Printing apparatus and control methods

Abstract

This application provides a printing apparatus and a control method that can change the state of the printing apparatus to a state that is easy for the user to operate at a time desired by the user. The printing apparatus includes: a printing unit; an operation unit that can rotate about a rotation axis to a first operation position and a second operation position respectively; a paper discharge tray that can move in a front-rear direction; a moving unit that moves the paper discharge tray; a rotating mechanism that, in response to the movement of the paper discharge tray, rotates the operation unit from the first operation position to the second operation position; and a control unit that allows the paper discharge tray to move to a storage position, a loading position, and a standby position. When the operation unit is in the first operation position and the paper discharge tray has moved between the storage position and the standby position, the rotating mechanism rotates the operation unit from the first operation position to the second operation position. When the paper discharge tray is in the storage position and a first condition is met, the control unit performs a first control to move the paper discharge tray to the standby position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to printing apparatus and control methods. Background Technology

[0002] Research and development have been conducted on printing apparatus for printing images on printing media.

[0003] Regarding this, a printing apparatus is known as follows, comprising: an operation unit that can rotate about a predetermined rotation axis to a first operation position and a second operation position respectively, and receive operations, wherein the first operation position is inclined at a predetermined first angle relative to a mounting surface on which the printing apparatus is mounted, and the second operation position is inclined at a second angle smaller than the first angle relative to the mounting surface; a paper discharge tray that receives discharged printing media; a moving unit that moves the paper discharge tray back and forth; and a rotating unit such as a motor that, in response to the moving unit moving the paper discharge tray, causes the operation unit to rotate from the first operation position to the second operation position (see Patent Document 1).

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-149088

[0005] Here, in the printing apparatus described in Patent Document 1, the paper tray is moved by the driving force of the paper feed motor during printing. This moves the position of the operating unit from a first operating position to a second operating position, changing the state of the printing apparatus to one that is easy for the user to operate. However, the opportunity to change the state of the printing apparatus to one that is easy for the user to operate is not limited to printing. Therefore, there are situations where the printing apparatus cannot change its state to one that is easy for the user to operate at the time the user desires. Summary of the Invention

[0006] To solve the aforementioned technical problems, one aspect of this disclosure is a printing apparatus comprising: a printing unit for printing images on a printing medium; an operation unit capable of rotating about a rotation axis to a first operation position and a second operation position, and receiving operations, wherein the first operation position is inclined at a predetermined first angle relative to a mounting surface on which the printing apparatus is mounted, and the second operation position is inclined at a second angle less than the first angle relative to the mounting surface; a paper discharge tray having a height direction defined as the direction orthogonal to the mounting surface from the mounting surface toward the printing apparatus, wherein the paper discharge tray is positioned lower than the rotation axis in the height direction, and the paper discharge tray is movable in a front-rear direction in a first direction intersecting the height direction; a moving unit for moving the paper discharge tray; and a rotating mechanism that, in response to the movement of the paper discharge tray, causes the operation unit to rotate. The operating unit rotates from the first operating position to the second operating position; and the control unit controls the printing unit, the operating unit, and the moving unit. The paper tray can move to a predetermined standby position, which is a storage position where the paper tray is housed in the housing of the printing apparatus, a loading position for receiving the discharged printing medium, and a position closer to the storage position than the loading position. When the position of the operating unit is the first operating position and the paper tray has moved between the storage position and the standby position, the rotation mechanism causes the operating unit to rotate from the first operating position to the second operating position. When the position of the paper tray is the storage position and a predetermined first condition is met, the control unit controls the moving unit to perform a first control to move the paper tray to the standby position.

[0007] Furthermore, one aspect of this disclosure is a printing apparatus comprising: a printing unit for printing an image on a printing medium; an operation unit capable of rotating about a rotation axis to a first operation position and a second operation position, and receiving an operation, wherein the first operation position is inclined at a predetermined first angle relative to a mounting surface on which the printing apparatus is mounted, and the second operation position is inclined at a second angle less than the first angle relative to the mounting surface; a paper discharge tray having a height direction defined as the direction orthogonal to the mounting surface from the mounting surface toward the printing apparatus, wherein the paper discharge tray is positioned below the rotation axis in the height direction, and the paper discharge tray is movable in a front-rear direction in a first direction intersecting the height direction; a moving unit for moving the paper discharge tray; and a rotating mechanism that, in response to the movement of the paper discharge tray, causes the paper discharge tray to rotate. The operating unit rotates from the first operating position to the second operating position; and the control unit controls the printing unit, the operating unit, and the moving unit. The paper discharge tray can move to a storage position where the paper discharge tray is housed within the housing of the printing apparatus and to a loading position where the discharged printing medium is received. When the position of the operating unit is the first operating position and the paper discharge tray has moved between the storage position and the loading position, the rotating mechanism rotates the operating unit from the first operating position to the second operating position. When the position of the paper discharge tray is the storage position and a predetermined first condition is met, the control unit controls the moving unit to perform a third control, moving the paper discharge tray to the loading position and then moving the paper discharge tray to the storage position.

[0008] Furthermore, one aspect of this disclosure is a control method for a printing apparatus, the printing apparatus comprising: a printing unit for printing an image on a printing medium; an operation unit capable of rotating about a rotation axis to a first operation position and a second operation position, and receiving an operation, the first operation position being inclined at a predetermined first angle relative to a mounting surface on which the printing apparatus is mounted, and the second operation position being inclined at a second angle less than the first angle relative to the mounting surface; a paper discharge tray having a height direction defined as the direction orthogonal to the mounting surface from the mounting surface toward the printing apparatus, the paper discharge tray being disposed below the rotation axis in the height direction, and the paper discharge tray being movable in a front-rear direction in a first direction intersecting the height direction; a moving unit for moving the paper discharge tray; and a rotating mechanism responsive to the printing medium. The movement of the paper tray causes the operating unit to rotate from the first operating position to the second operating position. The paper discharge tray can move to a predetermined standby position, which is a storage position where the paper discharge tray is housed within the housing of the printing apparatus, a loading position for receiving the discharged printing media, and a position closer to the storage position than the loading position. When the position of the operating unit is the first operating position and the paper discharge tray has moved between the storage position and the standby position, the rotation mechanism causes the operating unit to rotate from the first operating position to the second operating position. The control method has a first control step in which, when the position of the paper discharge tray is the storage position and a predetermined first condition is met, the moving unit is controlled to move the paper discharge tray to the standby position. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of printing apparatus 1.

[0010] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing an example of the operating section CP after it has been rotated to a position approximately 45° inclined relative to the mounting surface of the printing apparatus 1.

[0011] Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing an example of the operation section CP after it has been rotated to a position approximately parallel to the mounting surface of the printing apparatus 1.

[0012] Figure 4 This is a diagram showing an example of a situation where the operating part CP is in the first operating position and the operating part LM restricts the rotation of the operating part CP from the first operating position to the second operating position.

[0013] Figure 5 This indicates the release. Figure 4The diagram shows an example of the limitation situation of the limiting part LM.

[0014] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of printing apparatus 1.

[0015] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of printing apparatus 1.

[0016] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the rotating mechanism RT.

[0017] Figure 9 It is shown Figure 8 The diagram shows an example of the situation after the paper tray TR has just been moved to the standby position.

[0018] Figure 10 It is shown Figure 9 The diagram shows an example of the situation after the paper tray TR has just moved to a position between the standby position and the loading position.

[0019] Figure 11 It is shown Figure 10 The diagram shows an example of the situation after the paper tray TR has just been moved to the loading position.

[0020] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing another example of the positional relationship between the front surface of the storage section ST and the front surface of the operation section CP located in the first operation position.

[0021] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing an example of a printing apparatus 1 equipped with an ADF2.

[0022] Figure 14 It is shown Figure 13 The figure shows an example of the ADF2 with its stage 21 open.

[0023] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the process flow in which the control unit 16 changes the state of the printing device 1 to a predetermined first state.

[0024] Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the flow of the first process in step S130.

[0025] Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the flow of the second process in step S150.

[0026] Figure 18 This is a diagram showing an example of an image P1 including an angle adjustment button B1.

[0027] Figure 19 This is a diagram showing an example of an angle-adjusted image P2 including information D1.

[0028] Figure 20 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the process by which the control unit 16 changes the state of the printing device 1 to a predetermined second state.

[0029] Figure 21 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the flow of the third process in step S310.

[0030] Figure 22 This is a diagram illustrating other examples of the third processing flow.

[0031] Figure 23 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the process flow in which the control unit 16 moves the paper tray TR upon receiving a printing instruction.

[0032] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0033] 1 Printing apparatus, 11 Processor, 12 Storage unit, 13 Input receiving unit, 14 Communication unit, 15 Display unit, 16 Control unit, 21 Mounting stage, CL1 Engaging unit, CM Cam unit, CN Contact unit, CP Operating unit, G1 Gear rack, G2 Cam gear, LM Limiting unit, LM1 Locking pin, LV1 Rod component, LV2 Rod component, MV Motor, PR Printing unit, RT Rotating mechanism, S1 First detection unit, S2 Second detection unit, S3 Third detection unit, S4 Fourth detection unit, SP1 First force application component, SP2 Second force application component, ST Storage unit, TC Three-dimensional coordinate system, TP Touch panel, TR Paper tray, W1 Plate component. Detailed Implementation

[0034] Implementation

[0035] The embodiments of this disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0036] Overview of the printing apparatus

[0037] First, an overview of the printing apparatus involved in the implementation method will be described.

[0038] The printing apparatus according to the embodiment includes a printing unit, an operation unit, a paper tray, a moving unit, a rotating mechanism, and a control unit. The printing unit prints an image on a printing medium. The operation unit can rotate about a rotation axis to a first operation position and a second operation position, and receives operations. The first operation position is a position in which the operation unit can be located, tilted at a predetermined first angle relative to the mounting surface on which the printing apparatus is mounted. The second operation position is a position in which the operation unit can be located, tilted at a second angle relative to the mounting surface, less than the first angle. The direction orthogonal to the mounting surface, from the mounting surface toward the printing apparatus, is defined as the height direction. In the height direction, the paper tray is positioned lower than the rotation axis. Furthermore, the paper tray is a tray that can move in a front-back direction toward a first direction intersecting the height direction. The moving unit moves the paper tray. The rotating mechanism is a mechanism that rotates the operation unit from the first operation position to the second operation position in response to the movement of the paper tray. The control unit controls the printing unit, the operation unit, and the moving unit. Here, the paper tray can move to a predetermined standby position, either a storage position within the housing of the printing apparatus, a loading position for receiving discharged printing media, or a position closer to the storage position than the loading position. Furthermore, when the operation unit is in a first operating position and the paper tray has moved between the storage position and the standby position, the rotation mechanism rotates the operation unit from the first operating position to a second operating position. Additionally, when the paper tray is in the storage position and a predetermined first condition is met, the control unit controls the movement unit to perform a first control that moves the paper tray to the standby position. Thus, the printing apparatus can be switched to a state easily operated by the user at the desired time.

