Printing apparatus

Abstract

A printing apparatus is provided that achieves miniaturization by designing the configuration position of the standby position of the cutting section. The printing apparatus (1) includes: an ink cartridge (8), transport rollers (60, 66), an image recording unit (3), a cutting section (10), and a control unit. The control unit cuts paper (P) by moving the cutting section (10) in the scanning direction to the outside relative to the table (34). The standby position (SB) for activating the cutting section (10) in the scanning direction is arranged in the front-rear direction relative to the cartridge housing (80) on the outside relative to the table (34). A portion of the cutting section (10) located in the standby position (SB) is arranged such that its position in the width direction of the printing apparatus (1) coincides with that of the ink cartridge (8) when viewed from the front of the printing apparatus (1).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a printing apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Conventional printing apparatuses have included a cutting section for cutting the printing medium. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a printing apparatus that includes a printing section for printing onto large rolls of paper and a cutting section for cutting the rolls. The printing apparatus of Patent Document 1 has a structure in which the printing section is mounted on a support pillar erected on a base, and is a large-scale printing apparatus used on the ground.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-109307

[0006] The technical problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] However, in a printing apparatus configured on a tabletop, there is a problem that it cannot be configured to be large as the printing apparatus in Patent Document 1 if a cutter unit is to be installed. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The present invention was made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide a printing device that achieves miniaturization by designing the configuration position of the standby position of the cutting part.

[0009] Technical means for solving technical problems

[0010] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, a printing apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention includes: a liquid storage section for storing liquid; a conveying section for conveying a recording medium along a conveying direction; an image recording section for supporting the recording medium conveyed by the conveying section via a stage and recording an image on the recording medium; a cutting section for cutting the recording medium; and a control section. The control section cuts the recording medium by moving the cutting section to an outer position relative to the stage in a scanning direction intersecting the conveying direction. An outer position relative to the stage in the scanning direction is provided for activating the cutting section in a standby position relative to the liquid storage section in the front-rear direction of the printing apparatus. At least a portion of the cutting section located in the standby position is arranged such that it coincides with the liquid storage section in the width direction of the printing apparatus when viewed horizontally from the front of the printing apparatus.

[0011] In the printing apparatus with the above-described structure, the standby position for activating the cutting section and the liquid storage section are arranged in a front-rear direction of the printing apparatus. Furthermore, a portion of the cutting section located in the standby position is arranged such that its position in the width direction of the printing apparatus coincides with the liquid storage section when viewed from the front of the printing apparatus. Therefore, by designing the arrangement of the standby position, miniaturization of the printing apparatus can be achieved.

[0012] The effects of the invention

[0013] According to one aspect of the present invention, the printing apparatus can be miniaturized by designing the configuration position of the standby position of the cutting section. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the appearance of a printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the printing apparatus according to the embodiment.

[0016] Figure 3 This is a view of the periphery of the image recording section of the printing apparatus in the embodiment, viewed from above.

[0017] Figure 4 This is a front view showing the standby position of the cutting section of the printing apparatus in the embodiment and the position of the box housing.

[0018] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of the upper surface of the printer unit in the printing apparatus of the embodiment, showing the image reading unit in an open state.

[0019] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the appearance of the cutting section of the printing apparatus according to the embodiment.

[0020] Figure 7 It is a diagram showing the paper before cutting and the first and second sheets produced after cutting.

[0021] Figure 8 This is a block diagram illustrating the electrical structure of the printing apparatus according to the embodiment.

[0022] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the control process during printing using a printing apparatus according to an embodiment.

[0023] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the control process when replacing the cutting section of the printing apparatus in an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0024] The following is for reference Figures 1-10The printing apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0025] [Structure of the printing apparatus]

[0026] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing the appearance of the printing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 1 The printing apparatus 1 shown is an MFP (Multi-Function Peripheral) including a printer unit 11 and an image reading unit 12. The printer unit 11 has an inkjet printing function, which records the printing data specified by the printing task onto paper P, which is a recording medium, by ejecting ink, such as a liquid. The image reading unit 12 is rotatable above the image recording unit 3 in the printing apparatus 1 and has a scanner function for reading the image recorded on the paper P.

[0027] Furthermore, the printing method is not limited to inkjet printing; it can also be electronic photo printing. Additionally, the printing apparatus 1 can be capable of color printing or is specifically designed for black and white printing. For ease of explanation, the following description will be based on the orientation of the printing apparatus 1 in a horizontal plane, where it can be used. Figure 1 The arrows indicate the vertical, horizontal, and front-back directions of the printing apparatus 1. Specifically, the front of the printing apparatus 1 is the paper discharge direction, and the rear of the printing apparatus 1 is the opposite direction to the paper discharge direction. Furthermore, the front of the printing apparatus 1 can be a direction where a setting unit 123 for user settings is located, or it can be a direction where a display device such as an LCD panel is located to notify the user of various printing information.

