Liquid ejection system

Abstract

The present application provides a liquid ejection system capable of appropriately determining a waveform of a drive pulse while reducing a user's burden even if a manufacturer of a printer main body and a manufacturer of a head are different. The liquid ejection system has: a head unit having a nozzle that ejects a liquid, a pressure chamber that communicates with the nozzle, and a drive element that causes a pressure variation of the liquid in the pressure chamber by supply of a drive pulse; an acquisition section that acquires output information related to a use condition of the head unit; a first connection section that communicably performs network connection with a server; a first output section that outputs the output information via the first connection section; a first input section that inputs input information related to a waveform of the drive pulse supplied to the drive element via the first connection section; and a determination section that determines the waveform of the drive pulse supplied to the drive element based on the input information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a liquid ejection system. Background Technology

[0002] In inkjet printers and other liquid ejection devices, generally, liquids such as ink are ejected from the nozzle by applying a drive pulse to a drive element such as a piezoelectric element. Here, for example, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, in order to eject ink from the nozzle with the desired ejection characteristics, it is necessary to appropriately set the waveform of the drive pulse.

[0003] In recent business models, there are cases where the manufacturer of the printer body (an element of the printer besides the printhead) differs from the manufacturer of the printhead. In these cases, usage conditions, such as ink type or printhead operating temperature, vary depending on the printer manufacturer or the user. Therefore, unlike other situations where both the printer body and printhead manufacturers are the same, it is difficult for the printhead manufacturer to pre-store information related to the waveform of the appropriate drive pulse in the printer. Consequently, the burden on the printer body manufacturer or user is significantly increased because they need to search for the drive pulse waveform based on usage conditions.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2021-84388 Summary of the Invention

[0005] To address the above-mentioned issues, one embodiment of the liquid ejection system of the present invention includes: a head unit having a nozzle for ejecting liquid, a pressure chamber communicating with the nozzle, and a drive element for causing pressure changes in the liquid within the pressure chamber by the supply of drive pulses; an acquisition unit for acquiring output information related to the usage conditions of the head unit; a first connection unit for communicating with a server via a network connection; a first output unit for outputting the output information via the first connection unit; a first input unit for inputting input information related to the waveform of the drive pulses supplied to the drive element via the first connection unit; and a determination unit for determining the waveform of the drive pulses supplied to the drive element based on the input information. Attached Figure Description

[0006] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a structural example of the liquid ejection system according to the first embodiment.

[0007] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a structural example of a liquid ejection device used in the liquid ejection system according to the first embodiment.

[0008] Figure 3This is a cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the structure of a head chip.

[0009] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a structural example of the processing apparatus used in the liquid ejection system according to the first embodiment.

[0010] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the structure of a server used in the liquid ejection system according to the first embodiment.

[0011] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the liquid ejection system according to the first embodiment.

[0012] Figure 7 A diagram to illustrate the corresponding information.

[0013] Figure 8 A diagram showing an example of the waveform of the driving pulse.

[0014] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the waveform shown to represent the corresponding information.

[0015] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a structural example of the liquid ejection system according to the second embodiment.

[0016] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a structural example of a liquid ejection device used in the liquid ejection system according to the second embodiment.

[0017] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the liquid ejection system according to the second embodiment.

[0018] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a structural example of the liquid ejection system according to the third embodiment.

[0019] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a structural example of the first external device used in the liquid ejection system according to the third embodiment.

[0020] Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the liquid ejection system according to the third embodiment.

[0021] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a structural example of the liquid ejection system according to the fourth embodiment.

[0022] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a structural example of a liquid ejection device used in the liquid ejection system according to the fourth embodiment.

[0023] Figure 18 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the liquid ejection system according to the fourth embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0024] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the dimensions and scales of the parts in the drawings differ appropriately from actual dimensions, and some parts are shown schematically for ease of understanding. Furthermore, the scope of the present invention is not limited to these embodiments unless otherwise specified in the following description.

[0025] 1. First Implementation Method

[0026] 1-1. Overview of the Liquid Ejection System

[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a structural example of the liquid ejection system 10 according to the first embodiment. The liquid ejection system 10 is a system that optimizes the waveform of the drive pulses used in printing performed by inkjet printing. Figure 1 In the example shown, the liquid ejection system 10 includes liquid ejection devices 100_1 to 100_3, processing devices 200_1 to 200_3, a server 300, and a second external device 400.

[0028] Here, the liquid ejection devices 100_1 to 100_3 are devices provided by the manufacturer of the printer body (described later). The liquid ejection devices 100_1 to 100_3 may be provided by the same manufacturer or by different manufacturers. The processing devices 200_1 to 200_3 may be user-held devices or provided by the manufacturer of the printer body. On the other hand, the head unit 110 assembled into the liquid ejection devices 100_1 to 100_3 is a head unit provided by the head (described later) manufacturer. The server 300 performs maintenance and management through the head manufacturer.

[0029] When the user uses the printer body, the user holds the liquid ejection device 100_1, the processing device 200_1, and the head unit 110. On the other hand, although the user does not hold the server 300, they can communicate (connect) to the server 300 via the communication network (described later) NW.

[0030] Additionally, a user refers to a person who uses the liquid ejection device 100_1. For example, if a printer body manufacturer purchases the head from the head manufacturer and manufactures the printer body, and then uses the printer body itself, the printer body manufacturer becomes the user. Furthermore, for example, if a printer body manufacturer purchases the head from the head manufacturer and manufactures the printer body, and a third party purchases the printer body from the printer body manufacturer and uses it, that third party becomes the user.

[0031] Liquid ejection device 100_1 is communicatively connected to processing device 200_1. Liquid ejection device 100_2 is communicatively connected to processing device 200_2. Liquid ejection device 100_3 is communicatively connected to processing device 200_3. Thus, liquid ejection devices 100_1 to 100_3 correspond to processing devices 200_1 to 200_3 respectively, and are communicatively connected to processing devices 200_1 to 200_3. In the following text, there may be a case where each of liquid ejection devices 100_1 to 100_3 is referred to as liquid ejection device 100 without distinction. There may also be a case where each of processing devices 200_1 to 200_3 is referred to as processing device 200 without distinction.

[0032] In addition, although Figure 1 In the example shown, the liquid ejection system 10 has three liquid ejection devices 100 and three processing devices 200, but this number is not limited to this and may be one, two or more. That is, the number of groups of liquid ejection devices 100 and processing devices 200 is not limited to three groups and may be one, two or more groups.

[0033] The liquid ejection device 100 is a printer that prints images based on recorded data DP from the processing device 200 onto a printing medium using an inkjet method. The recorded data DP is image data in a form that can be processed by the liquid ejection device 100. The printing medium is not particularly limited to any medium that the liquid ejection device 100 can print on, such as various types of paper, fabrics, or films. Furthermore, the liquid ejection device 100 can be a serial printer or a line printer.

[0034] The liquid ejection device 100 has a head unit 110. The head unit 110 is a module that includes an inkjet head. In the following text, elements constituting the liquid ejection device 100 other than the head unit 110 may be referred to as the "printer body". In addition, the head unit 110 may be referred to simply as the "head".

[0035] The processing device 200 is a desktop or laptop computer, and has the functions of generating recording data DP, controlling the printing performed by the liquid ejection device 100, and determining the waveform of the drive pulse PD used in the printing.

[0036] The processing device 200 is communicatively network-connected to the server 300 via a communication network NW, including the Internet. The processing device 200 outputs output information D1 to the server 300, or inputs input information D2 from the server 300. Output information D1 is information related to the usage conditions of the head unit 110. Input information D2 is information related to the waveform of the drive pulse. The processing device 200 determines the waveform of the drive pulse based on the input information D2. Furthermore, the processing device 200 generates recorded data DP by performing various processes on image data in file formats such as PostScript, PDF (Portable Document Format), and XPS (XML Paper Specification), including RIP (Raster Image Processor) processing or color conversion processing.

[0037] Server 300 is a computer that functions as a cloud server and has the functions of inputting output information D1 from processing device 200, generating input information D2 based on output information D1, and outputting the generated input information D2 to processing device 200. Server 300 is communicatively connected to a second external device 400 and appropriately sends and receives information required for generating input information D2.

[0038] The second external device 400 is used to input the output information D1 from the server 300 as needed, or to output the information required for generating the input information D2 to the computer of the server 300.

[0039] In the liquid ejection system 10 described above, since the processing unit 200 determines the waveform of the drive pulse based on the input information D2, even if the printer body manufacturer and the printhead manufacturer are different, the printer body manufacturer or user does not need to search for the waveform of the drive pulse PD according to the usage conditions. Therefore, the burden on the printer body manufacturer or user can be reduced. Here, when the server 300 generates the input information D2 based on the output information D1, compared to the structure of generating the input information D2 in the liquid ejection device 100, it has the advantage of making the input information D2 easier to optimize. This advantage results in the ability to appropriately determine the waveform of the drive pulse for the liquid ejection device 100. The liquid ejection system 10 will be described in detail below.

[0040] 1-2. Structure of the liquid ejection device

[0041] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a structural example of the liquid ejection device 100 used in the liquid ejection system 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 As shown, the liquid ejection device 100 includes a head unit 110, a moving mechanism 120, a communication device 130, a storage circuit 140, and a processing circuit 150.

[0042] The head unit 110 is a component comprising a head chip 111, a drive circuit 112, a power supply circuit 113, and a drive signal generation circuit 114.

[0043] exist Figure 2 In the example shown, the head unit 110 is divided into a liquid ejector head 110a containing a head chip 111 and a drive circuit 112, and a control module 110b containing a power supply circuit 113 and a drive signal generation circuit 114. Alternatively, the head unit 110 is not limited to being divided into a liquid ejector head 110a and a control module 110b; for example, part or all of the control module 110b may also be assembled into the liquid ejector head 110a.