[0039] The following is a detailed description of the configuration of the printing apparatus according to the embodiments and the processing performed by the printing apparatus.

[0040] Composition of printing apparatus

[0041] The configuration of the printing apparatus according to the embodiment will now be described using printing apparatus 1 as an example.

[0042] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of printing apparatus 1.

[0043] Here, the three-dimensional coordinate system TC is a three-dimensional orthogonal coordinate system that indicates the direction of the diagram in which the three-dimensional coordinate system TC is plotted. For ease of explanation, the X-axis in the three-dimensional coordinate system TC will be simply referred to as the X-axis. Similarly, for ease of explanation, the Y-axis in the three-dimensional coordinate system TC will be simply referred to as the Y-axis. Furthermore, for ease of explanation, the Z-axis in the three-dimensional coordinate system TC will be simply referred to as the Z-axis. As an example, the case where the negative direction of the Z-axis coincides with the direction of gravity will be explained below. Therefore, for ease of explanation, the positive direction of the Z-axis will be referred to as the upward direction or simply "up," and the negative direction of the Z-axis will be referred to as the downward direction or simply "down."

[0044] Furthermore, for ease of explanation, the surface of the printing apparatus 1 with the positive X-axis direction will be referred to as the front surface of the printing apparatus 1, and the surface with the negative X-axis direction will be referred to as the rear surface of the printing apparatus 1. Furthermore, for ease of explanation, the surface of the printing apparatus 1 with the positive Y-axis direction will be referred to as the right surface of the printing apparatus 1, and the surface with the negative Y-axis direction will be referred to as the left surface of the printing apparatus 1. Furthermore, for ease of explanation, the surface of the printing apparatus 1 with the positive Z-axis direction will be referred to as the upper surface of the printing apparatus 1, and the surface with the negative Z-axis direction will be referred to as the lower surface of the printing apparatus 1.

[0045] Printing apparatus 1 prints an image on a printing medium. Printing apparatus 1 is, for example, an inkjet printer. In this case, printing apparatus 1 internally includes a printing unit PR, which has… Figure 1 The image is printed on the printing medium by a paper feed motor (not shown), multiple paper feed rollers driven by the paper feed motor, a print head that sprays ink or other liquids onto the printing medium, and a carriage that moves the print head in the scanning direction. It should be noted that... Figure 1 In order to prevent the drawing from becoming too complex, the printing unit PR is shown as a cuboid-shaped object. Furthermore, the printing device 1 can also be a laser printer, multifunction printer, or other type of printer, replacing the inkjet printer.

[0046] Here, the printing medium can be any sheet-like medium, such as printing paper or sealing paper. Below, we will describe the case where the printing medium is printing paper as an example. The printing apparatus 1 includes a receiving section ST, which can move in the front-rear direction in the first direction described later, and can receive one or more such printing media. The receiving section ST is a paper feed box, which is received in the printing apparatus 1 from the front surface to the rear surface along the first direction. Furthermore, when received in the printing apparatus 1, the receiving section ST forms part of the front surface of the printing apparatus 1. Figure 1 In the example shown, the storage section ST forms the lower surface of the front surface of the printing apparatus 1. One or more printing media stored in the storage section ST are supplied to the printing section PR sheet by sheet via a feed roller (not shown). Thus, the printing section PR can print images on the printing media supplied from the storage section ST using a print head that moves via a carriage.

[0047] In addition, the printing apparatus 1 is equipped with an operation unit CP, which displays images on a display screen provided with the printing apparatus 1 and receives operations from the user while the user is observing the displayed images.

[0048] The operation unit CP is a component that includes hardware keys, a touchpad, etc., and forms part of the front surface of the printing apparatus 1. Figure 1 In the example shown, the operating part CP constitutes the uppermost surface of the front surface of the printing apparatus 1 compared to the surface constituted by the receiving part ST. Below, as an example, Figure 1 As shown, the operation unit CP includes a touch panel TP that integrates the display and touchpad. It should be noted that the operation unit CP may include the touch panel TP and hardware keys, or it may not include hardware keys.

[0049] Furthermore, the operating unit CP can rotate relative to the housing of the printing apparatus 1 about a predetermined rotation axis AX1. Figure 1 In the example shown, the rotating shaft AX1 is located above the front surface side of the printing device 1 and is parallel to the Y-axis. For example, by the user applying force to the operating part CP in one of the two directions of rotation about the rotating shaft AX1 away from the opening direction of the housing, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the operating unit CP can rotate to a position that is approximately 45° tilted relative to the mounting surface of the printing device 1. Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing an example of the operating section CP after being rotated to a position approximately 45° tilted relative to the mounting surface of the printing apparatus 1. It should be noted that the mounting surface can be, for example, the ground, the upper surface of a workbench, the upper surface of a table, etc., but is not limited to these. Furthermore, for example, by the user applying force to the operating section CP in the opening direction, such as... Figure 3 As shown, the operating unit CP can rotate to a position approximately parallel to the setting surface. Figure 3 This is a perspective view showing an example of the operation section CP after it has been rotated to a position approximately parallel to the mounting surface of the printing apparatus 1.

[0050] In this way, the operating unit CP can rotate about the rotation axis AX1, and therefore can rotate to a first operating position inclined at a predetermined first angle relative to the setting surface and a second operating position inclined at a second angle less than the first angle relative to the setting surface. Here, the first angle is, for example, 90°. In this case, the first operating position is Figure 1 The position of the operating part CP shown is where the operating part CP closes a portion of the front surface of the printing device 1. It should be noted that the first angle does not necessarily have to be 90°; it can be any angle greater than the second angle, or it can be less than 90°. For example, the second angle is 45°. In this case, the second operating position is... Figure 2 The position of the operating unit CP is shown. When the operating unit CP is in the second operating position, the user visual recognition of the touch panel TP of the operating unit CP is improved. This is because, in most cases, the printing device 1 is positioned lower than the eye level of a standing person. That is, placing the operating unit CP in the second operating position is equivalent to changing the state of the printing device 1 to a state that is easy for the user to operate. It should be noted that the second angle does not have to be 45°, as long as it is an angle smaller than the first angle.

[0051] Furthermore, the operating unit CP is subjected to a force in the opening direction by a pressure mechanism (not shown). The pressure mechanism can be any mechanism capable of applying force to the operating unit CP in the opening direction; it can be a known mechanism including a force-applying component such as a spring, or a mechanism developed in the future. Furthermore, the operating unit CP is fixed to the position after being rotated by the user by a fixing mechanism (not shown). The fixing mechanism can be a known mechanism that can fix the operating unit CP in this position, or a mechanism developed in the future. However, the strength of the fixing of the operating unit CP by the fixing mechanism is such that it will not be released even if the user operates the touch panel TP, and it will be released by the user applying force by hand to rotate the operating unit CP.

[0052] In addition, such as Figure 3 As shown, the printing apparatus 1 includes a paper discharge tray TR. It should be noted that... Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the middle, the paper tray TR is hidden behind the operation unit CP and cannot be seen.

[0053] The paper discharge tray TR is the tray from which the printing medium, after the image has been printed by the printing unit PR, is discharged. The direction perpendicular to the setting surface, from the setting surface towards the printing device 1, is defined as the height direction. In the height direction, the paper discharge tray TR is positioned lower than the rotation axis AX1. Below, as an example, ... Figures 1-3 The diagram illustrates the case where the height direction is vertical. Figures 1-3 In the example shown, when the position of the operating part CP is not the first operating position, the paper tray TR can be visually identified from the outside of the printing apparatus 1. That is, when viewing the printing apparatus 1 from the front surface towards the rear surface of the printing apparatus 1, and the position of the operating part CP is the first operating position, the paper tray TR overlaps with the operating part CP. In this case, the printing apparatus 1 can suppress the increase in size in the height direction, and miniaturization can be achieved. It should be noted that part or all of the paper tray TR may also be configured not to overlap with the operating part CP when viewing the printing apparatus 1 from the front surface towards the rear surface and the position of the operating part CP is the first operating position.

[0054] Furthermore, the paper discharge tray TR is a tray that can move in the front-rear direction in a first direction intersecting the height direction. Here, as an example, the first direction will be described as the direction parallel to the setting surface, from the rear surface of the printing apparatus 1 toward the front surface of the printing apparatus 1, i.e., the positive direction of the X-axis. For ease of explanation, the direction opposite to the first direction will be referred to as the second direction. Furthermore, as an example, the position of the paper discharge tray TR will be described as being represented by the position of the center of gravity of the paper discharge tray TR. It should be noted that the position of the paper discharge tray TR can also be represented by other positions corresponding to the paper discharge tray TR instead of the position of the center of gravity. Since the paper discharge tray TR is a tray that can move in the front-rear direction in the first direction, the paper discharge tray TR can move to a predetermined standby position among the following: a storage position where the paper discharge tray TR is housed within the housing of the printing apparatus 1, a loading position for receiving discharged printing media, and a position closer to the storage position than the loading position. In this embodiment, the storage position is the position closest to the second direction among the positions where the paper discharge tray TR can move in the second direction. It should be noted that, alternatively, the storage position can also be any other position within the housing where the paper tray TR can move in the second direction. In this embodiment, the loading position is the position closest to the first direction side among the positions where the paper tray TR can move in the first direction. It should also be noted that, alternatively, the loading position can also be any other position where the discharged printing media can be received among the positions where the paper tray TR can move in the first direction. The standby position will be described later.

[0055] The printing apparatus 1 can move the paper tray TR using the driving force of the aforementioned paper feed motor. As an example, the following situation will be described: when the paper feed motor rotates in the forward direction, the paper tray TR moves in a first direction; when the paper feed motor rotates in the reverse direction, the paper tray TR moves in a second direction. It should be noted that the printing apparatus 1 can also be configured such that when the paper feed motor rotates in the forward direction, the paper tray TR moves in the second direction, and when the paper feed motor rotates in the reverse direction, the paper tray TR moves in the first direction. For example, the printing apparatus 1 may include a transmission mechanism (not shown) that transmits the driving force of the paper feed motor to move the paper tray TR when the carriage is in a predetermined position. In this case, the transmission mechanism can be a known mechanism that transmits the driving force of the paper feed motor to move the paper tray TR, or it can be a mechanism developed in the future.