[0028] like Figure 1 As shown, an opening 20 is formed on the front surface of the printing apparatus 1. A supply tray 21 and a discharge tray 22 (an example of a discharge section) are disposed in the opening 20, and both the supply tray 21 and the discharge tray 22 are movable in the front-rear direction. The supply tray 21 is a housing for accommodating multiple sheets P, and its upper surface is open. The discharge tray 22 is disposed above the supply tray 21 and supports the sheets P on which images are recorded, a first sheet P1, and a second sheet P2. The size of the sheets P is, for example, A4 size. Furthermore, the sheets P are not limited to paper media, but can also be resin media such as OHP sheets.

[0029] In addition, such as Figure 1As shown, a setting unit 123 with a display screen is provided on the front surface of the printing apparatus 1. The setting unit 123 is, for example, a touch panel, and is configured to allow users to perform various settings related to printing and cutting unit 10 replacement via touch operation. When the setting unit 123 sets the paper size P, whether to perform cutting processing, and the replacement of the cutting unit 10, the setting information is output to the control unit 100 (see reference). Figure 8 ).

[0030] In addition, such as Figure 1 As shown, a cover 81 is rotatably mounted on the right side of the front surface of the printing apparatus 1. Figure 4 As shown, an ink cartridge 8, which is mounted on the cartridge housing 80, is disposed inside the cartridge cover 81. Furthermore, the ink cartridge 8 is an example of a liquid storage unit.

[0031] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the printing apparatus 1 in this embodiment. (Example) Figure 2 As shown, the printing apparatus 1 is equipped with a supply roller 23, a first transport path R1, transport rollers 60, 62, 64, 66, 68, an image recording unit 3, a cutting unit 10, and a second transport path R2. The supply roller 23 and the transport rollers 60, 62, 64, 66 are examples of a transport unit that transports paper P in the first transport direction D1 (transport direction).

[0032] The supply roller 23 is used to supply the paper P contained in the supply tray 21 to the first transport path R1. The supply roller 23 is rotatably supported on the top end of the supply arm 24. The supply arm 24 is rotatably supported on the shaft 25, which is supported on the frame of the printing apparatus 1. The supply arm 24 is subjected to a rotational force toward the supply tray 21 by its own weight or the elastic force of a spring or the like.

[0033] The supply roller 23 supplies power to the supply motor 107 (see reference). Figure 8 Driven by the forward rotation of the supply roller 23, the paper P contained in the supply tray 21 is supplied one sheet at a time to the first transport path R1. The paper P supplied to the first transport path R1 is transported in the first transport direction D1, that is, from the rear of the printing device 1 toward the front.

[0034] The first transport path R1 is a space formed by guide members 41, 42, 43, 44 and image recording unit 3. The first transport path R1 extends upward from the rear end of the supply tray 21, bends in the area divided by guide members 41 and 42, and extends in a straight line through the position of image recording unit 3 to the area divided by guide members 43 and 44 to reach the discharge tray 22.

[0035] A conveyor roller 60 is positioned upstream of the image recording unit 3 in the first conveying direction D1 of the first conveying path R1. A clamping roller 61 is positioned opposite the lower part of the conveyor roller 60. The conveyor roller 60 is powered by a conveyor motor 108 (see reference). Figure 8 Driven by the rotation of the conveyor roller 60, the clamping roller 61 rotates along with the conveyor roller 60. Through the forward rotation of the conveyor roller 60 and the clamping roller 61, the paper P is clamped by the conveyor roller 60 and the clamping roller 61 and conveyed to the image recording unit 3.

[0036] like Figure 2 As shown, a conveyor roller 62 is disposed downstream of the image recording unit 3 in the first conveying direction D1 of the first conveying path R1. A toothed roller 63 is disposed at a position opposite to the upper part of the conveyor roller 62. The conveyor roller 62 is driven by a conveyor motor 108. The toothed roller 63 rotates as the conveyor roller 62 rotates. By rotating the conveyor roller 62 and the toothed roller 63 in a forward direction, the paper P is held by the conveyor roller 62 and the toothed roller 63 and conveyed downstream in the first conveying direction D1.

[0037] Additionally, a conveyor roller 64 is disposed downstream of the conveyor roller 62 in the first conveying direction D1 of the first conveying path R1. A toothed roller 65 is disposed at a position opposite the upper part of the conveyor roller 64. The conveyor roller 64 is driven by the conveyor motor 108. The toothed roller 65 rotates as the conveyor roller 64 rotates. By rotating the conveyor roller 64 and the toothed roller 65 in a forward direction, the paper P is clamped by the conveyor roller 64 and the toothed roller 65 and conveyed toward the cutting section 10. On the other hand, when the conveyor roller 64 and the toothed roller 65 rotate in a reverse direction, the paper P is clamped by the conveyor roller 64 and the toothed roller 65 and conveyed along the lower surface of the first movable plate 46 toward the second conveying path R2.