[0044] The head chip 111 ejects ink toward the printing medium. Figure 2 The diagram illustrates, in a representative manner, multiple driving elements 111f within the structural elements of the head chip 111. Furthermore, a detailed example of the head chip 111 is provided below based on... Figure 3 Please provide an explanation.

[0045] Although Figure 2 In the example shown, the head unit 110 has one head chip 111, but the number can also be two or more. When the liquid ejection device 100 is serial, one or more head chips 111 are arranged such that multiple nozzles are distributed across a portion of the width direction of the printing medium. Furthermore, when the liquid ejection device 100 is row-type, two or more head chips 111 are arranged such that multiple nozzles are distributed across the entire width direction of the printing medium.

[0046] Under the control of the processing circuit 150, the drive circuit 112 switches whether to supply the drive signal Com output from the drive signal generation circuit 114 as a drive pulse PD to each of the plurality of drive elements 111f of the head chip 111. The drive circuit 112 includes, for example, a group of switches such as transmission gates for this switching.

[0047] The power supply circuit 113 receives power from a commercial power source not shown in the diagram and generates various predetermined potentials. These generated potentials are then appropriately supplied to various parts of the liquid ejection device 100. Figure 2 In the example shown, power supply circuit 113 generates a power supply potential VHV and a bias potential VBS. The bias potential VBS is supplied to the head chip 111, etc. Furthermore, the power supply potential VHV is supplied to the drive signal generation circuit 114, etc.

[0048] The drive signal generation circuit 114 is a circuit that generates drive signals Com for driving the various drive elements 111f of the head chip 111. Specifically, the drive signal generation circuit 114 includes, for example, a DA conversion circuit and an amplifier circuit. In the drive signal generation circuit 114, the DA conversion circuit converts the waveform specification signal dCom (described later) from the processing circuit 150 from a digital signal to an analog signal, and the amplifier circuit amplifies the analog signal using the power supply potential VHV from the power supply circuit 113, thereby generating the drive signal Com. Here, the signal of the waveform actually supplied to the drive element 111f in the waveform included in the drive signal Com is the drive pulse PD.

[0049] The moving mechanism 120 changes the relative position of the head unit 110 and the printing medium. More specifically, in the case where the liquid ejection device 100 is serial, the moving mechanism 120 has a conveying mechanism for conveying the printing medium in a predetermined direction and a moving mechanism for repeatedly moving the head unit 110 along an axis orthogonal to the conveying direction of the printing medium. Furthermore, in the case where the liquid ejection device 100 is linear, the moving mechanism 120 has a conveying mechanism that conveys the printing medium in a direction intersecting the length direction of the elongated head unit 110.

[0050] The communication device 130 is a circuit capable of communicating with the processing device 200. For example, the communication device 130 may have a wireless or wired LAN (Local Area Network) or USB (Universal Serial Bus) interface. USB is a registered trademark. Additionally, the communication device 130 can also be connected to other processing devices 200 via the Internet or other networks. Furthermore, the communication device 130 may be integrated with the processing circuitry 150.

[0051] The storage circuit 140 stores various programs executed by the processing circuit 150 and various data such as recorded data DP processed by the processing circuit 150. The storage circuit 140 may include, for example, one or more volatile memories such as RAM (Random Access Memory) and one or more non-volatile memories such as ROM (Read Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), or PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), or both. The recorded data DP is supplied, for example, from the processing device 200. Alternatively, the storage circuit 140 may also be configured as part of the processing circuit 150.

[0052] The processing circuit 150 has the function of controlling the operation of various parts of the liquid dispensing device 100 and processing various data. The processing circuit 150 includes, for example, one or more processors such as CPUs (Central Processing Units). Alternatively, the processing circuit 150 may replace the CPU or, based on the CPU, also include programmable logic devices such as FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays).

[0053] The processing circuit 150 controls the operation of each part of the liquid dispensing device 100 by executing the program stored in the storage circuit 140. Here, as signals for controlling the operation of each part of the liquid dispensing device 100, the processing circuit 150 generates signals such as control signal Sk, printing data signal SI, and waveform specification signal dCom.

[0054] The control signal Sk is a signal used to control the drive of the moving mechanism 120. The printing data signal SI is a signal used to control the drive of the drive circuit 112. Specifically, the printing data signal SI specifies whether the drive circuit 112 supplies the drive signal Com from the drive signal generation circuit 114 as a drive pulse PD to the drive element 111f at predetermined unit intervals. By specifying this, the amount of ink ejected from the head chip 111 can be specified. The waveform specification signal dCom is a digital signal used to specify the waveform of the drive signal Com generated by the drive signal generation circuit 114.

[0055] Figure 3This is a cross-sectional view illustrating a structural example of the head chip 111. The following description appropriately uses intersecting X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis. In the following text, one direction along the X-axis is the X1 direction, and the direction opposite to the X1 direction is the X2 direction. Similarly, the opposite directions along the Y-axis are the Y1 direction and the Y2 direction. The opposite directions along the Z-axis are the Z1 direction and the Z2 direction.

[0056] like Figure 3 As shown, the head chip 111 has a plurality of nozzles N arranged in the direction along the Y-axis. The plurality of nozzles N are divided into a first column L1 and a second column L2 arranged side by side with intervals between them in the direction along the X-axis. The first column L1 and the second column L2 are each a set of a plurality of nozzles N arranged linearly in the direction along the Y-axis.

[0057] The head chip 111 has a structure that is approximately symmetrical to each other along the X-axis. However, the positions of the plurality of nozzles N in the first column L1 and the plurality of nozzles N in the second column L2 along the Y-axis can be either consistent or different. Figure 3 The example shows a structure in which the positions of the plurality of nozzles N in the first column L1 and the plurality of nozzles N in the second column L2 are aligned with each other along the Y-axis.

[0058] like Figure 3 As shown, the head chip 111 has a flow channel substrate 111a, a pressure chamber substrate 111b, a nozzle plate 111c, a vibration absorber 111d, a vibration plate 111e, multiple drive elements 111f, a protection plate 111g, a housing 111h, and a wiring substrate 111i.

[0059] The flow channel substrate 111a and the pressure chamber substrate 111b are stacked in the Z1 direction in this order to form a flow channel for supplying ink to a plurality of nozzles N. In the region located further Z1 than the stack composed of the flow channel substrate 111a and the pressure chamber substrate 111b, a vibrating plate 111e, a plurality of driving elements 111f, a protective plate 111g, a housing 111h, and a wiring substrate 111i are provided. On the other hand, in the region located further Z2 than the stack, a nozzle plate 111c and a vibration absorber 111d are provided. The various elements of the head chip 111 are generally plate-shaped components that are elongated in the Y direction and are joined together, for example, by adhesive. The various elements of the head chip 111 will be described below.

[0060] The nozzle plate 111c is a plate-shaped component having a plurality of nozzles N in each of a first column L1 and a second column L2. Each nozzle N is a through-hole through which ink passes. Here, the surface of the nozzle plate 111c facing the Z2 direction is the nozzle surface FN. The nozzle plate 111c is manufactured, for example, by processing a single-crystal silicon substrate using semiconductor manufacturing techniques such as dry etching or wet etching. However, other known methods and materials can also be appropriately used in the manufacture of the nozzle plate 111c. Furthermore, although the cross-sectional shape of the nozzles is typically circular, it is not limited to this; for example, it can also be a non-circular shape such as a polygon or an ellipse.

[0061] On the flow channel substrate 111a, for each of the first column L1 and the second column L2, a space R1, a plurality of supply channels Ra, and a plurality of connecting channels Na are provided. The space R1 is an elongated opening extending along the Y-axis in a top view observed along the Z-axis. The supply channels Ra and the connecting channels Na are through holes formed for each nozzle N. Each supply channel Ra is connected to the space R1.

[0062] The pressure chamber substrate 111b is a plate-shaped component having a plurality of pressure chambers C, referred to as chambers, provided for each of the first column L1 and the second column L2. The plurality of pressure chambers C are arranged in the direction along the Y-axis. Each pressure chamber C is formed according to each nozzle N and is an elongated space extending in the direction along the X-axis when viewed from above. The flow channel substrate 111a and the pressure chamber substrate 111b are manufactured, for example, by processing a single-crystal silicon substrate using semiconductor manufacturing technology, similar to the aforementioned nozzle plate 111c. However, other known methods and materials may also be appropriately used in the respective manufacturing of the flow channel substrate 111a and the pressure chamber substrate 111b.

[0063] The pressure chamber C is the space located between the flow channel substrate 111a and the vibrating plate 111e. For each of the first column L1 and the second column L2, multiple pressure chambers C are arranged in the direction along the Y-axis. Furthermore, the pressure chamber C is connected to both the connecting flow channel Na and the supply flow channel Ra. Therefore, the pressure chamber C is connected to the nozzle N via the connecting flow channel Na, and to the space R1 via the supply flow channel Ra.

[0064] A vibrating plate 111e is disposed on the Z1-oriented surface of the pressure chamber substrate 111b. The vibrating plate 111e is a plate-shaped component capable of elastic vibration. The vibrating plate 111e has, for example, a first layer and a second layer, which are stacked sequentially in the Z1 direction. The first layer is, for example, an elastic film made of silicon oxide (SiO2). This elastic film is formed, for example, by thermal oxidation of one side of a single-crystal silicon substrate. The second layer is, for example, an insulating film made of zirconium oxide (ZrO2). This insulating film is formed, for example, by sputtering a zirconium layer and then by thermal oxidation of the layer. Furthermore, the vibrating plate 111e is not limited to a structure consisting of the aforementioned first and second layers; for example, it may be composed of a single layer or three or more layers.

