Printing device, loading unit, and movement control method

Abstract

Provided are a printing device, a placement unit, and a movement control method capable of automatically arranging a print head at a position suitable for capping. The printing device (1) comprises: a device body (100), which has an opening (21) on the surface facing the printing object during printing; a printing head (41), which has a discharge portion (411) for printing the printing object; a head moving mechanism (45), which moves the printing head (41) to a first position and a second position different from the first position; a supporting body (200) as a loading portion, which can be separated from the device body (100) and has a protective portion (201) for protecting the discharge portion (411) of the printing head (41) at a position corresponding to the opening (21); and a light receiving portion (12) as a detection portion, which detects whether the device body (100) and the supporting body (200) are approaching or moving away from each other; when the light receiving portion (12) detects that the device body (100) and the supporting body (200) are approaching each other, the head moving mechanism (45) moves the printing head (41) to the first position.

Description

[0001] Reference to related applications

[0002] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-109803 filed on July 1, 2021, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to a printing device, a placement unit, and a movement control method. Background Art

[0004] For example, when applying makeup to human skin, people have traditionally manually applied the makeup using makeup tools such as sponges and brushes.

[0005] In recent years, devices have been proposed that apply (print) a liquid agent (cosmetic ink) of skin color, etc., to the skin instead of such application operations performed by humans (for example, see Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2019-141684).

[0006] According to this device, a liquid agent for skin ("treatment composition" in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2019-141684) can be ejected from a nozzle in an inkjet manner and applied to the skin surface, forming a film on uneven portions of the skin. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0008] In such a printing device, in order to determine the printing position and printing range, it is necessary to capture an image of the printing object using a photographing device.

[0009] Regarding this point, in the structure of patent document 1, the optical axis of the photographic device (the "image camera device" in Japanese Patent Gazette No. 2019-141684) is angularly offset relative to the main axis of the print head (the "nozzle" in patent document 1), so that even if the print head and the photographic device are arranged close to each other, they will not interfere with each other.

[0010] However, in order to accurately print the printing area determined from the image, it is preferable to perform the printing operation from the same position as the imaging position as much as possible. If the optical axis of the imaging device is offset from the main axis of the nozzle as in the structure described in Patent Document 1, there is a possibility of deviation in object recognition and ink landing position.

[0011] Therefore, it is also conceivable to retract the print head to a position where it does not interfere with the photographing operation when the photographing device is photographing.

[0012] For example, the ejection unit is exposed from the opening to print, and the print head is moved from a position corresponding to the opening during photography. In this way, photography and printing can be performed from substantially the same position via the same opening.

[0013] However, in inkjet printing devices, it is preferable to cap the ejection portion at the end of a series of processes in order to prevent the ejection portion from drying out. In the case of a structure in which the print head moves, the print head does not necessarily stop at a position suitable for capping, and the ejection portion may dry out.

[0014] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present disclosure is to provide a printing device, a placement unit, and a method that can move a print head to an appropriate position.

[0015] Means used to solve problems

[0016] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the printing device disclosed in the present invention comprises: a device body having an opening portion opposite to the printing object during printing; a print head disposed in the above-mentioned device body for printing the above-mentioned printing object; a moving mechanism disposed in the above-mentioned device body for moving the above-mentioned print head to a first position corresponding to the above-mentioned opening portion and a second position different from the above-mentioned first position; a loading portion capable of being separated from the above-mentioned device body; and a detection portion for detecting at least the fact that the above-mentioned device body and the above-mentioned loading portion are close to each other; when the above-mentioned detection portion detects that the above-mentioned device body and the above-mentioned loading portion are close to each other, the above-mentioned moving mechanism moves the above-mentioned print head from the above-mentioned second position to the above-mentioned first position.

[0017] Effects of the Invention

[0018] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to move the print head to an appropriate position. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of the main parts of the printing apparatus according to the present embodiment, taken along a plane perpendicular to the front-rear direction, schematically showing the internal structure of the main parts of the printing apparatus.

[0020] Figure 2 This is a block diagram of the main parts showing the control structure of the printing device and the terminal device that cooperates therewith according to the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 3 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the main parts of the device body showing the state of printing obtained by the imaging unit.

[0022] Figure 4 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the main parts of the apparatus body, showing a state in which the print head performs a printing operation at a first position.

[0023] Figure 5 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the main parts of the apparatus body showing a state in which the print head has moved to the second position.

[0024] Figure 6 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the main parts of the device body showing a state where the proximity of the device body to the placement portion is detected.

[0025] Figure 7 This is a flowchart showing the capping control process according to the first embodiment.

[0026] Figure 8 This is a block diagram of the main parts showing the control structure of the printing device and the terminal device that cooperates therewith according to the second embodiment.

[0027] Figure 9 This is a flowchart showing the capping control process according to the second embodiment.

[0028] Figure 10 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the main parts showing a modified example of the device main body, showing a state where the proximity of the device main body to the placement portion is detected. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] [First embodiment]

[0030] Reference Figures 1 to 7 A first embodiment of the printing device, placement unit, and movement control method of the present disclosure will be described.

[0031] In addition, various technically preferable limitations are given to the embodiments described below in order to implement the present disclosure, but the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the following embodiments and the illustrated examples.

[0032] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of the main parts of the printing apparatus according to the present embodiment, schematically showing the main internal structure of the printing apparatus.

[0033] In the following embodiments, the X direction and the Z direction are Figure 1 direction shown.

[0034] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the printing device 1 operates in cooperation with the terminal device 8 as an external device. Figure 2 This is a block diagram of the main parts showing the functional structure of the printing device and the terminal device that cooperates with it.

[0035] The printing device 1 (device main body 100 described later) of the present embodiment is formed to a size that can be held in one hand and is a handheld printing device (applicator) that can be used by hand.

[0036] The printing device 1 is, for example, a human skin surface S (see Figure 3 、 Figure 4 ) is a device that applies (prints) a liquid agent (cosmetic ink, not shown) of the skin color, etc., to the skin surface S, with the printing target (applying target) being a printing target (applying target). The device is carried by the user to the printing target (applying target) for use. Furthermore, the printing target (applying target) of the printing device 1 of the present disclosure is not limited to the human skin surface S. For example, a nail art printing device may also be used that applies various colored inks or a base ink such as white to the nail surface, using the nail surface as the printing target (applying target).

[0037] like Figure 1 As shown, the printing device 1 includes a device body 100 and a stand 200 detachable from the device body 100 .

[0038] In this embodiment, the support body 200 is a mounting portion (capping device) having a protective portion 201 that covers and protects the ejection portion (ejection surface) 411 of the print head 41, which will be described later. The protective portion 201 is not particularly limited in its specific structure or material as long as it can protect the ejection portion 411 from drying out.

[0039] It is recommended that the printing device 1 of this embodiment be placed with the device main body 100 on the support body 200 when not in use (not during printing).

[0040] As will be described later, the apparatus body 100 is provided with an opening 21, and the ejection portion 411 of the print head 41 can be exposed from the opening 21. The position where the ejection portion 411 is exposed from the opening 21 is the capping position of the print head 41 (hereinafter referred to as the "first position"), and the protective portion 201 of the support body 200 is arranged at a position where the ejection portion 411 can be covered when the print head 41 is placed on the support body 200 in the capping position (see FIG. Figure 1 wait).