[0056] The printing apparatus 1 configured as described above can also be configured to include a limiting part LM, which restricts the operation part CP from rotating from the first operation position to the second operation position when the operation part CP is in the first operation position. Therefore, as an example below, Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the case where the printing apparatus 1 is equipped with a limiting part LM will be explained.

[0057] Figure 4 This diagram illustrates an example of a situation where the operating part CP is in the first operating position, and the limiting part LM restricts the rotation of the operating part CP from the first operating position to the second operating position. Figure 4 This is a top view of the area near the front surface of the printing device 1, viewed from above and looking downwards. However, in Figure 4 In order to clearly show the situation where the limiting part LM is performing the restriction, only the operating part CP, the paper tray TR and the limiting part LM are shown, and other parts other than these three parts are omitted.

[0058] For example, such as Figure 4 As shown, the limiting part LM is a lever lock that restricts the rotation of the operating part CP when it is in the first operating position. In this case, the limiting part LM is a lever-shaped component installed inside the printing apparatus 1, which can rotate about a rotation axis AX2 parallel to the Z-axis. Figure 4 In the middle, the limiting part LM is subjected to force by the first force-applying member SP1, causing it to rotate clockwise around the rotation axis AX2. Here, the first force-applying member SP1 is, for example, a spring, but it is not limited to this. For ease of explanation, the following will be... Figure 4 The clockwise direction in the text will be explained using the term "clockwise direction" for short.

[0059] Furthermore, a locking pin LM1 is provided in the limiting part LM. The locking pin LM1 is a pin that is forced by the second force-applying member SP2 to protrude from the limiting part LM in the positive direction toward the Y-axis. Here, an engaging part CL1 is provided in the operating part CP, which engages with the locking pin LM1 when the limiting part LM is approximately parallel to the first direction. Thus, the operating part CP, located in the first operating position, is restricted by the limiting part LM to prevent rotation. In other words, in this case, the limiting part LM restricts the operating part CP from rotating. It should be noted that the second force-applying member SP2 is, for example, a spring, but is not limited to this.

[0060] When the limiting part LM rotates clockwise by a predetermined angle or more from a state that is approximately parallel to the first direction, such as Figure 5 As shown, the locking pin LM1 disengages from the engaging part CL1, thereby releasing the restriction of the operating part CP by the restricting part LM. Figure 5 This indicates that it has been lifted. Figure 4 The diagram shows an example of the limitation situation of the limiting part LM. Figure 5 Arrow A1 indicates the direction of rotation of the limiting part LM, i.e., clockwise. Here, the printing apparatus 1, for example, includes a component (not shown) that limits the rotation of the limiting part LM so that it does not rotate beyond a predetermined angle from a state where the limiting part LM is approximately parallel to the first direction. This component can be any component that can limit the rotation of the limiting part LM so that it does not rotate beyond a predetermined angle from a state where the limiting part LM is approximately parallel to the first direction. For ease of explanation, the state in which the limiting part LM is approximately parallel to the first direction will be referred to as the limiting state, and the state after rotating the limiting part LM from a state where it is approximately parallel to the first direction by a predetermined angle will be referred to as the releasing state.

[0061] Furthermore, the state of the limiting section LM changes depending on the position of the paper tray TR. However, in Figure 5 In order to prevent the diagram from becoming too complex, and Figure 4 Similarly, the location of the paper tray TR is shown in the case where it is the storage location. Therefore, Figure 4 and Figure 5 The only difference is the state of the limiting part LM. For example, in Figure 4In the example shown, a contact portion CN is provided at the end of the end of the restricting part LM on the negative direction side of the X-axis, which contacts the plate-shaped member W1 of the paper tray TR. The plate-shaped member W1 is a plate-shaped member provided at the end of the end of the end of the paper tray TR on the negative direction side of the Y-axis. Furthermore, the plate-shaped member W1 protrudes upward from this end and extends a predetermined length from the end of the end of the end of the paper tray TR on the first direction side toward the second direction. The predetermined length is determined based on the restriction release position of the restricting part LM on the operating part CP. Specifically, the predetermined length is determined as follows: in the first interval from the storage position to the restriction release position within the range where the paper tray TR can move, the contact portion CN contacts the plate-shaped member W1; and in the second interval from the restriction release position to the loading position within the interval after the restriction release position in the first direction, the contact portion CN does not contact the plate-shaped member W1. By providing such a plate-shaped member W1 on the paper tray TR, when the paper tray TR is located within the first interval, as... Figure 4 As shown, the limiting part LM is supported by the plate-shaped member W1 and is held in a limited state. On the other hand, when the paper tray TR is located within the second section, as... Figure 5 As shown, the restrictor LM is kept in the released state. Therefore, when the paper tray TR moves from the storage position to the restricted release position, the restrictor LM, which restricts the operation unit CP located in the first operating position, changes from the restricted state to the released state, resulting in the release of the restriction on the operation unit CP. In other words, when the position of the paper tray TR coincides with the restricted release position, the restrictor LM changes from the restricted state to the released state, resulting in the release of the restriction on the operation unit CP. Such a restricted release position is located between the aforementioned loading position and storage position. It should be noted that the restricted release position may coincide with or differ from the aforementioned standby position. Below, as an example, the case where the restricted release position is located between the standby position and the storage position will be described. In this case, when the paper tray TR passes between the storage position and the standby position, the restrictor LM changes from the restricted state to the released state.

[0062] Hardware composition of printing equipment

[0063] Below, refer to Figure 6 The hardware configuration of printing apparatus 1 will be described. Figure 6 This is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of printing apparatus 1.

[0064] The printing apparatus 1 includes a processor 11, a storage unit 12, an input receiving unit 13, a communication unit 14, a display unit 15, a printing unit PR, a first detection unit S1, a second detection unit S2, a third detection unit S3, and a fourth detection unit S4. These components are connected to each other via a bus in a manner that allows them to communicate with each other. Furthermore, the printing apparatus 1 communicates with other devices via the communication unit 14.

[0065] Processor 11 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). It should be noted that processor 11 may also be other processors such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). Processor 11 executes various programs stored in storage unit 12.

[0066] Storage unit 12 may include, for example, HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. It should be noted that storage unit 12 may also be an external storage device connected via a digital input / output port such as USB (Universal Serial Bus) instead of being built into the printing apparatus 1. Storage unit 12 stores various information and programs processed by the printing apparatus 1.

[0067] The input receiving unit 13 receives user operations performed while viewing the image displayed on the display unit 15. In this example, the input receiving unit 13 and the display unit 15 are integrally configured as a touch panel TP. It should be noted that the input receiving unit 13 may also include a hardware key for receiving user operations. Furthermore, the input receiving unit 13 may also include the hardware key without the touch panel TP.

[0068] The communication unit 14 may be configured to include, for example, digital input / output ports such as USB, Ethernet ports, etc.

[0069] The display unit 15 displays images. The display unit 15 is a display device that includes, for example, a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL (Electroluminescence) display panel as a display for the printing apparatus 1.

[0070] The printing unit (PR) responds to operations received from the user via the touch panel (TP) and prints images onto the printing medium using inkjet technology. As mentioned earlier, the printing unit (PR) includes a paper feed motor, multiple paper feed rollers driven by the paper feed motor, a print head that sprays ink or other liquids onto the printing medium, and a carriage that moves the print head in the scanning direction. For ease of explanation, the paper feed motor included in the printing unit (PR) will be referred to as the paper feed motor (MV) below. The paper feed motor (MV) is an example of a moving part.

[0071] The first detection unit S1 detects whether the position of the operation unit CP is the second operation position. The first detection unit S1 can be any sensor that can detect whether the position of the operation unit CP is the second operation position, such as a mechanical switch, an optical sensor, etc.

[0072] The second detection unit S2 detects whether the paper tray TR is in the standby position. The second detection unit S2 can be any sensor that can detect whether the paper tray TR is in the standby position, such as a mechanical switch, an optical sensor, etc.

[0073] The third detection unit S3 detects whether the position of the paper tray TR is the loading position. The third detection unit S3 can be any sensor that can detect whether the position of the paper tray TR is the loading position, such as a mechanical switch, an optical sensor, etc.

[0074] The fourth detection unit S4 detects whether the position of the paper tray TR is the storage position. The fourth detection unit S4 can be any sensor that can detect whether the position of the paper tray TR is the storage position, and it can be any sensor, such as a mechanical switch, an optical sensor, etc.

[0075] Functional composition of printing equipment

[0076] Below, refer to Figure 7 The functional configuration of printing apparatus 1 will be explained. Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of printing apparatus 1.

[0077] The printing apparatus 1 includes a storage unit 12, an input receiving unit 13, a communication unit 14, a display unit 15, a printing unit PR, a first detection unit S1, a second detection unit S2, a third detection unit S3, a fourth detection unit S4, and a control unit 16.

[0078] The control unit 16 controls the entire printing apparatus 1. The control unit 16 is implemented, for example, by the processor 11 executing various programs stored in the storage unit 12. In addition, some or all of the functions of the control unit 16 can also be implemented by hardware functional units such as LSI (Large Scale Integration) and ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit).

[0079] Configuration of a rotating mechanism that rotates the operating section in response to the movement of the paper tray.

[0080] The printing apparatus 1 also includes a rotation mechanism RT, which, in response to the movement of the paper discharge tray TR, rotates the operating part CP, located in the first operating position, to the second operating position. Therefore, referring to the following... Figure 8 The rotation mechanism RT, which rotates the operating part CP, located in the first operating position, to the second operating position in response to the movement of the paper tray TR, will be described. Figure 8 This is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the rotating mechanism RT. Furthermore, Figure 8 This is a side view of the rotating mechanism RT when viewed in the negative Y-axis direction. Figure 8 In the example shown, the operating unit CP is in the first operating position. Furthermore, in this example, the paper discharge tray TR is in the storage position. It should be noted that... Figure 8 The positions of the first detection unit S1 to the fourth detection unit S4 shown in the image are merely for convenience and differ from their actual positions. Furthermore, Figure 8 The configuration of the rotating mechanism RT shown is merely an example; any configuration that allows the operating part CP, located in the first operating position, to rotate to the second operating position could be used. Furthermore, in Figure 8 In order to prevent the diagram from becoming too complex, the paper feed motor MV is shown as a rectangular object. Furthermore, in... Figure 8 In order to prevent the diagram from becoming too complicated, the mechanism by which the paper feed motor MV moves the paper tray TR has been omitted.

