Recording system and control method of recording system

Abstract

The present invention provides a recording system and a control method for the recording system, which can improve the processing speed without degrading the recording quality through a maintenance operation. When the time measured based on the displacement of the cover from the maintenance position to the separation position exceeds a specified time, the maintenance operation can be performed by ejecting a liquid. Before the start of the recording operation, the first sheet of medium is made to standby at a standby position where the medium upstream of the liquid ejection head can standby. The cover is in the separation position when the first sheet of medium in the recording operation is on standby at the standby position. During the initial control period, a post-processing operation on a second number of media that is less than the first number can be performed simultaneously with the maintenance operation, and after the end of the initial control period, a post-processing operation on the first number of media can be performed simultaneously with the maintenance operation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a recording system capable of performing a recording operation of recording on a medium by ejecting a liquid onto the medium and a post-processing operation of post-processing the recorded medium. Background Art

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a recording system including: a conveyance unit that conveys a medium along a conveyance path; a liquid ejector that ejects a liquid; a cap that can abut against the liquid ejector; and a post-processing unit that can perform a post-processing operation on the recorded medium. The cap has a function of suppressing drying of the liquid ejector by abutting against the liquid ejector when the recording operation is not performed.

[0003] In such a recording system, a recording operation of recording on a medium by ejecting a liquid from the liquid ejector can be performed. In addition, in such a recording system, during a recording operation, a maintenance operation of maintaining the liquid ejector by ejecting a liquid from the liquid ejector can be performed. The cap is displaced to a separation position separated from the liquid ejector during the execution of the recording operation, and is displaced to an abutting position abutting against the liquid ejector during the execution of the maintenance operation.

[0004] In addition, in such a recording system, during a recording operation of recording a predetermined number of media, before the recording operation is executed, the cap is displaced from the abutting position to the separation position, and after a predetermined time has elapsed based on this displacement, the recording operation is interrupted and a maintenance operation is executed. In addition, on top of this, in accordance with the execution timing of the post-processing operation, the recording operation is interrupted in order to adjust the conveyance time of the medium, but there are also cases where a maintenance operation is executed along with the interruption of the recording operation. Thus, by adjusting the execution timing of the maintenance operation, it is possible to improve the processing speed without degrading the recording quality of the medium.

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2014-54819

[0006] However, in such a recording system, there is a demand for further improving the processing speed, and there is room for improvement in the execution timing of the recording operation, the maintenance operation, and the post-processing operation. Summary of the Invention

[0007] A recording system for solving the above technical problems includes: a conveying unit configured to convey a medium on a conveying path; a liquid ejector head capable of performing a recording operation of recording the medium by ejecting liquid onto the medium; a cover capable of displacing to a separation position separated from the liquid ejector head and a maintenance position for performing maintenance on the liquid ejector head; a processing tray capable of placing the medium recorded by the liquid ejector head; a post-processing unit capable of performing a post-processing operation on the medium placed on the processing tray; and a control unit. The control unit can measure time based on the displacement of the cover from the maintenance position to the separation position. During a recording operation of recording a specified number of media, the liquid ejector head can perform the recording operation with the cover in the separation position. When the time measured by the control unit exceeds a specified time, the liquid ejector head can perform a maintenance operation based on liquid ejection with the cover in the maintenance position. The conveying path has a standby position upstream of the liquid ejector head where the medium can standby. Before the start of the recording operation in the recording operation, the conveying unit can make the first medium standby at the standby position. Before the start of the recording operation in the recording operation, when the first medium in the recording operation is standby at the standby position, the cover is in the separation position. During an initial control period in the control period accompanying the recording operation, the control unit makes the liquid ejector head perform the maintenance operation and at the same time makes the post-processing unit perform the post-processing operation on a second number of media less than the first number. After the end of the initial control period, the control unit makes the liquid ejector head perform the maintenance operation and at the same time makes the post-processing unit perform the post-processing operation on the first number of media.

[0008] A control method for a recording system that solves the above technical problems, characterized in that the recording system includes: a conveying unit configured to convey a medium on a conveying path; a liquid nozzle capable of performing a recording operation of recording on the medium by ejecting liquid onto the medium; a cover capable of displacing to a separation position separated from the liquid nozzle and a maintenance position for performing maintenance on the liquid nozzle; a processing tray capable of placing the medium recorded by the liquid nozzle; and a post-processing unit capable of performing a post-processing operation on the medium placed on the processing tray. The conveying path has a standby position upstream of the liquid nozzle where the medium can standby. The control method of this recording system has: a step of measuring time based on the displacement of the cover from the maintenance position to the separation position; a step of, during a recording operation in which the liquid nozzle performs recording on a specified number of media, causing the liquid nozzle to perform the recording operation in a state where the cover is in the separation position; a step of, when the measured time exceeds a specified time, causing the liquid nozzle to perform a maintenance operation based on the ejection of liquid in a state where the cover is in the maintenance position; a step of, before the start of the recording operation in the recording operation, causing the conveying unit to make the first medium standby at the standby position; a step of, before the start of the recording operation in the recording operation, when the first medium in the recording operation is standby at the standby position, causing the cover to be in the separation position; a step of, during an initial control period in the control period accompanying the recording operation, causing the liquid nozzle to perform the maintenance operation and at the same time causing the post-processing unit to perform the post-processing operation on a second number of media that is less than the first number; and a step of, after the end of the initial control period, causing the liquid nozzle to perform the maintenance operation and at the same time causing the post-processing unit to perform the post-processing operation on the first number of media. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 is a schematic side view showing the recording system.

[0010] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the recording apparatus.

[0011] Figure 3 is showing the post-processing apparatus Figure 1 magnified view.

[0012] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the recording control process.

[0013] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the alignment control process.

[0014] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing the relationship between the mode, each stage, and the number of processed sheets.

[0015] Figure 7 It is a timing chart showing the control content in the recording system.

[0016] Figure 8 It is a timing chart showing the control content in the recording system.

[0017] Figure 9 It is a timing chart showing the control content in the recording system.

[0018] Figure 10 It is a flowchart showing the recording control process.

[0019] Description of reference numerals:

[0020] WP: Standby position; X: Width direction; 11: Recording system; 12: Medium; 13: Recording device; 14: Post-processing device; 15: Intermediate device; 16: Conveyor path; 17: Liquid container; 19: Recording control unit; 20: Cartridge; 21: Paper feeding unit; 22: Pickup roller; 23: Separation roller; 24: Conveyor unit; 25: First conveyor roller pair; 26: Support unit; 26A: Driving motor; 27: Recording unit; 28: Liquid nozzle; 29A: Nozzle surface; 29B: Nozzle; 30: Holding unit; 31: Supply flow path; 32: Maintenance unit; 33: Cover; 34: Waste liquid flow path; 35: Suction pump; 36: Moving unit; 37: Waste liquid container; 38: Carriage tray; 39A: First discharge path; 39B: Turning path; 39C: Flipping path; 39D: Second discharge path; 40: Flipping processing unit; 41: First introduction path; 42: First turning path; 43: Second turning path; 44: First merging path; 45: Second merging path; 46: Export path; 47: Second conveyor roller pair; 48: Baffle; 50: Receiving unit; 51: Third conveyor roller pair; 52: Fourth conveyor roller pair; 53: Sensor; 54: Processing tray; 55: Carriage surface; 56: First carriage end; 57: Second carriage end; 58: First alignment unit; 59: Second alignment unit; 60: Post-processing unit; 61: First paddle unit; 61A: First paddle rotating body; 61B: First blade; 61C: First paddle rotating shaft; 62: Second paddle unit; 62A: Second paddle rotating body; 62B: Second blade; 62C: Second paddle rotating shaft; 63: Conveyor motor; 63A: First conveyor motor; 63B: Second conveyor motor; 65A: Clamping motor; 65B: Discharge motor; 66: Paper binding device; 67: Discharge unit; 68: Discharge drive roller; 69: Discharge driven roller; 70: Guide unit; 71: Support member; 72: Discharge tray; 80: Post-processing control unit. Detailed description of the embodiments

[0021] First embodiment

[0022] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the recording system will be described. The recording system performs, for example, a recording operation of recording on the medium 12 and a post-processing operation of post-processing the recorded medium 12.

[0023] Configuration of the recording system

[0024] As Figure 1 shown, the recording system 11 includes a recording device 13 that records on the medium 12. The recording system 11 includes a post-processing device 14. The post-processing device 14 performs post-processing on the medium 12 recorded by the recording device 13. The recording system 11 may also include an intermediate device 15. The intermediate device 15 is disposed between the recording device 13 and the post-processing device 14. The intermediate device 15 conveys the medium 12 recorded by the recording device 13 to the post-processing device 14.

[0025] The recording system 11 includes a conveyance path 16. The conveyance path 16 is a path that extends continuously from the recording device 13 via the intermediate device 15 into the post-processing device 14. The recording system 11 includes a plurality of pairs of conveyance rollers. The plurality of pairs of conveyance rollers convey the medium 12 along the conveyance path 16. At least one or more pairs of conveyance rollers are provided, for example, on the recording device 13, the intermediate device 15, and the post-processing device 14. In the present embodiment, the width direction of the medium 12 is represented as the width direction X.

[0026] Configuration of the recording device 13

[0027] The recording device 13 is configured to record on the medium 12. The recording device 13 of the present embodiment may also be an inkjet printer. An inkjet printer is a printer that records an image on the medium 12 by ejecting ink, which is an example of a liquid, onto the medium 12. The image includes photos, patterns, characters, marks, signs, lines, and tables, etc.

[0028] The recording device 13 has a cassette 20. The cassette 20 stores the medium 12 in a stacked state. The cassette 20 is detachably provided on the recording device 13. A plurality of cassettes 20 may also be provided.

[0029] The recording device 13 includes a paper feeding unit 21. The paper feeding unit 21 is configured to supply the medium 12 to the recording unit 27. The paper feeding unit 21 sends out the medium 12 stored in the cassette 20 to the conveyance path 16. The paper feeding unit 21 may also include a pickup roller 22 and a separation roller 23. The pickup roller 22 sends out the uppermost medium 12 among the media 12 stored in the cassette 20. The separation roller 23 separates the medium 12 sent out by the pickup roller 22 one by one.

[0030] The recording device 13 includes a conveying unit 24. The conveying unit 24 conveys the medium 12 supplied by the paper feeding unit 21 along the conveying path 16. The conveying unit 24 is configured to convey the medium 12 recorded by the recording unit 27. The conveying unit 24 includes a plurality of first conveying roller pairs 25. The plurality of first conveying roller pairs 25 are conveying roller pairs provided on the recording device 13. The plurality of first conveying roller pairs 25 are arranged along the conveying path 16. In Figure 1 one of the plurality of first conveying roller pairs 25 is representatively illustrated. The plurality of first conveying roller pairs 25 convey the medium 12 sent out from the cassette 20 along the conveying path 16 inside the recording device 13.

[0031] The recording device 13 includes a supporting unit 26. The supporting unit 26 is provided at a position along the conveying path 16. The supporting unit 26 is configured to support the medium 12. The supporting unit 26 can move between a supporting position and a retracted position. The supporting position is a position where the supporting unit 26 can support the medium 12. The retracted position is a position where the supporting unit 26 does not support the medium 12. The recording device 13 includes a driving motor 26A. The driving motor 26A is a driving source for moving the supporting unit 26 between the supporting position and the retracted position.

[0032] The recording device 13 includes a recording unit 27. The recording unit 27 is configured to record on the medium 12. The recording unit 27 is provided at a position opposite to the supporting unit 26 across the conveying path 16. The recording unit 27 includes a liquid ejector 28. The liquid ejector 28 is configured to eject liquid. The liquid ejector 28 includes a nozzle surface 29A and a plurality of nozzles 29B. The nozzle surface 29A faces the supporting unit 26. The plurality of nozzles 29B are formed on the nozzle surface 29A. The plurality of nozzles 29B eject liquid. The liquid ejector 28 records on the medium 12 by ejecting liquid from the plurality of nozzles 29B onto the medium 12 supported by the supporting unit 26.

[0033] The liquid ejector 28 of the present embodiment is, for example, a line head that includes a plurality of nozzles 29B arranged at regular intervals in the width direction X and can eject liquid over the entire width of the medium 12. It should be noted that the liquid ejector 28 may also be a serial head mounted on a carriage that reciprocates in the width direction X and ejects liquid from the plurality of nozzles 29B while moving together with the carriage.

[0034] In addition, the conveying path 16 includes a standby position WP. The standby position WP is upstream of the liquid ejector 28 in the conveying path 16. Thus, on the conveying path 16, there is a standby position WP upstream of the liquid ejector 28 where the medium 12 can standby. The standby position WP is a position where the medium 12 can standby before the recording operation is performed.

[0035] As Figure 2As shown, the recording unit 27 includes a holding unit 30. The holding unit 30 holds the liquid ejector 28. The recording unit 27 includes a supply flow path 31. The supply flow path 31 is a flow path that supplies the liquid accommodated in the liquid container 17 to the liquid ejector 28.

[0036] The recording apparatus 13 includes a maintenance unit 32. The maintenance unit 32 performs a maintenance operation for maintaining the liquid ejector 28. As maintenance of the liquid ejector 28, the maintenance unit 32 can perform flushing or cleaning. Flushing is ejecting a liquid irrelevant to recording from the plurality of nozzles 29B. Cleaning is forcibly discharging the liquid from the plurality of nozzles 29B.