[0065] On the Z1-oriented surface of the vibrating plate 111e, multiple drive elements 111f, corresponding to nozzles N, are arranged for each of the first column L1 and the second column L2. Each drive element 111f is a driven element that deforms upon the supply of a drive signal. In top view, each drive element 111f appears as an elongated strip extending along the X-axis. The multiple drive elements 111f are arranged in the Y-axis direction in a manner corresponding to multiple pressure chambers C. In top view, the drive elements 111f overlap with the pressure chambers C.

[0066] Each driving element 111f is a piezoelectric element, although not shown, it has a first electrode, a piezoelectric layer, and a second electrode, and they are stacked in this order in the Z1 direction. One of the first and second electrodes is a separate electrode arranged apart from each other for each driving element 111f, and a driving pulse PD is supplied to this electrode. The other electrode is a strip-shaped common electrode that extends continuously across multiple driving elements 111f in the Y-axis direction, and a bias potential VBS is supplied to this other electrode. Examples of metallic materials used for these electrodes include platinum (Pt), aluminum (Al), nickel (Ni), gold (Au), and copper (Cu), and one of these metallic materials can be used alone or in combination of two or more metallic materials in an alloy or stacked manner. The piezoelectric layer is made of a piezoelectric material such as lead zirconate titanate (Pb(Zr,Ti)O3), and is, for example, a strip-shaped material that extends continuously across multiple driving elements 111f in the Y-axis direction. However, the piezoelectric layer can also span multiple drive elements 111f and be integrated into one unit. In this case, on the piezoelectric layer, in the region corresponding to the gap between each adjacent pressure chamber C when viewed from above, a through hole extending through the piezoelectric layer extends in the direction along the X-axis. When the vibrating plate 111e vibrates in conjunction with the deformation of the drive elements 111f, the ink is ejected from the nozzle N by the pressure change within the pressure chamber C.

[0067] The protective plate 111g is a plate-shaped component disposed on the Z1-oriented surface of the vibrating plate 111e, protecting the plurality of drive elements 111f and reinforcing the mechanical strength of the vibrating plate 111e. Here, the plurality of drive elements 111f are housed between the protective plate 111g and the vibrating plate 111e. The protective plate 111g is, for example, made of resin material.

[0068] The housing 111h is a component for storing ink to be supplied to multiple pressure chambers C. The housing 111h is made of, for example, resin material. A space R2 is provided on the housing 111h for each of the first column L1 and the second column L2. Space R2 communicates with the aforementioned space R1 and, together with space R1, functions as a reservoir R for storing the ink to be supplied to the multiple pressure chambers C. An inlet IH for supplying ink to each reservoir R is provided on the housing 111h. The ink in each reservoir R is supplied to the pressure chambers C via respective supply channels Ra.

[0069] The vibration absorber 111d, also known as a flexible substrate, is a flexible resin film that forms the wall of the reservoir R and absorbs pressure fluctuations of the ink within the reservoir R. Alternatively, the vibration absorber 111d can also be a flexible thin sheet made of metal. The Z1-oriented surface of the vibration absorber 111d is bonded to the flow channel substrate 111a using an adhesive or the like.

[0070] The wiring board 111i is a mounting component that is mounted on the Z1-oriented surface of the vibrating plate 111e and is used to electrically connect the head chip 111, the drive circuit 112, and the control module 110b. The wiring board 111i is, for example, a flexible wiring board such as COF (Chip-On Film), FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit), or FFC (Flexible Flat Cable). In this embodiment, the aforementioned drive circuit 112 is mounted on the wiring board 111i.

[0071] 1-3. Structure of the processing device

[0072] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a structural example of the processing apparatus 200 used in the liquid ejection system 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 4 As shown, the processing device 200 includes a display device 210, an input device 220, a communication device 230, a storage circuit 240, and a processing circuit 250. These devices are connected in a manner that enables them to communicate with each other.

[0073] The display device 210 displays various images under the control of the processing circuit 250. Here, the display device 210 may have various display panels, such as a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL (electroluminescence) display panel. Alternatively, the display device 210 may be disposed outside the processing device 200. Furthermore, the display device 210 may also be a structural element of the liquid ejection device 100.

[0074] The input device 220 is a device that receives operations from the user. For example, the input device 220 may have a pointing device such as a touchpad, touch panel, or mouse. In the case of a touch panel, the input device 220 may also function as a display device 210. Alternatively, the input device 220 may be located outside the processing device 200. Furthermore, the input device 220 may be a structural element of the liquid dispensing device 100. Additionally, the input device 220 may include a camera device with a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image processor or a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) image processor.

[0075] The communication device 230 is a circuit capable of communicating with both the liquid dispensing device 100 and the server 300. For example, the communication device 230 may have a wireless or wired interface such as LAN or USB. The communication device 230 transmits recorded data DP to the liquid dispensing device 100 through communication with it. Furthermore, the communication device 230 transmits output information D1 or receives input information D2 through communication with the server 300. In other words, the communication device 230 functions as a first connection unit 231 that is network-connected to the server 300. Alternatively, the communication device 230 may be integrated with the processing circuit 250.

[0076] The storage circuit 240 is a means for storing various programs executed by the processing circuit 250 and various data processed by the processing circuit 250. The storage circuit 240 may be, for example, a hard disk drive or a semiconductor memory. Alternatively, part or all of the storage circuit 240 may be disposed on a storage device or server external to the first processing device 200.

[0077] The storage circuit 240 of this embodiment stores program PG1, output information D1, input information D2, waveform information D3, and recording data DP. Alternatively, part or all of program PG1, output information D1, input information D2, and waveform information D3 may be stored in an external storage device or server, etc., of the processing device 200. Furthermore, in the following text, program PG1, output information D1, and input information D2 may be collectively referred to as information DG.

[0078] Program PG1 is a program that enables the computer to perform various functions required to determine the waveform of the drive pulse PD based on the input information D2.

[0079] Output information D1 contains information related to the usage conditions of the head unit 110. These usage conditions are those conditions related to the operating environment of the head unit 110 that may affect the ejection characteristics of the head unit 110.

[0080] exist Figure 4In the example shown, output information D1 includes first output information D1a, second output information D1b, and third output information D1c. First output information D1a is information related to the type of head unit 110. More specifically, first output information D1a is identification information such as a serial number inherent to the head unit 110. Second output information D1b is information related to the type of liquid used for ejection in the head unit 110. For example, second output information D1b is information related to the ink's product number, viscosity, residual vibration, or ejection speed. Third output information D1c is information related to the temperature of the head unit 110. For example, third output information D1c is information related to the temperature of the environment in which the head unit 110 is installed, or information related to the temperature detected by a temperature sensor located at or around the head unit 110.

[0081] Input information D2 is information related to the waveform of the drive pulse PD to be supplied to the drive element 111f. As mentioned above, input information D2 is provided from server 300 to processing device 200. Waveform information D3 is information related to the waveform generated based on input information D2. Waveform information D3 is used, for example, for the generation of the waveform specification signal dCom in the aforementioned processing circuit 150. Furthermore, details regarding the waveform of the drive pulse PD will be provided below based on… Figure 8 Please provide an explanation.

[0082] The processing circuit 250 is a device that controls various parts of the processing unit 200 and processes various types of data. The processing circuit 250 may include, for example, a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). Furthermore, the processing circuit 250 may be composed of a single processor or multiple processors. Additionally, some or all of the functions of the processing circuit 250 may be implemented using hardware such as a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), PLD (Programmable Logic Device), or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0083] The processing circuit 250 reads and executes the program PG1 from the storage circuit 240, thereby functioning as an acquisition unit 251, a first output unit 252, a first input unit 253, and a determination unit 254. Furthermore, in the following text, the acquisition unit 251, the first output unit 252, the first input unit 253, and the determination unit 254 may be collectively referred to as function FG.

[0084] The acquisition unit 251 acquires the output information D1. For example, the acquisition unit 251 acquires the output information D1 through input to the input device 220 by the user of the liquid dispensing device 100. As described above, the acquired output information D1 is stored in the storage circuit 240.

[0085] The first output unit 252 outputs output information D1 via the first connection unit 231. For example, the first output unit 252 outputs output information D1 to the server 300 via the first connection unit 231 based on an instruction or other action taken by a user using the input device 220.

[0086] Input information D2 is input to the first input unit 253 via the first connection unit 231. For example, input information D2 is input from the server 300 to the first input unit 253 via the first connection unit 231 based on an instruction from a user using the input device 220.

[0087] The determination unit 254 determines the waveform of the drive pulse PD based on the input information D2. Here, the determination unit 254 stores information related to the determined waveform as waveform information D3 in the storage circuit 240.

[0088] 1-3. Server Structure

[0089] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the structure of the server 300 used in the liquid ejection system 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 5 As shown, server 300 includes a display device 310, an input device 320, a communication device 330, a storage circuit 340, and a processing circuit 350. These devices are connected in a manner that enables them to communicate with each other. Furthermore, the storage circuit 340 is an example of a "storage unit".

[0090] Display device 310 is a device that displays various images under the control of processing circuit 350, and is configured in the same manner as the aforementioned display device 210. Input device 320 is a device that receives operations from the user, and is configured in the same manner as the aforementioned input device 220. Communication device 330 is a circuit capable of communicating with each processing device 200, and is configured in the same manner as the aforementioned communication device 230. Alternatively, communication device 330 may be integrated with processing circuit 350.

[0091] Here, the communication device 330 receives output information D1 or sends input information D2 by communicating with the processing device 200. That is, the communication device 330 functions as a second connection 331 that is communicatively connected to the first connection 231. Furthermore, the communication device 330 may, as needed, communicate with the second external device 400 to send output information D1 or receive waveform candidate information D5.