[0081] exist Figure 8 In the example shown, the rotating mechanism RT includes a gear rack G1 disposed on the paper tray TR, a cam-bearing gear G2 engaging with the gear rack G1, a rod member LV1 engaging with the cam portion CM of the cam-bearing gear G2, and a rod member LV2 supporting the rod member LV1. It should be noted that the rotating mechanism RT may also be configured without the rod member LV2.

[0082] Here, one end of the rod member LV2 is rotatably supported by a predetermined rotating shaft AX3. It should be noted that the rotating shaft AX3 is a shaft located in the housing of the printing apparatus 1 (not shown). Furthermore, near the center of the rod member LV1, the other end of the rod member LV2 is rotatably connected. Additionally, one end of the rod member LV1 contacts the cam portion CM of the cam-equipped gear G2.

[0083] The cam portion CM of the cam-equipped gear G2 begins to rotate in response to the paper tray TR moving from the storage position in the first direction. Then, when the paper tray TR exceeds the limit release position, the restriction of the limiting portion LM on the operating portion CP is released, and the cam portion CM begins to lift the lever member LV1. Furthermore, when the lever member LV1 begins to lift, the lever member LV2 begins to rotate. As a result, the end of the lever member LV1 that is not in contact with the cam portion CM comes into contact with the operating portion CP, and begins to push the operating portion CP in the opening direction. As a result, the operating portion CP rotates from the first operating position to the second operating position. That is, the operating portion CP rotates from the first operating position to the second operating position in response to the movement of the paper tray TR in the first direction. It should be noted that this end is an example of the pushing portion of the lever member.

[0084] Figure 9 It is shown Figure 8 The diagram shows an example of the situation after the paper tray TR has just moved to the standby position. (See diagram for example.) Figure 9 As shown, when the paper tray TR moves from the storage position to the standby position in the first direction indicated by arrow A2, as previously described, the cam portion CM of the cam-equipped gear G2 rotates in the direction indicated by arrow A3. As a result, the lever member LV1 is lifted by the cam portion CM and contacts the operating part CP. Then, the lever member LV1, using the connection between the lever member LV2 and the lever member LV1 as a fulcrum, rotates in the direction indicated by arrow A4 while pushing the operating part CP upwards, causing the operating part CP to rotate in the opening direction. Thus, the operating part CP can rotate from the first operating position to the second operating position. Here, Figure 9 The position of the operating unit CP shown is an example of the second operating position.

[0085] It needs to be explained, such as Figure 9As shown, in this example, the end of the paper tray TR in the standby position, on the first direction side, is located further in the second direction side than the end of the operation unit CP in the second operating position. Therefore, when the paper tray TR is in the standby position, the printing apparatus 1 can conceal the paper tray TR behind the operation unit CP. As a result, the printing apparatus 1 can, for example, prevent confusion caused to the user during operation due to the user moving the paper tray TR into the housing of the printing apparatus 1. Furthermore, by concealing the paper tray TR behind the operation unit CP, the printing apparatus 1 can prevent objects around the printing apparatus 1, the user's body, etc., from contacting the paper tray TR.

[0086] In addition, such as Figure 9 As shown, in this example, the end of the paper tray TR in the standby position, on the first direction side, is located further to the first direction side than the end of the storage section ST in the first direction side. It should be noted that it is also possible for the end of the paper tray TR in the standby position to be located further to the second direction side than the end of the storage section ST in the first direction side. In this case, even if the paper tray TR is in the standby position, the printing apparatus 1 can still allow the user to remove the storage section ST, thereby minimizing any reduction in user convenience.

[0087] also, Figure 10 It is shown Figure 9 This diagram illustrates an example of the situation after the paper tray TR has just moved to a position between the standby and loading positions. During the movement of the paper tray TR from the standby position to the position between the standby and loading positions, the lever member LV1 is lifted to its highest position by the cam portion CM of the cam-equipped gear G2, and then begins to descend in response to the rotation of the cam portion CM. As a result, the lever member LV1 rotates in the direction indicated by arrow A5 while using the connection between the lever member LV2 and the lever member LV1 as a fulcrum, and separates from the operating part CP.

[0088] Then, Figure 11 It is shown Figure 10 The diagram shows an example of the situation after the paper tray TR has just moved to the loading position. When the paper tray TR moves to the loading position, the state of the rotating mechanism RT, except for the state of the cam-driven gear G2, is similar to... Figure 8 The state shown, i.e. the state of the rotating mechanism RT when the paper tray TR is in the storage position, is roughly the same.

[0089] As described above, the operating unit CP rotates from the first operating position to the second operating position in response to the movement of the paper discharge tray TR in the first direction caused by the driving force of the paper feed motor MV. That is, the printing apparatus 1 can rotate the operating unit CP from the first operating position to the second operating position by moving the paper discharge tray TR from the storage position in the first direction. It should be noted that when the paper discharge tray TR is in the loading position and the operating unit CP is in the first operating position, the rotating mechanism RT can rotate the operating unit CP from the first operating position to the second operating position by moving the paper discharge tray TR in the second direction. At this time, the rotating mechanism RT and... Figures 8-11 The rotating mechanism RT described herein operates in the reverse order, by pushing the operating part CP upward via the lever member LV1. Therefore, in this embodiment, the description of the operation of the rotating mechanism RT caused by the movement of the paper tray TR in the second direction in this case is omitted.

[0090] It should be noted that, in Figures 8-11 In the middle, the front surface of the storage section ST is flush with the front surface of the operation section CP located in the first operation position. However, as Figure 12 As shown, the front surface of the storage section ST may be located further to the first direction side than the front surface of the operation section CP located in the first operation position. Figure 12 This diagram illustrates another example of the positional relationship between the front surface of the storage unit ST and the front surface of the operating unit CP in the first operating position. It should be noted that the front surface of the storage unit ST is the surface on the positive X-axis side of the planes of the storage unit ST. Furthermore, the front surface of the operating unit CP in the first operating position is the surface on the positive X-axis side of the planes of the operating unit CP in the first operating position. Additionally, a position closer to the front side than the front surface of the operating unit CP in the first operating position is a position further towards the positive X-axis side than that front surface.

[0091] The control unit processes the transition of the printing apparatus to a predetermined first state.

[0092] Below, refer to Figure 15The process by which the control unit 16 changes the state of the printing apparatus 1 to a predetermined first state will be explained. Here, the first state is an example of a state of the printing apparatus 1 that is considered easy for the user to operate. Below, as an example, the case where the state of the printing apparatus 1 is the first state, with the operation unit CP in the second operating position and the paper tray TR in the standby position, will be explained. When the printing apparatus 1 is in the first state, the user can easily visually identify the operation unit CP. Compared to the case where the paper tray TR is in the storage position, the time required to move the paper tray TR to the loading position can be shortened. Compared to the case where the paper tray TR is in the loading position, the time required to move the paper tray TR to the storage position can be shortened, and contact between the paper tray TR and other objects can be prevented. Therefore, as mentioned above, the first state is a state of the printing apparatus 1 that is considered easy for the user to operate.

[0093] When a predetermined first condition is met, the control unit 16 changes the state of the printing apparatus 1 to the first state. The first condition can be any condition that is met at the moment when it is deduced that the user wants to change the state of the printing apparatus 1 to the first state. For example, the first condition is that the power to the printing apparatus 1 is turned on. In this case, when the power to the printing apparatus 1 is turned on, the control unit 16 changes the state of the printing apparatus 1 to the first state. As a result, the user can change the state of the printing apparatus 1 to the first state, which is deduced to be easy for the user to operate, immediately after the power to the printing apparatus 1 is turned on, thus improving user convenience. It should be noted that, alternatively, or based on this, the first condition may include some or all of the following conditions: recovery from power-saving mode, touch operation on the touch panel TP, detection of installation or removal of the storage unit ST by an optical sensor, detection of insertion of printing media into the manual tray by an optical sensor, detection of loading of the original document onto the loading table of the ADF (Auto Document Feeder) 2 installed in the printing apparatus 1 by an optical sensor, or loading of the original document onto the original document table of the scanner of the printing apparatus 1. Here, Figure 13 This is a diagram illustrating an example of a printing apparatus 1 equipped with an ADF2. For example, as shown... Figure 13 As shown, ADF2 is mounted on the upper part of printing device 1. Figure 13 In the middle, the ADF's mounting platform is closed. Figure 14 It is shown Figure 13This diagram illustrates an example of the ADF2's stage 21 being open. It should be noted that the printing apparatus 1 may or may not be configured to mount such an ADF2. Furthermore, the scanner's document table is a platform on which the original document read by the scanner is placed. The scanner is an example of a reading unit that detects whether an original document is mounted on such a document table and reads image information representing an image of the original document mounted on the document table. The reading unit detects whether an original document is mounted on the document table, for example, by pre-scanning the original document mounted on the document table. It should be noted that the printing apparatus 1 may or may not have such a scanner. Furthermore, the printing apparatus 1 may be configured to select one or more conditions as a first condition in response to user operations. Here, when the first condition includes multiple conditions, the printing apparatus 1 may determine that the first condition is met by satisfying all of these conditions, or by satisfying at least one of these conditions. Furthermore, even when the first condition is to resume from power-saving mode, the printing device 1 can immediately change its state to the first state, which is inferred to be easy for the user to operate, immediately after resuming from power-saving mode, thereby improving user convenience.

[0094] Figure 15 This diagram illustrates an example of the process flow in which the control unit 16 changes the state of the printing apparatus 1 to a predetermined first state. Below, as an example, an example is given regarding the process of... Figure 15 The process preceding step S110 will be explained if the first condition is met. Furthermore, for the sake of simplicity, the following explanation will illustrate, as an example, the cases where the position of the operation unit CP is not the second operation position and the cases where the position of the operation unit CP is the same as the first operation position.

[0095] After the first condition is met, the control unit 16 determines whether the position of the operation unit CP is the second operation position based on the detection result of the first detection unit S1 (step S110).

[0096] If the position of the operation unit CP is determined to be the first operation position (step S110 - No), the control unit 16 determines whether the position of the paper discharge tray TR is the storage position based on the detection result of the fourth detection unit S4 (step S120).

[0097] If the location of the paper tray TR is determined to be the storage location (step S120 - Yes), the control unit 16 performs a predetermined first process (step S130).

[0098] here, Figure 16 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the flow of the first process in step S130.

[0099] The control unit 16 generates a retry count variable in the storage area of ​​the storage unit 12. This retry count variable stores the number of retries, representing the number of times the processing in step S132 (described later) has been performed. Then, the control unit 16 initializes the value stored in the generated retry count variable to 0 (step S131). Figure 16 In this context, "retry count initialization" indicates the processing in step S131. It should be noted that the control unit 16 can also be configured to omit the generation of the retry count variable if the retry count variable is stored in the storage unit 12 in step S131.