[0037] The maintenance unit 32 includes a lid 33. The lid 33 can cover the nozzle surface 29A. The lid 33 can move between an abutment position and a separation position. That is, the lid 33 can be displaced to the separation position and the abutment position. The abutment position is the position indicated by the double-dashed line in Figure 2 and is the position where it abuts on the nozzle surface 29A. The separation position is the position indicated by the solid line in Figure 2 and is the position where it is separated from the nozzle surface 29A.

[0038] When the lid 33 is disposed at the abutment position, a closed space in which the plurality of nozzles 29B are open is formed by abutting on the nozzle surface 29A. In this way, the lid 33 protects the liquid ejector 28 by abutting on the liquid ejector 28. When the lid 33 is disposed at the separation position, the liquid from the plurality of nozzles 29B can be ejected onto the medium 12 by being separated from the nozzle surface 29A.

[0039] The maintenance unit 32 includes a waste liquid flow path 34, a suction pump 35, a moving unit 36, and a waste liquid container 37. The waste liquid flow path 34 is a flow path that connects the lid 33 and the waste liquid container 37. The suction pump 35 is a pump that applies negative pressure to the plurality of nozzles 29B during cleaning. The suction pump 35 is provided in the middle of the waste liquid flow path 34. The moving unit 36 moves the lid 33 between the separation position and the abutment position. The waste liquid container 37 can accommodate the liquid accommodated in the lid 33.

[0040] In particular, following the start of the maintenance operation, after the support unit 26 moves from the support position to the separation position, the moving unit 36 moves the lid 33 from the separation position to the abutment position. In this way, following the start of the maintenance operation, time is required to move the support unit 26 and the lid 33.

[0041] In addition, following the start of the recording operation, the moving unit 36 moves the lid 33 from the abutment position to the separation position. After that, the support unit 26 moves from the retracted position to the support position. In this way, following the start of the recording operation, time is required to move the support unit 26 and the lid 33.

[0042] Flushing is performed mainly under the condition that a predetermined time has elapsed after the flushing cover 33 has moved from the contact position to the separation position. The intensity of maintenance can be made different by varying the ejection amount of the liquid and the processing time during flushing. As a specific example, flushing includes strong flushing and weak flushing. Weak flushing has a lower maintenance intensity compared to strong flushing. Specifically, weak flushing has a smaller ejection amount of the liquid and a shorter processing time compared to strong flushing.

[0043] As Figure 1 shown, the recording device 13 includes a mounting tray 38. A medium 12 discharged from the inside of the recording device 13 is mounted on the mounting tray 38. The recording device 13 includes a first discharge path 39A, a turning path 39B, a flipping path 39C, and a second discharge path 39D as part of the transport path 16. The first discharge path 39A is a path through which the medium 12 is discharged. The medium 12 discharged from the first discharge path 39A is mounted on the mounting tray 38. The turning path 39B is a path through which the medium 12 is transported while being turned. The flipping path 39C is a path through which the front and back sides of the medium 12 are flipped. The second discharge path 39D is a path through which the medium 12 is discharged. The medium 12 discharged from the second discharge path 39D is sent to the intermediate device 15. In this way, the medium 12 recorded by the liquid ejector 28 is discharged to the mounting tray 38 through the first discharge path 39A, or sent to the intermediate device 15 through the second discharge path 39D.

[0044] In the case of performing double-sided recording, the medium 12 for single-sided recording is turned in the turning path 39B after being transported to the turning path 39B. As a result, the medium 12 for single-sided recording is transported from the turning path 39B to the flipping path 39C. The medium 12 flipped in the flipping path 39C is transported to the liquid ejector 28 again and then recorded by the liquid ejector 28 on the surface opposite to the already recorded surface. In this way, the recording device 13 performs double-sided recording on the medium 12.

[0045] The recording device 13 includes a recording control unit 19. The recording control unit 19 can also uniformly control the driving of each mechanism in the recording device 13 and control various operations performed by the recording device 13. The recording control unit 19 can also include one or more processors that execute various processes according to a computer program, one or more dedicated hardware circuits such as application-specific integrated circuits that execute at least a part of the various processes, or a combination thereof. The processor includes a CPU and a memory. The memory is a RAM, a ROM, etc., and stores program codes or instructions configured to cause the CPU to execute processes. The memory, i.e., the computer-readable medium, includes all readable media that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.

[0046] When the recording control unit 19 receives recording job information input from a terminal device (not shown), it performs recording on the medium 12 based on the recording job information. The recording job information is information that can at least determine the execution of the recording job. The recording job represents a series of actions for recording at least a specified number of media 12. The specified number can be one or multiple.

[0047] The recording job information includes image data for recording on the medium 12. The recording job information includes medium type information. The medium type information is information that can determine the type of the recorded medium 12. The type of the medium 12 includes the size of the medium 12. The recording job information includes total recording sheet number information. The total recording sheet number information is information that can determine the total recording sheet number of the recorded medium 12.

[0048] The recording job information includes post-processing related information. The post-processing related information is information related to post-processing, and is information that can determine whether it is a recording accompanied by post-processing and the type of post-processing. The recording job information includes mode information. The mode information is information that can determine the mode controlled in the recording job. The mode is control information related to the recording of the medium 12 and the post-processing of the medium 12 after recording.

[0049] The recording control unit 19 can communicate with the intermediate device 15 via a communication unit (not shown). The recording control unit 19 can communicate with the post-processing device 14 via a communication unit (not shown). In the present embodiment, when the recording control unit 19 receives recording job information for a recording accompanied by post-processing, it can send post-processing information related to the post-processing to the post-processing device 14.

[0050] The post-processing information includes medium type information. The post-processing information includes total recording sheet number information. The post-processing information includes post-processing related information. The post-processing information includes mode information. In this way, the recording control unit 19, as an example of the control unit, is configured to perform at least control related to the recording of the medium 12 as a prescribed control.

[0051] Configuration of the intermediate device 15

[0052] The intermediate device 15 is a device that discharges the recorded medium 12 sent from the recording device 13 to the post-processing device 14. The intermediate device 15 may include a flipping processing unit 40. The flipping processing unit 40 flips the fed medium 12.

[0053] The flipping processing unit 40 may include a first introduction path 41, a first turning path 42, a second turning path 43, a first merging path 44, a second merging path 45, and an export path 46 as part of the transport path 16.

[0054] The turning processing unit 40 may also include a plurality of second conveying roller pairs 47. The plurality of second conveying roller pairs 47 are conveying roller pairs provided on the intermediate device 15. The plurality of second conveying roller pairs 47 are arranged along the conveying path 16. In Figure 1 one of the plurality of second conveying roller pairs 47 is representatively illustrated.

[0055] The turning processing unit 40 may also include a baffle 48. The baffle 48 guides the medium 12 to either the first turning path 42 or the second turning path 43 at the branch portion where the medium branches from the first introduction path 41 to the first turning path 42 and the second turning path 43. In this way, the baffle 48 switches the conveyance destination of the medium 12 conveyed from the first introduction path 41 between the first turning path 42 and the second turning path 43.

[0056] The medium 12 conveyed to the first turning path 42 is turned in the first turning path 42, flipped in the first merging path 44, and then conveyed to the discharge path 46. On the other hand, the medium 12 conveyed from the first introduction path 41 to the second turning path 43 is turned in the second turning path 43, flipped in the second merging path 45, and then conveyed to the discharge path 46. The intermediate device 15 can, for example, alternately feed the medium 12 into the first turning path 42 and the second turning path 43.

[0057] Configuration of the post-processing device 14

[0058] The post-processing device 14 is a device that performs post-processing on the recorded medium 12 fed from the intermediate device 15. That is, the post-processing device 14 is configured to be able to receive the medium 12 recorded by the recording device 13 and perform post-processing on the received medium 12.

[0059] The post-processing device 14 includes a receiving unit 50. The receiving unit 50 is provided on the conveying path 16. The receiving unit 50 is configured to receive the medium 12 fed from the intermediate device 15. In this way, the receiving unit 50 can receive the medium 12 recorded by the recording device 13.

[0060] The post-processing device 14 may also include a third conveying roller pair 51. The third conveying roller pair 51 is a conveying roller pair provided on the post-processing device 14. The third conveying roller pair 51 is arranged along the conveying path 16. The third conveying roller pair 51 is configured to convey the recorded medium 12 received by the receiving unit 50.

[0061] The post-processing device 14 may also include a fourth conveying roller pair 52. The fourth conveying roller pair 52 is a conveying roller pair provided on the post-processing device 14. The fourth conveying roller pair 52 is provided at the end of the conveying path 16.

[0062] The post-processing device 14 is provided with a sensor 53. The sensor 53 is disposed between the third conveying roller pair 51 and the fourth conveying roller pair 52 in the conveying path 16. In other words, the sensor 53 is disposed upstream of the fourth conveying roller pair 52. The sensor 53 detects the leading end and the trailing end of the fed medium 12.

[0063] In the present embodiment, the post-processing device 14 conveys the medium 12 on the conveying path 16 in the post-processing device 14 at a prescribed conveying speed. In the present embodiment, when the trailing end of the medium 12 passes through the fourth conveying roller pair 52, the medium 12 drops from the fourth conveying roller pair 52.

[0064] As Figure 3 shown, the post-processing device 14 is provided with a processing tray 54. The processing tray 54 is a tray on which the medium 12 conveyed by the third conveying roller pair 51 and the fourth conveying roller pair 52 is placed. That is, the processing tray 54 is a tray on which the recorded medium 12 recorded by the recording unit 27 of the recording device 13 can be placed. In addition, the processing tray 54 can place the medium 12 to be post-processed.

[0065] The processing tray 54 is located below the fourth conveying roller pair 52. The processing tray 54 receives the medium 12 that drops from the fourth conveying roller pair 52. Thereby, the medium 12 is placed on the processing tray 54. At this time, sometimes the medium 12 is placed on the processing tray 54 such that the leading end of the medium 12 protrudes from the processing tray 54.

[0066] The processing tray 54 is provided with a placement surface 55. The placement surface 55 is a surface on which the medium 12 is placed. The placement surface 55 is provided with a first placement end 56 and a second placement end 57 opposite to the first placement end 56. The placement surface 55 is inclined so as to extend upward from the first placement end 56 toward the second placement end 57. That is, the first placement end 56 is located lower than the second placement end 57.

[0067] The post-processing device 14 is provided with a first alignment unit 58. The first alignment unit 58 is connected to the first placement end 56 of the processing tray 54. The first alignment unit 58 is provided with a surface that abuts against the trailing end of the medium 12 placed on the processing tray 54. In the present embodiment, the placement surface 55 is inclined so as to extend upward from the first placement end 56 to the second placement end 57. In addition, the friction coefficient of the processing tray 54 is smaller than that of the placed medium 12. Therefore, the medium 12 placed on the placement surface 55 easily slides toward the first alignment unit 58 due to the action of gravity, and the trailing end of the medium 12 easily abuts against the first alignment unit 58. When the trailing end of the medium 12 abuts against the first alignment unit 58, the trailing end of the medium 12 is aligned with the first alignment unit 58 as a reference. In particular, when the sizes of the multiple placed media 12 are the same, by aligning the trailing ends of the media 12, the leading ends of the media 12 are also aligned.

[0068] The post-processing device 14 may also include a pair of second alignment parts 59 arranged in the width direction X. The second alignment parts 59 may also be edge guides, for example. The pair of second alignment parts 59 are provided on the processing tray 54. The pair of second alignment parts 59 are configured to be movable in the width direction X. By moving, the pair of second alignment parts 59 can expand or contract their intervals. The pair of second alignment parts 59 align the two side ends of the medium 12 by contacting the two side ends of the medium 12 placed on the placement surface 55. The side ends of the medium 12 are the two ends of the rectangular medium 12 except for the front end and the rear end. In this way, the pair of second alignment parts 59 can align the two side ends of the medium 12 placed on the processing tray 54.

[0069] The post-processing device 14 may also include a first paddle part 61 and a second paddle part 62. The first paddle part 61 and the second paddle part 62 are configured to convey the medium 12 placed on the processing tray 54 toward the first alignment part 58.

[0070] The first paddle part 61 includes a first paddle rotating body 61A, a first blade 61B, and a first paddle rotating shaft 61C. The first paddle rotating body 61A is supported by the first paddle rotating shaft 61C. The first paddle rotating body 61A rotates counterclockwise about the first paddle rotating shaft 61C Figure 2 in the [direction not specified]. The first paddle rotating shaft 61C extends in the width direction X.

[0071] The first blade 61B extends outward from the first paddle rotating body 61A. One or more first blades 61B are provided. The first blade 61B is made of an elastic material such as rubber or an elastomer, for example. The first blade 61B is provided in a plate shape, for example.

[0072] In a state where the front end portion of the first blade 61B is in contact with the upper surface of the medium 12 placed on the processing tray 54, the first blade 61B bends as the first paddle rotating body 61A rotates. Due to the reaction force of this bending, a frictional force is generated between the front end portion of the first blade 61B and the upper surface of the medium 12. The first paddle part 61 conveys the medium 12 toward the first placement end portion 56 by the frictional force between the front end portion of the first blade 61B and the upper surface of the medium 12.

[0073] The second paddle part 62 includes a second paddle rotating body 62A, a second blade 62B, and a second paddle rotating shaft 62C. The second paddle part 62 is smaller in size than the first paddle part 61, but has the same configuration as the first paddle part 61.

[0074] The post-processing device 14 includes a first conveying motor 63A and a second conveying motor 63B. The first conveying motor 63A is a drive source for rotating the first paddle portion 61. The second conveying motor 63B is a drive source for rotating the second paddle portion 62. Hereinafter, the first conveying motor 63A and the second conveying motor 63B may be collectively referred to as the conveying motor 63.