[0041] The printing device 1 also includes a detection unit that detects the proximity between the device body 100 and the support body 200 (protection portion 201 provided on the support body 200 ) as a placement portion (ie, whether the device body 100 and the support body 200 are approaching or moving away from each other).

[0042] In this embodiment, an irradiation unit for irradiating electromagnetic waves is provided on one of the device main body 100 and the support body 200 as a placement unit, and the detection unit receives the electromagnetic waves irradiated from the irradiation unit.

[0043] Specifically, the irradiation unit 75 is provided on the upper surface of the support body 200 near the protection unit 201 , and the detection unit is the light receiving unit 12 provided at a position within the device body 100 capable of receiving electromagnetic waves from the irradiation unit 75 .

[0044] The light receiving unit 12 is an optical sensor that detects electromagnetic waves when irradiated from the irradiating unit 75 . Upon detecting electromagnetic waves, the light receiving unit 12 outputs a light reception signal indicating that light reception has been performed to the control unit 71 .

[0045] exist Figure 1 , etc., illustrate a case where the light receiving unit 12 is disposed at a position corresponding to the opening 21 on the top surface of the device body 100, and illustrates a case where the light receiving unit 12 receives electromagnetic waves from the irradiation unit 75 via the opening 21. The arrangement of the light receiving unit 12 is not limited to the example shown in the figures, and for example, the light receiving unit 12 may be disposed outside the device body 100 near the opening 21 so as to be substantially opposite to the irradiation unit 75.

[0046] There is no special limitation on the type and intensity of the electromagnetic waves irradiated by the irradiation unit 75. Preferably, the electromagnetic waves are in a wavelength range other than visible light (such as infrared rays with a wavelength longer than visible light), so that the light receiving unit 12 can also correctly detect the electromagnetic waves under indoor fluorescent lights or external light.

[0047] As the light receiving unit 12 serving as the detection unit, a member having sensitivity to the electromagnetic waves irradiated by the irradiation unit 75 is applied.

[0048] The detection result of the light receiving unit 12 as the detection unit is sent to the control unit 71 described later.

[0049] In addition, regarding the irradiation unit and the light receiving unit serving as the detection unit, it is sufficient to provide the irradiation unit on one side of the device main body 100 and the support body 200 serving as the loading unit, and provide the light receiving unit on one side (in this embodiment, the other side). Alternatively, contrary to the example shown in the figure, the irradiation unit may be provided on the device main body 100, and the light receiving unit serving as the detection unit may be provided on the support body 200 side. In this case, a transmission mechanism is provided on the support body 200 for transmitting the detection results of the light receiving unit to the device main body 100. In addition, the transmission mechanism in this case includes, for example, various wireless communications. In addition, the support body 200 may also have a function of charging the device main body 100.

[0050] like Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 , the device body 100 includes a housing 2 formed in a substantially box shape.

[0051] An opening 21 is provided on the lower surface of the housing 2 at a position closer to the left side in the front-rear direction (X direction).

[0052] The opening 21 is formed to a size that allows the ejection portion 411 of the print head 41, described later, to be exposed to the outside, thereby not hindering the printing operation of the printing unit 4. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the imaging unit 5 performs imaging through the opening 21, and the light receiving unit 12 also receives electromagnetic waves from the irradiation unit 75. Therefore, the opening 21 is formed so as not to hinder the imaging operation of the imaging unit 5 and the light receiving operation of the light receiving unit 12.

[0053] In addition, the specific shape, size, etc. of the opening 21 are not particularly limited.

[0054] In addition, an operating portion 11 (see Figure 2 )wait.

[0055] The operation unit 11 is a component for the user to perform various inputs. The operation unit 11 is composed of operation buttons for performing various inputs, such as a power switch button for turning the power of the printing device 1 on and off, a stop button for stopping the operation, and a print start button for instructing to start printing. For example, if the operation unit 11 is a power switch button, when the user operates the button, an instruction signal corresponding to the operation is transmitted to the control device 7 (see Figure 2 ) output, the power of the printing device 1 is set to on / off.

[0056] There are no particular limitations on the shapes of the various parts of the housing 2, the number and arrangement of the operating units 11, etc. For example, the operating units 11 may be provided on the front, top, or side surfaces of the housing 2.

[0057] Inside the housing 2, a printing unit 4, a photographing unit 5, and the like are provided.

[0058] The printing unit 4 includes a printing head 41 and a device for moving the printing head 41 in the front-back direction ( Figure 1 The head moving mechanism 45 (refer to Figure 2 )wait.

[0059] The printing head 41 is directed to the printing object (the skin surface S in this embodiment, see Figure 3 etc.) for printing.

[0060] As the print head 41, a cartridge-integrated print head can be envisioned, which has a built-in storage portion for storing a liquid (in this embodiment, cosmetic ink for skin color, etc.), and has an ejection portion 411 (an ejection surface provided with a nozzle not shown) for ejecting the liquid (ink).

[0061] The ejection portion 411 is provided on the lower surface of the print head 41 (the surface facing the skin surface S to be printed), and is exposed downward from the opening 21 of the housing 2 during printing operation.

[0062] The print head 41 is not limited to a structure in which the reservoir and the discharge unit 411 (discharge mechanism) are integrated. For example, the reservoir and the discharge unit 411 (discharge mechanism) for discharging the liquid may be separate components, with the reservoir connected to the discharge unit 411 (discharge mechanism) via a supply tube or the like during printing.

[0063] The print head 41 of this embodiment is an inkjet head that performs printing by ejecting droplets of liquid (ink) from an ejection unit 411 onto a printing target (skin surface S). The ink ejection method is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include a heating method that ejects heated ink, an ejection method that utilizes the piezoelectric effect of a piezoelectric element that deforms when a voltage is applied, and the like.

[0064] The liquid agent (ink) is, for example, cosmetic ink having a color ranging from white to skin color or a color close thereto (eg, light pink, light yellow, light orange, etc.).

[0065] The print head 41 is supported by an X-direction moving stage that moves (scans) the carriage in the X direction (the front-rear direction of the apparatus) while being mounted (held) on a carriage (not shown).

[0066] In this embodiment, the print head 41 can take the following positions: a "first position" in which the ejection portion 411 corresponds to the opening 21, and a "second position" in which the ejection portion 411 does not correspond to the opening 21. The "position not corresponding to the opening 21" herein refers to a position within the device body 100 that does not correspond to the opening 21.

[0067] Specifically, when printing (see Figure 4 ) and when the device body 100 is placed on the support body 200 as the placement portion (refer to Figure 1 ), the print head 41 is arranged at the "first position", and other than that, the print head 41 is arranged at the "second position" (refer to Figure 3 、 Figure 5 ).

[0068] When the print head 41 is located at the "first position", the opening 21 is substantially entirely blocked by the print head 41 (see FIG. Figure 4 ).