[0100] Next, after moving the carriage (not shown) to a predetermined position, the control unit 16 controls the paper feed motor MV, causing the paper discharge tray TR to move in the first direction towards the standby position (step S132). As a result, the printing apparatus 1 can release the restriction unit LM from the operation unit CP, and rotate the position of the operation unit CP from the first operation position to the second operation position. It should be noted that in step S132, when the carriage is already in the predetermined position, the control unit 16 omits the movement of the carriage.

[0101] Next, the control unit 16 determines whether the position of the paper tray TR is the standby position based on the detection result of the second detection unit S2 (step S133).

[0102] If the paper tray TR is determined to be in the standby position (step S133 - Yes), the control unit 16 ends. Figure 16 The process shown in the flowchart, i.e. Figure 15 The process shown in step S130.

[0103] On the other hand, if it is determined that the position of the paper tray TR is not the standby position (step S133 - No), the control unit 16 increases the value of the retry count stored in the aforementioned retry count variable by 1 (step S134).

[0104] Next, the control unit 16 determines whether the number of retries stored in the retry count variable exceeds a predetermined threshold (step S135). Here, the predetermined threshold is, for example, 3, but it can be 1, 2, or an integer greater than 4.

[0105] If the number of retries stored in the retry count variable exceeds a predetermined threshold (step S135 - Yes), the control unit 16 determines that an abnormality has occurred and the paper tray TR cannot be moved to the standby position, and generates a notification indicating an error image indicating that the paper tray TR cannot be moved to the standby position, and displays the generated image on the touch panel TP (step S136). Figure 16In this process, the "notification error" indicates the progress of step S136. After completing step S136, the control unit 16 terminates. Figure 16 The process shown in the flowchart, i.e. Figure 15 The first process shown in step S130.

[0106] On the other hand, if it is determined that the number of retries stored in the retry count variable does not exceed a predetermined threshold (step S135 - No), the control unit 16 controls the paper feed motor MV to move the paper discharge tray TR towards the storage position in the second direction (step S137). After that, the control unit 16 moves to step S132 and controls the paper feed motor MV to move the paper discharge tray TR towards the standby position again in the first direction.

[0107] After performing the process described in step S130 above, the control unit 16 terminates. Figure 15 The flowchart shown illustrates the processing. Thus, when the operation unit CP is in the first operation position and the paper tray TR is in the storage position, when the first condition is met, the printing apparatus 1 can change its state to the first state by performing the first processing.

[0108] On the other hand, if it is determined that the location of the paper discharge tray TR is not the storage location (step S120 - No), the control unit 16 performs a predetermined second process (step S150).

[0109] here, Figure 17 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the flow of the second process in step S150.

[0110] The control unit 16 generates a retry count variable in the storage area of ​​the storage unit 12. This retry count variable stores the number of retries, representing the number of times the processing steps S152 to S153 (described later) have been performed. Then, the control unit 16 initializes the value stored in the generated retry count variable to 0 (step S151). Figure 17 In this context, "retry count initialization" indicates the processing in step S151. It should be noted that the control unit 16 can also be configured such that, if the retry count variable is stored in the storage unit 12 in step S151, the generation of the retry count variable is omitted.

[0111] Next, after moving the carriage to the predetermined position, the control unit 16 controls the paper feed motor MV to move the paper discharge tray TR in the second direction towards the storage position (step S152). As a result, the printing apparatus 1 can release the restriction of the restrictor LM on the operating unit CP, and rotate the position of the operating unit CP from the first operating position to the second operating position. It should be noted that in step S152, when the carriage is already in the predetermined position, the control unit 16 omits the movement of the carriage.

[0112] Next, the control unit 16 controls the paper feed motor MV to move the paper discharge tray TR toward the standby position in the first direction (step S153).

[0113] Next, the control unit 16 determines whether the position of the paper tray TR is the standby position based on the detection result of the second detection unit S2 (step S154).

[0114] If the paper tray TR is determined to be in the standby position (step S154 - Yes), the control unit 16 ends. Figure 17 The process shown in the flowchart, i.e. Figure 15 The process shown in step S150.

[0115] On the other hand, if it is determined that the position of the paper tray TR is not the standby position (step S154 - No), the control unit 16 increases the value of the retry count stored in the retry count variable by 1 (step S155).

[0116] Next, the control unit 16 determines whether the number of retries stored in the retry count variable exceeds a predetermined threshold (step S156). It should be noted that the predetermined threshold in step S156 can be a value different from the predetermined threshold in step S135, or it can be the same as the predetermined threshold in step S135.

[0117] If the number of retries stored in the retry count variable exceeds a predetermined threshold (step S156 - Yes), the control unit 16 determines that an abnormality has occurred and the paper tray TR cannot be moved to the standby position, and generates an error image indicating that the paper tray TR cannot be moved to the standby position, and displays the generated image on the touch panel TP (step S157). Figure 17 In this process, the "notification error" indicates the progress of step S157. After completing step S157, the control unit 16 terminates. Figure 17 The process shown in the flowchart, i.e. Figure 15 The second process shown in step S150.

[0118] On the other hand, if it is determined that the number of retries stored in the retry count variable does not exceed the predetermined threshold (step S156 - No), the control unit 16 moves to step S152 and controls the paper feed motor MV to move the paper discharge tray TR to the storage position again in the second direction.

[0119] After performing the process described in step S150 above, the control unit 16 terminates. Figure 15The flowchart shown illustrates the processing. Thus, when the position of the operation unit CP is the first operation position and the position of the paper discharge tray TR is not the storage position, when the first condition is met, the printing device 1 can change its state to the first state by performing the second processing.

[0120] On the other hand, if the position of the operation unit CP is determined to be the second operation position (step S110 - Yes), the control unit 16 determines whether the position of the paper discharge tray TR is the storage position based on the detection result of the fourth detection unit S4 (step S140).

[0121] If it is determined that the position of the paper discharge tray TR is not the storage position (step S140 - No), the control unit 16 proceeds to step S150 to perform the second processing. Thus, when the position of the operation unit CP is the second operation position and the position of the paper discharge tray TR is not the storage position, when the first condition is met, the printing apparatus 1 can change its state to the first state by performing the second processing.

[0122] On the other hand, if it is determined that the position of the paper tray TR is the storage position (step S140 - Yes), the control unit 16 moves to step S130 to perform the first process. Thus, when the position of the operation unit CP is the second operation position and the position of the paper tray TR is the storage position, when the first condition is met, the printing apparatus 1 can change its state to the first state by performing the first process.

[0123] As described above, when the paper tray TR is in the storage position and the first condition is met, the printing apparatus 1 controls the paper feed motor MV to move the paper tray TR to the standby position. Thus, the printing apparatus 1 can transition to a first state that is easy for the user to operate at the time desired by the user.

[0124] It should be noted that the first condition described above could also be, for example, that the operation unit CP receives a selection operation on the angle adjustment button B1 displayed on the touch panel TP. Figure 18This diagram illustrates an example of an image P1 including an angle adjustment button B1. The control unit 16 generates image P1 in response to an operation received from the user and displays the generated image P1 on the touch panel TP. The angle adjustment button B1 is the button that initiates the process of step S110. Upon receiving a selection operation on the angle adjustment button B1, the control unit 16 determines that a first condition has been met and begins the process of step S110. Thus, the user can change the state of the printing apparatus 1 to a state easily operated by the user at a desired time. That is, in this case, the printing apparatus 1 can also change its state to a state easily operated by the user at a desired time. Here, the selection operation is, for example, clicking, tapping, etc., but is not limited to these. Furthermore, the control unit 16 can also determine that the first condition has been met if a selection operation has been performed on a button other than the angle adjustment button B1.

[0125] Furthermore, the control unit 16 described above can also be configured as follows: In the processing of steps S132 and S153, the paper feed motor MV is controlled to start the paper tray TR moving in the first direction. Then, when the first detection unit S1 detects that the position of the operation unit CP is the second operating position, the movement of the paper tray TR is stopped, and the stopped position of the paper tray TR is set to the standby position. In other words, in this case, in the processing of steps S132 and S153, the standby position is predetermined as the position where the movement of the paper tray TR stops after it starts moving. As a result, in the processing of steps S132 and S153, the printing apparatus 1 can more reliably rotate the position of the operation unit CP to the second operating position, thereby improving user convenience.

[0126] Furthermore, the control unit 16 described above can also be configured as follows: when the position of the operation unit CP is the first operation position and the position of the paper tray TR is the storage position, when the operation unit CP receives a predetermined operation, an angle adjustment image P2 including information D1 asking whether to rotate the operation unit CP to the second operation position is displayed on the touch panel TP; when the operation unit CP receives an operation instructing the operation unit CP to rotate to the second operation position, it begins... Figure 15 The flowchart shown illustrates the processing. The specified operation can also be any operation, such as tapping any position on the touch panel TP, but it is not limited to this. Figure 19This diagram illustrates an example of an angle adjustment image P2 including information D1. In this case, when the operation unit CP receives a specified operation, the control unit 16 generates the angle adjustment image P2 and displays the generated angle adjustment image P2 on the touch panel TP. The angle adjustment image P2 is, for example, an image including information D1, button B2, and button B3. It should be noted that in... Figure 19 In the text, information D1 is displayed as "Adjust the angle of the touch panel?". Button B2 is a button that the control unit 16 receives to rotate the operation unit CP to the second operation position. Upon receiving a selection operation on button B2, the control unit 16 receives a request to rotate the operation unit CP to the second operation position and begins... Figure 15 The flowchart shown illustrates the processing. On the other hand, button B3 is a button that the control unit 16 receives to prevent the operation unit CP from rotating to the second operating position. Upon receiving a selection operation on button B3, the control unit 16 receives a message indicating that the operation unit CP should not rotate to the second operating position, and therefore should not start... Figure 15 The flowchart shown illustrates the processing, and the display of the angle adjustment image P2 is removed from the touch panel TP. Therefore, the printing apparatus 1 can more reliably transition to a user-friendly operating state at the time desired by the user. It should be noted that the control unit 16 can also be configured as follows: when the paper tray TR is in the storage position and the first condition is met, the angle adjustment image P2 is displayed, and in response to the operation received by the operation unit CP via the angle adjustment image P2, the operation begins... Figure 15 The flowchart shown illustrates the processing. In this case, the printing device 1 is able to suppress the situation where the state of the printing device 1 changes to the first state even though the user does not want it to.

