notifies the user of the ejection result when ejected by the drive pulse PD having the new drive waveform. Specifically, the notification unit 441 causes the display device 410 to display the determination result display screen W35C indicating the ejection result and the like.

[0161] As Figure 19The decision result display screen W35C shown, in addition to the status value display area R351 and the result display area R352, also has a discharge decision button B351 representing the fifth information D15 and a re - decision button B352 representing the sixth information D16. The discharge decision button B351 is used to decide whether a drive pulse PD with a drive waveform can be applied. That is, the discharge decision button B351 is used to decide the drive waveform determined by the second decision method as the waveform of the drive pulse PD actually used in the printing of the liquid ejection device 200. In addition, the re - decision button B352 is used for the user to decide whether it is necessary to re - execute the decision process of the drive waveform by the second decision method. The discharge decision button B351 and the re - decision button B352 are selected in an alternative manner.

[0162] In step S23, the input reception unit 442 receives an instruction for any one of the fifth information D15 or the sixth information D16. Specifically, the input reception unit 442 receives an instruction for any one of the discharge decision button B351 and the re - decision button B352.

[0163] In step S24, the determination unit 443 determines whether the user's instruction is an instruction for the sixth information D16. That is, the determination unit 443 determines whether an instruction to re - execute the process of determining the drive waveform by the second decision method is received.

[0164] When an operation of the user on the re - decision button B352 is received, the determination unit 443 determines that there is an instruction to re - execute the process of determining the drive waveform by the second decision method. That is, the determination unit 443 determines that the instruction for the sixth information D16 is required. In this case, it returns to step S17, and the notification unit 441 causes the display device 410 to display the second - decision - method screen W30 representing the eighth information D18. Moreover, in step S18, the waveform determination unit 446 re - determines the drive waveform by the second decision method.

[0165] In addition, when an operation of the user on the discharge decision button B351 is received, the determination unit 443 determines that an instruction to re - execute the process of determining the drive waveform by the second decision method is not received. That is, the determination unit 443 determines that the instruction for the sixth information D16 is negative and there is an instruction for the fifth information D15. In this case, in step S20, the waveform determination unit 446 finally determines the new drive waveform determined by the second decision method as the waveform of the drive pulse PD applied to the liquid ejection device 200 in actual printing. In addition, the storage circuit 430 stores this drive waveform as the ejection waveform information D34.

[0166] As described above, after the drive waveform is determined by the second determination method, the ejection determination button B351 indicating the fifth information D15 is displayed. Therefore, the user can determine whether the drive pulse PD having the drive waveform determined in the automatic manner can be applied to the actual printing of the liquid ejection device 200. Therefore, compared with the case where the user cannot determine whether it can be used, a drive waveform that better meets the user's expectations can be used in the actual printing. Therefore, the usability is further improved.

[0167] In addition, as described above, the re-determination button B352 indicating the sixth information D16 for the user to determine whether it is necessary to re-implement the second determination method is displayed. Therefore, in the case where the drive waveform determined in the automatic manner is not a drive waveform that meets the user's expectations, the determination of the drive waveform can be executed again. Therefore, compared with the case where there is no opportunity to re-execute the determination of the drive waveform, a drive waveform that better meets the user's expectations can be designed.

[0168] According to the above fourth embodiment, the usability can also be improved.

[0169] 5. Fifth Embodiment

[0170] The fifth embodiment will be described. In addition, for the elements having the same functions as those in the first embodiment in the following respective examples, the symbols used in the description of the first embodiment are used, and the detailed descriptions thereof are appropriately omitted.

[0171] 1-1c. Information Processing Device 400

[0172] Figure 20 FIG. is a diagram showing a functional configuration example of the information processing device 400 according to the fifth embodiment. In the storage circuit 430 included in the information processing device 400 of the present embodiment, display data D1 including the fifth information D15, the seventh information D17, and the ninth information D19 is stored. As Figure 20 The fifth information D15 shown is the same as the fifth information D15 in the fourth embodiment. The description of the fifth information D15 is omitted appropriately since it has been described in the fourth embodiment. In addition, the seventh information D17 is information for the user to adjust the drive waveform. The ninth information D19 is information for determining the drive waveform based on the drive waveform determined in the automatic manner and through the user's operation.

[0173] 1-4. Drive Waveform Determination Method

[0174] Figure 21 FIG. is a flowchart showing the drive waveform determination method according to the fifth embodiment. Figure 22FIG. showing the determination result display screen W35D. In the driving waveform determination method of the present embodiment, steps S23, S25, S26, and S27 are added with respect to the driving waveform determination method of the first embodiment. In addition, the determination result display screen W35D has a part different from the determination result display screen W35 of the first embodiment.