[0092] The storage circuit 340 is a device for storing various programs executed by the processing circuit 350 and various data processed by the processing circuit 350, and is configured in the same manner as the aforementioned storage circuit 240. The storage circuit 340 stores program PG2, output information D1, input information D2, corresponding information D4, and waveform candidate information D5.

[0093] Program PG2 is a program that enables the computer to perform various functions required to generate input information D2 based on output information D1. Corresponding information D4 is information related to the correspondence between the usage conditions of head unit 110 and the waveform of the drive pulse PD that should be supplied to drive element 111f. Details regarding corresponding information D4 will be provided below based on... Figure 7 Please provide an explanation.

[0094] Waveform candidate information D5 is information related to candidate waveforms that are different from the waveforms shown in the corresponding information D4 before the generation of waveform candidate information D5.

[0095] The processing circuit 350 is a device that has the functions of controlling various parts of the server 300 and processing various data, and is configured in the same manner as the aforementioned processing circuit 250. The processing circuit 350 functions as a second output unit 351, a second input unit 352, and an arithmetic unit 353 by reading and executing the program PG2 from the storage circuit 340.

[0096] The second output unit 351 outputs the input information D2 via the second connection unit 331. For example, the second output unit 351 outputs the input information D2 to the processing device 200 via the second connection unit 331 based on an instruction or other action taken by a user using the input device 220.

[0097] Output information D1 is input to the second input unit 352 via the second connection unit 331. For example, output information D1 is input from the processing device 200 to the second input unit 352 via the second connection unit 331 based on an instruction from a user using the input device 220.

[0098] The arithmetic unit 353 performs a calculation to generate input information D2 based on the output information D1. In this embodiment, the arithmetic unit 353 generates input information D2 based on the output information D1 and the corresponding information D4. Furthermore, based on the comparison result between the output information D1 and the corresponding information D4, the arithmetic unit 353 uses waveform candidate information D5 from the second external device 400 instead of the corresponding information D4 to generate input information D2.

[0099] More specifically, when the usage conditions shown in the output information D1 are included in the usage conditions shown in the corresponding information D4, the arithmetic unit 353 generates the input information D2 in such a way that the waveform corresponding to the usage conditions in the corresponding information D4 that are consistent with the usage conditions shown in the output information D1 becomes the waveform shown in the input information D2.

[0100] Furthermore, if the usage conditions shown in the output information D1 are not included in the usage conditions shown in the corresponding information D4, the arithmetic unit 353 generates the input information D2 in such a way that the waveform corresponding to the usage condition in the usage conditions shown in the corresponding information D4 that is closest to the usage conditions shown in the output information D1 becomes the waveform shown in the input information D2.

[0101] Here, if the difference between the closest usage condition and the usage condition shown in the output information D1 is greater than a predetermined value, or if it is difficult to extract the closest usage condition from the usage condition shown in the corresponding information D4, it is difficult to generate appropriate input information D2. Therefore, in this case, after outputting the output information D1 to the second external device 400, the arithmetic unit 353 accepts the input of waveform candidate information D5. Then, the arithmetic unit 353 generates input information D2 in a manner that makes the waveform shown in the waveform candidate information D5 the waveform shown in the input information D2.

[0102] Furthermore, when the arithmetic unit 353 receives the input of waveform candidate information D5, it adds information related to the correspondence between the usage conditions shown in the output information D1 and the waveform shown in the waveform candidate information D5 to the corresponding information D4 and stores it in the storage circuit 340.

[0103] 1-4. Handling of Liquid Ejection Systems

[0104] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the liquid ejection system 10 according to the first embodiment. In the liquid ejection system 10, firstly, as... Figure 6 As shown, in step S101, the processing device 200 obtains the output information D1.

[0105] Specifically, in step S101, the acquisition unit 251, for example, causes the display device 210 to pre-display an image for a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for inputting information required to acquire output information D1, and uses this image to receive the information required to acquire output information D1 from the user, thereby acquiring output information D1. Furthermore, the input of the information required to acquire output information D1 implemented by the acquisition unit 251 is not limited to the method of using an image. For example, it can be a method of automatically reading information such as a serial number stored in a memory (not shown) of the head unit 110 or the liquid ejector head 110a, or it can be a method of using the output of a sensor (not shown) provided in the head unit 110. Examples of such sensors include a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the head unit 110, and a sensor that detects the viscosity or surface tension of the ink.

[0106] Then, in step S102, the processing device 200 outputs the output information D1 to the server 300.

[0107] Specifically, in step 102, the first output unit 252 outputs output information D1 via the first connection unit 231 when it receives input using the aforementioned GUI image. Furthermore, the timing of the first connection unit 231 outputting output information D1 is not limited to when input using the GUI image is received. Alternatively, for example, when input using the aforementioned GUI image is received, the first output unit 252 sends user account information, password, and other authentication information to the server 300. If the server 300 successfully authenticates using this authentication information, it sends output permission information to the processing device 200. After the processing device 200 accepts the output permission information, it outputs output information D1 to the server 300.

[0108] Next, in step S103, the server 300 inputs the output information D1. Then, in step S104, the server 300 generates input information D2 based on the output information D1. Subsequently, in step S105, the server 300 outputs the input information D2 to the processing device 200.

[0109] Next, in step S106, the processing device 200 inputs the input information D2. Specifically, in step S106, the input information D2 from the server 300 is input into the first input unit 253 via the first connection unit 231. Alternatively, the first input unit 253 may use a display device 210 or the like to notify the user whether the input information D2 has been input from the server 300, and will only execute the input of the input information D2 from the server 300 if the user has indicated permission to input via the input device 220 or the like.

[0110] Then, in step S107, the processing device 200 generates waveform information D3 based on the input information D2. Specifically, in step S107, the determination unit 254, for example, determines the waveform shown in the input information D2 as the waveform of the actual driving pulse PD. Alternatively, the determination unit 254 may determine the waveform of the actual driving pulse PD based on minor adjustments made to the waveform shown in the input information D2 by using user input from the input device 220. Or, it may be configured such that even if the waveform shown in the input information D2 is initially determined as the waveform of the actual driving pulse PD, if the usage period based on the number of ink ejections from the head unit 110 exceeds a threshold, the determination unit 254 adjusts the waveform of the driving pulse PD by increasing its amplitude.

[0111] 1-5. Processing in the Arithmetic Unit

[0112] As mentioned above, the arithmetic unit 353 generates input information D2 based on output information D1 and corresponding information D4. Hereinafter, based on... Figure 7 Here is an example illustrating the corresponding information D4.

[0113] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the corresponding information D4. Figure 7 The corresponding information D4 shown indicates the relationship between head type, ink type, temperature, and waveform. Here, Figure 7 The type of head, type of ink, and temperature shown are the operating conditions for head unit 110. Furthermore, Figure 7 The waveform shown is the waveform of the drive pulse PD.

[0114] exist Figure 7 In this context, the waveforms Pa, Pb, Pc, Pd, Pe, Pf, Pg, etc., are recorded according to each combination of head type (Ha, Hb, Hc), ink type (Ia, Ib, Ic), and temperature (less than 10℃, 10℃ and above but below 30℃, and above 30℃). Additionally, Figure 7The corresponding information D4 shown is simplified for ease of explanation. The number of combinations of usage conditions and waveforms shown in corresponding information D4 is not limited. Figure 7 The example shown. For instance, the number of head types and ink types can be 2 or less or 4 or more. Furthermore, the number of temperature zones is not limited to three zones; it can be 2 or less or 4 or more zones.

[0115] For example, if the usage conditions shown in output information D1 are a combination of head Ha, ink Ia, and a temperature below 10°C, then waveform Pa is selected as the waveform shown in input information D2. If the usage conditions shown in output information D1 are a combination of head Ha, ink Ia, and a temperature between 10°C and 30°C, then waveform Pb is selected as the waveform shown in input information D2. If the usage conditions shown in output information D1 are a combination of head Ha, ink Ia, and a temperature above 30°C, then waveform Pc is selected as the waveform shown in input information D2.

[0116] Generally speaking, the lower the operating temperature of the head unit 110, the higher the viscosity of the ink, thus making it difficult for the ink to be ejected from the head unit 110. Therefore, the waveforms Pa, Pb, and Pc are set in a way that reduces this tendency.

[0117] Furthermore, for example, if the usage conditions shown in output information D1 are a combination of head Ha, ink Ib, and a temperature below 10°C, then waveform Pd is selected as the waveform shown in input information D2. If the usage conditions shown in output information D1 are a combination of head Ha, ink Ic, and a temperature below 10°C, then waveform Pe is selected as the waveform shown in input information D2.

[0118] Generally speaking, the ejection characteristics of the head unit 110 vary depending on the type of ink. Therefore, the waveforms Pa, Pd, and Pe are different.

[0119] Furthermore, for example, if the usage conditions shown in output information D1 are a combination of head Hb, ink Ia, and a temperature below 10°C, then waveform Pf is selected as the waveform shown in input information D2. If the usage conditions shown in output information D1 are a combination of head Hc, ink Ia, and a temperature below 10°C, then waveform Pg is selected as the waveform shown in input information D2.

[0120] Generally speaking, the ejection characteristics of head unit 110 vary depending on the type of head. Therefore, the waveforms Pa, Pf, and Pg are different.

[0121] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating an example waveform of the drive pulse PD. Figure 8The diagram shows the change in the potential of the driving pulse PD over time, i.e., the voltage waveform of the driving pulse PD. Furthermore, the waveform of the driving pulse PD is not limited to... Figure 8 The example shown is an arbitrary waveform.

[0122] like Figure 8 As shown, the drive pulse PD is included in the drive signal Com according to a unit period Tu. Figure 8 In the example shown, the potential E of the driving pulse PD drops from the reference potential E1 to potential E2, then rises to potential E3, which is lower than potential E1, and then returns to potential E1.