[0075] The post-processing device 14 includes a post-processing unit 60. The post-processing unit 60 is configured to perform post-processing on the medium 12 placed on the processing tray 54. That is, the post-processing unit 60 is configured to perform post-processing on the medium 12 received by the receiving unit 50. The post-processing can be, for example, a binding process, but in addition to the binding process, it can also be a perforation process, a folding process, a displacement process, a bar stacking process, etc. The binding process is a process of binding multiple media 12 and then discharging them. The perforation process is a process of perforating one or more media 12 and then discharging them. The folding process is a process of folding the medium 12 and then discharging it. The displacement process is a process of displacing the medium 12 by part and then discharging it. The bar stacking process is a process of discharging multiple media 12 as a bundle of media without displacing their positions by part and a process of discharging one medium 12 without displacement.

[0076] The post-processing unit 60 may also include a paper binding device 66. The paper binding device 66 binds multiple media 12. The post-processing unit 60 may not include the paper binding device 66, but may include, for example, a perforation device, a folding device, etc.

[0077] The post-processing unit 60 may also include a discharging unit 67. The discharging unit 67 includes, for example, a discharging drive roller 68 and a discharging driven roller 69. The discharging drive roller 68 contacts the medium 12 placed on the processing tray 54 from below. The discharging driven roller 69 is located above the discharging drive roller 68. In the present embodiment, the discharging driven roller 69 is configured to be movable. The discharging driven roller 69 can move between a clamping position close to the discharging drive roller 68 and a retracted position away from the discharging drive roller 68. The discharging driven roller 69 contacts the medium 12 by approaching the discharging drive roller 68. At this time, the discharging driven roller 69 contacts the medium 12 placed on the processing tray 54 from above.

[0078] In a state where the discharging drive roller 68 and the discharging driven roller 69 clamp the medium 12 placed on the processing tray 54, the discharging unit 67 discharges the medium 12 by rotating the discharging drive roller 68. In this way, the discharging unit 67 discharges the post-processed medium 12 from the processing tray 54.

[0079] The discharging unit 67 includes a clamping motor 65A. The clamping motor 65A is a drive source for moving the discharging driven roller 69. The discharging unit 67 includes a discharging motor 65B. The discharging motor 65B is a drive source for rotating the discharging drive roller 68.

[0080] The post-processing device 14 may also include a guiding portion 70, a pair of supporting members 71, and a discharge tray 72. The guiding portion 70 is provided in a plate shape, for example. The guiding portion 70 suppresses the upward displacement of the medium 12 by contacting the medium 12 discharged from the discharge portion 67.

[0081] The pair of supporting members 71 are located below the guiding portion 70. The pair of supporting members 71 are arranged in the width direction X. The pair of supporting members 71 temporarily support the medium 12 discharged from the discharge portion 67. The pair of supporting members 71 support the medium 12 by contacting the side end portions of the medium 12. The pair of supporting members 71 are configured to be movable in the width direction X. That is, the pair of supporting members 71 can expand or contract their intervals. The pair of supporting members 71 support the side end portions of the medium 12 by making their intervals coincide with the width of the medium 12. The pair of supporting members 71 cause the supported medium 12 to fall by expanding their intervals in the state of supporting the medium 12. It should be noted that the pair of supporting members 71 are not limited to the case where the medium 12 is discharged from the processing tray 54 by the discharge portion 67, and sometimes support the front end of the medium 12 when the medium 12 falls from the fourth conveying roller pair 52 to the processing tray 54.

[0082] The discharge tray 72 is located below the pair of supporting members 71. The medium 12 that has fallen from the pair of supporting members 71 is placed on the discharge tray 72. The discharge tray 72 may also be lifted and lowered according to the amount of the medium 12 placed thereon.

[0083] The post-processing device 14 includes a post-processing control unit 80. The post-processing control unit 80 may also uniformly control the driving of each mechanism in the post-processing device 14 and control various operations performed by the post-processing device 14. The post-processing control unit 80 may also include one or more processors that execute various processes according to a computer program, one or more dedicated hardware circuits such as application-specific integrated circuits that execute at least a part of the various processes, or a combination thereof. The processor includes a CPU and a memory. The memory is a RAM, a ROM, etc., and stores program codes or instructions configured to cause the CPU to execute processes. The memory, that is, the computer-readable medium, includes all readable media that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.

[0084] In particular, the post-processing control unit 80 can communicate with the recording device 13 via a communication unit (not shown). Based on the signal from the sensor 53, the post-processing control unit 80 can detect the front end and the rear end of the fed medium 12. By driving the conveyance motor 63, the post-processing control unit 80 can rotate the first paddle unit 61 and the second paddle unit 62. The post-processing control unit 80 can cause the post-processing unit 60 to perform post-processing. In particular, by driving the clamping motor 65A, the post-processing control unit 80 can move the discharge driven roller 69. By driving the discharge motor 65B, the post-processing control unit 80 can rotate the discharge driving roller 68. In this way, the post-processing control unit 80 can control the post-processing device 14 and can at least perform control related to post-processing.

[0085] Mode

[0086] In the present embodiment, in the recording system 11, it is possible to control any one of a plurality of modes. The plurality of modes may also be modes based on recording job information. The plurality of modes include a first mode and a second mode. The first mode and the second mode are modes for performing recording accompanied by post-processing, and are modes for performing bar stacking processing as the type of post-processing. In addition, compared with the second mode, the first mode is a mode in which, based on the start of the recording job, the timing of the recording action and the timing of the post-processing action are advanced for the first sheet of medium 12 in the recording job. That is, compared with the second mode, the first mode is a mode in which the processing speed of the first sheet of medium 12 in the recording job is increased. Hereinafter, the number of sheets of the medium 12 may be expressed as the number of sheets based on the start of the recording job.

[0087] After the recording job information is input, the recording job is started. When the recording job is started, image processing of the image data included in the recording job information is performed.

[0088] In particular, the first mode is a mode in which, during the image processing of the image data, the first sheet of medium 12 is conveyed from the cassette 20 to the standby position WP and the first sheet of medium 12 stands by at the standby position WP. The second mode is a mode in which the first sheet of medium 12 is conveyed from the cassette 20 after the image processing of the image data is completed. In this way, compared with the second mode, the first mode is a mode in which the start timing of the recording of the first sheet of medium 12 can be advanced based on the start of the recording job.

[0089] In addition, the first mode is a mode in which the cover 33 is moved from the abutting position to the separating position when the image processing of the image data is started. The second mode is a mode in which the cover 33 is moved from the abutting position to the separating position after the image processing of the image data is completed. In this way, compared with the second mode, the first mode is also a mode in which, based on the start of the recording job, accompanying the advance of the start timing of the recording of the first sheet of medium 12, the timing of moving the cover 33 from the abutting position to the separating position is also advanced.

[0090] In addition, the first mode is a mode in which when starting the image processing of the image data, the support portion 26 is moved from the retracted position to the supported position. The second mode is a mode in which after the image processing of the image data is completed, the support portion 26 is moved from the retracted position to the supported position. In this way, compared with the second mode, the first mode is a mode in which, based on the start of the recording operation, the timing of moving the support portion 26 from the retracted position to the supported position is advanced along with the advancement of the start timing of the recording of the first sheet of medium 12.

[0091] In addition, the first mode is a mode in which when the first sheet of medium 12 is placed on the processing tray 54, the first sheet of medium 12 is discharged from the processing tray 54 without waiting for the second and subsequent sheets of medium 12. In addition, the first mode is a mode in which for the second and subsequent sheets of medium 12 during the recording operation, a plurality of sheets of medium 12 are discharged as a bundle of media from the processing tray 54. The second mode is a mode in which after the first sheet of medium 12 is placed on the processing tray 54, the second and subsequent sheets of medium 12 are waited for, and a plurality of sheets of medium 12 are discharged as a bundle of media from the processing tray 54. In this way, compared with the second mode, the first mode is a mode in which the discharge timing of the first sheet of medium 12 can be advanced. Thus, compared with the second mode, the first mode is a mode in which, based on the start of the recording operation, the timing at which the first sheet of medium 12 can be confirmed can be advanced.

[0092] Recording control process

[0093] Next, refer to Figure 4 The recording control process will be described. The recording control process is a process executed by the recording control unit 19 of the recording device 13 on the occasion of inputting recording operation information capable of determining the first mode or recording operation information capable of determining the second mode.

[0094] In step S11, the recording control unit 19 starts the image processing based on the input recording operation information. The image processing is a process of generating recording data based on the image data included in the input recording operation information. The image processing is a process executed in a process different from the recording control process when starting in step S11. Therefore, after the recording control unit 19 starts the image processing in step S11, even during the execution of the image processing, steps S12 to S17 can be executed in parallel. When this process ends, the recording control unit 19 transfers the process to step S12.

[0095] In step S12, the recording control unit 19 determines whether it is controlled to the first mode based on the recording operation information. When the recording control unit 19 determines that it is controlled to the first mode, the process proceeds to step S13. When the recording control unit 19 determines that it is not controlled to the first mode, the process proceeds to step S17. That is, when the recording control unit 19 determines that it is controlled to the second mode, the process proceeds to step S17.

[0096] In step S13, the recording control unit 19 performs the cover separation process. In this process, the control moving unit 36 is controlled to move the cover 33 from the abutting position to the separating position. Thereby, the cover 33 changes from the state of abutting against the liquid ejector 28 to the state of being separated from the liquid ejector 28. In addition, the recording control unit 19 controls the drive motor 26A to move the support portion 26 from the retracted position to the support position. When this process ends, the recording control unit 19 transfers the process to step S14.

[0097] In step S14, the recording control unit 19 performs the measurement start process. In this process, the recording control unit 19 starts measuring the time for performing the maintenance operation on the occasion of the cover 33 moving from the abutting position to the separating position. In this case, the recording control unit 19 sets a value representing a prescribed time in the maintenance time counter. The maintenance time counter is allocated to the memory of the recording control unit 19. The maintenance time counter is a counter for determining whether a prescribed time has elapsed after the cover 33 moves from the abutting position to the separating position. The recording control unit 19 can determine whether a prescribed time has elapsed after the cover 33 moves from the abutting position to the separating position by updating the maintenance time counter at a prescribed cycle in a process different from the recording control process. In this way, the recording control unit 19 can measure time based on the displacement of the cover 33 from the abutting position to the separating position. When this process ends, the recording control unit 19 transfers the process to step S15.

[0098] In step S15, the recording control unit 19 performs the initial feeding process. Before performing the recording operation based on the recording operation information, the recording control unit 19 controls the paper feeding unit 21 to supply the medium 12 in the supply cassette 20. In addition, the recording control unit 19 controls the conveying unit 24 to convey the supplied medium 12 along the conveying path 16 to the standby position WP.

[0099] In this way, before the recording control unit 19 performs the recording operation based on the recording job information, it makes the first medium 12 standby upstream of the liquid ejection head 28. In other words, in the first mode, the conveyance unit 24 can make the first medium 12 standby at the standby position WP before the start of the recording operation in the recording job. In addition, in this case, the cover separation process is performed in step S13. In the first mode, before the start of the recording operation in the recording job, when the first medium 12 in the recording job is standby at the standby position WP, the cover 33 is located at the separation position. When this process ends, the recording control unit 19 transfers the process to step S16.

[0100] In step S16, the recording control unit 19 determines whether the recording start condition is satisfied. The recording start condition may be satisfied when a predetermined time has elapsed since the input of the recording job information. As this predetermined time, it may also be a time sufficient until the end of image processing. When the recording control unit 19 determines that the recording start condition is not satisfied, it transfers the process to step S16 again. When the recording control unit 19 determines that the recording start condition is satisfied, it transfers the process to step S18. In this way, the recording control unit 19 repeatedly makes the determination in step S16 until the recording start condition is satisfied, and when the recording start condition is satisfied, it transfers the process to step S18.

[0101] In step S18, the recording control unit 19 performs the initial recording process. In this process, the recording control unit 19 controls the conveyance unit 24 to convey the first medium 12 at the standby position WP along the conveyance path 16. In addition, the recording control unit 19 records the medium 12 by ejecting liquid from the liquid ejection head 28. That is, the initial recording process is a process of performing a recording operation on the medium 12 that has been previously conveyed to the standby position WP.

[0102] In this way, in the recording job of recording a specified number of media 12, the recording control unit 19 can make the liquid ejection head 28 perform the recording operation in a state where the cover 33 is located at the separation position. In other words, in the recording job of recording a specified number of media 12, the liquid ejection head 28 can perform the recording operation in a state where the cover 33 is located at the separation position.

[0103] In addition, accompanying the execution of the initial recording process, the recording control unit 19 counts the number of recorded media 12 in the recording job by updating the recording number counter. The recording number counter is allocated to the memory of the recording control unit 19. The recording number counter is a counter for determining the number of recorded media 12 in one recording job. When this process ends, the recording control unit 19 transfers the process to step S21.

[0104] On the other hand, in step S17, the recording control unit 19, similar to step S16, determines whether the recording start condition is satisfied. When the recording control unit 19 determines that the recording start condition is not satisfied, it transfers the process back to step S17 again. When the recording control unit 19 determines that the recording start condition is satisfied, it transfers the process to step S19.

[0105] In step S19, the recording control unit 19, similar to step S13, performs the cover separation process. When this process ends, the recording control unit 19 transfers the process to step S20.