[0069] As will be described later, when the light receiving unit 12 as a detection unit detects that the apparatus main body 100 and the support body 200 as a placement unit are close to each other, the head moving mechanism 45 (see FIG. Figure 2 ) moves the print head 41 to the "first position".

[0070] More specifically, when the light receiving unit 12, serving as a detection unit, detects that the opening 21 of the apparatus main body 100 and the protective portion 201 of the support body 200, serving as a placement unit, are facing and approaching each other, the head moving mechanism 45 moves the print head 41 to the "first position." Consequently, when the opening 21 and the protective portion 201 are close to each other and facing toward capping, the ejection portion 411 is exposed from the opening 21, allowing for proper capping.

[0071] The head moving mechanism 45 is a moving mechanism that moves the print head 41 to a “first position” and a “second position” that is different from the “first position”.

[0072] The head moving mechanism 45 includes an X-direction moving motor 46 (see FIG. 4 ) as a driving unit for appropriately moving the print head 41 in the X direction. Figure 2 ) etc. The print head 41 mounted on the carriage is driven by the X-direction movement motor 46 and moves in the X-direction along the X-direction guide 42 provided on the X-direction movement stage.

[0073] Furthermore, the printing unit 4 is provided with an origin sensor 47 (see Figure 2 ), the origin sensor 47 is activated when the print head 41 reaches the origin position (for example, the front side of the X-direction moving stage (at Figure 1 This situation is detected when the end (in the left side) is located.

[0074] The origin sensor 47 is, for example, an optical sensor. The specific structure of the origin sensor 47 is not particularly limited.

[0075] The X-direction moving motor 46 is, for example, a stepping motor. After the origin position of the print head 41 is detected by the origin sensor 47 , the position of the print head 41 is constantly known in the control unit 71 by counting the number of pulses input to the stepping motor.

[0076] In addition, the method of grasping the position of the printing head 41 is not limited to this.

[0077] The photographing unit 5 is disposed within the apparatus body 100 and photographs the exterior of the apparatus body 100 through the opening 21. In this embodiment, the photographing unit 5 can photograph the exterior of the apparatus body 100 when the print head 41 is in the "second position," photographing the printed object (the skin surface S in this embodiment) to obtain a photographic image.

[0078] The imaging unit 5 includes an imaging device 51 and a lighting device 52 .

[0079] The imaging device 51 is, for example, a small camera including a solid-state imaging element such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) having 2 million or more pixels, a lens, etc. The lighting device 52 is, for example, a lighting lamp such as a white LED.

[0080] In the present embodiment, by analyzing the photographed image as will be described later, a portion (eg, a spot portion) having a color deviation on the skin surface S is identified as a printing target portion.

[0081] like Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , the photographing unit 5 is disposed above the opening 21 in the housing 2 , and photographs the printed object through the opening 21 while being illuminated by the lighting device 52 , thereby acquiring an image thereof.

[0082] The photographing device 51 takes the entire opening 21 as a photographable range, and the optical axis of the lens (not shown) of the photographing device 51 is aligned with the position of the print head 41 when the print head 41 is in the "first position" (see FIG. Figure 4 ) are substantially aligned with the axis of the nozzle (not shown). Thus, there is no deviation between the recognition of the object (skin surface S) achieved by photography and the landing position of the ink from the print head 41, and accurate printing can be performed on the portion designated as the printing target area (e.g., a spot portion).

[0083] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the apparatus main body 100 of the printing apparatus 1 is provided with a posture sensor 13 .

[0084] The posture sensor 13 is a sensor that can detect the movement direction (e.g., front, back, left, right, and up and down) and movement speed (acceleration) of the device body 100. For example, it is an acceleration sensor, a 6-axis sensor that combines an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor, etc.

[0085] The printing device 1 of this embodiment performs printing operations, etc., while the user holds the device body 100 . The posture sensor 13 detects such movement of the device body 100 and outputs the detection result to the control unit 71 as appropriate.

[0086] In addition, the posture sensor 13 only needs to be able to detect the motion and posture of the device body 100, and the specific structure and arrangement position are not particularly limited.

[0087] In addition, the printing device 1 includes a communication unit 73, an I / F 74, a power supply unit 10, etc. Although not shown in the drawings, the printing device 1 may include a display unit, various lamps, indicators, and the like.

[0088] The communication unit 73 is configured to be able to transmit and receive information between the communication unit 73 and a terminal device 8 (described later) that operates in cooperation with the printing apparatus 1 .

[0089] Communication between the printing device 1 and the terminal device 8 is performed, for example, via a wireless LAN. Furthermore, communication between the printing device 1 and the terminal device 8 is not limited to this and may be based on any method. For example, a network line such as the Internet may be used, or wireless communication based on a short-range wireless communication standard such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi may be performed. Furthermore, this communication is not limited to wireless and may also be a structure capable of transmitting and receiving various data between the two via a wired connection. The communication unit 73 includes an antenna chip, etc., corresponding to the communication method of the terminal device 8.

[0090] The I / F 74 includes a connector, a USB control circuit, and the like, and enables connection between the printing apparatus 1 and various external devices and peripheral devices via USB or the like.

[0091] The communication unit 73 and the I / F 74 are not essential components of the printing device 1 , and the printing device 1 may not include them or may include only one of them.

[0092] The power supply unit 10 includes a power supply circuit and the like, generates a power supply voltage corresponding to each component of the device, and supplies power to each component as appropriate.

[0093] Furthermore, the printing device 1 includes a control device 7 .

[0094] The control device 7 is, for example, a computer including a control unit 71 including a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a storage unit 72 including a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory) (neither of which are shown).

[0095] Furthermore, part or all of the storage unit 72 may be configured as another structure and provided outside the control device 7 .

[0096] The storage unit 72 stores various programs (e.g., programs for printing, etc.) and various data for operating the printing device 1. The control unit 71 expands these programs into a working area such as a RAM and executes the programs in the control unit 71, thereby controlling the various parts of the printing device 1 as a whole.

[0097] In particular, in this embodiment, the control unit 71 not only controls the printing unit 4 to perform printing operations and controls the imaging unit 5 to capture images of printed objects, but also functions as a proximity detection unit that detects proximity between the apparatus body 100 and the support body 200 (mounting unit) having the protective portion 201, a movement control unit that controls the movement of the print head 41, and an information acquisition unit that acquires analysis results of captured images. These various functions of the control unit 71 are implemented through the cooperation of the CPU of the control unit 71 and programs stored in the ROM of the storage unit 72.

[0098] The control unit 71 as an approach determination unit (light reception determination unit) determines that the device body 100 and the support body 200 (placement unit) having the protection unit 201 are approaching each other when receiving a light reception signal from the light reception unit 12 as a detection unit.

[0099] When the proximity determination unit determines that the apparatus body 100 and the support body 200 (mounting unit) are close to each other, the control unit 71 , as the movement control unit, controls the head movement mechanism 45 to move the print head 41 to the “first position”.

[0100] In addition, the control unit 71 may also judge the intensity level of the electromagnetic waves detected by the light receiving unit 12 or the time for which the electromagnetic waves are continuously detected, and when the intensity of the detected electromagnetic waves is above a specified threshold level, or the electromagnetic waves are continuously detected for a certain time (pre-set time), it is judged that the device main body 100 is close to the support body 200 (loading unit).