[0038] A first movable plate 46 is provided between conveyor rollers 62 and 64 in the first conveying path R1. The first movable plate 46 is positioned near the branch position Y opposite to the guide member 43. The first movable plate 46 is supported by a platform 34 and is rotatable between a first state and a second state. Figure 2 In the first state, as shown by the solid line, the first movable plate 46 abuts against the guide member 43, thus closing the first conveying path R1. On the other hand, in Figure 2 In the second state, as shown by the dashed line, the first movable plate 46 is located below the first state, and moves away from the guide member 43 to allow the paper P being conveyed in the first conveying direction D1 to pass through.

[0039] Additionally, the first movable plate 46 is subjected to an upward force by a helical spring 47. One end of the helical spring 47 is connected to the first movable plate 46, and the other end is connected to the platform 34. The first movable plate 46 is in a first state by the force applied by the helical spring 47, with its front end abutting against the guide member 43.

[0040] A conveyor roller 66 is disposed downstream of the cutting section 10 in the first conveying direction D1 of the first conveying path R1. A toothed roller 67 is disposed at a position opposite to the upper part of the conveyor roller 66. The conveyor roller 66 is driven by a conveyor motor 108. The toothed roller 67 rotates as the conveyor roller 66 rotates. Through the forward rotation of the conveyor roller 66 and the toothed roller 67, the paper P, the first paper P1, and the second paper P2 are conveyed by the conveyor roller 66 and discharged towards the discharge tray 22.

[0041] In the first conveying path R1, a cutting section 10 is arranged between the conveying roller 64 and the conveying roller 66. For example... Figure 6 As shown, the cutting section 10 has a cutter unit 10C, and the cutter bracket 10A is connected to the cutter bracket motor 110 (see reference). Figure 8 Driven by the force of the paper, it moves in the scanning direction and cuts the paper P.

[0042] like Figure 2 As shown, a second movable plate 48 is rotatably disposed at the confluence position W of the first conveying path R1 and the second conveying path R2. Specifically, the second movable plate 48 is capable of... Figure 2 The first state and, as shown by the solid line in the middle, Figure 2 It rotates between the second state indicated by the dashed line. When the second movable plate 48 is in the first state, the second movable plate 48 and the guide member 42 constitute part of the second conveying path R2. In addition, when the second movable plate 48 is in the second state, the second movable plate 48 and the guide member 41 constitute part of the first conveying path R1.

[0043] A positioning sensor 120 is disposed upstream of the conveyor roller 60 in the first conveyor path R1. The positioning sensor 120 is mounted on the guide member 42 and is a sensor that detects the contact position of the front or rear end of the paper P with the conveyor roller 60. The positioning sensor 120 can be a sensor with an actuator that oscillates upon contact with the paper P, a photosensitive sensor, or the like. The positioning sensor 120 outputs an on signal when the paper P has passed the contact position with the conveyor roller 60, and outputs a off signal when the paper P has not passed the contact position with the conveyor roller 60. The detection signal from the positioning sensor 120 is output to the control unit 100.

[0044] A rotary encoder 121 is provided on the conveyor roller 60 to detect the rotation of the conveyor roller 60. The rotary encoder 121 outputs a pulse signal to the control unit 100 in response to the rotation of the conveyor roller 60 (see reference). Figure 8 The rotary encoder 121 has an encoder disk and an optical sensor. The encoder disk rotates together with the conveyor roller 60. The optical sensor reads the rotating encoder disk and generates a pulse signal, which is then output to the control unit 100.

[0045] The second transport path R2 is a path divided by guide components 51, 52, and 53, transport roller 68, and clamping roller 69. The second transport path R2 branches off from the branch position Y upstream of the transport roller 64 in the first transport path R1, and connects with the confluence position W upstream of the image recording unit 3 in the first transport direction D1 in the first transport path R1. Therefore, both sides of the paper P can be printed via the image recording unit 3.

[0046] [Structure of the image recording unit]

[0047] Figure 3 This is a view of the periphery of the image recording unit 3 of the printing apparatus 1 in this embodiment, viewed from above. (See diagram below.) Figure 3 As shown, the image recording unit 3 has a buffer tank 30, a head bracket 31, a recording head 32, multiple nozzles 33 and a platform 34 for recording images onto paper P.

[0048] The buffer tank 30 contains ink L supplied from the ink cartridge 8 via supply pipes 82. Additionally, a pipe connector 83 is integrally provided on the buffer tank 30. One end of each of the four supply pipes 82 is detachably connected to the pipe connector 83. The other ends of the four supply pipes 82 are respectively connected to four ink cartridges 8Y, 8M, 8C, and 8K.

[0049] like Figure 2 As shown, the image recording unit 3 is disposed between the transport roller 60 and the transport roller 62 in the first transport path R1. The recording head 32 is mounted on the head bracket 31. The lower surface of the recording head 32 is a nozzle surface 330 on which a plurality of nozzles 33 are formed.

[0050] Multiple nozzles 33 are connected to the interior of the buffer tank 30. The recording head 32 ejects ink L contained in the buffer tank 30 from the nozzles 33 toward the paper P by vibrating a piezoelectric element or other vibrating element. The nozzles 33 eject three colored inks L of yellow, cyan, and magenta, and black ink L.