[0106] In step S20, the recording control unit 19, similar to step S14, performs the measurement start process. When this process ends, the recording control unit 19 transfers the process to step S21.

[0107] In step S21, the recording control unit 19 performs the normal recording process. In this process, the recording control unit 19 controls the paper supply unit 21 to supply the medium 12 in the cassette 20, and controls the conveying unit 24 to convey the supplied medium 12 along the conveying path 16. In addition, the recording control unit 19 records on the medium 12 by ejecting liquid from the liquid nozzle 28.

[0108] In addition, along with the execution of the normal recording process, the recording control unit 19 counts the number of recorded sheets of the medium 12 in the recording job by updating the recording sheet counter. When this process ends, the recording control unit 19 transfers the process to step S22.

[0109] In this way, in the initial recording process and the normal recording process, the recording control unit 19 can make the liquid nozzle 28 perform the recording action in the state where the cover 33 is in the separated position. That is, in the recording job of recording a specified number of sheets of the medium 12, the liquid nozzle 28 can perform the recording action in the state where the cover 33 is in the separated position.

[0110] In particular, the initial recording process is a process of conveying the medium 12 that has been standing by at the standby position WP along the conveying path 16 and performing the recording action. The normal recording process is a process of supplying the medium 12 from the cassette 20 without previously conveying the medium 12 to the standby position WP, conveying the supplied medium 12 along the conveying path 16, and performing the recording action. That is, the initial recording process is a process that can shorten the time until the recording action is performed compared to the normal recording process.

[0111] As a view of the mode, when the recording control unit 19 performs image processing after the start of the recording operation in the first mode, it causes the first sheet medium 12 to standby at the standby position WP. When the recording control unit 19 performs image processing after the start of the recording operation in the first mode, it moves the cover 33 from the contact position to the separation position and moves the support portion 26 from the retracted position to the support position. Therefore, after the recording start condition is satisfied, the recording control unit 19 can transport the first sheet medium 12 standing by at the standby position WP without moving the cover 33 and the support portion 26.

[0112] On the other hand, when the recording control unit 19 performs image processing after the start of the recording operation in the second mode, it does not transport the first sheet medium 12. When the recording control unit 19 performs image processing after the start of the recording operation in the second mode, it does not move the cover 33 from the contact position to the separation position and does not move the support portion 26 from the retracted position to the support position. In addition, when the recording control unit 19 performs image processing after the start of the recording operation in the second mode, after the image processing is completed and the recording start condition is satisfied, it moves the cover 33 from the contact position to the separation position and moves the support portion 26 from the retracted position to the support position. In addition, when the recording control unit 19 performs image processing after the start of the recording operation in the second mode, after the image processing is completed and the recording start condition is satisfied, it transports the first sheet medium 12 from the cassette 20.

[0113] In step S22, the recording control unit 19 reads the value from the maintenance time counter and determines whether the time measured after the cover 33 is displaced from the contact position to the separation position exceeds a specified time. The specified time is shorter than the time of the recording operation for recording the medium 12 of the first sheet number S1 and longer than the time of recording the medium 12 of the number obtained by subtracting "1" from the first sheet number S1. Therefore, when the recording control unit 19 performs the recording operation immediately after the cover 33 is displaced from the contact position to the separation position, it determines that the specified time has elapsed every time it performs the recording operation for recording the medium 12 of the first sheet number S1. When the recording control unit 19 determines that the measured time exceeds the specified time, it transfers the process to step S27. When the recording control unit 19 determines that the measured time does not exceed the specified time, it transfers the process to step S23.

[0114] In step S23, the recording control unit 19 determines whether it is the first mode and whether the number of recording sheets in the recording operation is the initial number of sheets. The initial number of sheets is the number of sheets that serves as a reference for initially performing the maintenance operation after the start of the recording operation in the first mode. In addition, in the first mode, the initial number of sheets is set so that after the start of the recording operation, before the measured time exceeds the specified time, the number of recording sheets in the recording operation becomes the initial number of sheets. The initial number of sheets is allocated to the memory of the recording control unit 19. The initial number of sheets is multiple sheets, for example, equivalent to 4 sheets.

[0115] The recording control unit 19 reads the value from the recording sheet counter and determines the number of recording sheets of the medium 12 recorded during the recording operation. The recording control unit 19 determines whether the number of recording sheets is the initial number of sheets. In addition, the recording control unit 19, similar to step S12, determines whether it is the first mode.

[0116] When the recording control unit 19 determines that it is the first mode and the number of recording sheets during the recording operation is the initial number of sheets, it transfers the process to step S27. When the recording control unit 19 determines that it is not the first mode or the number of recording sheets during the recording operation is not the initial number of sheets, it transfers the process to step S24.

[0117] In step S24, the recording control unit 19 determines whether the recording operation during the recording job has ended. When the recording control unit 19 determines that the recording operation during the recording job has not ended, it transfers the process back to step S21 again. Thus, the recording control unit 19 repeatedly executes the normal recording process until the recording operation during the recording job ends. When the recording control unit 19 determines that the recording operation during the recording job has ended, it transfers the process to step S25.

[0118] In step S25, the recording control unit 19 performs the capping process. In this process, the recording control unit 19 controls the drive motor 26A to move the support portion 26 from the support position to the retracted position. In addition, the recording control unit 19 controls the moving portion 36 to move the cover 33 from the separated position to the abutting position. Thus, the cover 33 changes from the state of being separated from the liquid ejector head 28 to the state of abutting against the liquid ejector head 28. When this process ends, the recording control unit 19 transfers the process to step S26.

[0119] In step S26, the recording control unit 19 performs the maintenance process. In this process, the recording control unit 19 controls the recording unit 27 to eject liquid from at least the liquid ejector head 28. Thus, the recording control unit 19 performs the maintenance operation of the liquid ejector head 28. In particular, the recording control unit 19 controls the recording unit 27 to perform the second maintenance operation with the liquid ejection amount being the second ejection amount. When this process ends, the recording control unit 19 ends the recording control process.

[0120] In step S27, the recording control unit 19 performs the capping process, which is the same as in step S25. When this process ends, the recording control unit 19 transfers the process to step S28.

[0121] In step S28, the recording control unit 19 performs the maintenance process. In this process, the recording control unit 19 controls the recording unit 27 to eject liquid from the liquid ejector head 28. Thus, the recording control unit 19 performs the maintenance operation of the liquid ejector head 28.

[0122] In particular, in this process, when the recording control unit 19 determines in step S22 that the measured time has exceeded the specified time, it controls the recording unit 27 to perform a second maintenance operation with the liquid ejection amount being the second ejection amount. When the recording control unit 19 determines in step S23 that it is the first mode and the number of recording sheets during the recording operation is the initial number of sheets, it controls the recording unit 27 to perform a first maintenance operation with the liquid ejection amount being the first ejection amount. The first ejection amount is less than the second ejection amount. That is, the first maintenance operation is a maintenance operation with a smaller liquid ejection amount than the second maintenance operation. In addition, the first maintenance operation is a maintenance operation with a shorter processing time than the second maintenance operation. The first maintenance operation is an operation of performing a weak flushing, and the second maintenance operation may also be an operation of performing a strong flushing.

[0123] In this way, when the measured time exceeds the specified time, the recording control unit 19 causes the liquid ejection head 28 to perform a maintenance operation by ejecting liquid in a state where the cover 33 is in the contact position. That is, when the measured time exceeds the specified time, the liquid ejection head 28 can perform a maintenance operation by ejecting liquid in a state where the cover 33 is in the contact position.

[0124] In addition, in the first mode, even before the measured time exceeds the specified time, after the recording operation of the medium 12 of the initial number of sheets is performed, the recording control unit 19 causes the liquid ejection head 28 to perform the first maintenance operation after the start of the recording operation. That is, in the first mode, even before the measured time exceeds the specified time, after the recording operation of the medium 12 of the predetermined initial number of sheets is performed after the start of the recording operation, the liquid ejection head 28 performs the first maintenance operation after the start of the recording operation.

[0125] Thus, in the first mode, after the recording operation of the medium 12 of the initial number of sheets is performed, the recording control unit 19 performs the first maintenance operation. After that, in the first mode, the recording control unit 19 performs the recording operation of the medium 12 of the first number of sheets S1, and every time the measured time exceeds the specified time, it performs the maintenance operations after the second time. In addition, in the second mode, the recording control unit 19 performs the recording operation of the medium 12 of the first number of sheets S1, and every time the measured time exceeds the specified time, it performs the maintenance operation.

[0126] If, for example, the initial number of sheets is 4 and the first number of sheets S1 is 10, then in the first mode, the recording control unit 19 performs the maintenance operation at the end of the recording operations of the 4th, 14th, and 24th media 12 during the recording operation. In addition, in the second mode, the recording control unit 19 performs the maintenance operation at the end of the recording operations of the 10th, 20th, and 30th media 12 during the recording operation.

[0127] In addition, in the first mode, during the first maintenance operation in the recording operation, the recording control unit 19 ejects a liquid with a first ejection amount from the liquid ejection head 28. That is, in the first mode, the liquid ejection head 28 ejects a liquid with a first ejection amount during the first maintenance operation in the recording operation.

[0128] In the first mode, during the second and subsequent maintenance operations in the recording operation, the recording control unit 19 ejects a liquid with a second ejection amount from the liquid ejection head 28. That is, in the first mode, the liquid ejection head 28 ejects a liquid with a second ejection amount, which is more than the first ejection amount, during the second and subsequent maintenance operations in the recording operation.

[0129] In addition, in the second mode, during the maintenance operation, the recording control unit 19 ejects a liquid with a second ejection amount from the liquid ejection head 28. That is, in the second mode, the liquid ejection head 28 ejects a liquid with a second ejection amount, which is more than the first ejection amount, during the maintenance operation in the recording operation. When this process ends, the recording control unit 19 transfers the process to step S29.

[0130] On the other hand, in step S29, the recording control unit 19 performs a cover separation process, which is the same as in step S13. When this process ends, the recording control unit 19 transfers the process to step S30.

[0131] In step S30, the recording control unit 19 performs a measurement start process, which is the same as in step S14. When this process ends, the recording control unit 19 transfers the process to step S24.

[0132] In this way, the recording control unit 19 can be controlled to be either the first mode or the second mode. In addition, the recording control unit 19 can perform a recording operation and a maintenance operation corresponding to the controlled mode.

[0133] Alignment control process

[0134] Next, a description will be given with reference to Figure 5 the alignment control process. The alignment control process is a process executed by the post-processing control unit 80 of the post-processing device 14 when post-processing information capable of determining the first mode or post-processing information capable of determining the second mode is input.

[0135] In step S31, the post-processing control unit 80 acquires post-processing information. The post-processing information includes the type of mode based on communication with the recording device 13. The post-processing information includes total processing sheet number information based on communication with the recording device 13. The total processing sheet number information is information indicating the total number of sheets of the medium 12 that are post-processed during the recording operation. When this process ends, the post-processing control unit 80 transfers the process to step S32.

[0136] In step S32, the post-processing control unit 80 determines whether it is the first mode based on the post-processing information. When the post-processing control unit 80 determines that it is the first mode, the process is transferred to step S33. When the post-processing control unit 80 determines that it is not the first mode, the process is transferred to step S37. That is, when the post-processing control unit 80 determines that it is the second mode, the process is transferred to step S37.

[0137] In step S33, the post-processing control unit 80 determines whether it is the first initial control period. In this process, the post-processing control unit 80 counts the total number of sheets of the medium 12 by updating the total number of sheets counter based on the signal from the sensor 53. The total number of sheets is the total number of sheets of the recorded medium 12 conveyed to the post-processing device 14 in one recording operation. The total number of sheets counter is allocated to the memory of the post-processing control unit 80.

[0138] In addition, when the total number of sheets is 1 or less in the first mode, the post-processing control unit 80 determines that it is the first initial control period. When the total number of sheets is 2 or more and 4 or less in the first mode, the post-processing control unit 80 determines that it is the second initial control period. When the total number of sheets is 5 or more in the first mode, the post-processing control unit 80 determines that it is the normal control period. In addition, in the second mode, the post-processing control unit 80 determines that it is the normal control period regardless of the total number of sheets.

[0139] The first initial control period, the second initial control period, and the normal control period are control periods accompanying the recording operation. Specifically, they are control periods related to the post-processing performed along with the recording operation.

[0140] The first initial control period and the second initial control period are control periods in the first mode. The second initial control period is the control period after the end of the first initial control period. Hereinafter, the first initial control period and the second initial control period are sometimes collectively referred to as the initial control period. That is, the initial control period includes the first initial control period and the second initial control period.

[0141] The normal control period is a control period in the first mode and also a control period in the second mode. In the first mode, the normal control period is the control period after the end of the second initial control period. In other words, in the first mode, the normal control period is the control period after the end of the initial control period.

[0142] When the post-processing control unit 80 determines that it is the first initial control period, the process is transferred to step S34. When the post-processing control unit 80 determines that it is not the first initial control period, the process is transferred to step S35.

[0143] In step S35, the post-processing control unit 80 determines whether it is the second initial control period. When the post-processing control unit 80 determines that it is the second initial control period, it transfers the process to step S36. When the post-processing control unit 80 determines that it is not the second initial control period, it transfers the process to step S37. That is, when the post-processing control unit 80 determines that it is the normal control period, it transfers the process to step S37.

[0144] In step S34, the post-processing control unit 80 performs a process number setting process for setting one sheet as the number of processes. When this process ends, the post-processing control unit 80 transfers the process to step S38.