[0123] More specifically, the potential E of the drive pulse PD is first maintained at potential E1 during the period from timing t0 to timing t1, and then decreases to potential E2 during the period from timing t1 to timing t2. Then, the potential E of the drive pulse PD is maintained at potential E2 during the period from timing t2 to timing t3, and then increases to potential E3 during the period from timing t3 to timing t4. Subsequently, it is maintained at potential E3 during the period from timing t4 to timing t5, and then decreases to potential E1 during the period from timing t5 to timing t6.

[0124] The drive pulse PD of this waveform increases the pressure chamber C during the period from timing t1 to timing t2, and decreases the volume of pressure chamber C sharply during the period from timing t3 to timing t4. This change in the volume of pressure chamber C causes a portion of the ink within pressure chamber C to be ejected from the nozzle as droplets.

[0125] The waveform of the drive pulse PD, as described above, can be represented by a function of parameters p1, p2, p3, p4, p5, p6, and p7 corresponding to the aforementioned periods. When the waveform of the drive pulse PD is defined by this function, the waveform of the drive pulse PD can be adjusted by changing each parameter. By adjusting the waveform of the drive pulse PD, the ejection characteristics of the ink ejected from the head unit 110 can be adjusted.

[0126] For example, the amount of gas ejected from nozzle N can be reduced by decreasing the difference between potentials E2 and E3, or by decreasing potential E3 itself. Furthermore, the amount of gas ejected from nozzle N can also be reduced by extending the period from timing t3 to timing t4. Therefore, for example, as described above... Figure 7 The difference between potentials E2 and E3 in waveform Pb is smaller than the difference between potentials E2 and E3 in waveform Pa. Furthermore, the difference between potentials E2 and E3 in waveform Pc is smaller than the difference between potentials E2 and E3 in waveform Pb.

[0127] Alternatively, the period from timing t3 to timing t4 in waveform Pb can be longer than the period from timing t3 to timing t4 in waveform Pa. Furthermore, the period from timing t3 to timing t4 in waveform Pc can be longer than the period from timing t3 to timing t4 in waveform Pb.

[0128] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the waveforms Pa, Pb, Pc, Pd, Pe, Pf, and Pg shown in information D4. For example, the waveforms Pa, Pb, Pc, Pd, Pe, Pf, and Pg... Figure 9 They are not the same as shown. As mentioned earlier, in Figure 9 In the waveform Pb shown, the absolute value of potential E2 is greater than that of waveform Pa, and the absolute value of potential E3 is less than that of waveform Pa. Therefore, the difference between potential E2 and potential E3 is less than that of waveform Pa. In the waveform Pc, since the absolute value of potential E2 is greater than that of waveform Pb, and the absolute value of potential E3 is less than that of waveform Pb, the difference between potential E2 and potential E3 is less than that of waveform Pb.

[0129] in addition, Figure 9 The relationship between the waveforms Pa, Pb, and Pc shown is an example and is not limited thereto. For example, in the waveforms Pa, Pb, and Pc, at least one of the following periods may be different: the period from the reference potential to becoming potential E2, the period of maintaining potential E2, the period from potential E2 to becoming potential E3, the period of maintaining potential E3, and the period from potential E3 to becoming the reference potential.

[0130] The waveforms Pd and Pe differ from the waveform Pa. Furthermore, as mentioned earlier, the relationship between waveforms Pa, Pd, and Pe is determined based on the type of ink and is not limited to a single waveform. Figure 9 The example shown.

[0131] Waveforms Pf and Pg differ from waveform Pa. Furthermore, as mentioned earlier, the relationship between waveforms Pa, Pf, and Pg is determined based on the type of head and is not limited to any particular type. Figure 9 The example shown.

[0132] 1-6. Summary of the First Implementation Method

[0133] As described above, the liquid ejection system 10 has a head unit 110, an acquisition unit 251, a first connection unit 231, a first output unit 252, a first input unit 253, and a determination unit 254.

[0134] Here, the head unit 110 includes: a nozzle N that ejects ink, an example of a "liquid"; a pressure chamber C connected to the nozzle N; and a drive element 111f that causes pressure fluctuations in the ink within the pressure chamber C due to the supply of a drive pulse PD. The acquisition unit 251 acquires output information D1 related to the usage conditions of the head unit 110. The first connection unit 231 is communicatively network-connected to the server 300. The first output unit 252 outputs the output information D1 via the first connection unit 231. In the first input unit 253, input information D2 related to the waveform of the drive pulse PD supplied to the drive element 111f is input via the first connection unit 231. The determination unit 254 determines the waveform of the drive pulse PD supplied to the drive element 111f based on the input information D2.

[0135] In the liquid ejection system 10 described above, since the determination unit 254 determines the waveform of the drive pulse PD based on the input information D2, even if the manufacturer of the printer body and the head are different, the manufacturer of the printer body or the user does not need to search for the waveform of the drive pulse PD according to the usage conditions. Therefore, the burden on the manufacturer of the printer body or the user can be reduced. Here, since the first connection unit 231 is connected to the server 300 in a manner that enables network communication, and the first output unit 252 outputs the output information D1 via the first connection unit 231, the output information D1 can be input to the server 300. Therefore, the input information D2 can be generated in the server 300 based on the output information D1. Compared with the structure of generating the input information D2 in a device such as a printer equipped with the head unit 110, the structure of generating the input information D2 in the server 300 has the advantage of making it easier to optimize the input information D2. Based on this, since the input information D2 is input to the first input unit 253 via the first connection unit 231, the input information D2 generated in the server 300 can be used for the determination of the waveform performed by the determination unit 254.

[0136] As described above, the liquid ejection system 10 includes a liquid ejection device 100, a processing device 200, and a server 300. Here, the liquid ejection device 100 includes a head unit 110. The processing device 200 is communicatively connected to the liquid ejection device 100 and generates recording data DP used in the liquid ejection device 100. Therefore, printing based on the recording data DP from the processing device 200 can be performed using the liquid ejection device 100. Furthermore, various types of information can be communicated between the liquid ejection device 100 and the processing device 200.

[0137] As described above, the first input unit 253 and the first connection unit 231 are respectively provided in the processing device 200. Therefore, input information D2 from the server 300 can be input into the processing device 200. Therefore, by providing the determination unit 254 in the processing device 200, waveform information D3 related to the waveform determined by the determination unit 25, or information based on the waveform information D3, can be input from the processing device 200 to the liquid ejection device 100.

[0138] As described above, the server 300 includes a second connection unit 331, a second input unit 352, a second output unit 351, and a calculation unit 353. Here, the second connection unit 331 is communicatively connected to the first connection unit 231. Output information D1 is input to the second input unit 352 via the second connection unit 331. The second output unit 351 outputs input information D2 via the second connection unit 331. The calculation unit 353 performs a calculation to generate input information D2 based on the output information D1. In this server 300, output information D1 from the first connection unit 231 can be input to the server 300. Furthermore, input information D2 generated in the server 300 can be input to the first connection unit 231.

[0139] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the server 300 also includes a storage circuit 340 as an example of a "storage unit". The storage circuit 340 stores correspondence information D4 relating to the usage conditions of the head unit 110 and the waveform of the drive pulse PD to be supplied to the drive element 111f. Based on this, the arithmetic unit 353 generates input information D2 based on the output information D1 and the correspondence information D4. Therefore, compared to generating the input information D2 using analog calculations, the calculations required to generate the input information D2 using the arithmetic unit 353 are simplified.

[0140] As described above, when the usage conditions shown in the output information D1 are included in the usage conditions shown in the corresponding information D4, the arithmetic unit 353 generates input information D2 in such a way that the waveform corresponding to the usage conditions in the corresponding information D4 that are consistent with the usage conditions shown in the output information D1 becomes the waveform shown in input information D2. Therefore, input information D2 representing waveform information suitable for the usage conditions of the head unit 110 can be generated.

[0141] Furthermore, as described above, when the usage conditions shown in the output information D1 are not included in the usage conditions shown in the corresponding information D4, the arithmetic unit 353 generates the input information D2 in such a way that the waveform corresponding to the usage condition in the corresponding information D4 that is closest to the usage conditions shown in the output information D1 becomes the waveform shown in the input information D2. Therefore, even if the amount of information in the corresponding information D4 is reduced, it is possible to generate the input information D2, which represents the waveform information suitable for the usage conditions of the head unit 110.

[0142] Furthermore, as mentioned above, if the usage conditions shown in output information D1 are not included in the usage conditions shown in corresponding information D4, the arithmetic unit 353 outputs output information D1 to the second external device 400. Moreover, the arithmetic unit 353 receives input waveform candidate information D5 related to the candidate waveform from the second external device 400, and generates input information D2 in a manner that makes the waveform shown in waveform candidate information D5 the waveform shown in input information D2. Therefore, even by reducing the amount of information in corresponding information D4, it is possible to generate input information D2 representing the usage conditions suitable for the head unit 110.

[0143] Furthermore, as described above, when the arithmetic unit 353 receives the waveform candidate information D5 as input, it appends information related to the correspondence between the usage conditions shown in the output information D1 and the waveform shown in the waveform candidate information D5 to the corresponding information D4 and stores it in the storage circuit 340. Therefore, the corresponding information D4 can be optimized. Additionally, by pre-increasing the amount of information in the corresponding information D4, appropriate input information D2 can be generated in the arithmetic unit 353 even if the waveform candidate information D5 is not used.

[0144] As mentioned above, the output information D1 includes first output information D1a related to the type of head unit 110. Therefore, input information D2 representing a waveform corresponding to the type of head unit 110 can be generated in the server 300.