[0127] Variation of the process by which the control unit changes the state of the printing apparatus to a predetermined first state

[0128] Control unit 16 may not be through Figure 15 The flowchart shown illustrates how the process transforms the state of printing apparatus 1 into its first state, rather than through... Figure 20 The flowchart shown illustrates a configuration that transforms the state of printing apparatus 1 into a second state. Here, the second state is another example of a state in which the printing apparatus 1 is inferred to be easily operable by the user. Below, as an example, we will explain the case where the operating part CP is in the second operating position and the paper tray TR is in the storage position, which is the second state of printing apparatus 1. When the printing apparatus 1 is in the second state, the user can easily visually identify the operating part CP, and contact between the paper tray TR and other objects can be prevented. Therefore, as mentioned above, the second state is a state in which the printing apparatus 1 is inferred to be easily operable by the user. Therefore, below, referring to… Figure 20The process by which the control unit 16 changes the state of the printing apparatus 1 to a predetermined second state will be explained. It should be noted that in this case, the control unit 16 changes the state of the printing apparatus 1 to the second state only when the aforementioned first condition is met.

[0129] Figure 20 This diagram illustrates an example of the process by which the control unit 16 changes the state of the printing apparatus 1 to a predetermined second state. Below, as an example, an example is given regarding the process of... Figure 20 The timing before the processing in step S110 shown will be explained in the case where the first condition is met. Furthermore, for the sake of simplicity, the following explanation will illustrate, as an example, the cases where the position of the operation unit CP is not the second operation position and the cases where the position of the operation unit CP is the same as the first operation position. It should be noted that... Figure 20 The process shown in step S110 is related to Figure 15 The process shown in step S110 is the same. Furthermore, Figure 20 The process shown in step S120 is related to Figure 15 The process shown in step S120 is the same. Furthermore, Figure 20 The process shown in step S140 is related to Figure 15 The process in step S140 shown is the same. Therefore, details regarding... Figure 20 Explanation of the processing of each of the steps S110, S120 and S140 shown.

[0130] exist Figure 20 If the paper tray TR is determined to be in the storage position in step S120 (step S120 - Yes), the control unit 16 performs a predetermined third process (step S310).

[0131] here, Figure 21 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the flow of the third process in step S310.

[0132] The control unit 16 generates a retry count variable in the storage area of ​​the storage unit 12. This retry count variable stores the number of retries, representing the number of times the processing steps S312 to S313 described later have been performed. Then, the control unit 16 initializes the value stored in the generated retry count variable to 0 (step S311). Figure 21 In this context, "retry count initialization" indicates the processing in step S311. It should be noted that the control unit 16 can also be configured to omit the generation of the retry count variable if the retry count variable is stored in the storage unit 12 in step S311.

[0133] Next, after moving the carriage (not shown) to a predetermined position, the control unit 16 controls the paper feed motor MV, causing the paper discharge tray TR to move in the first direction toward the loading position (step S312). As a result, the printing apparatus 1 can release the restriction of the restrictor LM on the operating unit CP, and rotate the position of the operating unit CP from the first operating position to the second operating position. It should be noted that in step S312, when the carriage is already in the predetermined position, the control unit 16 omits the movement of the carriage.

[0134] Next, the control unit 16 controls the paper feed motor MV to move the paper discharge tray TR toward the storage position in the second direction (step S313).

[0135] Next, the control unit 16 determines whether the position of the paper discharge tray TR is the storage position based on the detection result of the fourth detection unit S4 (step S314).

[0136] If the location of the paper tray TR is determined to be the storage location (step S314 - Yes), the control unit 16 ends. Figure 21 The process shown in the flowchart, i.e. Figure 20 The process shown in step S310.

[0137] On the other hand, if it is determined that the position of the paper tray TR is not the storage position (step S314 - No), the control unit 16 increases the value of the retry count stored in the aforementioned retry count variable by 1 (step S315).

[0138] Next, the control unit 16 determines whether the number of retries stored in the retry count variable exceeds a predetermined threshold (step S316). It should be noted that the predetermined threshold in step S316 can be a value different from at least one of the predetermined thresholds in step S135 and step S156, or it can be the same as at least one of the predetermined thresholds in step S135 and step S156.

[0139] If the number of retries stored in the retry count variable exceeds a predetermined threshold (step S316 - Yes), the control unit 16 determines that an abnormality has occurred and the paper output tray TR cannot be moved to the storage position, and generates a notification indicating an error image indicating that the paper output tray TR cannot be moved to the storage position, and displays the generated image on the touch panel TP (step S317). Figure 21 In this process, the "notification error" indicates the progress of step S317. After completing step S317, the control unit 16 terminates. Figure 21 The process shown in the flowchart, i.e. Figure 20 The third process of step S310 shown.

[0140] On the other hand, if it is determined that the number of retries stored in the retry count variable does not exceed the predetermined threshold (step S316 - No), the control unit 16 moves to step S312 and controls the paper feed motor MV to move the paper discharge tray TR to the loading position again in the first direction.

[0141] After performing the process described in step S310 above, the control unit 16 terminates. Figure 20 The flowchart shown illustrates the processing. Thus, when the operation unit CP is in the first operation position and the paper tray TR is in the storage position, when the first condition is met, the printing device 1 can change its state to the second state by performing the third processing.

[0142] On the other hand, Figure 20 If, in step S120, it is determined that the position of the paper discharge tray TR is not the storage position (step S120 - No), the control unit 16 controls the paper feed motor MV after moving the carriage (not shown) to the predetermined position, so that the paper discharge tray TR moves in the second direction toward the storage position (step S320).

[0143] Next, the control unit 16 determines whether the position of the paper discharge tray TR is the storage position based on the detection result of the fourth detection unit S4 (step S330).

[0144] If the location of the paper tray TR is determined to be the storage location (step S330 - Yes), the control unit 16 ends. Figure 20 The flowchart shown illustrates the processing.

[0145] If it is determined that the location of the paper tray TR is not the storage location (step S330 - No), the control unit 16 proceeds to step S310 to perform the aforementioned third process.

[0146] As described above, when the paper tray TR is in the storage position and a predetermined first condition is met, the printing apparatus 1 controls the paper feed motor MV to move the paper tray TR to the loading position, and then moves the paper tray TR to the storage position. Thus, the printing apparatus 1 can transition from its state to a second state that is easy for the user to operate at the time desired by the user.

[0147] It should be noted that the control unit 16 can also be used for... Figure 22 The process of the flowchart shown replaces Figure 21 The flowchart shown is used as the basis for the third process in step S310. Figure 22 These are diagrams illustrating other examples of the third processing flow. It should be noted that... Figure 22 The process shown in step S311 is related to Figure 21The process shown in step S311 is the same. Furthermore, Figure 22 The processing in steps S313 to S317 shown is related to... Figure 21 The processing of steps S313 to S317 shown is the same. Therefore, details regarding... Figure 21 Explanation of the processing of each of the steps S311, S313 to S317 shown.

[0148] In progress Figure 22 After the processing in step S311 shown, the control unit 16 controls the paper feed motor MV after moving the carriage (not shown) to a predetermined position, causing the paper discharge tray TR to move towards the standby position in the first direction (step S318). As a result, the printing apparatus 1 can shorten the distance that the paper discharge tray TR is moved in the third process, thereby improving user convenience.

[0149] The control unit moves the paper tray upon receiving a printing instruction.

[0150] Here, upon receiving a printing instruction, the control unit 16 moves the paper feed tray TR towards the loading position. Specifically, for example, if the first condition is not met and a printing instruction is received from the printing unit PR, the control unit 16 controls the paper feed motor MV to move the paper feed tray TR towards the loading position. Furthermore, for example in... Figure 15 The flowchart shown illustrates the process of receiving a printing instruction before the paper tray TR begins to move from the storage position to the standby position, or in the case where... Figure 20 In the flowchart shown, if a printing instruction is received before the paper tray TR begins to move from the storage position to the loading position, the control unit 16 controls the paper feed motor MV to move the paper tray TR to the loading position. Therefore, below, referring to... Figure 23 The process by which the control unit 16 moves the paper tray TR upon receiving a printing instruction will be explained. Figure 23 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the process flow in which the control unit 16 moves the paper tray TR upon receiving a printing instruction.

[0151] The control unit 16 remains on standby until it receives a printing instruction (step S410).

[0152] If a printing instruction is received (step S410 - Yes), the control unit 16 determines whether to remain in standby mode until the currently executing other processes finish (step S420). For example, if at least one of a predetermined set of processes is currently being executed, the control unit 16 determines in step S420 to remain in standby mode until the currently executing other processes finish. On the other hand, for example, if none of the aforementioned processes are currently being executed, the control unit 16 determines in step S420 not to remain in standby mode until the currently executing other processes finish. Here, the aforementioned set of processes is, for example, Figure 15 The flowchart shown illustrates the processes preceding the movement of the paper tray TR from the storage position to the standby position. Figure 20 The flowchart shown includes processes such as those before the paper tray TR begins to move from the storage position to the loading position, but it is not limited to these.

[0153] If the control unit 16 determines that it is in standby mode until the other currently being executed process ends (step S420 - Yes), it enters standby mode until the other process ends, and then proceeds to step S430.

[0154] On the other hand, if the control unit 16 determines that it will not wait until the other currently executed process ends (step S420 - No), it controls the paper feed motor MV after moving the carriage (not shown) to a predetermined position, causing the paper discharge tray TR to move towards the loading position in the first direction (step S430). This increases the printing throughput of the printing apparatus 1, resulting in improved user convenience. It should be noted that in this case, if the paper discharge tray TR is determined to be in the loading position based on the detection result of the third detection unit S3, the control unit 16 omits the process of step S430. Furthermore, in step S312, if the carriage is already in the predetermined position, the control unit 16 omits the movement of the carriage. After performing the process of step S430, the control unit 16 ends the process. Figure 23 The flowchart shown illustrates the processing.

[0155] As described above, if the first condition is not met and a printing instruction is received from the printing unit PR, the printing apparatus 1 controls the paper feed motor MV to move the paper discharge tray TR to the loading position. Furthermore, in Figure 15 The flowchart shown illustrates the process of receiving a printing instruction before the paper tray TR begins to move from the storage position to the standby position, or in the case where... Figure 20In the flowchart shown, if a printing instruction is received before the paper tray TR begins to move from the storage position to the loading position, the printing unit 1 controls the paper feed motor MV to move the paper tray TR to the loading position. This allows the printing unit 1 to increase printing throughput, resulting in improved user convenience. Furthermore, because the printing unit 1 performs… Figure 23 The flowchart shown illustrates the process, so that when the printing device 1 receives a printing instruction while the paper tray TR is in the storage position, it can make it easy for the user to operate after printing.