[0145] In step S36, the post-processing control unit 80 performs a process number setting process. In this process, the post-processing control unit 80 subtracts the total number of transported sheets from the total number of process sheets information to calculate the remaining number of processes. When the post-processing control unit 80 determines that the remaining number of processes is equal to or more than the second number S2, it sets the second number S2 as the number of processes. The second number S2 is a plurality of numbers, for example, it can also be 3 sheets. When the post-processing control unit 80 determines that the remaining number of processes is less than the second number S2, it sets the remaining number of processes as the number of processes. When this process ends, the post-processing control unit 80 transfers the process to step S38.

[0146] In step S37, the post-processing control unit 80 performs a process number setting process. In this process, the post-processing control unit 80 subtracts the total number of transported sheets from the total number of process sheets information to calculate the remaining number of processes. When the post-processing control unit 80 determines that the remaining number of processes is equal to or more than the first number S1, it sets the first number S1 as the number of processes. The first number S1 is a plurality of numbers, for example, it can also be 10 sheets. In this way, the second number S2 is less than the first number S1. When the post-processing control unit 80 determines that the remaining number of processes is less than the first number S1, it sets the remaining number of processes as the number of processes. When this process ends, the post-processing control unit 80 transfers the process to step S38.

[0147] As Figure 6 shown, when the post-processing control unit 80 is in the first initial control period in the first mode, it sets one sheet as the number of processes. When the post-processing control unit 80 is in the second initial control period in the first mode, it sets the second number S2 as the number of processes. When the post-processing control unit 80 is in the normal control period in the first mode and the second mode, it sets the first number S1 as the number of processes.

[0148] Return Figure 5Regarding the alignment control process, in step S38, the post-processing control unit 80 performs an alignment process. In this process, the post-processing control unit 80 rotates the first paddle unit 61 and the second paddle unit 62 by driving the conveyance motor 63. As a result, the post-processing control unit 80 conveys the medium 12 placed on the processing tray 54 toward the first alignment unit 58. When this process ends, the post-processing control unit 80 transfers the process to step S39.

[0149] In step S39, the post-processing control unit 80 determines whether the number of sheets of the medium 12 placed on the processing tray 54 is the number of sheets to be processed. The post-processing control unit 80 counts the number of sheets of the medium 12 placed on the processing tray 54 by updating the sheet placement counter based on the signal from the sensor 53. The sheet placement counter is allocated to the memory of the post-processing control unit 80.

[0150] When the post-processing control unit 80 determines that the number of sheets placed is not the number of sheets to be processed, it transfers the process back to step S38 again. When the post-processing control unit 80 determines that the number of sheets placed is the number of sheets to be processed, it transfers the process to step S40. In this way, the post-processing control unit 80 repeatedly performs the alignment process until the number of sheets placed becomes the number of sheets to be processed, and when the number of sheets placed becomes the number of sheets to be processed, it transfers the process to step S40.

[0151] In step S40, the post-processing control unit 80 causes the post-processing unit 60 to perform post-processing on the medium 12 placed on the processing tray 54. In addition, the post-processing control unit 80 controls the discharge unit 67 to send out the medium 12 placed on the processing tray 54 from the processing tray 54 to the support member 71. As a result, the post-processing control unit 80 can place multiple sheets of the medium 12 that have undergone post-processing on the discharge tray 72. In addition, the post-processing control unit 80 initializes the sheet placement counter.

[0152] Specifically, in the first mode, during the first initial control period, the post-processing control unit 80 causes the post-processing unit 60 to perform a post-processing operation to discharge the first sheet of the medium 12 that is not formed as a bundle of media on the processing tray 54 from the processing tray 54. In this way, in the first mode, during the first initial control period, the post-processing unit 60 performs a post-processing operation to discharge the first sheet of the medium 12 that is not formed as a bundle of media on the processing tray 54 from the processing tray 54.

[0153] In addition, in the first mode, during the second initial control period, the post-processing control unit 80 causes the post-processing unit 60 to perform a post-processing operation to discharge the medium 12 of the second number S2 formed as a medium bundle on the processing tray 54 from the processing tray 54. In this way, in the first mode, during the second initial control period, the post-processing unit 60 performs a post-processing operation to discharge the medium 12 of the second number S2 formed as a medium bundle on the processing tray 54 from the processing tray 54. That is, during the initial control period, the post-processing unit 60 can perform a post-processing operation on the medium 12 of the second number S2.

[0154] In addition, in the first mode, during the normal control period, the post-processing control unit 80 causes the post-processing unit 60 to perform a post-processing operation to discharge the medium 12 of the first number S1 formed as a medium bundle on the processing tray 54 from the processing tray 54. In this way, in the first mode, during the normal control period, the post-processing unit 60 performs a post-processing operation to discharge the medium 12 of the first number S1 formed as a medium bundle on the processing tray 54 from the processing tray 54.

[0155] In addition, in the second mode, during the normal control period accompanying the recording operation, the post-processing control unit 80 causes the post-processing unit 60 to perform a post-processing operation to discharge the medium 12 of the first number S1 formed as a medium bundle on the processing tray 54 from the processing tray 54. In this way, in the second mode, during the control period accompanying the recording operation, the post-processing unit 60 performs a post-processing operation to discharge the medium 12 of the first number S1 formed as a medium bundle on the processing tray 54 from the processing tray 54. That is, during the normal control period, the post-processing unit 60 can perform a post-processing operation on the medium 12 of the first number S1.

[0156] The second number S2 is the number of sheets that is 1 less than the initial number of sheets. The initial number of sheets is the number of sheets that triggers the first maintenance performed by the liquid ejector 28 in the first mode. The second number S2 is the number of sheets that triggers the discharge from the processing tray 54 during the second initial control period in the first mode. 1 sheet is the number of sheets that triggers the discharge from the processing tray 54 during the first initial control period in the first mode.

[0157] That is, in the first mode, the trigger for discharging the medium 12 of the second number S2 from the processing tray 54 during the second initial control period is based on the trigger for the first maintenance performed by the liquid ejector 28.

[0158] In addition, the first number S1 is the number of sheets that triggers the discharge from the processing tray 54 during the normal control period in the first mode. The first number S1 is the number of sheets that triggers the discharge from the processing tray 54 during the normal control period in the second mode. The first number S1 is the number of sheets that triggers the determination that the time measured based on the displacement of the cover 33 from the contact position to the separation position exceeds the specified time.

[0159] That is, in the first mode, the timing of discharging the first number S1 of media 12 from the processing tray 54 during normal control is based on the timing of performing maintenance after the second time by the liquid ejector head 28. Further, in the second mode, the timing of discharging the first number S1 of media 12 from the processing tray 54 during normal control is based on the timing of performing maintenance by the liquid ejector head 28.

[0160] If a specific example is given, in the first mode, in the recording device 13, after recording on the 4th medium 12, the first maintenance operation is performed. Further, in the first mode, in the post-processing device 14, after the first medium 12 is discharged, the 2nd to 4th media 12 are discharged from the processing tray 54 as a bundle of media. In this way, in the first mode, during the second initial control period, the post-processing unit 60 performs the post-processing operation using the time of the maintenance operation of the liquid ejector head 28. Further, it can be said that in the first mode, during the first initial control period, the post-processing unit 60 performs the post-processing operation using the time between the recording operation of the first medium 12 and the recording operation of the second medium 12, regardless of the time of the maintenance operation of the liquid ejector head 28.

[0161] In the first mode, in the recording device 13, after recording on the 14th medium 12, the second maintenance operation is performed. Further, in the first mode, in the post-processing device 14, the 5th to 14th media 12 are discharged from the processing tray 54 as a bundle of media. In this way, in the first mode, even during normal control, the post-processing unit 60 performs the post-processing operation using the time of the maintenance operation of the liquid ejector head 28.

[0162] In the second mode, in the recording device 13, after recording on the 10th medium 12, the first maintenance operation is performed. Further, in the second mode, in the post-processing device 14, the 1st to 10th media 12 are discharged from the processing tray 54 as a bundle of media. In the second mode, in the recording device 13, after recording on the 20th medium 12, the second maintenance operation is performed. Further, in the second mode, in the post-processing device 14, the 11th to 20th media 12 are discharged from the processing tray 54 as a bundle of media. In this way, in the second mode, during normal control, the post-processing unit 60 also performs the post-processing operation using the time of the maintenance operation of the liquid ejector head 28. When this processing is completed, the post-processing control unit 80 transfers the processing to step S41.

[0163] In step S41, the post-processing control unit 80 determines whether the recording has ended. The post-processing control unit 80 determines that the recording has ended when the total number of conveyed sheets reaches the total number of processed sheets and all the media 12 have been sent out to the support member 71. When the post-processing control unit 80 determines that the recording has not ended, it transfers the process to step S32. When the post-processing control unit 80 determines that the recording has ended, it ends the alignment control process.

[0164] Function of the First Embodiment

[0165] The function of the first embodiment will be described.

[0166] First, refer to Figure 7 A specific example of a recording operation controlled in the second mode will be described. It should be noted that in Figures 7 - 9 in order to easily understand the invention, as a timing chart showing the recording operation, the recording operation is shown including the paper feeding and conveyance of the medium 12 in the recording device 13.

[0167] As Figure 7 shown, in the recording device 13, at the timing indicated by reference numeral T11, when the cover 33 is in the contact position and recording operation information capable of determining the second mode is input, the recording operation starts. When the recording operation starts, image processing based on the recording operation information starts. In addition, post-processing information is sent from the recording device 13 to the post-processing device 14.

[0168] In addition, at the timing indicated by reference numeral T12, when the image processing ends and the recording start condition is satisfied, the cover 33 is displaced from the contact position to the separation position. In addition, although not shown, the support portion 26 is displaced from the retracted position to the support position. It should be noted that in the figure, for convenience, it is shown that the image processing is executed until the recording start condition is satisfied.

[0169] After that, the recording operation for the first sheet of the medium 12 starts. In addition, as a result of executing the recording operation for the 2nd to 10th sheets of the medium 12, at the timing indicated by reference numeral T13, the recording operation for the 10th sheet of the medium 12 ends.

[0170] In this case, at the timing indicated by reference numeral T12, after the cover 33 is displaced from the contact position to the separation position, a time t11 has elapsed. The time t11 is a time longer than the specified time. Therefore, the time measured after the cover 33 is displaced from the contact position to the separation position exceeds the specified time. As a result, the execution of the recording operation for the 11th sheet of the medium 12 is postponed.

[0171] At the timing shown by reference numeral T13, when the recording operation on the 11th medium 12 is postponed, although not shown, the support portion 26 is displaced from the support position to the retracted position. The cover 33 is displaced from the separated position to the abutting position.

[0172] After that, the first maintenance operation is started during the recording operation. As the first maintenance operation, a strong flushing is performed. During the strong flushing, a second ejection amount of liquid is ejected during the time t22.

[0173] In addition, at the timing shown by reference numeral T14, when the first maintenance operation ends, the cover 33 is displaced from the abutting position to the separated position. In addition, although not shown, the support portion 26 is displaced from the retracted position to the support position. After that, the recording operation on the 11th and subsequent media 12 is started.

[0174] On the other hand, in the post-processing device 14, at the timing shown by reference numeral T31, the first medium 12 is detected. The timing of detecting the first medium 12 is delayed by the time of conveyance along the conveyance path 16 after the recording operation on the first medium 12 ends. The first medium 12 is placed on the processing tray 54. As a result of the first medium 12 placed on the processing tray 54 being conveyed toward the first alignment portion 58 by the rotation of the first paddle portion 61 and the second paddle portion 62, the first medium 12 is aligned by the first alignment portion 58 on the processing tray 54. After that, the 2nd to 10th media 12 are also aligned by the first alignment portion 58 on the processing tray 54 in the same manner as the first medium 12. Thus, on the processing tray 54, 10 media 12 are formed as a media bundle.

[0175] After that, at the timing shown by reference numeral T32, a post-processing operation is performed on the 10 media 12 formed as a media bundle on the processing tray 54. In this case, as a result of performing a rod stacking process as the post-processing, the 10 media 12 are discharged from the processing tray 54. In this way, at the timing shown by reference numeral T32, the post-processing operation on the 10 media 12 is started. In addition, as a result of performing the post-processing operation during the time t31, at the timing shown by reference numeral T33, the post-processing operation on the 10 media 12 ends. This post-processing operation is performed using the time of the maintenance operation in the recording device 13. Therefore, before the 11th medium 12 is detected, the post-processing operation on the 10 media 12 ends.

[0176] In addition, at the timing shown by reference numeral T34, the 11th medium 12 is detected. The 11th medium 12 is aligned by the first alignment portion 58 on the processing tray 54 in the same manner as the 1st to 10th media 12. After that, the 12th and subsequent media 12 are also aligned by the first alignment portion 58 on the processing tray 54 in the same manner as the 11th medium 12.

[0177] Next, refer to Figure 8A specific example of a recording operation that is controlled to the first mode when the control content of previous research is applied will be described. A description of the same content as a specific example of a recording operation that is controlled to the second mode will be omitted.

[0178] As the control content of previous research, in the recording device 13, the maintenance operation is executed in two cases: when the time counted after the cover 33 is displaced from the abutting position to the separating position exceeds a specified time, and when the recording operation on the medium 12 of the first sheet number S1 is executed. As the control content of previous research, in the post-processing device 14, except for the first medium 12, the post-processing operation is executed at the end of the recording operation on the medium 12 of the first sheet number S1.

[0179] As Figure 8 shown, in the recording device 13, at the timing shown by reference numeral T11, in a state where the cover 33 is in the abutting position, when recording operation information that can determine the first mode is input, the recording operation starts.