[0145] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the output information D1 includes second output information D1b related to the type of liquid used in the ejection from the head unit 110. Therefore, it is possible to generate input information D2 in the server 300 that represents a waveform corresponding to the type of liquid used in the ejection from the head unit 110.

[0146] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the output information D1 includes third output information D1c related to the temperature of the head unit 110. Therefore, it is possible to generate input information D2 representing a waveform corresponding to the temperature of the head unit 110 in the server 300.

[0147] As mentioned earlier, Server 300 is a cloud server. Therefore, compared to using a local server architecture, it can reduce setup costs or improve convenience.

[0148] As described above, the processing device 200 has a processing circuit 250 consisting of one or more processors, and the processing circuit 250 functions as a first input 253 and a first output 252. Therefore, the liquid ejection system 10 has one or more processors that function as the first input 253 and the first output 252.

[0149] 2. Second Implementation Method

[0150] Hereinafter, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. For elements that function or operate the same as those in the first embodiment in the following examples, the reference numerals used in the description of the first embodiment will be retained, and detailed descriptions of each will be omitted as appropriate.

[0151] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a structural example of the liquid ejection system 10A according to the second embodiment. The liquid ejection system 10A is configured in the same manner as the first embodiment described above, except that it has liquid ejection devices 100A1 to 100A3 and processing devices 200A1 to 200A3 instead of liquid ejection devices 100_1 to 100_3 and processing devices 200_1 to 200_3.

[0152] Liquid dispensing device 100A_1 is communicatively connected to processing device 200A_1 and communicatively connected to server 300 via communication network NW. Liquid dispensing device 100A_2 is communicatively connected to processing device 200A_2 and communicatively connected to server 300 via communication network NW. Liquid dispensing device 100A_3 is communicatively connected to processing device 200A_3 and communicatively connected to server 300 via communication network NW. Thus, liquid dispensing devices 100A_1 to 100A_3 correspond to processing devices 200A_1 to 200A_3 respectively, are communicatively connected to processing devices 200A_1 to 200A_3, and are communicatively connected to server 300 via communication network NW. Hereinafter, there may be a case where each of liquid dispensing devices 100A_1 to 100A_3 is referred to simply as liquid dispensing device 100A. There are cases where each of the processing devices 200A_1 to 200A_3 is not distinguished and is simply referred to as processing device 200A.

[0153] In addition, although Figure 10In the example shown, the liquid ejection system 10A has three liquid ejection devices 100A and three processing devices 200A, but this number is not limited to this and may be one, two or more. That is, the number of liquid ejection devices 100A and processing devices 200A groups is not limited to three groups and may be one, two or more groups.

[0154] The liquid ejection device 100A is configured in the same manner as the liquid ejection device 100 of the first embodiment, except that it has a head unit 110A instead of a head unit 110. The head unit 110A is the same as the head unit 110, except that it adds the function of determining the waveform of the drive pulse PD. Detailed information about the liquid ejection device 100A will be provided below, based on… Figure 11 Please provide an explanation.

[0155] The liquid ejection device 100A outputs output information D1 to the server 300 or inputs input information D2 from the server 300. Then, the liquid ejection device 100A determines the waveform of the drive pulse based on the input information D2.

[0156] The processing device 200A is configured in the same manner as the processing device 200 of the first embodiment, except that the function of determining the waveform of the drive pulse PD is omitted.

[0157] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a structural example of the liquid ejection device 100A used in the liquid ejection system 10A according to the second embodiment. Figure 11 As shown, the head unit 110A of the liquid ejection device 100A is configured in the same manner as the head unit 110 of the first embodiment, except that it has a control module 110c instead of the control module 110b. The control module 110c is configured in the same manner as the control module 110b, except that it has an additional communication device 115, a storage circuit 116, and a processing circuit 117.

[0158] The communication device 115 is a circuit capable of communicating with the server 300. For example, the communication device 115 is a wireless or wired interface such as LAN or USB. The communication device 115 sends output information D1 or receives input information D2 by communicating with the server 300. That is, the communication device 115 functions as a first connection part 115a that can be communicatively connected to the server 300, similar to the first connection part 231 in the first embodiment.

[0159] The storage circuit 116 is a means for storing various programs executed by the processing circuit 117 and various data processed by the processing circuit 117. The storage circuit 116 may include, for example, a semiconductor memory.

[0160] The storage circuit 116 stores information similar to that described above. Figure 4 The same information DG. That is, the storage circuit 116 stores program PG1, output information D1, input information D2, and waveform information D3.

[0161] The processing circuit 117 is a device that controls various parts of the control module 110c and processes various types of data. The processing circuit 117 may include one or more processors, such as a CPU. Alternatively, the processing circuit 117 may be integrated with the storage circuit 116, or it may be constructed from hardware such as a DSP, ASIC, PLD, or FPGA.

[0162] Processing circuit 117 reads program PG1 from storage circuit 116 and executes it, thereby serving as described above. Figure 4 The same function FG is used. That is, the processing circuit 117 functions as an acquisition unit 117a, a first output unit 117b, a first input unit 117c, and a determination unit 117d.

[0163] The acquisition unit 117a acquires the output information D1 in the same manner as the acquisition unit 251 in the first embodiment. The first output unit 117b outputs the output information D1 via the first connection unit 115a in the same manner as the first output unit 252 in the first embodiment. The input information D2 is input to the first input unit 117c via the first connection unit 115a in the same manner as the first input unit 253 in the first embodiment. The determination unit 117d determines the waveform of the drive pulse PD based on the input information D2 in the same manner as the determination unit 254 in the first embodiment.

[0164] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the liquid ejection system 10A according to the second embodiment. In the liquid ejection system 10A, firstly, as... Figure 12 As shown, in step S201, the liquid ejection device 100A acquires output information D1. Then, in step S202, the liquid ejection device 100A outputs the output information D1 to the server 300.

[0165] Next, in step S203, the server 300 inputs the output information D1. Then, in step S204, the server 300 generates input information D2 based on the output information D1. Subsequently, in step S205, the server 300 outputs the input information D2 to the liquid ejection device 100A.

[0166] Next, in step S206, the liquid ejection device 100A inputs the input information D2. Then, in step S207, the liquid ejection device 100A generates waveform information D3 based on the input information D2.

[0167] According to the second embodiment described above, similarly to the first embodiment, even when the manufacturer of the printer body and the manufacturer of the printhead are different, the waveform of the drive pulse PD can be appropriately determined while reducing the burden on the printer body manufacturer or user. In this embodiment, as described above, the first input unit 117c and the first connection unit 115a are respectively provided in the liquid ejection device 100A. Therefore, the input information D2 from the server 300 can be input into the liquid ejection device 100A. Therefore, by providing the determination unit 117d in the liquid ejection device 100A, information related to the waveform determined by the determination unit 117d can be used in the liquid ejection device 100A. Furthermore, since it is not necessary to load the program for determining the waveform of the drive pulse PD into the processing device 200A, the burden on the printer body manufacturer or user can also be reduced in this respect.

[0168] 3. Third Implementation Method

[0169] The third embodiment of the present invention will now be described. For elements that function or operate the same as in the first embodiment in the following examples, the reference numerals used in the description of the first embodiment will be retained, and detailed descriptions of each will be omitted as appropriate.

[0170] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram illustrating a structural example of the liquid ejection system 10B according to the third embodiment. The liquid ejection system 10B is configured in the same manner as the first embodiment described above, except that it has processing devices 200B_1 to 200B_3 instead of processing devices 200_1 to 200_3 and the first external devices 500_1 to 500_3 are added.

[0171] The first external device 500_1 is communicatively connected to the processing device 200B_1 and is communicatively connected to the server 300 via the communication network NW. The first external device 500_2 is communicatively connected to the processing device 200B_2 and is communicatively connected to the server 300 via the communication network NW. The first external device 500_3 is communicatively connected to the processing device 200B_3 and is communicatively connected to the server 300 via the communication network NW. Thus, the first external devices 500_1 to 500_3 correspond to the processing devices 200B_1 to 200B_3 respectively, are communicatively connected to the processing devices 200B_1 to 200B_3, and are communicatively connected to the server 300 via the communication network NW. Hereinafter, there may be a case where each of the first external devices 500_1 to 500_3 is referred to as the first external device 500 without distinction. There are cases where each of the processing devices 200B_1 to 200B_3 is not distinguished and is simply referred to as processing device 200B.

[0172] In addition, although Figure 13 In the example shown, the liquid ejection system 10B has three of each of the first external device 500, the liquid ejection device 100, and the processing device 200B, but this number is not limited to this and may be one, two, or more than four. That is, the group of the first external device 500, the liquid ejection device 100, and the processing device 200B is not limited to three groups and may be one, two, or more than four groups.

[0173] The processing device 200B is configured in the same manner as the processing device 200 of the first embodiment, except that it can be communicatively connected to the first external device 500 and the liquid ejection device 100 respectively.

[0174] The first external device 500 is a portable terminal such as a smartphone or tablet computer, and is configured to communicate with both the server 300 and the processing device 200B. The first external device 500 acquires output information D1, or outputs output information D1 to the server 300, or receives input information D2 from the server 300.

[0175] The processing apparatus 200B is configured in the same manner as the processing apparatus 200 of the first embodiment. However, the processing apparatus 200B does not use the first output unit 252 and the first input unit 253 of the acquisition unit 251 and the determination unit 254, but uses the acquisition unit 251 and the determination unit 254 instead. Therefore, in the processing apparatus 200B, one or both of the first output unit 252 and the first input unit 253 may be omitted.

[0176] Figure 14This is a schematic diagram illustrating a structural example of the first external device 500 used in the liquid ejection system 10B according to the third embodiment. The first external device 500 includes a display device 510, an input device 520, a communication device 530, a storage circuit 540, and a processing circuit 550. These devices are connected to each other in a manner that enables communication.