[0101] In this case, for example, in the latter case, when the light receiving unit 12 as the detection unit detects electromagnetic waves for a predetermined time (predetermined time) or longer, the head moving mechanism 45 moves the print head 41 to the "first position" corresponding to the ejection unit 411 and the opening 21. On the other hand, when the light receiving unit 12 detects electromagnetic waves for less than the predetermined time (predetermined time), the head moving mechanism 45 moves the print head 41 to the "second position" which is a position different from the "first position."

[0102] If the light receiving unit 12 determines that the device body 100 and the support body 200 (loading unit) are close even if it detects electromagnetic waves slightly, it is inappropriate to determine that they are "close" even if the device body 100 passes by the support body 200 and the light receiving unit 12 detects electromagnetic waves but is actually still in printing.

[0103] In this regard, the closer the distance to the irradiation unit 75 is, the stronger the intensity level of the electromagnetic wave detected by the light receiving unit 12. When the electromagnetic wave is detected continuously for a predetermined time, the device body 100 is likely to be moving toward the support body 200.

[0104] Therefore, for example, a table representing the relationship between the distance between the device body 100 and the support body 200 (loading unit) and the intensity level of the electromagnetic waves at each distance is stored in the storage unit 72. Furthermore, thresholds for the intensity level of the electromagnetic waves and the duration of continuous detection of electromagnetic waves are pre-set and stored. In this case, if the detection result of the light receiving unit 12 exceeds these pre-set thresholds, it is determined that the device body 100 and the support body 200 (loading unit) are close.

[0105] Furthermore, thresholds for the electromagnetic wave intensity level and the duration of continuous electromagnetic wave detection are appropriately set. For example, the electromagnetic waves detected by the light receiving unit 12 may be affected by the surrounding light environment. Therefore, the thresholds may be changed depending on whether the device is used indoors or outdoors under natural light.

[0106] Furthermore, when the imaging unit 5 acquires a photographic image, the control unit 71 transmits the image data to the terminal device 8. Furthermore, the control unit 71 functions as an information acquisition unit that receives print data as a result of analyzing the photographic image from the terminal device 8. The print data specifies the print target area (the area to be printed, such as a spot) using XY coordinate values, etc., and includes information indicating the location and the amount of liquid to be applied (such as the number of times the ink should be repeatedly applied) to ensure that the print is close to the surrounding skin.

[0107] The information received by the control unit 71, functioning as the information acquisition unit, from the terminal device 8 is not limited to this. For example, when the range of the spot, the color density, etc., is acquired through image analysis, the data itself can be received from the terminal device 8. If a display unit or the like is provided on the printing device 1 side, the data transmitted from the terminal device 8 can be displayed to the user.

[0108] Furthermore, the printing device 1 of this embodiment cooperates with an external device such as the terminal device 8 and operates according to instructions input from the terminal device 8 or the like.

[0109] The terminal device 8 is conceivable as a portable terminal device such as a smartphone or tablet, but is not limited thereto. The terminal device 8 is not particularly limited as long as it can communicate with the printing device 1. For example, it can be a notebook or desktop personal computer, a gaming terminal, etc.

[0110] Specifically, the terminal device 8 includes an operation unit 83 , a communication unit 84 , a display unit 85 , a control device 80 , and the like.

[0111] The operation unit 83 can perform various inputs, settings, etc. according to user operations. When the operation unit 83 is operated, an input signal corresponding to the operation is sent to the control device 80. In addition, in this embodiment, a touch panel is integrally provided on the surface of the display unit 85, and the user can also perform various inputs, settings, etc. by touching the touch panel.

[0112] The operation unit 83 for performing various input and setting operations is not limited to a touch panel, and various operation buttons, a keyboard, a pointing device, etc. may be provided as the operation unit 83 .

[0113] Various inputs and settings can be performed in the printing device 1 by operating the operation unit 83. For example, the printing operation of the printing device 1 can be started by the user operating the operation unit 83.

[0114] The communication unit 84 communicates with the communication unit 73 of the printing device 1. For example, the communication unit 84 receives data such as various images when transmitted from the printing device 1. The communication unit 84 includes a wireless communication module and the like capable of communicating with the communication unit 73 of the printing device 1.

[0115] The communication unit 84 only needs to be able to communicate with the printing apparatus 1 , and a component that conforms to the communication standard of the communication unit 73 of the printing apparatus 1 is used.

[0116] The display unit 85 is configured by, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic electroluminescent display, or other flat panel displays.

[0117] In the present embodiment, for example, an image transmitted from the printing device 1 can be displayed on the display unit 85 .

[0118] Furthermore, as described above, a touch panel for performing various inputs may be integrally formed with the surface of the display unit 85. In this case, the touch panel also functions as the operation unit 83 and the like.

[0119] Furthermore, the display unit 85 can display various guidance screens, warning display screens, etc. under the control of the control unit 81. The display unit 85 can also display analysis results (e.g., the position, range, and density of spots) of the captured image sent from the printing device 1.

[0120] Furthermore, when the photographing device 51 is capable of photographing moving images that can be displayed in real time, the display unit 85 may also display the moving images photographed by the photographing device 51 in real time at any time.

[0121] When analysis results of a photographed image, a moving image photographed by the photographing device 51, etc. can be displayed, the user may be allowed to input an instruction on which portion or range to print while viewing the screen.

[0122] The control device 80 is a computer including a control unit 81 including a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and the like (not shown), and a storage unit 82 including a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory) and the like (not shown).

[0123] The storage unit 82 stores various programs, various data, and the like for operating each unit of the terminal device 8 .

[0124] Specifically, in the ROM, etc. of this embodiment, in addition to the action program for overall control of the various parts of the terminal device 8, various programs such as printing processing applications for using the printing device 1 for printing processing (not shown in the figure) are also stored. The control device 80 expands these programs, for example, into the working area of ​​the RAM and executes them, so that the terminal device 8 is controlled.

[0125] The control unit 81 comprehensively controls the operation of each unit of the terminal device 8. The control unit 81 cooperates with programs (printing processing applications, etc.) stored in the storage unit 82 to implement various functions of the printing device 1 for printing on the printing object (skin surface S).

[0126] For example, in this embodiment, the photographic image obtained by the photographic unit 5 is sent from the printing device 1 to the terminal device 8, and the control unit 81 of the terminal device 8 performs image analysis on the photographic image to determine the range of the printing object part (the range to be printed, such as the spot part), the color concentration, etc.

[0127] In addition, the control unit 81 represents the printing object part (the range to be printed, such as the spot part) using XY coordinate values, etc., and generates printing data indicating which part is printed to what extent (the number of repeated applications of ink, etc.), and sends the generated printing data to the printing device 1 as an analysis result.

[0128] Furthermore, when the user inputs an instruction indicating which portion to print while viewing the screen of the display unit 85 , the control unit 81 generates print data according to the input content.

[0129] Below, refer to Figure 7 etc. will describe the capping control method of the printing apparatus according to this embodiment.