[0180] When the recording operation starts, the initial conveyance process is executed. In the figure, the initial conveyance process is represented as "0". In this initial conveyance process, after the first medium 12 is supplied from the cassette 20, it is conveyed to the standby position WP. In addition, the cover 33 is displaced from the abutting position to the separating position. In addition, although not shown, the support portion 26 is displaced from the retracted position to the support position. In this way, before the recording operation starts, at the timing shown by reference numeral T15, the first medium 12 stands by at the standby position WP.

[0181] In addition, at the timing shown by reference numeral T12, when the image processing ends and the recording start condition is satisfied, the recording operation on the first medium 12 starts. In addition, at the timing shown by reference numeral T16, the recording operation on the first medium 12 ends. In this case, in the first mode, since the first medium 12 stands by at the standby position WP and the cover 33 is in the separating position, the recording operation ends in a shorter time compared to the second mode.

[0182] In addition, at the timing shown by reference numeral T17, the recording operation on the second medium 12 starts. As a result of executing the recording operations on the 3rd to 5th media 12, at the timing shown by reference numeral T18, the recording operation on the 5th medium 12 ends.

[0183] In this case, at the timing shown by reference numeral T11, the time t12 has elapsed after the cover 33 is displaced from the abutting position to the separating position. The time t12 is a time longer than the specified time. Therefore, the time measured after the cover 33 is displaced from the abutting position to the separating position exceeds the specified time. As a result, the recording operation on the 6th medium 12 is postponed.

[0184] At the timing shown by the reference sign T18, when the recording operation on the 6th medium 12 is postponed, although not shown, the support portion 26 is displaced from the support position to the retracted position. The cover 33 is displaced from the separated position to the abutting position.

[0185] After that, the first maintenance operation is started during the recording operation. As the first maintenance operation, a strong flush is performed.

[0186] In addition, at the timing shown by the reference sign T19, when the first maintenance operation ends, the cover 33 is displaced from the abutting position to the separated position. In addition, although not shown, the support portion 26 is displaced from the retracted position to the support position. After that, the recording operation on the 6th medium 12 is started. In addition, as a result of performing the recording operations on the 7th to 10th media 12, at the timing shown by the reference sign T20, the recording operation on the 10th medium 12 ends. In this case, at the timing shown by the reference sign T19, after the cover 33 is displaced from the abutting position to the separated position, a time t13 has elapsed. The time t13 is a time shorter than the specified time. However, by performing the recording operations on the media 12 of the first number S1, as described later, the second maintenance operation is performed, and the recording operation on the 11th medium 12 is postponed.

[0187] At the timing shown by the reference sign T20, when the recording operation on the 11th medium 12 is postponed, although not shown, the support portion 26 is displaced from the support position to the retracted position. The cover 33 is displaced from the separated position to the abutting position.

[0188] After that, the second maintenance operation is started during the recording operation. As the second maintenance operation, a strong flush is performed.

[0189] In addition, at the timing shown by the reference sign T21, when the second maintenance operation ends, the cover 33 is displaced from the abutting position to the separated position. In addition, although not shown, the support portion 26 is displaced from the retracted position to the support position. After that, the recording operations on the media 12 after the 11th are started.

[0190] It should be noted that, in this case, in the recording apparatus 13, the maintenance operations are performed in two cases: after the recording operation on the 5th medium 12 ends and after the recording operation on the 10th medium 12 ends. If the first maintenance operation is not performed after the recording operation on the 5th medium 12 ends, the state of the liquid ejector 28 may deteriorate. Therefore, the first maintenance operation is performed after the recording operation on the 5th medium 12 ends.

[0191] However, after the recording operation on the 10th medium 12 is completed, a second maintenance operation is performed, but the time measured after the first maintenance operation is completed and the cover 33 is displaced from the contact position to the separated position does not exceed the specified time. Therefore, by performing the second maintenance operation after the recording operation on the 10th medium 12 is completed, the recording operation does not continue. Therefore, there is room for improvement in order to increase the processing speed.

[0192] On the other hand, in the post-processing device 14, the first medium 12 is detected at the timing shown by reference numeral T35. The first medium 12 is placed on the processing tray 54. As a result of the first medium 12 placed on the processing tray 54 being conveyed toward the first alignment unit 58 by the rotation of the first paddle unit 61 and the second paddle unit 62, it is aligned by the first alignment unit 58 on the processing tray 54.

[0193] After that, a post-processing operation is performed on one medium 12 that is not formed as a medium bundle on the processing tray 54. In this case, as a result of performing rod stacking processing as the post-processing, one medium 12 is discharged from the processing tray 54. In this way, at the timing shown by reference numeral T35, the post-processing operation on one medium 12 is started. In addition, as a result of performing the post-processing operation during the time t31, at the timing shown by reference numeral T36, the post-processing operation on one medium 12 is completed. This post-processing operation is performed using the time between the recording operation of the first sheet and the recording operation of the second sheet in the recording device 13. Therefore, before the second medium 12 is detected, the post-processing operation on one medium 12 is completed.

[0194] In addition, at the timing shown by reference numeral T37, the second medium 12 is detected. The second medium 12 is aligned by the first alignment unit 58 on the processing tray 54 in the same manner as the first medium 12. After that, the third to tenth media 12 are also aligned by the first alignment unit 58 on the processing tray 54 in the same manner as the first medium 12. As a result, nine media 12 are formed as a medium bundle on the processing tray 54.

[0195] In addition, at the timing shown by reference numeral T38, a post-processing operation is performed on the nine media 12 formed as a medium bundle on the processing tray 54. In this case, as a result of performing rod stacking processing as the post-processing, nine media 12 are discharged from the processing tray 54. In this way, at the timing shown by reference numeral T38, the post-processing operation on nine media 12 is started. In addition, as a result of performing the post-processing operation during the time t31, at the timing shown by reference numeral T39, the post-processing operation on nine media 12 is completed. This post-processing operation is performed using the time of the maintenance operation in the recording device 13. Therefore, before the 11th medium 12 is detected, the post-processing operation on nine media 12 is completed. In addition, at the timing shown by reference numeral T40, the 11th medium 12 is detected.

[0196] It should be noted that in this case, in the recording device 13, before starting the recording operation on the 6th medium 12, a maintenance operation may sometimes be performed. In the post-processing device 14, the timing when the 6th medium 12 is conveyed is delayed. However, in the control of previous studies, the post-processing operations on the 2nd to 5th media 12 were not performed, and the time of the maintenance operation could not be effectively utilized.

[0197] Finally, with reference to Figure 9 a specific example of the recording operation controlled in the first mode in the present embodiment will be described. Descriptions of the same content as in the case where the control of previous studies is applied are omitted.

[0198] As Figure 9 shown, in the recording device 13, at the timing shown by reference numeral T22, the recording operation on the 4th medium 12 ends. In this case, at the timing shown by reference numeral T11, after the cover 33 is displaced from the contact position to the separation position, a time t14 has elapsed. The time t14 is a time shorter than the specified time, and the recording operation on the medium 12 of the initial number in the first mode is performed. As a result, the recording operation on the 5th medium 12 is postponed.

[0199] At the timing shown by reference numeral T22, when the recording operation on the 5th medium 12 is postponed, although not shown, the support portion 26 is displaced from the support position to the retracted position. The cover 33 is displaced from the separation position to the contact position.

[0200] After that, the first maintenance operation is started during the recording operation. As the first maintenance operation, a weak flushing is performed. In the weak flushing, a liquid of a first ejection amount is ejected during the time t21.

[0201] In this way, the first maintenance operation is performed by executing the recording operation on 4 media 12, but compared with the execution of the recording operation on 10 media 12, the state of the liquid ejector 28 does not deteriorate. Therefore, by performing a weak flushing instead of a strong flushing, the ejection amount of the liquid can be reduced and the processing time of the maintenance operation can be shortened.

[0202] In addition, at the timing shown by reference numeral T23, when the first maintenance operation ends, the cover 33 is displaced from the contact position to the separation position. In addition, although not shown, the support portion 26 is displaced from the retracted position to the support position. After that, the recording operation on the 5th and subsequent media 12 is started. In addition, as a result of performing the recording operation on the 6th to 14th media 12, at the timing shown by reference numeral T24, the recording operation on the 14th medium 12 ends.

[0203] In this case, at the timing shown by reference numeral T23, after the lid 33 has been displaced from the contact position to the separation position, a time t11 has elapsed. The time t11 is a time longer than a specified time. Therefore, the time measured after the lid 33 has been displaced from the contact position to the separation position exceeds the specified time. As a result, the recording operation for the 15th medium 12 is postponed.

[0204] At the timing shown by reference numeral T24, when the recording operation for the 15th medium 12 is postponed, although not shown, the support portion 26 is displaced from the support position to the retracted position. The lid 33 is displaced from the separation position to the contact position.

[0205] After that, a second maintenance operation is started during the recording operation. As the second maintenance operation, a strong flushing is performed.

[0206] In addition, at the timing shown by reference numeral T25, when the second maintenance operation ends, the lid 33 is displaced from the contact position to the separation position. In addition, although not shown, the support portion 26 is displaced from the retracted position to the support position. After that, the recording operation for the media 12 after the 15th one is started.

[0207] On the other hand, in the post-processing device 14, at the timing shown by reference numeral T41, the 4th medium 12 is detected. The 2nd to 4th media 12 are the same as the 1st medium 12 and are aligned by the first alignment portion 58 on the processing tray 54. As a result, on the processing tray 54, 3 media 12 are formed as a media bundle.

[0208] In addition, at the timing shown by reference numeral T41, a post-processing operation is performed on the 3 media 12 formed as a media bundle on the processing tray 54. In this case, as a result of performing the rod stacking process as the post-processing, the 3 media 12 are discharged from the processing tray 54. In this way, at the timing shown by reference numeral T41, the post-processing operation for the 3 media 12 is started. In addition, as a result of performing the post-processing operation during the time t31, at the timing shown by reference numeral T42, the post-processing operation for the 3 media 12 ends. This post-processing operation is performed using the time of the maintenance operation in the recording device 13. Therefore, before the 5th medium 12 is detected, the post-processing operation for the 3 media 12 ends.

[0209] In addition, at the timing shown by reference numeral T43, the 5th medium 12 is detected. The 5th medium 12 is also the same as the 1st medium 12 and is aligned by the first alignment portion 58 on the processing tray 54. After that, the 6th to 14th media 12 are also the same as the 1st medium 12 and are aligned by the first alignment portion 58 on the processing tray 54. As a result, on the processing tray 54, 10 media 12 are formed as a media bundle.

[0210] In addition, at the timing indicated by reference numeral T44, post-processing operations are performed on ten sheets of media 12 formed as a media bundle on the processing tray 54. In this case, as a result of performing bar stacking processing as the post-processing, the ten sheets of media 12 are discharged from the processing tray 54. Thus, at the timing indicated by reference numeral T44, the post-processing operations on the ten sheets of media 12 are started. In addition, as a result of performing the post-processing operations during time t31, at the timing indicated by reference numeral T45, the post-processing operations on nine sheets of media 12 are completed. The post-processing operations are performed using the time for the maintenance operations in the recording device 13. Therefore, before the 15th sheet of media 12 is detected, the post-processing operations on the ten sheets of media 12 are completed. In addition, at the timing indicated by reference numeral T46, the 15th sheet of media 12 is detected.

[0211] Effects of the First Embodiment

[0212] The effects of the first embodiment will be described.

[0213] (1) When the time measured based on the displacement of the cover 33 from the contact position to the separation position exceeds a specified time, the maintenance operations can be performed by ejecting liquid while the cover 33 is in the contact position. Before the start of the recording operation for recording a specified number of sheets of media 12, the first sheet of media 12 can be made to standby at the standby position WP upstream of the liquid ejector 28. In this case, the cover 33 is in the separation position while the first sheet of media 12 is on standby at the standby position WP during the recording operation. During the second initial control period in the control period accompanying the recording operation, the post-processing operations on the second number of sheets S2 of media 12, which is less than the first number of sheets S1, can be performed using the time for the maintenance operations. After the end of the second initial control period, the post-processing operations on the first number of sheets S1 of media 12 can be performed using the time for the maintenance operations. Therefore, before the start of the recording operation, the first sheet of media 12 can be made to standby at the standby position WP and the cover 33 can be displaced from the contact position to the separation position. As a result, for the first sheet of media 12, the processing time from the start of the recording operation can be shortened.

[0214] In addition, along with shortening the processing time from the start of the recording operation for the first sheet of media 12, the cover 33 is displaced to the separation position before the start of the recording operation, and the timing at which the cover 33 is displaced to the separation position is advanced based on the start of the recording operation. As a result, the number of sheets of media 12 recorded by the recording operation is reduced until the measured time exceeds the specified time.

[0215] Therefore, during the second initial control period in the control of the accompanying recording operation, for the medium 12 with the second number S2 less than the first number S1 after the end of the initial control period, the post-processing operation can be performed using the time for the maintenance operation. Thus, even when the time for the maintenance operation is advanced, by performing the post-processing operation on the medium 12 with the second number S2 less than the first number S1, the post-processing operation can be performed using the time for the maintenance operation. In addition, when the measured time exceeds the specified time, by displacing the cover 33 from the retracted position to the abutting position, drying of the liquid ejection head 28 can be suppressed. Therefore, through the maintenance operation, the processing speed can be increased without degrading the recording quality.