[0177] The display device 510 displays various images under the control implemented by the processing circuit 550. Here, the display device 510 has various display panels, such as a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL (electro-luminescence) display panel.

[0178] The input device 520 is a device that accepts operations from the user. For example, the input device 520 has a pointing device such as a touch panel. Here, if the input device 520 has a touch panel, it is configured to be integrated with the display device 510.

[0179] The communication device 530 is a circuit capable of communicating with both the processing device 200B and the server 300. The communication device 530 may have interfaces such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for short-range wireless communication, wireless or wired LAN, or USB. Furthermore, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are registered trademarks.

[0180] The communication device 530 communicates with the server 300 to send output information D1 or receive input information D2. That is, the communication device 530 functions as a first connection unit 531 communicatively connected to the server 300. Furthermore, the communication device 530 functions as a short-range connection unit 532 connected to the processing device 200B via short-range wireless communication, through which waveform information D3 is sent to the processing device 200B. Alternatively, the communication device 530 may be integrated with the processing circuit 550.

[0181] The storage circuit 540 is a means for storing various programs executed by the processing circuit 55 and various data processed by the processing circuit 550. The storage circuit 540 may include, for example, a semiconductor memory.

[0182] In the storage circuit 540 of this embodiment, program PG1, output information D1, input information D2 and waveform information D3 are stored.

[0183] The processing circuit 550 is a device that controls various parts of the first external device 500 and processes various types of data. The processing circuit 550 may include, for example, one or more processors such as a CPU. Alternatively, some or all of the functions of the processing circuit 550 may be implemented using hardware such as a DSP, ASIC, PLD, or FPGA.

[0184] The processing circuit 550 functions as both a first output unit 552 and a first input unit 553 by reading and executing the program PG1 from the storage circuit 540. Furthermore, in this embodiment, although the program PG1 stored in the storage circuit 540 does not cause the processing circuit 550 to perform functions equivalent to the acquisition unit 251 and the determination unit 254 of the first embodiment, it is possible for the processing circuit 550 to perform functions equivalent to one or both of the acquisition unit 251 and the determination unit 254. When the processing circuit 550 performs functions equivalent to the determination unit 254, the waveform determination of the drive pulse PD can be performed by the first external device 500 instead of the processing device 200B. When the processing circuit 550 performs functions equivalent to the acquisition unit 251, the acquisition of output information D1 can be performed by the first external device 500 instead of the processing device 200B.

[0185] The first output unit 552 outputs output information D1 via the first connection unit 531. For example, the first output unit 552 outputs output information D1 to the server 300 via the first connection unit 531 based on an instruction or other action taken by a user using the input device 520.

[0186] Input information D2 is input to the first input unit 553 via the first connection unit 531. For example, input information D2 is input from the server 300 to the first input unit 553 via the first connection unit 531, triggered by an instruction from a user using the input device 520.

[0187] Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the liquid ejection system 10B according to the third embodiment. In the liquid ejection system 10B, firstly, as... Figure 15 As shown, in step S301, the processing device 200B acquires the output information D1. Then, in step S302, the processing device 200B outputs the output information D1 to the first external device 500.

[0188] Next, in step S303, the first external device 500 inputs the output information D1. Then, in step S304, the first external device 500 outputs the output information D1 to the server 300.

[0189] Next, in step S305, server 300 inputs output information D1. Then, in step S306, server 300 generates input information D2 based on output information D1. Subsequently, in step S307, server 300 outputs input information D2 to the first external device 500.

[0190] Next, in step S308, the first external device 500 inputs the input information D2. Then, in step S309, the first external device 500 outputs the input information D2 to the processing device 200B.

[0191] Next, in step S310, the processing device 200B inputs the input information D2. Then, in step S311, the processing device 200B generates waveform information D3 based on the input information D2.

[0192] According to the third embodiment described above, similar to the first or second embodiment, even when the manufacturer of the printer body and the head are different, the waveform of the drive pulse PD can be appropriately determined while reducing the burden on the printer body manufacturer or user. In this embodiment, as described above, the liquid ejection system 10B includes a first external device 500. The first external device 500 is communicatively connected to the processing device 200B. A first input unit 553 and a first connection unit 531 are provided in the first external device 500. Therefore, input information D2 from the server 300 can be input to the first external device 500. Furthermore, a determination unit 254 can be provided in the processing device 200B. Information related to the waveform determined by the determination unit 254 can then be input from the processing device 200B to the liquid ejection device 100. Alternatively, a functional unit equivalent to the determination unit 254 may be provided in the first external device 500. In this case, information related to the waveform determined by the functional unit may be input from the first external device 500 to the liquid ejection device 100 via the processing device 200B.

[0193] Furthermore, as described above, the processing device 200B and the first external device 500 are interconnected in a manner that enables communication via short-range wireless communication. Therefore, input information D2 can be input from the first external device 500 to the processing device 200B in a convenient communication environment. Additionally, if the first external device 500 is provided with a functional unit corresponding to the determination unit 254, information related to the waveform determined in that functional unit can also be input from the first external device 500 to the processing device 200B.

[0194] 4. Fourth Implementation Method

[0195] The fourth embodiment of the present invention will now be described. For elements that function or operate the same as in the first embodiment in the following examples, the reference numerals used in the description of the first embodiment will be retained, and detailed descriptions of each will be omitted as appropriate.

[0196] Figure 16This is a schematic diagram illustrating a structural example of the liquid ejection system 10C according to the fourth embodiment. The liquid ejection system 10C is configured in the same manner as the first embodiment, except that it has liquid ejection devices 100C_1 to 100C_3 and processing devices 200A_1 to 200A_3 instead of liquid ejection devices 100_1 to 100_3 and processing devices 200B_1 to 200B_3, and a first external device 500_1 to 500_3 is added. That is, the liquid ejection system 10C is configured in the same manner as the third embodiment, except that it has liquid ejection devices 100C_1 to 100C_3 and processing devices 200A_1 to 200A_3 instead of liquid ejection devices 100_1 to 100_3 and processing devices 200B_1 to 200B_3. The processing device 200A is configured in the same manner as the processing device 200A of the second embodiment.

[0197] In this embodiment, the first external device 500_1 is communicatively connected to the liquid dispensing device 100C_1 and communicatively connected to the server 300 via the communication network NW. The first external device 500_2 is communicatively connected to the liquid dispensing device 100C_2 and communicatively connected to the server 300 via the communication network NW. The first external device 500_3 is communicatively connected to the liquid dispensing device 100C_3 and communicatively connected to the server 300 via the communication network NW. Thus, the first external devices 500_1 to 500_3 correspond to the liquid dispensing devices 100C_1 to 100C_3 respectively, are communicatively connected to the liquid dispensing devices 100C_1 to 100C_3, and are communicatively connected to the server 300 via the communication network NW. The following is a case where each of the liquid ejection devices 100C_1 to 100C_3 is referred to as liquid ejection device 100C without distinguishing between them.

[0198] In addition, although Figure 16 In the example shown, the liquid ejection system 10C has three of each of the first external device 500, the liquid ejection device 100C, and the processing device 200A, but this number is not limited to this and may be one, two, or more than four. That is, the group of the first external device 500, the liquid ejection device 100C, and the processing device 200A is not limited to three groups and may be one, two, or more than four groups.

[0199] The liquid ejection device 100C is configured in the same manner as the liquid ejection device 100A in the second embodiment, except that it can communicate with the server 300 and the processing device 200A respectively.

[0200] Figure 17This is a schematic diagram illustrating a structural example of the liquid ejection device 100C used in the liquid ejection system 10C according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 17 As shown, the liquid ejection device 100C is configured in the same manner as the liquid ejection device 100A of the second embodiment, except that it has a head unit 110C instead of a head unit 110A. The head unit 110C is configured in the same manner as the head unit 110A, except that it has a control module 110d instead of a control module 110c. The control module 110d is the same as the control module 110c, except that the communication device 115 functions as a proximity connection unit 115b and the processing circuit 117 functions as an acquisition unit 117a and a determination unit 117d.

[0201] In this embodiment, the communication device 115 is a circuit capable of communicating with the first external device 500. For example, the communication device 115 is an interface such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, which are short-range wireless communication interfaces. That is, the communication device 115 functions as a short-range connection part 115b that can connect to the short-range connection part 532 of the first external device 500 in a manner that enables communication using short-range wireless communication, and through this function, output information D1 is output to the first external device 500, or input information D2 from the first external device 500 is input.

[0202] Figure 18 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of the liquid ejection system 10C according to the fourth embodiment. In the liquid ejection system 10C, firstly, as... Figure 18 As shown, in step S401, the liquid ejection device 100C acquires output information D1. Then, in step S402, the liquid ejection device 100C outputs the output information D1 to the first external device 500.

[0203] Next, in step S403, the first external device 500 inputs the output information D1. Then, in step S404, the first external device 500 outputs the output information D1 to the server 300.

[0204] Next, in step S405, server 300 inputs output information D1. Then, in step S406, server 300 generates input information D2 based on output information D1. Subsequently, in step S407, server 300 outputs input information D2 to the first external device 500.

[0205] Next, in step S408, the first external device 500 inputs the input information D2. Then, in step S409, the first external device 500 outputs the input information D2 to the liquid ejection device 100C.

[0206] Next, in step S410, the liquid ejection device 100C inputs the input information D2. Then, in step S411, the liquid ejection device 100C generates waveform information D3 based on the input information D2.