[0156] It needs to be explained that, Figure 23 The process in step S410 shown may not be a process of determining whether a printing instruction has been received, but rather a process of determining whether other conditions are met. Here, these other conditions may be, for example, that the scanner's document tray is open, but it is not limited to this.

[0157] Furthermore, the printing apparatus 1 described above can also be selected by the user whether to perform printing under the condition that the first condition is met. Figure 15 or Figure 20 The flowchart shown illustrates the processing structure.

[0158] Furthermore, the printing apparatus 1 described above may also be configured without the first detection unit S1. In this case, the printing apparatus 1 determines, for example, whether the position of the operation unit CP is the first operating position based on the position of the paper tray TR.

[0159] Furthermore, the printing apparatus 1 described above can also be configured as follows: when an operation to disconnect the power to the printing apparatus 1 is received and the paper tray TR is not in the storage position, an image indicating whether to store the paper tray TR is displayed on the touch panel TP. In this case, when an operation instructing the storage of the paper tray TR is received via this image, the printing apparatus 1 controls the paper feed motor MV after moving the carriage to a predetermined position, causing the paper tray TR to move in the second direction towards the storage position. Afterwards, the printing apparatus 1 disconnects its power. It should be noted that when an operation to disconnect the power to the printing apparatus 1 is received while the paper tray TR is in the storage position, the printing apparatus 1 disconnects its power without moving the paper tray TR.

[0160] Furthermore, the printing apparatus 1 may be configured to rotate the operating unit CP from the first operating position to a user-specified position among two or more positions when the first condition is met, instead of the configuration that rotates the position of the operating unit CP from the first operating position to the second operating position.

[0161] In addition, the printing apparatus 1 may also be configured to determine whether the paper tray TR is in the storage position based on the detection results of two or more combinations of the second detection unit S2 to the fourth detection unit S4.

[0162] Furthermore, the items described above can be combined in any way.

[0163] As described above, the printing apparatus 1 according to the embodiment is a printing apparatus comprising: a printing unit PR for printing images on a printing medium; an operation unit CP capable of rotating about a rotation axis to a first operation position inclined at a predetermined first angle relative to a mounting surface of the printing apparatus 1 and a second operation position inclined at a second angle less than the first angle relative to the mounting surface, and receiving operations; a paper discharge tray TR, which is positioned at a height direction from the mounting surface toward the printing apparatus 1 in a direction orthogonal to the mounting surface, and is located lower than the rotation axis AX1 in the height direction, and can move in a front-rear direction toward a first direction intersecting the height direction; a paper feed motor MV for moving the paper discharge tray TR; and a rotation mechanism RT that, in response to the movement of the paper discharge tray TR, moves the operation unit CP. The printing unit 16 controls the printing unit PR, the operation unit CP, and the paper feed motor MV. The paper discharge tray TR can move to a predetermined standby position, either a storage position within the housing of the printing apparatus 1, a loading position for receiving discharged printing media, or a position closer to the storage position than the loading position. When the operation unit CP is in the first operating position and the paper discharge tray TR has moved between the storage position and the standby position, the rotation mechanism RT rotates the operation unit CP from the first operating position to the second operating position. When the paper discharge tray TR is in the storage position and a predetermined first condition is met, the control unit 16 controls the paper feed motor MV to move the paper discharge tray TR to the standby position. Thus, the printing apparatus 1 can change its state to a state easily operated by the user at the desired time.

[0164] Notes

[0165] [1] A printing apparatus comprising: a printing unit for printing an image on a printing medium; an operation unit capable of rotating about a rotation axis to a first operation position and a second operation position, and receiving an operation, wherein the first operation position is inclined at a predetermined first angle relative to a mounting surface on which the printing apparatus is mounted, and the second operation position is inclined at a second angle less than the first angle relative to the mounting surface; a paper discharge tray having a height direction defined as the direction from the mounting surface toward the printing apparatus in a direction orthogonal to the mounting surface, wherein the paper discharge tray is positioned below the rotation axis in the height direction, and the paper discharge tray is movable in a front-rear direction in a first direction intersecting the height direction; a moving unit for moving the paper discharge tray; and a rotating mechanism that, in response to the movement of the paper discharge tray, moves the operation unit from the first operation position to the second operation position. The control unit controls the printing unit, the operating unit, and the moving unit. The paper tray can move to a predetermined standby position, which is one of the following: a storage position where the paper tray is housed within the housing of the printing apparatus; a loading position for receiving the discharged printing medium; and a position closer to the storage position than the loading position. When the position of the operating unit is the first operating position and the paper tray has moved between the storage position and the standby position, the rotation mechanism causes the operating unit to rotate from the first operating position to the second operating position. When the position of the paper tray is the storage position and a predetermined first condition is met, the control unit controls the moving unit to perform a first control to move the paper tray to the standby position.

[0166] [2] According to the printing apparatus of [1], the printing apparatus includes a limiting part that restricts the operation part from rotating from the first operation position to the second operation position. When the standby position or the position between the standby position and the storage position is set as the limiting release position and the rotation of the operation part in the first operation position is restricted, when the position of the paper discharge tray is consistent with the limiting release position, the limiting part releases the restriction on the operation part from rotating from the first operation position to the second operation position.

[0167] [3] According to the printing apparatus of [1] or [2], wherein the first control is to move the paper tray to the standby position and then move the paper tray to the storage position.

[0168] [4] The printing apparatus according to any one of [1] to [3], wherein the control unit controls the moving unit to perform a second control to move the paper tray to the loading position when the first condition is not met and the printing unit receives a printing instruction from the printing unit.

[0169] [5] The printing apparatus according to any one of [1] to [4], wherein the first condition is that the power supply of the printing apparatus is turned on.

[0170] [6] The printing apparatus according to any one of [1] to [5], wherein the operation unit includes a touch panel, and the first condition is that the operation unit receives a selection operation on an angle adjustment button displayed on the touch panel.

[0171] [7] The printing apparatus according to any one of [1] to [6], wherein the printing apparatus includes a first detection unit for detecting whether the position of the operating unit is the second operating position, and when the first condition is satisfied, the control unit controls the moving unit in the first control to make the paper tray start moving in the first direction, and then, when the first detection unit detects that the position of the operating unit is the second operating position, the control unit stops the movement of the paper tray, and the standby position in the first control is a position that is predetermined as the position where the movement of the paper tray stops after the paper tray starts moving.

[0172] [8] The printing apparatus according to any one of [1] to [7], wherein the end of the paper tray in the standby position on the first direction side is located on the opposite side of the first direction than the end of the operating part in the second operating position on the first direction side.

[0173] [9] The printing apparatus according to any one of [1] to [8], wherein the printing apparatus includes a receiving portion that is movable in a front-rear direction toward the first direction and receives the printing medium, wherein the end of the paper tray in the standby position on the first direction side is located on the opposite side of the first direction than the end of the receiving portion on the first direction side.

[0174]

[10] According to the printing apparatus of [1], the printing apparatus includes: a first detection unit for detecting whether the position of the operation unit is the second operation position; a second detection unit for detecting whether the position of the paper discharge tray is the standby position; and a third detection unit for detecting whether the position of the paper discharge tray is the loading position. When the control unit determines that the position of the operation unit is the second operation position based on the detection result of the first detection unit, and determines that the position of the paper discharge tray is not the storage position based on the detection result of the second detection unit or the third detection unit, when the first condition is met, a third control is performed to move the paper discharge tray to the storage position and then to the standby position.

[0175]

[11] The printing apparatus according to any one of [1] to

[10] , wherein the printing apparatus comprises: a first detection unit for detecting whether the position of the operation unit is the second operation position; and a fourth detection unit for detecting whether the position of the paper discharge tray is the storage position, wherein the control unit, when determining that the position of the operation unit is the first operation position based on the detection result of the first detection unit and determining that the position of the paper discharge tray is not the storage position based on the detection result of the fourth detection unit, performs a fourth control to move the paper discharge tray to the storage position and then to the standby position when the first condition is satisfied.

[0176]

[12] The printing apparatus according to any one of [1] to

[11] , wherein, in the first control, the control unit moves the paper tray toward the loading position if it receives a printing instruction before the paper tray begins to move from the storage position to the standby position.

[0177]

[13] The printing apparatus according to any one of [1] to

[12] , wherein the first condition is that the original document placed on the stage of the automatic document feeder (ADF) is detected by the media detection unit.

[0178]

[14] The printing apparatus according to any one of [1] to

[13] , wherein the printing apparatus comprises: a manuscript table on which a manuscript to be read is placed; and a reading unit that detects whether a manuscript is placed on the manuscript table and reads image information representing an image placed on the manuscript on the manuscript table, wherein the first condition is that the reading unit detects that a manuscript is placed on the manuscript table.

[0179]

[15] The printing apparatus according to any one of [1] to

[14] , wherein the operation unit includes a touch panel, and when the position of the operation unit is the first operation position and the position of the paper tray is the storage position, when the operation unit receives an operation, the control unit displays information on the touch panel asking whether to rotate the operation unit to the second operation position, and when the operation unit receives an operation instructing the operation unit to rotate to the second operation position, the control unit performs the first control.

[0180]

[16] The printing apparatus according to any one of [1] to

[15] , wherein the operating part located in the first operating position overlaps with the paper tray located in the standby position in the first direction.

[0181]

[17] The printing apparatus according to any one of [1] to

[16] , wherein the rotating mechanism comprises: a gear rack disposed on the paper tray; a cam-driven gear engaging with the gear rack; and a lever member engaging with a cam portion of the cam-driven gear, wherein the pushing portion of the lever member moves the operating portion from the first operating position to the second operating position by means of the rotation of the cam-driven gear, which rotates via the gear rack in response to the movement of the paper tray.

[0182]

[18] The printing apparatus according to any one of [1] to

[17] , wherein the operation unit includes a touch panel, and when the position of the paper tray is the storage position and the first condition is met, the control unit displays an angle adjustment image on the touch panel including information asking whether to rotate the operation unit to the second operation position, and performs the first control in response to an operation received by the operation unit via the angle adjustment image.