[0216] (2) It can be controlled to either the first mode or the second mode. Compared with the second mode, the first mode is a mode in which, based on the start of the recording operation, the timing of the recording operation and the timing of the post-processing operation are advanced for the first medium 12. In the first mode, during the first initial control period, the first medium 12 that is not formed as a medium bundle on the processing tray 54 is discharged from the processing tray 54. In the first mode, during the second initial control period after the end of the first initial control period, the medium 12 with the second number S2 formed as a medium bundle on the processing tray 54 is discharged from the processing tray 54 using the time for the maintenance operation. After the end of the second initial control period, the medium 12 with the first number S1 formed as a medium bundle on the processing tray 54 is discharged from the processing tray 54 using the time for the maintenance operation of the liquid ejection head 28. Therefore, the processing time until the first medium 12 is discharged can be shortened. Thus, it is possible to provide the user with the ability to confirm the condition of the first medium 12 in advance. Therefore, through the maintenance operation, the processing speed can be increased without degrading the recording quality.

[0217] (3) In the first mode, even before the measured time exceeds the specified time, after the recording operation of the medium 12 with the predetermined initial number of sheets is performed after the start of the recording operation, the first maintenance operation after the start of the recording operation is also performed. Therefore, after the start of the recording operation, even before the measured time exceeds the specified time, by performing the recording operation of the medium 12 with the initial number of sheets, the first maintenance operation can be reliably performed. Therefore, through the maintenance operation, the processing speed can be increased without degrading the recording quality.

[0218] (4) In the second mode, during the control accompanying the recording operation, the medium 12 that is the first number S1 of media formed as a media bundle on the processing tray 54 is discharged from the processing tray 54 during the time of the maintenance operation of the liquid nozzle 28. Therefore, in the second mode, during the control accompanying the recording operation, it is possible to perform post-processing operations on the medium 12 of the first number S1. In this way, if either the first mode or the second mode can be controlled, the control of the post-processing operation can be switched according to the situation. Therefore, according to the situation, through the maintenance operation, it is possible to increase the processing speed without degrading the recording quality.

[0219] (5) In the first mode, during the recording operation, the number of recording operations up to the first maintenance operation is likely to be less than the number of recording operations during the subsequent maintenance operations. In this way, during the recording operation, up to the first maintenance operation, the state of the liquid nozzle 28 is less likely to deteriorate compared to the subsequent maintenance operation period.

[0220] Therefore, in the first mode, in the first maintenance operation during the recording operation, a first ejection amount of liquid is ejected. In the first mode, in the subsequent maintenance operations during the recording operation, a second ejection amount of liquid that is more than the first ejection amount is ejected. Therefore, in the first mode, in the first maintenance operation during the recording operation, the ejection amount of liquid can be reduced compared to the subsequent maintenance operations. Therefore, through the maintenance operation, it is possible to reduce the consumption of liquid caused by the maintenance operation without degrading the recording quality.

[0221] (6) The liquid nozzle 28 can perform the first maintenance operation during the recording operation during the first processing time in the first mode. In the first mode, the subsequent maintenance operations during the recording operation can be performed during a second processing time that is longer than the first processing time. Therefore, in the first mode, in the first maintenance operation during the recording operation, the processing time can be shortened compared to the subsequent maintenance operations. Therefore, through the maintenance operation, it is possible to increase the processing speed without degrading the recording quality.

[0222] Second Embodiment

[0223] Next, the second embodiment will be described.

[0224] In the second embodiment, when the time measured based on the displacement of the cover 33 from the abutting position to the separating position exceeds a specified time and when a limiting condition is satisfied, the execution of the maintenance operation may be restricted. In the following description, the same reference numerals are given to the same configurations and the same control contents as those of the already described embodiments, and the repeated descriptions thereof are omitted or simplified.

[0225] As Figure 10As shown, in the recording control process, when the recording control unit 19 determines in step S22 that the specified time has been exceeded, the process is transferred to step S31. When the recording control unit 19 determines in step S23 that it is the first mode and the number of recorded sheets in the recording job is the initial number of sheets, the process is transferred to step S31.

[0226] In step S31, the recording control unit 19 determines whether the restriction condition is satisfied. The restriction condition is satisfied when the time of the maintenance operation is longer than the time of the recording operation on the medium 12 for the remaining number of sheets in the recording job.

[0227] In this process, the recording control unit 19 determines the total number of recorded sheets information based on the recording job information. The recording control unit 19 reads the value from the recording sheet counter and determines the number of recorded sheets of the medium 12 in the recording job. In addition, the recording control unit 19 subtracts the number of recorded sheets of the medium 12 from the total number of recorded sheets information to determine the remaining number of sheets of the medium 12 in the recording job. In addition, when the remaining number of sheets of the medium 12 is equal to or less than the lower limit number of sheets, the recording control unit 19 determines that the restriction condition is satisfied.

[0228] The lower limit number of sheets does not include 0 sheets and is the number of sheets that can be recorded on the medium 12 until the maintenance operation ends. As a specific example, the number of sheets that can be recorded on the medium 12 until the strong cleaning ends may also be 2 sheets. In this way, when it is determined in step S22 that the specified time has been exceeded, the strong cleaning is performed. In this case, the lower limit number of sheets is 2 sheets. In addition, the number of sheets that can be recorded on the medium 12 until the weak cleaning ends is 1 sheet. In this way, in step S23, when it is determined that it is the first mode and the number of recorded sheets in the recording job is the initial number of sheets, the weak cleaning is performed. In this case, the lower limit number of sheets is 1 sheet. That is, the lower limit number of sheets can also be different according to the time of the maintenance operation.

[0229] When the recording control unit 19 determines that the restriction condition is not satisfied, the process is transferred to step S26. That is, when the recording control unit 19 determines that the restriction condition is not satisfied, the maintenance process is performed in step S28.

[0230] When the recording control unit 19 determines that the restriction condition is satisfied, it transfers the process to step S25. That is, when the recording control unit 19 determines that the restriction condition is satisfied, it does not perform the maintenance process in step S28, but performs the recording operation on the remaining number of media 12. In addition, after the recording operation on the remaining number of media 12 is completed, the recording control unit 19 determines in step S24 that the recording operation during the recording job is completed, and performs the maintenance process in step S26. That is, when the liquid ejector 28 exceeds the specified time during the recording job, when the restriction condition is satisfied, after performing the recording operation on the remaining number of media 12 during the recording job, the maintenance operation is performed.

[0231] In addition, in the post-processing device 14, in the first mode, when the total number of processed sheets is 5, even if the number of placed sheets becomes the number of processed sheets during the second initial control period, the execution of the post-processing operation is restricted. In addition, when the total number of conveyed sheets reaches the total number of post-processed sheets, the post-processing operation is performed.

[0232] When the total number of processed sheets in the first mode is not 5, when the number of placed sheets becomes the number of processed sheets, if the result of subtracting the total number of conveyed sheets from the total number of post-processed sheets is 1 or 2, the execution of the post-processing operation is restricted. In the second mode, when the number of placed sheets becomes the number of processed sheets, if the result of subtracting the total number of conveyed sheets from the total number of post-processed sheets is 1 or 2, the execution of the post-processing operation is restricted. In addition, when the total number of conveyed sheets reaches the total number of post-processed sheets, the post-processing operation is performed.

[0233] Functions of the Second Embodiment

[0234] The functions of the second embodiment will be described.

[0235] In the recording device 13, in the first mode, when the total number of recorded sheets is 5, even if the recording operation on the 4th medium 12 is completed, the maintenance operation is not performed. In addition, after performing the recording operation on the 5th medium 12, the maintenance operation is performed.

[0236] In the post-processing device 14, in the first mode, when the total number of processed sheets is 5, the post-processing operation on the 4th medium 12 is not performed. In addition, the post-processing operation on the 2nd to 5th media 12 placed on the processing tray 54 is performed.

[0237] In the recording device 13, when it is determined that the specified time has been exceeded, when the remaining number of media 12 during the recording job is 1 or 2, the maintenance operation is not performed. In addition, after performing the recording operation on the remaining number of media 12, the maintenance operation is performed.

[0238] In the post-processing device 14, when the number of placed sheets becomes the number of processed sheets, if the result of subtracting the total number of conveyed sheets from the total number of post-processed sheets is 1 or 2 sheets, the post-processing operation is not performed. Further, when the total number of conveyed sheets matches the total number of post-processed sheets, the post-processing operation for the medium 12 placed on the processing tray 54 is performed.

[0239] Effects of the Second Embodiment

[0240] The effects of the second embodiment will be described.

[0241] (7) When the measured time exceeds the specified time and the restriction condition is satisfied, after performing the recording operation on the remaining number of sheets of the medium 12 in the recording job, the maintenance operation is performed. The restriction condition is satisfied when the time for the maintenance operation is longer than the time for performing the recording operation on the remaining number of sheets of the medium 12 in the recording job. Therefore, when the time for performing the recording operation on the remaining number of sheets of the medium 12 in the recording job is shorter than the maintenance operation, the execution of the maintenance operation can be postponed until the recording operation on the remaining number of sheets of the medium 12 is completed. Therefore, through the maintenance operation, the processing speed can be increased without significantly degrading the recording quality.

[0242] Modification Example

[0243] This embodiment can be implemented with the following modifications. This embodiment and the following modification examples can be implemented in combination with each other within a technically non-contradictory range.

[0244] The time elapsed after the cover 33 is displaced from the contact position to the separation position is measured, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the time elapsed after the start of the maintenance operation can also be measured. In this case, it is preferable that the time for the maintenance operation is the same. Further, depending on the different times for the maintenance operation, the specified time can also be different. For example, the time elapsed since the timing when the liquid is ejected from the liquid ejector 28 can also be measured. In these cases, as a result, it is sufficient to measure the time based on the displacement of the cover 33 from the contact position to the separation position.

[0245] The recording start condition can also be satisfied at the end of the image processing. Further, the recording start condition can also be satisfied when a predetermined time has elapsed or at the end of the image processing. In this way, when the recording start condition is satisfied at the end of the image processing, the timing at which the recording start condition is satisfied varies depending on the time for the image processing. Therefore, in the first mode, the initial number of sheets is determined so that the recording operation on the initial number of sheets of the medium 12 is completed before the measured time exceeds the specified time. As a result, even if the image processing is slow for some time, the maintenance operation and the post-processing operation can be appropriately performed.

[0246] For the paper feeding, conveying, and recording operations of the medium 12 after the second sheet in the recording job, the timing from the input of the recording job information is the same in the first mode and the second mode, but it is not limited to this. For example, for the paper feeding, conveying, and recording operations of the medium 12 after the second sheet in the recording job, the timing from the input of the recording job information may also be earlier in the first mode than in the second mode. In this case, it is preferable that after the post-processing operation for the first sheet of the medium 12 is completed, the second sheet of the medium 12 is placed on the processing tray 54 to a certain extent.

[0247] In the first mode, two or more sheets of the medium 12 may be placed on standby at the standby position WP. That is, in the first mode, at least one sheet of the medium 12 may be placed on standby at the standby position WP. That is, the processing speed of the recording operation for at least one sheet of the medium 12 can also be increased.

[0248] In the first mode, after the post-processing operation is performed on the first sheet of the medium 12 during the first initial control period, the post-processing operation is performed on the medium 12 of the second number S2 during the second initial control period, but it is not limited to this. For example, in the first mode, during the initial control period, the post-processing operation may not be performed on the first sheet of the medium 12 alone, but on one sheet of the medium 12 and the medium 12 of the second number S2. In this way, the first mode can also be a mode that speeds up at least one of the recording operation and the post-processing operation for the first sheet of the medium 12.

[0249] As the type of maintenance, it is not limited to flushing, and may also include cleaning, etc.

[0250] The execution timing of the post-processing operation can also be controlled based on the timing of the maintenance operation. The timing of the maintenance operation can also be controlled based on the execution timing of the post-processing operation. That is, the post-processing operation can also be performed using the time of the maintenance operation.

[0251] Among multiple modes, there may also be modes different from the first mode and the second mode.

[0252] The second mode only needs to be a mode in which the processing speed of the first sheet of the medium 12 is not increased compared to the first mode, and it may also be a mode in which a process other than the stick stacking process is performed as the post-processing.

[0253] Modes are set corresponding to the recording job, but it is not limited to this. For example, modes may also be set in the recording device 13 instead of for each recording job.

[0254] As Figure 4 shown in step S26 of , the maintenance operation may not be performed at the end of the recording job.

[0255] The post-processing device 14 and the intermediate device 15 may also be combined as a post-processing device. The post-processing device 14 may also receive the recorded medium 12 from the recording device 13 instead of from the intermediate device 15.

[0256] The medium 12 is not limited to paper, and may also be a film or cloth made of synthetic resin, non-woven fabric, laminated medium, etc.

[0257] The liquid can be arbitrarily selected as long as it can record on the medium 12 by attaching to the medium 12. For example, ink also includes ink in which particles of a functional material composed of solids such as pigments or metal particles are dissolved, dispersed, or mixed in a solvent, and includes various compositions such as aqueous ink, oil-based ink, gel ink, and hot melt ink.

[0258] · The recording device 13 is not limited to a printer, and may also be a multifunction machine having a scanner mechanism and a copying function in addition to the recording function.

[0259] [Supplementary Note]

[0260] Hereinafter, the technical idea and its effects grasped based on the above-described embodiments and modification examples will be described.