[0175] In step S18 as Figure 21 shown, when the trial of the driving waveform ends, the waveform determination unit 446 determines the driving waveform based on the trial result. The storage circuit 430 stores the new driving waveform as the determination waveform information D33.

[0176] In step S19, the notification unit 441 notifies the user of the ejection result when the ejection is performed using the driving pulse PD having the driving waveform represented by the determination waveform information D33. Specifically, the notification unit 441 causes the display device 41 to display the determination result display screen W35D indicating the ejection result and the like.

[0177] As Figure 22 shown, the determination result display screen W35D has an ejection determination button B351 representing the fifth information D15 and an adjustment button B353 representing the seventh information D17 in addition to the state value display area R351 and the result display area R352. The ejection determination button B351 is the same as the ejection determination button B351 of the fourth embodiment. The description of the ejection determination button B351 is omitted appropriately since it has been described in the fourth embodiment. In addition, the adjustment button B353 is used for the user to adjust the driving waveform. The ejection determination button B351 and the adjustment button B353 are selected in an alternative manner.

[0178] In step S23, the input reception unit 442 receives an instruction for any one of the fifth information D15 or the seventh information D17. Specifically, the input reception unit 442 receives an instruction for any one of the ejection determination button B351 and the adjustment button B353.

[0179] When the operation of the user for the adjustment button B353 is received in step S23, in step S26, the determination unit 443 determines that there is an instruction for adjusting the driving waveform. That is, in step S26, the determination unit 443 determines that the instruction for the seventh information D17 is required. In this case, in step S27, the notification unit 441 causes the display device 410 to display the waveform adjustment screen W40 representing the ninth information D19.

[0180] Figure 23A diagram showing the waveform adjustment screen W40 of the fifth embodiment. The waveform adjustment screen W40 has a waveform determination area R41 and a discharge execution button B40. The discharge execution button B40 is the same as the discharge execution button B20 of the first embodiment.

[0181] The waveform determination area R41 is the same as the waveform determination area R21 of the first embodiment except for the following elements. In the image G41 of the waveform determination area R41, the driving waveform determined in the automatic mode is displayed. In addition, other than this, the image G41 is the same as the image G21 of the first embodiment. Further, in the drop-down list box group B41 of the waveform determination area R41, the state value of the driving pulse PD having the driving waveform determined in the automatic mode is displayed. In addition, other than this, the drop-down list box group B41 is the same as the drop-down list box group B21 of the first embodiment. Since the driving waveform and the state value determined in the automatic mode are displayed in the waveform determination area R41, the user can set the state value more easily compared to the case where the initial waveform is displayed.

[0182] In step S28, the input reception unit 442 receives the user's instruction. The input reception unit 442 receives the user's operation on the drop-down list box group B41 and then receives the user's operation on the discharge execution button B40. According to the user's operation, the waveform determination unit 446 generates the driving waveform designed by the user as the pre-determined driving waveform. Then, it returns to step S19, and the notification unit 441 notifies the user of the discharge result based on this driving waveform. Specifically, the notification unit 441 causes the display device 410 to display the Figure 22 decision result display screen W35D showing the discharge result and the like.

[0183] In addition, when the user's operation on the discharge determination button B351 is received in step S23, the determination unit 443 determines that no instruction for adjusting the driving waveform is received. That is, the determination unit 443 determines that the instruction for the seventh information D17 is negative and there is an instruction for the fifth information D15. In this case, in step S20, the waveform determination unit 446 finally determines the new driving waveform determined by the second determination method as the waveform of the driving pulse PD applied to the liquid ejection device 200 in actual printing. The storage circuit 430 stores this driving waveform as the ejection waveform information D34.

[0184] Alternatively, it can also be set that after the input acceptance unit 442 accepts the user's instruction in step S28, it transfers to step S20 without performing another ejection, and the driving waveform designed by the user is finally determined as the waveform of the driving pulse PD applied to the liquid ejection device 200 during actual printing. In this case, the waveform adjustment screen W40 has a waveform determination button (not shown) instead of the ejection execution button B40. This waveform determination button is a button selected when the user has designed a driving waveform and decides to use this driving waveform.