[0051] The platform 34 is a rectangular plate-shaped component that holds the paper P. As the head carrier 31 moves, the recording head 32 selectively ejects ink droplets onto the paper P supported on the platform 34, thereby recording an image on the paper P.

[0052] like Figure 3 As shown, a scanning direction ( ) is provided above the stage 34. Figure 3 Two guide rails 13 and 14 extend parallel to each other in the left and right directions. The head bracket 31 is mounted on the two guide rails 13 and 14. The head bracket 31 is configured to be able to move in the left and right directions along the two guide rails 13 and 14 in the area opposite to the platform 34.

[0053] Additionally, a drive belt 15 is mounted on the head bracket 31. The drive belt 15 is an endless belt wound around two pulleys 16 and 17. One pulley 16 is connected to the head bracket motor 109 (see reference). Figure 8 The head bracket 31 is connected to the head bracket 31. Driven by the forward or reverse rotation of the head bracket motor 109, the pulley 16 rotates, driving the belt 15 to move. This causes the head bracket 31 to reciprocate in the left-right direction. At the same time, the recording head 32 mounted on the head bracket 31 also reciprocates in the left-right direction.

[0054] The head support 31 reciprocates in the scanning direction by the driving force transmitted from the head support motor 109 (see reference). Figure 3 In the image recording of paper P, the control unit 100 of the printing apparatus 1 repeatedly performs recording and re-line processing. During recording, with the paper P being transported at a stop, the control unit 100 moves the head carriage 31 in the scanning direction while ejecting ink from the recording head 32, thereby recording one line of image on the paper P. During re-line processing, the control unit 100 drives the transport rollers 60 and 62 to transport the paper P by a predetermined re-line amount. Thus, the desired image, etc., is recorded on the paper P.

[0055] [Structure of the attraction section]

[0056] The suction unit 7 performs suction cleaning of the nozzle 33 as a maintenance operation to restore the nozzle 33 to its ejection state. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the suction unit 7 includes a cap 70, a suction pump 71, and a waste liquid tank 72. Furthermore, Figure 3 The structure of the suction section 7 shown is an example, and is not limited thereto.

[0057] The cap 70 is positioned on the right side of the scanning platform 34 in the scanning direction. In standby mode, when no image recording to the paper P is being performed via the image recording unit 3, Figure 3 The head holder 31 is moved to a standby position HP where the nozzle surface 330 of the recording head 32 is vertically aligned with the cap 70. The cap 70 is mounted on the recording head 32 at the standby position HP, covering the nozzle surface 330 and thus sealing the nozzle 33. This prevents the nozzle 33 from drying out.

[0058] The cap 70 is made of, for example, a rubber material. The cap 70 is configured such that, in the standby position HP, it is driven by a cap displacement part (not shown) and can be displaced relative to the recording head 32 in a manner that allows it to contact and separate.

[0059] The cap 70 is mounted on the recording head 32 in the standby position HP and covers the nozzle surface 330, thereby sealing the nozzle 33. This prevents the nozzle 33 from drying out. The cap 70 is configured to be driven by a cap displacement part (not shown) and can be moved in a manner that allows it to abut and separate from the recording head 32.

[0060] The suction pump 71 is, for example, a tubular pump. The operation of the suction pump 71 is controlled by the control unit 100. When the suction pump 71 is driven, gas and liquid inside the cap 70 are drawn in. The suction pump 71 is connected to the waste liquid tank 72 via a pipe 73. The waste liquid tank 72 stores the ink L discharged from the inside of the cap 70 by the suction pump 71.

[0061] [Ink cartridge structure]

[0062] Figure 4 This is a front view showing the standby position SB of the cutting section 10 of the printing apparatus 1 in this embodiment and the position of the cartridge housing 80. (As shown) Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, a housing 80 for mounting an ink cartridge 8 is disposed on the front right side of the printing apparatus 1 compared to the standby position SB.

[0063] Ink cartridge 8 is a roughly cuboid-shaped container for storing ink L, and four cartridges are provided. The four ink cartridges 8Y, 8M, 8C, and 8K store yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) inks L, respectively. Ink L is pigment ink in which pigment particles are dispersed in a solvent.

[0064] like Figure 3 As shown, four ink cartridges 8Y, 8M, 8C, and 8K are connected to the image recording unit 3 via four supply tubes 82. The supply tubes 82 are made of flexible components, connecting the interior of the ink cartridges 8 to the interior of the buffer tank 30 of the image recording unit 3. Furthermore, although not shown, a flexible flat cable extends from the head holder 31. This flexible flat cable electrically connects the control unit 100 to the recording head 32.