[0130] In this embodiment, when using the printing device 1 for printing, the user holds the device body 100 of the printing device 1, removes it from the support body 200 serving as the loading portion, and performs the printing action while moving it over the skin surface S (e.g., facial surface such as the cheek or forehead) of the person serving as the printing object.

[0131] Specifically, first, if the user removes the device body 100 from the support body 200 and operates the power button, Figure 7 As shown, the power is turned on in response to the input operation (step S1). In addition, turning on the power is not limited to the situation caused by the user operation. If the device body 100 is removed from the support body 200, the power can also be automatically turned on when the device body 100 is detected to be away from the support body 200.

[0132] In a state where the device main body 100 is placed on the support body 200 (see Figure 1 ), the print head 41 is arranged at a position where the ejection portion 411 is covered by the protection portion 201 of the support body 200, that is, the "first position".

[0133] When the power of the printing apparatus 1 is turned on, the control unit 71 operates the X-direction movement motor 46 of the head moving mechanism 45 to move the printing head 41 from the “first position” to the “second position” (step S2 ).

[0134] Furthermore, communication is started between the printing device 1 and the terminal device 8 (step S3 ), and the imaging unit 5 is activated (step S4 ).

[0135] When the user moves the device body 100 while pressing the opening 21 of the device body 100 against the skin surface S, the control unit 71 controls the photographing device 51 and the lighting device 52 of the photographing unit 5, and the photographing device 51 photographs the skin surface S to be printed (see FIG. Figure 3 ). Thus, a photographic image is obtained (step S5).

[0136] The acquired captured image data is transmitted to the terminal device 8 via the communication unit 73 .

[0137] In the terminal device 8, the control unit 81 performs image analysis on the image data received from the printing device 1 (step S6). Specifically, areas with color variations (e.g., spots) are detected on the skin surface S. Alternatively, the captured image and its analysis results can be displayed on the display unit 85, allowing the user to readily check them on the display screen of the terminal device 8.

[0138] Next, the control unit 81 determines the print target area based on the analysis result and generates print data for appropriately printing the area (step S7). The generated print data is transmitted from the terminal device 8 to the printing device 1 via the communication unit 84 (step S8).

[0139] Furthermore, before sending the print data, a screen may be displayed asking the user whether to print on the designated print target area, thereby requesting the user's decision. In this case, a printed image, if printed based on the print data, may be superimposed on the photographed image of the skin surface S. This allows the user to easily recognize the finished image after printing.

[0140] Upon receiving the print data, the control unit 71 of the printing device 1 outputs the print data to the printing unit 4 and operates the X-direction movement motor 46 of the head movement mechanism 45 to move the print head 41 from the “second position” to the “first position” (step S9 ).

[0141] Next, with the print head 41 positioned at the "first position," ink is ejected from the ejection unit 411, and printing is performed according to the print data (step S10, see FIG. 10 ). Figure 4 ).

[0142] When the printing process is completed, the control unit 71 again activates the X-direction moving motor 46 of the head moving mechanism 45 to move the printing head 41 from the "first position" to the "second position" (step S11, see Figure 5 ).

[0143] The control unit 71 always determines whether a light receiving signal indicating reception of electromagnetic waves from the irradiation unit 75 is output from the light receiving unit 12 as the detection unit (step S12). If no light receiving signal is output (step S12; No), the control unit 71 returns to step S5 and repeats the process.

[0144] That is, there may be multiple printing target areas (i.e., areas to be covered by printing, such as spots) on the skin surface S. In this embodiment, the following situation is assumed: when the printing operation of one area is completed, Figure 5 As shown, the print head 41 is temporarily positioned at the "second position" (retracted to a position out of the field of view of the imaging device 51), and the imaging unit 5 again images the skin surface S to locate the next target area to be printed. Therefore, each time the printing operation for a specific area is completed, the process from step S5 onwards is repeated.

[0145] On the other hand, when a light receiving signal is output from the light receiving unit 12 (step S12; yes, refer to Figure 6), the control unit 71 operates the X-direction moving motor 46 of the head moving mechanism 45 to move the printing head 41 from the "second position" to the "first position" (step S13).

[0146] In addition, when a specified threshold value is set for the intensity level of the electromagnetic wave received by the light receiving unit 12, the time for which the electromagnetic wave is continuously received, etc. as described above, the control unit 71 determines that the device body 100 will be placed on the support body 200 and the print head 41 will be moved from the "second position" to the "first position" when a light receiving signal is output from the light receiving unit 12 and the light receiving signal meets the specified threshold value (that is, the electromagnetic wave with an intensity greater than the specified value is received, the light receiving state continues for more than the specified time, or a combination of these conditions is met).

[0147] In addition, before the print head 41 completely moves from the "second position" to the "first position", when the light reception level of the electromagnetic wave detected by the light receiving portion 12 decreases (for example, when the intensity level of the electromagnetic wave decreases or when the duration of the light receiving state is interrupted), the movement of the print head 41 may be interrupted and the print head 41 may be moved to the "second position" again to maintain a state in which photography of the skin surface S can be continued.

[0148] For example, if the user starts to return the device body 100 to the support body 200 but wants to resume printing, if the print head 41 is moved to the "first position", the opening 21 is blocked by the print head 41, so the imaging device 51 can no longer take pictures. In this case, it is necessary to restart the power supply by long pressing, etc., which is inconvenient for the user. In addition, although the photography and image analysis of the imaging unit 5 are completed, if the device body 100 is inadvertently brought close to the support body 200 before printing, the printing process will be terminated and it will take time to restart the photography. In addition, in this case, there is a possibility that the processing up to that point will be reset, and the results of the photography and image analysis will be lost.

[0149] In this regard, if the print head 41 is completely moved to the "first position" and the opening 21 is blocked by the print head 41, the light receiving unit 12 cannot receive the electromagnetic wave from the irradiating unit 75. Therefore, even if the device body 100 is separated from the support body 200, the separation cannot be detected.

[0150] In contrast, a configuration may be employed in which, while the light receiving unit 12 is in a state capable of receiving electromagnetic waves, the state in which the skin surface S can be photographed or the like is continuously maintained in accordance with changes in the light receiving state.

[0151] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the device body 100 of the printing device 1 is provided with a posture sensor 13. Therefore, the control unit 71 may also consider both the light receiving state of the light receiving unit 12 and the detection result of the posture sensor 13. Furthermore, if the control unit 71 determines that it is desired to continue imaging the skin surface S, after the device body 100 is temporarily brought into proximity with the support body 200 and the print head 41 is moved to the "first position," the print head 41 may be moved again to the "second position," returning to a state where imaging operations are possible.

[0152] Furthermore, when the light receiving portion 12 is arranged near the opening 21 outside the device body 100, etc., at a position where it can receive electromagnetic waves from the irradiation portion 75 even if the print head 41 moves to the "first position" to block the opening 21, the following structure can be made: after the print head 41 is completely moved to the "first position", the photographic action can continue according to the change of the light receiving state of the light receiving portion 12.