[0185] As described above, after the driving waveform is determined by the second determination method, the adjustment button B353 representing the seventh information D17 for the user to adjust the driving waveform is displayed. Therefore, the user can manually design an ideal driving waveform based on the driving waveform determined by the automatic method. In addition, by having the user operate the ejection determination button B351, the adjusted driving waveform can be determined as the waveform of the driving pulse PD actually applied to the liquid ejection device 200. Therefore, it is effective when fine-tuning the driving waveform in an automatic manner.

[0186] Through the above fifth embodiment, usability can also be improved. In addition, the determination result display screen W35D of this embodiment has an ejection determination button B351 representing the fifth information D15 and an adjustment button B353 representing the seventh information D17. However, the determination result display screen W35D may also have a re-determination button B352 representing the sixth information D16 of the fourth embodiment in addition to the ejection determination button B351 and the adjustment button B353. In this case, the ejection determination button B351, the re-determination button B352, and the adjustment button B353 can be selected in an alternative manner.

[0187] Figure 24 It is a modification example of the flowchart of the driving waveform determination method of the fifth embodiment. Figure 25 It is a diagram showing a modification example of the determination result display screen W35D of the fifth embodiment. When notifying the fifth information D15, the sixth information D16, and the seventh information D17, the determination of the driving waveform is performed according to the flowchart as Figure 24 shown. In addition, in this case, the determination result display screen W35D as Figure 25 shown is displayed.

[0188] 6. Sixth Embodiment

[0189] Figure 26The figure is a schematic diagram showing a structural example of the liquid ejection device 200E according to the sixth embodiment. The liquid ejection device 200E has a display device 280, an input device 290, and a measurement device 300E, and executes the driving waveform determination program P. Other than this, it is the same as the liquid ejection device 200 of the first embodiment.

[0190] The display device 280 is configured to be the same as the display device 410 in the first embodiment. The input device 290 is configured to be the same as the input device 420 in the first embodiment. The measurement device 300E is configured to be the same as the measurement device 300 in the first embodiment. Additionally, at least one of the display device 280, the input device 290, and the measurement device 300E may also be provided outside the liquid ejection device 200.

[0191] In the storage circuit 260 of the present embodiment, the driving waveform determination program P, the display data D1, the ejection characteristic data D2, and the driving waveform data D3 are stored.

[0192] The processing circuit 270 of the present embodiment is an example of a computer. By executing the driving waveform determination program P, the processing circuit 270 functions as the above-mentioned notification unit 441, input reception unit 442, determination unit 443, ejection control unit 444, ejection characteristic calculation unit 445, and waveform determination unit 446.

[0193] Similar to the processing circuit 440 of the first embodiment described above, the processing circuit 270 executes a driving waveform method having a first process and a second process. In step S11, which is the first process, the notification unit 441 notifies the user of the following first information D11, which is information for the user to decide which of the first decision method of determining the driving waveform based on the user's operation and the second decision method of determining the driving waveform without the user's operation to implement. In the second process, the waveform determination unit 446 determines the driving waveform based on the instruction for the first information D11 and according to the first decision method or the second decision method determined by the user. Therefore, the user can select whether to determine the driving waveform manually or automatically. Thus, usability can be improved.

[0194] Through the above fifth embodiment, usability can also be improved. Additionally, the storage circuit 260 may also store the data stored in any one of the storage circuits 430 of the second to fifth embodiments.

[0195] 3. Variation

[0196] As described above, although the driving waveform determination method, driving waveform determination program, liquid ejection device, and driving waveform determination system of the present invention have been described based on the illustrated embodiments, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. In addition, the structure of each part of the present invention can be replaced with any structure that exhibits the same function as the embodiments described above, and any structure can be added.

[0197] Although in the embodiments described above, an example is given of a structure in which the driving waveform determination program P is executed by a processing circuit provided on the same device as the installed storage circuit, the present invention is not limited to this structure, and it may also be executed by a processing circuit provided on a device different from the installed storage circuit.

[0198] As described above, although the present invention has been described based on the illustrated embodiments, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. In addition, the structure of each part of the present invention can be replaced with any structure that exhibits the same function as the embodiments described above, and any structure can also be added. In addition, the present invention may also be configured such that any structures of the embodiments described above are combined with each other.