[0065] [Opening]

[0066] Figure 5 This is a perspective view schematically showing the upper surface of the printer unit 11 in the printing apparatus 1 of Embodiment 1 when the image reading unit 12 is open. For example... Figure 5 As shown, a cover member 111, for example made of resin, is disposed on the upper surface of the printer unit 11. An opening 112 is formed in the cover member 111. The opening 112 communicates with the replacement position EX and is sized to allow the cutter unit 10C to pass through. The user can replace the printer unit through the opening 112. Figure 6 The cutter unit 10C of the cutting section 10 shown.

[0067] [Structure of the cut section]

[0068] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the appearance of the cutting portion 10 of the printing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 6As shown, the cutting section 10 has a cutter unit 10C mounted on a cutter bracket 10A. The cutter unit 10C has a circular upper blade 10C1 and a lower blade 10C2. The cutter unit 10C is mounted to the cutter bracket 10A, for example, by screws. When replacing the cutting section 10, the user can remove the cutter unit 10C from the cutter bracket 10A by loosening the screws with a tool or the like.

[0069] The upper blade 10C1 is rotatably mounted to the cutter holder 10A via an O-ring (not shown). The lower blade 10C2 is also rotatably mounted to the cutter holder 10A via an O-ring, similar to the upper blade 10C1. At the cutting position X, the cutting section 10 rotates the upper blade 10C1 and the lower blade 10C2 together and abuts, thereby cutting the paper P. The paper P cut by the cutting section 10 is as follows: Figure 7 As shown, it is divided into a first sheet P1 and a second sheet P2.

[0070] Furthermore, the upper blade 10C1 and the lower blade 10C2 can be fixed blades or a combination of rotating and fixed blades. Additionally, the cutter unit 10C can be either the upper blade 10C1 or the lower blade 10C2. In this case, the cutting position X is the position where either the upper blade 10C1 or the lower blade 10C2 contacts the paper P. Furthermore, the shape and size of the cutter unit 10C can be appropriately changed.

[0071] like Figure 6 As shown, the cutting section 10 is supported by a support rail 18 extending in the scanning direction, allowing it to move in the scanning direction. An endless belt (not shown) is wound around a rotating shaft (not shown) on the support rail 18. The endless belt is connected to the cutter bracket 10A. The rotating shaft is connected to the cutter bracket motor 110 (see reference). Figure 8 Driven by the force of the cutting tool, the cutter bracket 10A rotates without end, thereby moving along the support rail 18 in the scanning direction.

[0072] [The relationship between the ink cartridge and its standby and replacement positions]

[0073] like Figure 3 As shown, in the scanning direction ( Figure 3 A standby position SB is provided on the right outer side of the cutting section 10 (in the left-right direction) compared to the table 34, for activating the cutting section 10. The standby position SB is a space used for the cutting section 10 to standby when it is not cutting the paper.

[0074] The standby position SB is located behind the cartridge housing 80 where the ink cartridge 8 is mounted. That is, the ink cartridge 8 is arranged in a front-to-back direction relative to the standby position SB of the printing apparatus 1. Furthermore, as... Figure 1As shown, the box housing 80 is in the width direction of the printing apparatus 1 ( Figure 1 The left and right directions) are arranged with the discharge plate 22.

[0075] And, as Figure 4 As shown, when viewed from the front of the printing apparatus 1, the position of the portion of the cutting section 10 in the standby position SB, which is moved to the position in the width direction, coincides with the position in the height direction of the cartridge housing 80. That is, the portion of the cutting section 10 located in the standby position SB is arranged to coincide with the ink cartridge 8 when viewed from the front of the printing apparatus 1.

[0076] In addition, such as Figure 3 As shown, a replacement position EX for changing the cutter unit 10C is provided on the right outer side of the scanning direction compared to the standby position SB. That is, the standby position SB and the replacement position EX are arranged on the right side of the scanning direction. In addition, the standby position SB of the cutting section 10 is arranged behind the standby position HP where the cap 70 is located.

[0077] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the paper P before cutting and the first paper P1 and the second paper P2 produced after cutting. Figure 7 In the example shown, the paper P of length A in the conveying direction is cut by the cutting section 10, thereby dividing the paper P into two equal parts, namely a first paper P1 of length A1 in the conveying direction and a second paper P2 of length A2 in the conveying direction. For example, if the paper P is A4 size, the first paper P1 and the second paper P2 of A5 size are generated. Furthermore, in the first conveying path R1, the first paper P1 is conveyed before the second paper P2.

[0078] [Electrical Structure of the Printing Equipment]

[0079] Figure 8 This is a block diagram showing the electrical structure of the printing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment. For example... Figure 8 As shown, in addition to the parts described above, the printing apparatus 1 also includes a control unit 100 and a communication interface (I / F) 122.

[0080] The control unit 100 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101, a ROM (Read-Only Memory) 102, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, an EEPROM 104 (registered trademark), and an ASIC 105, which are connected via an internal bus 106. The ROM 102 stores programs for controlling various operations of the CPU 101. The RAM 103 is used as a storage area for temporarily recording data, signals, etc., used by the CPU 101 when executing the aforementioned programs, or as a data processing work area. The EEPROM 104 stores setting information that needs to be retained even after the power is cut off. The control unit 100 controls the supply motor 107, the conveyor motor 108, the recording head 32, the suction pump 71, the head support motor 109, and the cutter support motor 110 based on the control program read from the ROM 102.