[0153] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the power is turned off in response to the input operation by the user operating the power button (step S14), and the process ends. Furthermore, turning off the power is not limited to user operation; the power may be automatically turned off when the device body 100 is placed on the support body 200. Furthermore, the power may be automatically turned off after the print head 41 moves from the "second position" to the "first position," or if no operation is performed within a specified time. Thus, even if the user forgets to turn off the power, the power to the printing device 1 can be appropriately turned off.

[0154] This configuration prevents the apparatus body 100 from being placed on the support body 200 when the print head 41 is in the "second position," and allows the ejection portion 411 to be securely covered by the protection portion 201, thereby achieving appropriate capping.

[0155] As described above, the printing device 1 of this embodiment comprises: a device body 100 having an opening portion 21 on the surface opposite to the printing object when printing; a print head 41 having an ejection portion 411 for printing the printing object; a head moving mechanism 45 for moving the print head 41 to a first position and a second position different from the first position; a support body 200 as a loading portion, which can be separated from the device body 100 and has a protection portion 201 for protecting the ejection portion 411 of the print head 41 at a position corresponding to the opening portion 21; and a light receiving portion 12 as a detection portion, which detects the approach or distance between the device body 100 and the support body 200; when the light receiving portion 12 detects that the device body 100 and the support body 200 are close to each other, the head moving mechanism 45 moves the print head 41 to the "first position".

[0156] Thus, even if the user wants to place the device body 100 on the support body 200 with the print head 41 in a position that does not correspond to the opening portion 21 (i.e., the "second position"), the print head 41 automatically moves to the capping position corresponding to the protective portion 201 (i.e., the "first position") simply by detecting the approach of the device body 100 to the support body 200.

[0157] Therefore, in the case of a structure in which the print head 41 moves within the apparatus main body 100 , even if the user is unaware of the positional state of the print head 41 , the occurrence of a capping problem can be avoided.

[0158] In the present embodiment, the “first position” is a position where the ejection portion 411 corresponds to the opening 21 , and the “second position” is a position where the ejection portion 411 does not correspond to the opening 21 .

[0159] Therefore, if it is detected that the device body 100 is close to the support body 200, the print head 41 automatically moves to the capping position corresponding to the protective part 201 (i.e., the "first position"), and even if the user is not aware of the position status of the print head 41, the capping problem can be avoided.

[0160] In the present embodiment, when the light receiving unit 12 as the detection unit detects that the opening 21 and the protection unit 201 are facing and approaching each other, the head moving mechanism 45 moves the print head 41 to the “first position”.

[0161] Therefore, the ejection portion 411 exposed from the opening 21 can be covered with the protection portion 201 and appropriately sealed.

[0162] The printing device 1 of this embodiment includes a photographing unit 5 disposed in the device body 100 and capable of photographing the outside of the device body 100 through the opening 21 . The photographing unit 5 can photograph the outside of the device body 100 when the print head 41 is in the “second position”.

[0163] In this way, since the print head 41 is arranged at the “second position” (retracted to a position not within the field of view of the imaging device 51 ) to perform imaging, the imaging operation of the imaging unit 5 and the printing operation of the printing unit 4 can both be performed through the same opening 21 .

[0164] This allows the photographing operation and the printing operation to be performed from substantially the same position in the X direction, and prevents the optical axis of the photographing device 51 and the nozzle axis of the ejection portion 411 of the print head 41 from being misaligned.

[0165] Therefore, high-definition printing can be achieved.

[0166] Furthermore, in such a structure in which the print head 41 moves from the position for printing and capping (i.e., the "first position"), the print head 41 can also be arranged in the "first position" during capping in this embodiment, so that the capping can be reliably performed to prevent the ejection portion 411 from drying out, etc.

[0167] The printing device 1 of this embodiment further includes a control unit 71 functioning as an information acquisition unit that acquires an analysis result of an image acquired by the imaging unit 5 . The print head 41 performs printing based on the analysis result acquired by the information acquisition unit.

[0168] This allows printing based on an image acquired without misalignment between the nozzle axis of the ejection portion 411 of the print head 41 and the optical axis of the imaging device 51 , thereby achieving high-definition printing.

[0169] In addition, the printing device 1 of this embodiment also includes an irradiation unit 75 that is provided on either the device body 100 or the support body 200 serving as a loading unit (in this embodiment, the support body 200) and irradiates electromagnetic waves; a detection unit is provided on either the device body 100 or the support body 200 (in this embodiment, the device body 100) and is a light receiving unit 12 that detects electromagnetic waves.

[0170] Thus, the proximity state between the device main body 100 and the support body 200 can be detected with a relatively simple configuration consisting of a combination of an irradiation unit (light emitting unit) and a light receiving unit.

[0171] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when the light receiving unit 12, serving as the detection unit, detects electromagnetic waves for a predetermined time period or longer, the head moving mechanism 45 moves the print head 41 to a "first position" corresponding to the ejection unit 411 and the opening 21. On the other hand, when the light receiving unit 12 detects electromagnetic waves for less than the predetermined time period, the head moving mechanism 45 moves the print head 41 to a "second position" different from the "first position."

[0172] If the light receiving unit 12 determines that the device body 100 and the support body 200 (loading unit) are close to each other even if it detects electromagnetic waves slightly, then even if the device body 100 passes by the support body 200 and the light receiving unit 12 detects electromagnetic waves, but is actually still in the process of printing, it may be mistakenly considered as "close".

[0173] In this regard, when the light receiving unit 12 continuously detects electromagnetic waves for a predetermined time period or longer, the device body 100 is likely to move toward the support body 200. Therefore, by moving the print head 41 to the "first position" serving as the capping position when electromagnetic waves are detected for a predetermined time period or longer, capping can be performed at an appropriate time.

[0174] [Second embodiment]

[0175] Next, refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 A second embodiment of the printing device, placement unit, and movement control method disclosed herein will be described. Note that this embodiment differs from the first embodiment only in the configuration of the detection unit, so the following description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0176] Figure 8 This is a block diagram of the main parts showing the control structure of the printing device and the terminal device that cooperates therewith according to the second embodiment.

[0177] like Figure 8 As shown, the printing apparatus 1A of this embodiment includes an air pressure sensor 14 as a detection unit on the apparatus main body 100A side.

[0178] The air pressure sensor 14 detects the air pressure (atmospheric pressure) value P. It is preferable that the air pressure sensor 14 be capable of detecting even relatively small pressure differences caused by altitude changes. Therefore, a capacitive detection sensor using MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) technology is suitable for use as the air pressure sensor 14.

[0179] The structure of the air pressure sensor 14 is not limited thereto, and may be, for example, a piezoresistive sensor using a silicon (Si) semiconductor, etc. The location where the air pressure sensor 14 is provided is also not particularly limited.

[0180] When the air pressure sensor 14 is provided as a detection unit, it is not necessary to provide an irradiation unit and a power supply unit for supplying power for irradiation on the support body 200 as a placement unit. Therefore, the structure of the support body 200 can be simplified compared to the first embodiment.