[0199] Reference Signs

[0200] 100…Drive waveform determination system; 200…Liquid ejection device; 200E…Liquid ejection device; 210…Liquid ejection head; 211…Piezoelectric element; 220…Moving mechanism; 230…Power supply circuit; 240…Drive signal generation circuit; 250…Drive circuit; 260…Storage circuit; 270…Processing circuit; 280…Display device; 290…Input device; 300…Measurement device; 300E…Measurement device; 400…Information processing device; 410…Display device; 420…Input device; 430…Storage circuit; 440…Processing circuit; 441…Notification unit; 442…Input reception unit; 443…Judgment unit; 444…Ejection control unit; 445…Ejection characteristic calculation unit; 446…Waveform determination unit; 41…Monitor; B11…Determination button; B20…Ejection execution button; B21…Drop-down list box group; B22…Waveform determination button; B23…Switching button; B31…Abort button; B351…Ejection determination button; B352…Redetermination button; B353…Adjustment button; B40…Ejection execution button; B41…Drop-down list box group; C11…Checkbox; C12…Checkbox; C13…Omission checkbox; D1…Display data; D11…First information; D12…Second information; D13…Third information; D14…Fourth information; D15…Fifth information; D16…Sixth information; D17…Seventh information; D18…Eighth information; D19…Ninth information; D2…Ejection characteristic data; D21…Ejection result information; D22…Ejection characteristic information; D3…Drive waveform data; D31…Initial waveform information; D32…Waveform candidate information; D33…Determined waveform information; D34…Ejection waveform information; D4…Determination method data; D41…Determination method information; D42…Omission necessity information; E1…Potential; E2…Potential; E3…Potential; G21…Image; G41…Image; P…Drive waveform determination program; P1…First period; P2…Second period; P3…Third period; P4…Fourth period; P5…Fifth period; P6…Sixth period; P7…Seventh period; PD…Drive pulse; R21…Waveform determination area; R22…Ejection result area; R31…Time display area; R32…Trial number display area; R351…Status value display area; R352…Result display area; R41…Waveform determination area; V1…Potential difference; V3…Potential difference; W10…Determination method selection screen; W20…First determination method screen; W30…Second determination method screen; W35…Determination result display screen; W40…Waveform adjustment screen.

Claims

1. A driving waveform determination method, characterized in that, It is used to determine the waveform of the driving pulse, i.e., the driving waveform, applied to the driving element in order to eject liquid from the liquid ejection head. The driving waveform determination method includes: A first step of notifying first information, where the first information is used for the user to determine which one of a first determination method for determining the driving waveform based on the user's operation and a second determination method for determining the driving waveform without going through the user's operation; A second step of determining the driving waveform based on the indication for the first information and in accordance with the first determination method or the second determination method determined by the user; In the second step, seventh information is also notified. The seventh information is used for the user to adjust the driving waveform, and when the indication for the seventh information is required, the driving pulse having the driving waveform after the adjustment based on the seventh information is set as the driving waveform used for actual application.

2. The driving waveform determination method according to claim 1, characterized in that: In the first step, the first information is notified by displaying it on the display unit.

3. A recording medium that records a driving waveform determination program, The driving waveform determination program is used to cause a computer to execute the driving waveform determination method according to claim 1 or 2.

4. A liquid ejection device, characterized in that, It has: A liquid ejection head that is used to eject liquid and has a driving element; A processing circuit that performs processing for determining the waveform of the driving pulse, i.e., the driving waveform, applied to the driving element. The processing circuit executes the following steps, namely: A first step of notifying first information, where the first information is used for the user to determine which one of a first determination method for determining the driving waveform based on the user's operation and a second determination method for determining the driving waveform without going through the user's operation; A second step of determining the driving waveform based on the indication for the first information and in accordance with the first determination method or the second determination method determined by the user; In the second step, seventh information is also notified. The seventh information is used for the user to adjust the driving waveform, and when the indication for the seventh information is required, the driving pulse having the driving waveform after the adjustment based on the seventh information is set as the driving waveform used for actual application.

5. A driving waveform determination system, characterized in that, It has: A liquid ejection device that has a liquid ejection head, and the liquid ejection head is used to eject liquid and has a driving element; An information processing device that has a processing circuit, and the processing circuit performs processing for determining the waveform of the driving pulse, i.e., the driving waveform, applied to the driving element. The processing circuit executes the following steps, namely: A first step of notifying first information, where the first information is used for the user to determine which one of a first determination method for determining the driving waveform based on the user's operation and a second determination method for determining the driving waveform without going through the user's operation; A second process of determining the drive waveform based on the indication for the first information and in accordance with the first determination method or the second determination method determined by the user. In the second process, seventh information is also notified. The seventh information is used for the user to adjust the drive waveform. And when the indication for the seventh information is required, the drive pulse having the drive waveform after the adjustment based on the seventh information is set as the drive waveform used for actual application.

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