[0207] According to the fourth embodiment described above, similar to the first to third embodiments, even when the manufacturer of the printer body and the manufacturer of the printhead are different, the waveform of the drive pulse PD can be appropriately determined while reducing the burden on the printer body manufacturer or user. In this embodiment, as described above, the liquid ejection system 10C has a first external device 500. The first external device 500 is communicatively connected to the liquid ejection device 100C. A first input unit 553 and a first connection unit 531 are provided in the first external device 500. Therefore, input information D2 from the server 300 can be input to the first external device 500. Furthermore, a determination unit 117d can be provided in the liquid ejection device 100C. Then, information related to the waveform determined by the determination unit 117d can be used in the liquid ejection device 100C. Alternatively, a functional unit corresponding to the determination unit 117d can be provided in the first external device 500; in this case, information related to the waveform determined by the functional unit can be input from the first external device 500 to the liquid ejection device 100C.

[0208] Furthermore, as described above, the liquid ejection device 100C and the first external device 500 are interconnected in a manner that enables communication via short-range wireless communication. Therefore, by incorporating the determination unit 254 into the first external device 500, information related to the waveform determined by the determination unit 254 can be input from the first external device 500 to the liquid ejection device 100C. Furthermore, output information D1 can be output from the liquid ejection device 100C to the first external device 500, or input information D2 from the first external device 500 can be input to the liquid ejection device 100C in a convenient communication environment. Additionally, when a functional unit equivalent to the determination unit 254 is incorporated into the first external device 500, information related to the waveform determined by that functional unit can also be input from the first external device 500 to the liquid ejection device 100C.

[0209] 5. Variations

[0210] The liquid ejection system of the present invention has been described above based on the illustrated embodiments, but the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. Furthermore, the structure of each part of the present invention can be replaced with any structure that performs the same function as the foregoing embodiments, and arbitrary structures can also be added.

[0211] 5-1. Variation Example 1

[0212] While the foregoing example illustrates a scenario where output information D1 includes first output information D1a, second output information D1b, and third output information D1c, it is not limited to this. For example, one or two of the first output information D1a, second output information D1b, and third output information D1c may be omitted. Furthermore, information different from the first output information D1a, second output information D1b, and third output information D1c may also be included in output information D1.

[0213] 5-2. Variation Example 2

[0214] Although the foregoing description illustrates a cloud server structure for server 300, it is not limited to that structure. For example, server 300 can be a server other than a cloud server, a virtual server, or a local server.

[0215] 5-3. Variation Example 3

[0216] Although the foregoing description illustrates a piezoelectric element structure for the drive element 111f, it is not limited to this structure. For example, the drive element 111f could also be a heater for heating the ink in the pressure chamber C. That is, the driving method of the head chip 111 is not limited to a piezoelectric method; for example, it could also be a thermistor method.

[0217] Symbol Explanation

[0218] 10…Liquid ejection system; 10A…Liquid ejection system; 10B…Liquid ejection system; 10C…Liquid ejection system; 100…Liquid ejection device; 100A…Liquid ejection device; 100A_1…Liquid ejection device; 100A_2…Liquid ejection device; 100A_3…Liquid ejection device; 100C…Liquid ejection device; 100C_1…Liquid ejection device; 100C_2…Liquid ejection device; 100C_3…Liquid ejection device; 100_1…Liquid ejection device; 100_2…Liquid ejection device; 100_3…Liquid ejection device; 110…Head unit; 110A…Head unit; 110C…Head unit; 110a…Liquid ejection head; 110b…Control module; 1 10c…Control module; 110d…Control module; 111…Head chip; 111a…Flow channel substrate; 111b…Pressure chamber substrate; 111c…Nozzle plate; 111d…Vibration absorber; 111e…Vibrating plate; 111f…Drive element; 111g…Protection plate; 111h…Housing; 111i…Wiring substrate; 112…Drive circuit; 113…Power supply circuit; 114…Drive signal generation circuit; 115…Communication device; 115a…First connection part; 115b…Proximity connection part; 116…Storage circuit; 117…Processing circuit; 117a…Acquisition part; 117b…First output part; 117c…First input part; 117d…Determination part; 120…Moving mechanism; 130…Communication device 140… Storage circuit; 150… Processing circuit; 200… Processing device; 200A… Processing device; 200A_1… Processing device; 200A_2… Processing device; 200A_3… Processing device; 200B… Processing device; 200B_1… Processing device; 200B_2… Processing device; 200B_3… Processing device; 200_1… Processing device; 200_2… Processing device; 200_3… Processing device; 210… Display device; 220… Input device; 230… Communication device; 231… First connection part; 240… Storage circuit; 250… Processing circuit; 251… Acquisition part; 252… First output part; 253… First input part; 254… Determination part; 300… Server; 310… Display device; 320… Input device; 330… Communication device; 331… Second connection part; 340… Storage circuit; 350… Processing circuit; 351… Second output part; 352… Second input part; 353… Arithmetic unit; 400… Second external device; 500… First external device; 500_1… First external device; 500_2… First external device; 500_3… First external device; 510… Display device; 520… Input device; 530… Communication device; 531… First connection part; 532… Proximity connection part; 540… Storage circuit; 550… Processing circuit; 552… First output part; 553… First input part; C… Pressure chamber; Com… Drive signal;D1…Output information; D1a…First output information; D1b…Second output information; D1c…Third output information; D2…Input information; D3…Waveform information; D4…Corresponding information; D5…Waveform candidate information; DG…Information; DP…Recorded data; E…Potential; E1…Potential; E2…Potential; E3…Potential; FG…Function; FN…Nozzle face; Ha…Head; Hb…Head; Hc…Head; IH…Inlet; Ia…Ink; Ib…Ink; Ic…Ink; L1…First column; L2…Second column N… Nozzle; NW… Communication network; Na… Connecting flow channel; PD… Drive pulse; PG1… Program; PG2… Program; Pa… Waveform; Pb… Waveform; Pc… Waveform; Pd… Waveform; Pe… Waveform; Pf… Waveform; Pg… Waveform; R… Reservoir; R1… Space; R2… Space; Ra… Supply flow channel; S101… Step; S102… Step; S103… Step; S104… Step; S105… Step; S106… Step; S107… Step; S201… Step; S2 S202…step; S203…step; S204…step; S205…step; S206…step; S207…step; S301…step; S302…step; S303…step; S304…step; S305…step; S306…step; S307…step; S308…step; S309…step; S310…step; S311…step; S401…step; S402…step; S403…step; S404…step; S405…step; S406 …Step; S407…Step; S408…Step; S409…Step; S410…Step; S411…Step; SI…Print data signal; Sk…Control signal; Tu…Unit period; VBS…Bias potential; VHV…Power supply potential; dCom…Waveform specification signal; p1…Parameter; p2…Parameter; p3…Parameter; p4…Parameter; p5…Parameter; p6…Parameter; t0…Timing; t1…Timing; t2…Timing; t3…Timing; t4…Timing; t5…Timing; t6…Timing.

Claims

1. A liquid ejection system, characterized in that, have: The head unit has a nozzle for ejecting liquid, a pressure chamber in communication with the nozzle, and a drive element for changing the pressure of the liquid in the pressure chamber by supplying drive pulses. A liquid ejection device having the aforementioned head unit; A processing device communicatively connected to the liquid ejection device, which generates recorded data used in the liquid ejection device; server; The acquisition unit acquires output information related to the usage conditions of the head unit. The first connection unit is communicatively connected to the server via a network. A first output unit outputs the output information via the first connection unit; The first input section receives input information related to the waveform of the drive pulse supplied to the drive element via the first connection section; The determining unit determines the waveform of the drive pulse supplied to the drive element based on the input information; A second external device, which is communicatively connected to the server, The server has: The second connecting part is communicatively connected to the first connecting part; The second input unit receives the output information via the second connection unit; The second output unit outputs the input information via the second connection unit; The arithmetic unit performs calculations to generate the input information based on the output information; The storage unit stores corresponding information relating to the usage conditions of the head unit and the waveform of the drive pulse to be supplied to the drive element. If the usage conditions shown in the output information are not included in the usage conditions shown in the corresponding information, the arithmetic unit outputs the output information to the second external device, receives input waveform candidate information related to the candidate waveform from the second external device, and generates the input information in a manner that makes the waveform shown in the waveform candidate information become the waveform shown in the input information. When the arithmetic unit receives the input of the waveform candidate information, it appends information related to the correspondence between the usage conditions shown in the output information and the waveform shown in the waveform candidate information to the corresponding information and stores it in the storage unit.

2. The liquid ejection system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first input section and the first connection section are respectively disposed in the processing device.

3. The liquid ejection system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first input part and the first connection part are respectively disposed in the liquid ejection device.

4. The liquid ejection system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a first external device that is communicatively connected to the processing device. The first input section and the first connection section are disposed in the first external device.

5. The liquid ejection system as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The processing device and the first external device are interconnected in a manner that enables them to communicate via short-range wireless communication.

6. The liquid ejection system as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, It also has a first external device that is communicatively connected to the liquid ejection device. The first input section and the first connection section are disposed in the first external device.

7. The liquid ejection system as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The liquid ejection device and the first external device are interconnected in a manner that enables them to communicate via short-range wireless communication.

8. The liquid ejection system as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, When the usage conditions shown in the output information are included in the usage conditions shown in the corresponding information, the arithmetic unit generates the input information in such a way that the waveform corresponding to the usage conditions in the corresponding information that are consistent with the usage conditions shown in the output information becomes the waveform shown in the input information.

9. The liquid ejection system as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The output information includes first output information related to the type of the head unit.

10. The liquid ejection system as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The output information includes a second output information relating to the type of liquid used for ejection from the head unit.

11. The liquid ejection system as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The output information includes third output information related to the temperature of the head unit.

12. The liquid ejection system as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The server in question is a cloud server.

13. The liquid ejection system as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, It has one or more processors that function as the first input and the first output.

Images