[0181] When the detection unit is the air pressure sensor 14, the air pressure in the state where the device body 100A is placed on the support body 200 serves as the reference. Therefore, the storage unit 72 of the device body 100A pre-stores the value P of the air pressure in the state where the device body 100A is placed on the support body 200 (the value P in this case is referred to as "P0").

[0182] Since "P0" varies depending on the placement of the support body 200 in the environment in which the printing apparatus 1A is used, the apparatus body 100A is placed on the support body 200 when the user determines the location for placing the support body 200. The air pressure value P0 in this state is obtained and stored by the air pressure sensor 14. Furthermore, if the height of the support body 200 is changed from its initial placement (for example, from the floor to a shelf), the apparatus body 100A is placed on the support body 200 again at that location, and the air pressure value P0 is obtained by the air pressure sensor 14 and stored in the storage unit 72 or the like.

[0183] In addition, since other structures are the same as those of the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are given to the same components and their description is omitted.

[0184] Next, refer to Figure 9 A capping control method for the printing apparatus according to this embodiment will be described.

[0185] First, similarly to the first embodiment, the power of the printing apparatus 1A is turned on (step S21 ), and the air pressure value P0 when the apparatus body 100A is placed on the support body 200 is acquired by the air pressure sensor 14 and stored in the storage unit 72 or the like (step S22 ).

[0186] Furthermore, if the air pressure value P0 has already been acquired and stored and the position of the support body 200 has not been changed since the acquisition of the value, the air pressure value P0 may not be newly acquired and the stored value may be used.

[0187] Steps S23 to S32 are the same as those in the first embodiment. Figure 7 Steps S2 to S11 are the same, so their description is omitted.

[0188] The air pressure value P detected by the air pressure sensor 14 is constantly output to the control unit 71. The control unit 71 constantly determines whether the air pressure value P is within the range of the reference air pressure value P0 ± a threshold value (step S33). The threshold value in this case is appropriately determined based on the accuracy of the air pressure sensor 14 and the operating environment of the printing apparatus 1A.

[0189] When the air pressure value P does not become a value within the range of the reference air pressure value P0±threshold (step S33; No), the device body 100A is in a state of being separated from the support body 200, and the control unit 71 determines that the user is holding the device body 100A and performing a photographic action, etc., and returns to step S26 to repeat the process.

[0190] On the other hand, if the air pressure value P detected by the air pressure sensor 14 is within the range of the reference air pressure value P0 ± the threshold value (step S33; yes), the control unit 71 activates the X-direction movement motor 46 of the head movement mechanism 45 to move the print head 41 from the "second position" to the "first position" (step S34). Then, the power is turned off, and the process ends (step S35).

[0191] As in this embodiment, when the proximity between the device body 100A and the support body 200 is detected based on the air pressure value P detected by the air pressure sensor 14, if the user once places the device body 100A on the support body 200 and then picks it up again to continue photographing or printing, this action is reflected in the air pressure value P detected by the air pressure sensor 14. Therefore, processing that meets the user's intention can be performed.

[0192] Specifically, when the user places the apparatus body 100A on the support body 200 and wishes to terminate the printing process, the ejection portion 411 of the print head 41 is directly covered and capped by the protective portion 201 of the support body 200. Furthermore, when the user once places the apparatus body 100A on the support body 200 and then takes it up again, the print head 41 is returned to the "second position" to enable continuation of the photographing or printing process.

[0193] In addition, the device body 100A of this embodiment also includes the posture sensor 13 as in the first embodiment. Therefore, by referring to the detection results of the posture sensor 13 along with the changes in the air pressure value P detected by the air pressure sensor 14, processing more closely matching the actual actions of the user can be performed.

[0194] Furthermore, the detection result of the posture sensor 13 may be referred to in addition to the detection result of the air pressure sensor 14 .

[0195] If the user moves the device body 100A horizontally from the position of the support body 200, such as when the user moves the device body 100A horizontally, and the movement is not reflected in the air pressure value P due to a lack of height change, it is difficult to use the air pressure sensor 14 to determine the proximity between the device body 100A and the support body 200. In such a case, by referring to the detection results of the posture sensor 13, the proximity between the device body 100A and the support body 200 can be accurately grasped, and more appropriate capping control can be performed.

[0196] Specifically, for example, the following configuration may be employed: the posture sensor 13 determines the posture of the apparatus body 100A, and when the apparatus body 100A is horizontal or nearly horizontal and the air pressure value P is within the range of P0 ± a threshold, the print head 41 is moved from the "second position" to the "first position." This allows for more accurate detection of the proximity between the apparatus body 100A and the support body 200. Furthermore, the posture sensor 13 can also more accurately detect the separation between the apparatus body 100A and the support body 200.

[0197] In addition, since other points are the same as those in the first embodiment, their description is omitted.

[0198] As described above, according to this embodiment, in addition to the effects similar to those of the first embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0199] That is, the detection unit in this embodiment is the air pressure sensor 14 provided in the device body 100A.

[0200] Therefore, simply by providing the air pressure sensor 14 on the device body 100A side, the proximity state between the device body 100A and the support body 200 can be easily detected.

[0201] Furthermore, even when the user wants to place the device body 100A on the support body 200 with the print head 41 in the "second position" that does not correspond to the opening portion 21, the print head 41 automatically moves to the capping position (i.e., the "first position") corresponding to the protective portion 201 simply by detecting the approach of the device body 100A to the support body 200.

[0202] Therefore, in the case of a structure in which the print head 41 moves within the apparatus main body 100A, even if the user is unaware of the positional state of the print head 41 , the occurrence of a capping problem can be avoided.

[0203] Furthermore, although the embodiment of the present disclosure has been described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiment, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0204] For example, in the above-mentioned embodiments, the detection part that detects the proximity state of the device body and the support body 200 having a protective part as a loading part is illustrated as the light receiving part 12 (first embodiment) or the air pressure sensor 14 (second embodiment), but the structure of the detection part is not limited to this.

[0205] For example, the imaging device 51 of the imaging unit 5 provided for imaging the skin surface S may be made to function as a detection unit for detecting the proximity state between the device body and the protection unit.

[0206] Specifically, the support body 200 is provided with an identification mark such as a barcode or QR code (registered trademark), and the camera 51 is pre-set so that when the camera approaches the support body 200 and takes a picture, the camera 51 achieves focus. Thus, simply by photographing the identification mark on the support body 200 with the camera 51, it is possible to detect whether the device body and the loading unit are in a close state. The same applies if the support body 200 itself or a portion thereof is provided with an easily recognizable shape, and the camera 51 recognizes this shape, indicating that the device body and the loading unit are in a close state.

[0207] With this configuration, there's no need to add a separate sensor to the printing device, allowing detection of the proximity between the device body and the placement unit with a simpler structure. In other words, the imaging device 51 also functions as a detection unit. Furthermore, regardless of when the device is stopped, the print head 41 can be automatically positioned for capping.

[0208] In addition, in the above-mentioned first embodiment, an example is given in which an irradiation portion is provided on one side of the device main body 100 and the support body 200 serving as a loading portion, and a light receiving portion is provided on the other side (in the embodiment, an irradiation portion is provided on the support body 200 side, and a light receiving portion serving as a detection portion is provided on the device main body 100). It is also possible to provide both an irradiation portion and a light receiving portion serving as a detection portion on one side of the device main body 100 and the support body 200.