[0261] (A) It includes: a conveying unit configured to convey a medium on a conveying path; a liquid nozzle capable of performing a recording operation of recording on the medium by ejecting liquid onto the medium; a cover capable of displacing to a separation position separated from the liquid nozzle and a maintenance position for performing maintenance on the liquid nozzle; a processing tray capable of placing the medium recorded by the liquid nozzle; a post-processing unit capable of performing a post-processing operation on the medium placed on the processing tray; and a control unit. The control unit can measure time based on the displacement of the cover from the maintenance position to the separation position. During a recording operation of recording a specified number of media, the liquid nozzle can perform the recording operation in a state where the cover is at the separation position. When the time measured by the control unit exceeds a specified time, it can perform a maintenance operation based on liquid ejection in a state where the cover is at the maintenance position. The conveying path has a standby position upstream of the liquid nozzle where the medium can standby. Before the start of the recording operation in the recording operation, the conveying unit can make the first medium standby at the standby position. Before the start of the recording operation in the recording operation, when the first medium in the recording operation is standby at the standby position, the cover is at the separation position. During an initial control period in the control period accompanying the recording operation, the control unit makes the liquid nozzle perform the maintenance operation and at the same time makes the post-processing unit perform the post-processing operation on a second number of media that is less than the first number. After the end of the initial control period, the control unit makes the liquid nozzle perform the maintenance operation and at the same time makes the post-processing unit perform the post-processing operation on the first number of media.

[0262] According to this configuration, before the start of the recording operation in the recording operation, at least the first medium can be made to standby at the standby position and the cover can be displaced from the contact position to the separation position. Thus, it is possible to shorten the processing time for at least the first medium from the start of the recording operation in the recording operation.

[0263] In addition, during an initial control period in the control period accompanying the recording operation, for a second number of media that is less than the first number after the end of the initial control period, the post-processing operation can be performed using the time of the maintenance operation. Thus, even when the time of the maintenance operation is advanced, by performing the post-processing operation on a second number of media that is less than the first number, the post-processing operation can be performed using the time of the maintenance operation. In addition, when the measured time exceeds the specified time, by displacing the cover from the retracted position to the contact position, drying of the liquid nozzle can be suppressed. Therefore, through the maintenance operation, the processing speed can be increased without reducing the recording quality.

[0264] (B) The control unit may also be capable of selecting either the first mode or the second mode different from the first mode for control. The first mode is a mode in which, compared with the second mode, based on the start of the recording operation, for at least the first sheet of medium, the timing of the recording action and the timing of the post-processing action are advanced. In the first mode, the conveying unit causes the first sheet of medium to standby at the standby position before the start of the recording action in the recording operation. In the first mode, the cover is at the separation position when the first sheet of medium in the recording operation is on standby at the standby position. The initial control period is the control period in the first mode. The initial control period has a first initial control period and a second initial control period after the end of the first initial control period. In the first mode, the control unit causes the post-processing unit to discharge the first sheet of medium that is not formed as a stack of media on the processing tray from the processing tray during the first initial control period. During the second initial control period, the control unit causes the liquid ejector head to perform the maintenance action and at the same time causes the post-processing unit to discharge the second number of sheets of media formed as a stack of media on the processing tray from the processing tray. After the end of the second initial control period, the control unit causes the liquid ejector head to perform the maintenance action and at the same time causes the post-processing unit to discharge the first number of sheets of media formed as a stack of media on the processing tray from the processing tray.

[0265] According to this configuration, the processing time until the first sheet of medium is discharged can be shortened. As a result, it is possible to provide the user with the ability to confirm the condition of the first sheet of medium in advance. Therefore, through the maintenance action, the processing speed can be increased without degrading the recording quality.

[0266] (C) In the first mode, the liquid ejector head may also perform the first maintenance action after the start of the recording operation even before the time measured by the control unit exceeds the specified time, after the recording action on a predetermined initial number of sheets of medium has been performed after the start of the recording operation.

[0267] According to this configuration, after the start of the recording operation, even before the measured time exceeds the specified time, by performing the recording action on the initial number of sheets of medium, the first maintenance action can be reliably performed. Therefore, through the maintenance action, the processing speed can be increased without degrading the recording quality.

[0268] (D) In the second mode, the post-processing unit may discharge the first number of sheets of media formed as a stack of media on the processing tray from the processing tray during the control period accompanying the recording operation, using the time of the maintenance action of the liquid ejector head.

[0269] According to this configuration, in the second mode, during the control period of the recording operation, it is possible to perform post-processing operations on the media of the first number of sheets. In this way, if either the first mode or the second mode can be controlled, it is possible to switch the control of the post-processing operation according to the situation. Therefore, according to the situation, through the maintenance operation, it is possible to improve the processing speed without degrading the recording quality.

[0270] (E) The liquid ejector may also eject a first ejection amount of liquid in the first maintenance operation during the recording operation in the first mode, and eject a second ejection amount of liquid that is more than the first ejection amount in the subsequent maintenance operations during the recording operation in the first mode.

[0271] According to this configuration, in the first mode, in the first maintenance operation during the recording operation, the ejection amount of liquid can be reduced compared to the subsequent maintenance operations. Therefore, through the maintenance operation, it is possible to reduce the consumption of liquid caused by the maintenance operation without degrading the recording quality.

[0272] (F) The liquid ejector may also be able to perform the first maintenance operation during the recording operation during the first processing time in the first mode, and perform the subsequent maintenance operations during the recording operation during a second processing time that is longer than the first processing time in the first mode.

[0273] According to this configuration, in the first mode, in the first maintenance operation during the recording operation, the processing time can be shortened compared to the subsequent maintenance operations. Therefore, through the maintenance operation, it is possible to improve the processing speed without degrading the recording quality.

[0274] (G) The liquid ejector may also, when the time measured by the control unit during the recording operation exceeds the specified time and when the limiting condition is satisfied, perform the maintenance operation after performing the recording operation on the remaining number of sheets of media in the recording operation, where the limiting condition is satisfied when the time of the maintenance operation is longer than the time of performing the recording operation on the remaining number of sheets of media in the recording operation.

[0275] According to this configuration, when the time of performing the recording operation on the remaining number of sheets of media in the recording operation is shorter than the time of the maintenance operation, it is possible to postpone the execution of the maintenance operation until the recording operation on the remaining number of sheets of media is completed. Therefore, through the maintenance operation, it is possible to improve the processing speed without significantly degrading the recording quality.

Claims

1. A recording system, characterized in that, Comprising: A conveying unit configured to convey a medium on a conveying path; A liquid ejector head capable of performing a recording operation of recording on the medium by ejecting liquid onto the medium; A cover capable of displacing to a separation position separated from the liquid ejector head and a maintenance position for performing maintenance on the liquid ejector head; A processing tray capable of placing the medium recorded by the liquid ejector head; A post-processing unit capable of performing a post-processing operation on the medium placed on the processing tray; And A control unit, The control unit can measure time based on the displacement of the cover from the maintenance position to the separation position, During a recording operation of recording a specified number of media, the liquid ejector head can perform the recording operation in a state where the cover is in the separation position, and when the time measured by the control unit exceeds a specified time, it can perform a maintenance operation based on liquid ejection in a state where the cover is in the maintenance position, The conveying path has a standby position upstream of the liquid ejector head where the medium can standby, Before the start of the recording operation in the recording operation, the conveying unit can make the first medium standby at the standby position, Before the start of the recording operation in the recording operation, when the first medium in the recording operation is on standby at the standby position, the cover is in the separation position, The control unit During an initial control period in the control period accompanying the recording operation, makes the liquid ejector head perform the maintenance operation, and at the same time makes the post-processing unit perform the post-processing operation on a second number of media less than the first number, After the end of the initial control period, makes the liquid ejector head perform the maintenance operation, and at the same time makes the post-processing unit perform the post-processing operation on the first number of media.

2. The recording system according to claim 1, wherein The control unit can select either the first mode or a second mode different from the first mode for control, The first mode is a mode in which, compared with the second mode, based on the start of the recording operation, for at least the first medium, the timing of the recording operation and the timing of the post-processing operation are advanced, In the first mode, the conveying unit makes the first medium standby at the standby position before the start of the recording operation in the recording operation, In the first mode, the cover is in the separation position when the first medium in the recording operation is on standby at the standby position, The initial control period is the control period in the first mode, The initial control period has a first initial control period and a second initial control period after the end of the first initial control period, In the first mode, the control unit, During the first initial control period, makes the post-processing unit discharge the first medium that is not formed as a medium bundle on the processing tray from the processing tray, During the second initial control period, makes the liquid ejector head perform the maintenance operation, and at the same time makes the post-processing unit discharge the second number of media formed as a medium bundle on the processing tray from the processing tray. After the end of the second initial control period, cause the liquid ejection head to perform the maintenance operation, and at the same time cause the post-processing unit to discharge from the processing tray the first number of sheets of media formed as a media bundle on the processing tray.

3. The recording system according to claim 2, wherein in the first mode, the liquid ejection head performs the first maintenance operation after the start of the recording operation even before the time measured by the control unit exceeds the specified time, after performing the recording operation on a predetermined initial number of sheets of media.

4. The recording system according to claim 2, wherein in the second mode, the post-processing unit discharges from the processing tray the first number of sheets of media formed as a media bundle on the processing tray, using the time of the maintenance operation of the liquid ejection head during the control period accompanying the recording operation.

5. The recording system according to claim 2, wherein in the first mode, the liquid ejection head ejects a first ejection amount of liquid in the first maintenance operation during the recording operation, and ejects a second ejection amount of liquid that is more than the first ejection amount in the subsequent maintenance operations during the recording operation in the first mode.

6. The recording system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein when the time measured by the control unit during the recording operation exceeds the specified time, the liquid ejection head performs the maintenance operation after performing the recording operation on the remaining number of sheets of media in the recording operation, when a limiting condition is satisfied, the limiting condition is satisfied when the time of the maintenance operation is longer than the time of performing the recording operation on the remaining number of sheets of media in the recording operation.

7. A control method for a recording system, wherein the recording system includes: a conveyance unit configured to convey media on a conveyance path; a liquid ejection head capable of performing a recording operation of recording on media by ejecting liquid onto the media; a cover capable of displacing to a separation position separated from the liquid ejection head and a maintenance position for performing maintenance on the liquid ejection head; a processing tray capable of loading media recorded by the liquid ejection head; and a post-processing unit capable of performing a post-processing operation on the media loaded on the processing tray, the conveyance path has a standby position upstream of the liquid ejection head where media can standby, the control method for the recording system includes: a step of measuring time based on the displacement of the cover from the maintenance position to the separation position; during a recording operation in which the liquid ejection head performs recording on a specified number of sheets of media, a step of causing the liquid ejection head to perform the recording operation in a state where the cover is in the separation position; a step of causing the liquid ejection head to perform a maintenance operation based on ejection of liquid in a state where the cover is in the maintenance position when the measured time exceeds a specified time; Before the start of the recording operation in the recording job, a step of causing the conveying unit to standby the first sheet of medium at the standby position; Before the start of the recording operation in the recording job, a step of causing the cover to be at the separation position while the first sheet of medium in the recording job is standby at the standby position; During an initial control period in the control period accompanying the recording job, a step of causing the liquid ejector to perform the maintenance operation while causing the post-processing unit to perform the post-processing operation on a second number of media that is less than the first number; And After the end of the initial control period, a step of causing the liquid ejector to perform the maintenance operation while causing the post-processing unit to perform the post-processing operation on the media of the first number.

8. The control method of the recording system according to claim 7, characterized in that, Further includes: A step of performing control of either a first mode or a second mode different from the first mode; In the first mode, which is a mode in which, compared to the second mode, for the first sheet of medium, the timing of the recording operation and the timing of the post-processing operation are advanced based on the start of the recording job, Before the start of the recording operation in the recording job, a step of causing the conveying unit to standby the first sheet of medium at the standby position; A step of causing the cover to be at the separation position while the first sheet of medium in the recording job is standby at the standby position; During a first initial control period in the initial control period which is the control period in the first mode, a step of causing the post-processing unit to discharge the first sheet of medium that is not formed as a media bundle on the processing tray from the processing tray; During a second initial control period in the initial control period which is the control period in the first mode, a step of causing the liquid ejector to perform the maintenance operation while causing the post-processing unit to discharge the second number of media that is formed as a media bundle on the processing tray from the processing tray; And After the end of the second initial control period, a step of causing the liquid ejector to perform the maintenance operation while causing the post-processing unit to discharge the first number of media that is formed as a media bundle on the processing tray from the processing tray.

9. The control method of the recording system according to claim 8, characterized in that, Further includes: In the first mode, even before the measured time exceeds the specified time, after the recording operation on a predetermined initial number of media has been performed after the start of the recording job, a step of causing the liquid ejector to perform the first maintenance operation after the start of the recording job.

10. The control method of the recording system according to claim 8, characterized in that, Further includes: In the second mode, the post-processing unit causes the liquid ejector to perform the maintenance operation during the control period accompanying the recording job, while causing the post-processing unit to discharge the first number of media that is formed as a media bundle on the processing tray from the processing tray.

11. The control method of the recording system according to claim 8, characterized in that, Further includes: In the first mode, a step of causing the liquid ejector to eject a first ejection amount of liquid in the first maintenance operation in the recording job, and ejecting a second ejection amount of liquid that is more than the first ejection amount in the subsequent maintenance operations in the recording job in the first mode.

12. The control method of the recording system according to any one of claims 7 to 11, characterized in that, It further has: In the recording operation, when the measured time exceeds the specified time and when the time of the maintenance operation is longer than the time of the recording operation for the remaining number of sheets of the medium in the recording operation, a step of causing the liquid ejector to perform the maintenance operation after performing the recording operation for the remaining number of sheets of the medium in the recording operation.

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