[0081] The ASIC105 is connected to a supply motor 107, a conveyor motor 108, a head support motor 109, a recording head 32, a cutter support motor 110, a suction pump 71, a positioning sensor 120, a rotary encoder 121, a communication I / F 122, and a setting unit 123.

[0082] ASIC 105 supplies drive current to the supply motor 107, conveyor motor 108, head bracket motor 109, and cutter bracket motor 110. The supply motor 107, conveyor motor 108, head bracket motor 109, and cutter bracket motor 110 are DC motors whose rotation speed increases with the supplied drive current and decreases with the supplied drive current. Control unit 100 controls the rotation of the supply motor 107, conveyor motor 108, head bracket motor 109, and cutter bracket motor 110, for example, using PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) control.

[0083] Additionally, the control unit 100 ejects ink droplets from the nozzle by applying a drive voltage to the vibrating element of the recording head 32. The control unit 100 detects the rotation amount of the transport roller 60 based on the pulse signal output from the rotary encoder 121. The control unit 100 detects whether the paper P has passed the contact position with the transport roller 60 based on the detection signal output from the positioning sensor 120. Furthermore, after the positioning sensor 120 outputs an activation signal, the control unit 100 estimates the amount of paper P transported on the first transport path R1 based on the pulse signal output from the rotary encoder 121.

[0084] The communication I / F122 connects to networks such as LAN, and can also connect to external devices that have a drive for the printing apparatus 1 installed. The printing apparatus 1 can receive printing tasks containing identification information, including the type of paper P, via the communication I / F122.

[0085] [The control process performed by the control department during printing]

[0086] Next, refer to Figure 9 The flowchart describes the control process performed by the control unit 100 of the printing apparatus 1 in this embodiment during printing. Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the control process during printing performed by the printing apparatus 1 in this embodiment.

[0087] exist Figure 9 In the flowchart shown, firstly, when the control unit 100 receives a printing task via the communication I / F122, it drives the supply motor 107 to make the supply roller 23 rotate forward, thereby taking out the paper P from the supply tray 21 and starting the feeding of the paper P (S1). Specifically, after the paper P is fed from the supply tray 21 to the first transport path R1, the paper P is fed toward the image recording unit 3.

[0088] Next, the control unit 100 determines whether the leading edge of the paper P has been detected by using the detection result of the positioning sensor 120 (S2). If the leading edge of the paper P is not detected (S2: No), the control unit 100 returns to S2. If the leading edge of the paper P is detected (S2: Yes), the control unit 100 starts recording an image of the paper P by controlling the image recording unit 3 (S3).

[0089] In S3, the control unit 100 records an image on the paper P by performing an image recording process that alternately repeats the rewriting process and the recording process described below on the paper P being transported to the image recording unit 3. That is, in the rewriting process, the control unit 100 drives the transport rollers 60, 62, and 64 to rotate the transport motor 108 in the forward direction, thereby transporting the paper P in the first transport direction D1 by a predetermined amount. In the recording process, the control unit 100 drives the head holder motor 109 during the period when the transport of the paper P is stopped, thereby moving the head holder 31 in the width direction of the paper P and recording a line of image by ejecting ink droplets from the nozzle 33 of the recording head 32 onto the paper P.

[0090] After S3, the control unit 100 determines whether the positioning sensor 120 has detected the rear end of the paper P (S4). If the positioning sensor 120 has not detected the rear end of the paper P (S4: No), the control unit 100 returns to S4. If the positioning sensor 120 has detected the rear end of the paper P (S4: Yes), the control unit 100 calculates... Figure 7The length A(S5) of the paper P in the first transport direction D1 is shown.

[0091] Specifically, during the period from when the positioning sensor 120 detects the front end of the paper P to when the positioning sensor 120 detects the rear end of the paper P, the control unit 100 calculates the length A of the paper P in the first conveying direction D1 based on the conveying amount of the paper P detected by the rotary encoder 121.

[0092] Then, the control unit 100 sets the length A of the paper P in the first transport direction D1 calculated in S5. Figure 7 The paper P is shown at the cutting position CL (S6). After S6, the control unit 100 determines whether the cutting position CL of the paper P has reached the position X where the cutting part 10 exists (see reference 121) based on the detection results of the positioning sensor 120 and the rotary encoder 121. Figure 2 (S7).

[0093] If the paper P has not reached the position X where the cutting section 10 exists (S7: No), the control unit 100 returns to S7. On the other hand, if the paper P has reached the position X where the cutting section 10 exists (S7: Yes), the control unit 100, while the paper P is clamped by the upper blade 10C1 and the lower blade 10C2, cuts the paper P at the cutting position CL by moving the cutting section 10 in the scanning direction (S8). Thus, as Figure 7 As shown, a first sheet P1 and a second sheet P2, each half the size of a sheet P, are generated. Furthermore, the user can set whether to cut the sheet P via the setting unit 123.