[0209] In this case, for example, light (electromagnetic waves) irradiated from an irradiation unit provided on one of the apparatus main body 100 and the support body 200 is reflected from the other, and the light receiving unit serving as the detection unit detects the reflected light (electromagnetic waves). Furthermore, for example, when light (electromagnetic waves) with an intensity exceeding a predetermined threshold is detected, it is determined that the apparatus main body 100 and the support body 200 are approaching each other, and measures such as moving the print head 41 to the first position are taken.

[0210] In addition, in order to keep the intensity of reflected light, the position that makes the light (electromagnetic wave) reflected from the irradiation portion can be a mirror surface. In addition, it is also possible to constitute a reflector etc. that is set at the position that makes the light (electromagnetic wave) reflect so that the light (electromagnetic wave) is reflected reliably.

[0211] In the first embodiment, the print head 41 is positioned at the “first position” and substantially the entire opening 21 is blocked by the print head 41 . However, the size and placement of the print head 41 are not limited thereto.

[0212] For example, you can also Figure 10As shown, the width of the print head 41B in the device body 100B of the printing device 1B in the X direction is narrow, and the opening 21B is not completely blocked when the print head 41B is configured in the "first position", so that the light (electromagnetic wave) irradiated from the irradiation portion 75 can be detected by the light receiving portion 12.

[0213] Alternatively, the width of the print head 41B in the direction perpendicular to the X direction may be narrowed, a portion of the opening 21B may not be blocked, and the irradiation unit 75 and the light receiving unit 12 may be arranged corresponding to the portion not blocked by the print head 41B.

[0214] Furthermore, the size of the printing head 41B may be kept unchanged, the size of the opening 21B may be increased, and the opening 21B may not be entirely blocked when the printing head 41B is arranged in the "first position", and the irradiation part 75 and the light receiving part 12 may be arranged corresponding to the part not blocked by the printing head 41B.

[0215] By making such a structure, the light receiving unit 12 detects the light (electromagnetic waves) irradiated from the irradiation unit 75 and detects the proximity of the device body 100B and the support body 200. Even if the light receiving unit 12 no longer detects light (electromagnetic waves) after the print head 41B moves to the "first position", it can be determined again that the device body 100B is away from the support body 200, and the print head 41 can be sent back to the "second position" again and set to a state where photography and printing processing can continue.

[0216] In addition, in each of the above-mentioned embodiments, a guide portion (not shown) in the form of an axis or protrusion erected approximately vertically along the Z axis may be provided on the upper surface of the support body 200 serving as a loading portion, and a hole corresponding to the guide portion may be provided on the lower surface of the device body 100.

[0217] Thus, when the device body 100 is placed on the support body 200 , the placement position of the device body 100 is determined, and the device body 100 can be placed substantially vertically on the support body 200 without being tilted.

[0218] In this case, the guide portion is preferably a member extending upward by a degree of several cm. In addition, the shape, configuration, etc. of the guide portion and the hole in this case are not particularly limited.

[0219] Alternatively, a recessed portion for receiving the device body 100 may be formed on the upper surface of the support body 200 to position the placement of the device body 100 and stably place the device body 100 .

[0220] Furthermore, the support body 200 is not limited to a stage, and may be formed in a box shape surrounded by side walls. The device body 100 can be placed in the box shape to accurately seal the device.

[0221] Even in this case, the placement position of the device body 100 can be determined when placing the device body 100 on the support body 200 , and the device body 100 can be placed substantially vertically on the support body 200 without being tilted.

[0222] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiments, the printing device 1 and the terminal device 8 are shown as examples of performing printing in cooperation. However, the printing device 1 is not limited to the configuration shown here, and may be configured to perform printing operations alone.

[0223] For example, in this embodiment, an example is given of a situation in which an image photographed by the photographic unit 5 of the printing device is sent to the terminal device 8, and the control unit 81 on the terminal device 8 performs image analysis of the photographed image and generates printing data based on the analysis result. However, a structure in which various processes are performed in the control unit 71 on the printing device 1 side can also be made.

[0224] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiments, the display unit 85 on the terminal device 8 side displays the image obtained by photographing the photographing unit 5, but the printing device 1 may also be provided with a display unit, in which case the display unit may also display the image obtained by photographing the photographing unit 5.

[0225] Several embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, but the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments but includes the scope of the invention described in the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A printing device, characterized in that have: The device body has an opening facing the printed object during printing; A printing head is provided in the main body of the device and prints the printing object; a moving mechanism disposed in the apparatus body and configured to move the print head to a first position corresponding to the opening and a second position different from the first position; a loading portion, capable of being separated from the device body; a detection unit that detects at least that the device main body and the placement unit are close to each other; and a photographing unit disposed in the device body and configured to photograph the outside of the device body through the opening; When the detection unit detects that the apparatus main body and the placement unit are close to each other, the moving mechanism moves the printing head from the second position to the first position. When the print head is at the second position, the imaging unit can capture an image of the outside of the device body through the opening.

2. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein The print head includes a discharge portion that is exposed to the outside of the device body through the opening when the print head is in the first position and is capable of discharging a liquid; The placement portion includes a protection portion for protecting the ejection portion of the print head at a position corresponding to the opening and the first position when the apparatus main body is placed on the placement portion.

3. The printing device according to claim 2, wherein The moving mechanism moves the print head to the first position when the detecting portion detects that the opening and the protecting portion are facing and approaching each other.

4. The printing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein further comprising an irradiation unit provided on one of the device main body and the placement unit and configured to irradiate electromagnetic waves; The detection unit is provided on one of the device main body and the placement unit, and is a light receiving unit that detects the electromagnetic wave.

5. The printing device according to claim 4, wherein The above-mentioned moving mechanism, When the light receiving unit detects the electromagnetic wave for a predetermined period of time or longer, the printing head is moved from the second position to the first position; When the time during which the light receiving unit detects the electromagnetic wave is less than the predetermined time, the print head is arranged at the second position.

6. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein The detection unit is an air pressure sensor provided in the device body.

7. The printing device according to claim 6, wherein The above-mentioned moving mechanism, When the air pressure sensor detects the value of the air pressure in a state where the apparatus body is placed on the placement portion, the print head is moved from the second position to the first position; When the air pressure sensor does not detect the value of the air pressure in the state where the apparatus main body is placed on the placement portion, the print head is arranged at the second position.

8. A mobile control method, characterized in that: In a printing apparatus comprising an apparatus body having an opening on a surface facing a printing object during printing, a print head disposed in the apparatus body and printing the printing object, a placement unit detachable from the apparatus body, and a photographing unit disposed in the apparatus body and photographing the outside of the apparatus body through the opening, the print head being disposed at a second position different from a first position corresponding to the opening during non-printing. When it is detected that the apparatus main body and the placement portion are close to each other, the printing head is moved from the second position to the first position. When the print head is at the second position, the imaging unit is caused to capture an image of the outside of the apparatus body through the opening.

Images