[0094] After S8, the control unit 100 determines whether there is a next page (S9). If there is no next page (S9: No), the control unit 100 discharges the first paper P1 and the second paper P2 to the discharge tray 22 and ends the image recording of the paper P (S10).

[0095] On the other hand, if a next page exists (S9: Yes), the control unit 100 ends the printing of the second paper P2 by the image recording unit 3, and after discharging the first paper P1 and the second paper P2 to the discharge tray 22, returns to S1, and then performs the same processing as S2 to S9 described above. Thus, the process ends. Figure 9 The flowchart shown.

[0096] [The control process performed by the control unit when replacing the cutting section]

[0097] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the control process when replacing the cutting section 10 of the printing apparatus 1 in this embodiment. Figure 10In the flowchart shown, firstly, the control unit 100 determines whether it has received an instruction to replace the cutting unit 10 (S11).

[0098] When the printing apparatus 1 receives an instruction to change the cutting section 10 via the user operation setting unit 123 (S11: Yes), the control unit 100 moves the cutting section 10 from the standby position SB to the replacement position EX along the scanning direction (S12). On the other hand, if the printing apparatus 1 does not receive an instruction to change the cutting section 10 (S11: No), it returns to S11.

[0099] In S12, when the cutting section 10 is moved from the standby position SB to the replacement position EX, the control unit 100 moves the cutting section 10 at a slower speed than the moving speed of the cutting section 10 when cutting the paper P in S8. As a result, the impact applied to the cutting section 10 when moving the cutting section 10 to the replacement position EX can be reduced.

[0100] As described above, after the cutting section 10 is moved from the standby position SB to the replacement position EX, the user... Figure 5 The image reading unit 12 is opened as shown, so that the cutter unit 10C can be replaced by tools or the like through the opening 112 of the cover member 111.

[0101] [Effects of the Implementation Method]

[0102] According to the above description, the printing apparatus 1 of this embodiment, such as Figure 3 As shown, the standby position SB of the cutting section 10 and the position of the ink cartridge 8 are arranged in the front-rear direction of the printing apparatus 1, thus enabling a reduction in the width dimension of the printing apparatus 1. Furthermore, as Figure 4 As shown by the surrounding line, a portion of the cut-off section 10 located in the standby position SB is arranged to coincide with the ink cartridge 8 when viewed from the front of the printing apparatus. In this way, by designing the configuration position of the standby position SB, the printing apparatus 1 can be miniaturized.

[0103] In addition, such as Figure 3 As shown, by positioning the ink cartridge 8 at the front of the printing apparatus 1 relative to the standby position SB, the user can easily load and unload the ink cartridge 8 from the printing apparatus 1. Furthermore, by positioning the standby position SB relative to the ink cartridge 8 at the rear of the printing apparatus 1, the width dimension of the printing apparatus 1 can be reduced.

[0104] In addition, such as Figure 1 As shown, by positioning the discharge tray 22 and the cartridge housing 80 on which the ink cartridge 8 is mounted in the width direction of the printing apparatus 1 ( Figure 1 Arranged in the left-right direction, the size of the printing device 1 in the front-back direction can be reduced, and the printing device 1 can be further miniaturized.

[0105] In addition, such as Figure 3 As shown, relative to the configuration position of the stage 34, the standby position SB and the replacement position EX of the cutting section 10 are configured in the scanning direction ( Figure 3 The same side (left and right directions) Figure 3 The standby position SB and the cap 70 are arranged in a front-to-back direction in the printing device 1 (on the right side). As a result, the size of the printing device 1 in the width direction can be further reduced.

[0106] In addition, such as Figure 3 As shown, by arranging the replacement position EX of the cutting section 10 on the outside of the scanning direction compared to the standby position SB, the user can more easily replace the cutter unit 10C of the cutting section 10 without obstructing the components arranged near the center in the width direction of the printing device 1.

[0107] In addition, such as Figure 10 As shown, the user can automatically move the cutting unit 10 to the replacement position EX by operating the setting unit 123. Furthermore, as... Figure 5 As shown, after the user rotates the image reading unit 12, the user can easily replace the cutter unit 10C by using tools or the like through the contact opening 112 at the front of the printing device 1.

[0108] In addition, such as Figure 9 As shown, the length A (S5) of the paper P in the first transport direction D1 can be calculated using the detection results of the front and rear ends of the paper P based on the positioning sensor 120. After setting the cutting position CL (S6) of the paper P, the paper P is cut by the cutting part 10 at the set cutting position CL (S8). Thus, the paper P can be correctly cut to the desired size by the cutting part 10.

[0109] [Other Implementation Methods]

[0110] In the above-described embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, the replacement position EX of the cutting section 10 is positioned outside the standby position SB in the scanning direction. However, it is not limited to this; the replacement position EX of the cutting section 10 may also be set to the same position as the standby position SB. Alternatively, the standby position SB and the ink cartridge 8 may be staggered in the vertical direction.

[0111] In the above embodiment, the ink cartridge 8 is mounted on the cartridge housing 80 in a cartridge-type printing apparatus 1, but it is not limited to this. For example, it could also be a can-type printing apparatus in which the ink is supplied by directly connecting a bottle-shaped ink cartridge to the connection port of the supply pipe 82.

[0112] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the number of ink cartridges 8 is four, but it is not limited to this; for example, it could be six or eight. Additionally, in the case of a monochrome printer, one ink cartridge 8 corresponding to black is sufficient.

[0113] In the above-described embodiment, the passage of the front and rear ends of the paper P is detected by the positioning sensor 120, but it is not limited to this. For example, a medium sensor may be provided in the image recording unit 3 as a sensor for detecting whether the paper P is on the platform 34, and the passage of the front or rear ends of the paper P may be detected by the medium sensor.

[0114] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the paper P is cut in half by the cutting part 10, but it is not limited to this; for example, the paper P can also be cut in thirds. Additionally, the cutting position X of the paper P can be appropriately changed according to the size of the printing data.

[0115] Figure 9 The flowchart shown is an example, and is not limited to this. For example, it could also be found in... Figure 9 After S4, the paper P is conveyed along the second conveying direction D2 on the second conveying path R2, and then cut by the cutting part 10 in S8.

[0116] In Embodiment 1 described above, paper P is conveyed by supply roller 23 and conveying rollers 60, 62, 64, 66, and 68, which are roller components, but this is not a limitation. Alternatively, a belt component or a drum component can be used as the conveying unit.

[0117] This invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Various modifications can be made within the scope of the patent claims. Embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of this invention.

[0118] Symbol Explanation

[0119] 1 Printing apparatus

[0120] 3 Image Recording Unit

[0121] 8, 8Y, 8M, 8C, 8K ink cartridges (liquid storage section)

[0122] 10 Cut-off section

[0123] 10C Cutter Unit

[0124] 11 Printer Department

[0125] 12 Image Reading Unit

[0126] 23. Supply Roller (Conveying Section)

[0127] 34 plates

[0128] 60, 62, 64, 66 conveyor rollers (conveyor section)

[0129] 70 Hat Department

[0130] 80 boxes of shells

[0131] 100 Control Department

[0132] 111 Cover Components

[0133] 112 opening

[0134] 123 Setting Department

[0135] P paper (recording medium)

[0136] EX Change position

[0137] SB standby position

Claims

1. A printing device characterized by comprising: Possessing: a liquid storage portion that stores a liquid; a conveyance portion that conveys a recording medium along a conveyance direction; an image recording portion that supports a recording medium conveyed by the conveyance portion by a platen and records an image on the recording medium; a tube that connects the liquid storage portion and the image recording portion and supplies the liquid from the liquid storage portion to the image recording portion; a cutting portion that cuts the recording medium; and a control portion, the control portion cuts the recording medium by moving the cutting portion to an outer side compared to the platen in a scanning direction that intersects the conveyance direction, a standby position for causing the cutting portion to stand by is arranged in a line with the liquid storage portion in a front-rear direction of the printing device on an outer side compared to the platen in the scanning direction, at least a portion of the cutting portion at the standby position is arranged so that a position in a width direction of the printing device when viewed from the front of the printing device coincides with the liquid storage portion.

2. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the cutting portion at the standby position is arranged so that a position in a height direction of the printing device when viewed from the front of the printing device coincides with the liquid storage portion.

3. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein the liquid storage portion is arranged in front in the printing device compared to the standby position.

4. The printing device according to claim 3, further comprising: an ejection portion that ejects a recording medium on which an image has been recorded by the image recording portion, the ejection portion is arranged in a line with the liquid storage portion in a width direction of the printing device.

5. The printing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a replacement position for replacing the cutting portion is provided on an outer side compared to the platen in the scanning direction, the standby position and the replacement position are arranged on the same side in the scanning direction.

6. The printing device according to claim 5, wherein the replacement position is arranged on an outer side compared to the standby position in the scanning direction.

7. The printing device according to claim 5, wherein a setting portion is provided on a front surface of the printing device, when an instruction to replace the cutting portion is received by the setting portion, the control portion moves the cutting portion to the replacement position along the scanning direction. further comprising:

8. The printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by a recording head having a nozzle face on which nozzles that eject a liquid stored in the liquid storage portion are formed; and a cap portion that covers the nozzle face of the recording head at a standby time when an image is not being recorded on a recording medium by the image recording portion, a position of the standby position with respect to the cap portion is arranged in a line in a front-rear direction of the printing device.

9. The printing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein ​ Further provided is an image reading section rotatably disposed above the image recording section and configured to read an image recorded on a recording medium, A replacement position for replacing the cutting section is provided outside the platen in the scanning direction, The replacement position is disposed below the image reading section.

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