[0183]

[19] A printing apparatus comprising: a printing unit for printing an image on a printing medium; an operation unit capable of rotating about a rotation axis to a first operation position and a second operation position, and receiving an operation, wherein the first operation position is inclined at a predetermined first angle relative to a mounting surface on which the printing apparatus is mounted, and the second operation position is inclined at a second angle less than the first angle relative to the mounting surface; a paper discharge tray having a height direction defined as the direction from the mounting surface toward the printing apparatus in a direction orthogonal to the mounting surface, wherein the paper discharge tray is positioned below the rotation axis in the height direction, and the paper discharge tray is movable in a front-rear direction in a first direction intersecting the height direction; a moving unit for moving the paper discharge tray; and a rotating mechanism that, in response to the movement of the paper discharge tray, moves the operation unit from... The first operating position rotates to the second operating position; and the control unit controls the printing unit, the operating unit, and the moving unit, wherein the paper discharge tray can move to a storage position where the paper discharge tray is housed within the housing of the printing apparatus and to a loading position for receiving the discharged printing medium, respectively. When the position of the operating unit is the first operating position and the paper discharge tray has moved between the storage position and the loading position, the rotation mechanism causes the operating unit to rotate from the first operating position to the second operating position. When the position of the paper discharge tray is the storage position and a predetermined first condition is met, the control unit controls the moving unit to perform a third control, which moves the paper discharge tray to the loading position and then moves the paper discharge tray to the storage position.

[0184]

[20] A control method is provided for a printing apparatus, the printing apparatus comprising: a printing unit for printing an image on a printing medium; an operation unit capable of rotating about a rotation axis to a first operation position and a second operation position, and receiving an operation, wherein the first operation position is inclined at a predetermined first angle relative to a mounting surface on which the printing apparatus is mounted, and the second operation position is inclined at a second angle less than the first angle relative to the mounting surface; a paper discharge tray having a height direction defined as the direction orthogonal to the mounting surface from the mounting surface toward the printing apparatus, wherein the paper discharge tray is positioned below the rotation axis in the height direction, and the paper discharge tray is movable in a front-rear direction in a first direction intersecting the height direction; a moving unit for moving the paper discharge tray; and a rotating mechanism responsive to the paper discharge tray. The movement mechanism causes the operating unit to rotate from the first operating position to the second operating position. The paper tray can move to a predetermined standby position, which is located within the housing of the printing apparatus, a loading position for receiving the discharged printing media, and a position closer to the storage position than the loading position. When the position of the operating unit is the first operating position and the paper tray has moved between the storage position and the standby position, the rotation mechanism causes the operating unit to rotate from the first operating position to the second operating position. The control method has a first control step in which, when the position of the paper tray is the storage position and a predetermined first condition is met, the moving unit is controlled to move the paper tray to the standby position.

[0185] The embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and changes, substitutions, deletions, etc., can be made without departing from the spirit of this disclosure.

[0186] Furthermore, a program for implementing the functions of any component in the apparatus described above can be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, allowing the computer system to read and execute the program. Here, the apparatus is, for example, a printing device 1. It should be noted that the term "computer system" here includes hardware such as an operating system (OS) and peripheral devices. Furthermore, "computer-readable recording medium" refers to removable media such as floppy disks, magneto-optical disks, ROMs, and CD-ROMs, as well as storage devices such as hard disks built into a computer system. Moreover, "computer-readable recording medium" also includes media that retain programs for a period of time, like volatile memory within a computer system acting as a server or client, when the program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line.

[0187] Furthermore, the aforementioned program can also be transmitted from a computer system storing the program in a storage device or similar device to other computer systems via a transmission medium or by transmission waves within the transmission medium. Here, the "transmission medium" for transmitting the program refers to a medium with the function of transmitting information, such as a network like the Internet or a communication line like a telephone line.

[0188] Furthermore, the aforementioned program can also be a part of a program used to implement the aforementioned functions. Moreover, the aforementioned program can also be a program capable of implementing the aforementioned functions through combination with programs already recorded in the computer system, a so-called differential file or differential program.

Claims

1. A printing device characterized by comprising: Possessing: a printing section that performs printing of an image on a print medium; an operation section that is capable of rotating about a rotation axis to a first operation position and a second operation position, respectively, the first operation position being inclined at a predetermined first angle with respect to a setting surface on which the printing device is disposed, the second operation position being inclined at a second angle smaller than the first angle with respect to the setting surface; a paper discharge tray that is disposed at a lower position than the rotation axis in a height direction in which a direction from the setting surface toward the printing device in a direction orthogonal to the setting surface is set as the height direction, the paper discharge tray being capable of moving in a front-rear direction toward a first direction intersecting the height direction; a moving section that moves the paper discharge tray; a rotation mechanism that rotates the operation section from the first operation position to the second operation position in response to movement of the paper discharge tray; and a control section that controls the printing section, the operation section, and the moving section, the paper discharge tray being capable of moving to a predetermined standby position among a storage position in which the paper discharge tray is stored in a housing of the printing device, a loaded position in which a printed medium discharged is received, and a position closer to the storage position than the loaded position, the rotation mechanism rotating the operation section from the first operation position to the second operation position in a case where the position of the operation section is the first operation position and the paper discharge tray is moved between the storage position and the standby position, the control section controlling the moving section to move the paper discharge tray to the standby position in a case where the position of the paper discharge tray is the storage position and a predetermined first condition is satisfied.

2. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein the printing device possesses a restriction section that restricts rotation of the operation section from the first operation position to the second operation position, the restriction section releasing the restriction of the rotation of the operation section from the first operation position to the second operation position when the position of the paper discharge tray coincides with the release position in a case where the position of the paper discharge tray is the standby position or a position between the standby position and the storage position and the rotation of the operation section on the first operation position is restricted.

3. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein the first control is control that moves the paper discharge tray to the storage position after moving the paper discharge tray to the standby position.

4. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein the control section controls the moving section to move the paper discharge tray to the loaded position in a case where the first condition is not satisfied and a printing instruction of the printing section is received.

5. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein the first condition includes turning on of a power supply of the printing device.

6. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein the operation section includes a touch panel. The first condition includes the operation section receiving a selection operation of an angle adjustment button displayed on the touch panel.

7. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein the printing device includes a first detection section that detects whether the position of the operation section is the second operation position, in a case where the first condition is satisfied, the control section, in the first control, controls the moving section so that the paper discharge tray starts to move in the first direction, and thereafter, in a case where the first detection section detects that the position of the operation section is the second operation position, the control section stops the movement of the paper discharge tray, the standby position is a position that is predetermined as a position at which the movement of the paper discharge tray is stopped after the paper discharge tray starts to move in the first control.

8. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein the end portion on the first direction side among the end portions of the paper discharge tray positioned at the standby position is positioned on the opposite side of the first direction from the end portion on the first direction side among the end portions of the operation section positioned at the second operation position.

9. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein the printing device includes a housing section that is movable in a front-rear direction toward the first direction and houses the printing medium, the end portion on the first direction side among the end portions of the paper discharge tray positioned at the standby position is positioned on the opposite side of the first direction from the end portion on the first direction side among the end portions of the housing section.

10. The printing device of claim 1, wherein, the printing device includes: a first detection section that detects whether the position of the operation section is the second operation position; a second detection section that detects whether the position of the paper discharge tray is the standby position; and a third detection section that detects whether the position of the paper discharge tray is the loading position, the control section, when the first condition is satisfied, performs third control in which the paper discharge tray is moved toward the housing position and then toward the standby position, in a case where it is determined from the detection result of the first detection section that the position of the operation section is the second operation position and it is determined from the detection result of the second detection section or the third detection section that the position of the paper discharge tray is not the housing position.

11. The printing device of claim 1, wherein, the printing device includes: a first detection section that detects whether the position of the operation section is the second operation position; and a fourth detection section that detects whether the position of the paper discharge tray is the housing position, the control section, when the first condition is satisfied, performs fourth control in which the paper discharge tray is moved toward the housing position and then toward the standby position, in a case where it is determined from the detection result of the first detection section that the position of the operation section is the first operation position and it is determined from the detection result of the fourth detection section that the position of the paper discharge tray is not the housing position.

12. The printing device according to claim 1, wherein The control section, in the first control, moves the paper discharge tray to the loading position when the print instruction is received before the paper discharge tray is caused to start moving from the storage position to the standby position.

13. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The first condition includes detection of a document placed on a placement table of an automatic document feeder by a medium detection section.

14. The printing device of claim 1, wherein, The printing apparatus includes: a document table on which a read document is placed; and a reading section that detects whether a document is placed on the document table and reads image information indicating an image on a document placed on the document table, The first condition includes detection of a document placed on the document table by the reading section.

15. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The operation section includes a touch panel, When the operation section receives an operation in a case where the position of the operation section is the first operation position and the position of the paper discharge tray is the storage position, the control section displays information asking whether to cause the operation section to turn to the second operation position on the touch panel, and when the operation section receives an operation indicating a turn to the second operation position, the control section performs the first control.

16. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The operation section in the first operation position overlaps the paper discharge tray in the standby position in the first direction.

17. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The turning mechanism includes: a gear rack provided to the paper discharge tray; a cam gear engaged with the gear rack; and a lever member engaged with a cam portion of the cam gear, The pushing portion of the lever member moves the operation section from the first operation position to the second operation position by rotation of the cam gear in response to rotation of the gear rack by movement of the paper discharge tray.

18. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The operation section includes a touch panel, When the position of the paper discharge tray is the storage position and the first condition is satisfied, the control section displays an angle adjustment image including information asking whether to cause the operation section to turn to the second operation position on the touch panel, and performs the first control in response to an operation received by the operation section via the angle adjustment image.

19. A printing device characterized by comprising: includes: a printing section that performs printing of an image on a medium; an operation section that is capable of turning to a first operation position and a second operation position about a turning axis, respectively, and receives an operation, the first operation position being inclined at a predetermined first angle with respect to a placement surface on which the printing apparatus is placed, and the second operation position being inclined at a second angle smaller than the first angle with respect to the placement surface; and a control section that performs the first control when the operation section receives an operation in a case where the position of the operation section is the first operation position and the position of the paper discharge tray is the storage position. a paper discharge tray is disposed at a position lower than the rotation shaft in a height direction in which a direction from the placement surface toward the printing device is set as the height direction, the paper discharge tray being movable in a front-rear direction toward a first direction intersecting the height direction; a moving section that moves the paper discharge tray; a rotation mechanism that rotates the operation section from the first operation position to the second operation position in response to movement of the paper discharge tray; and a control section that controls the printing section, the operation section, and the moving section, the paper discharge tray is movable to a storage position in which the paper discharge tray is stored in a housing of the printing device and a loaded position in which the printed medium is received, in a case where the position of the operation section is the first operation position and the paper discharge tray is moved between the storage position and the loaded position, the rotation mechanism rotates the operation section from the first operation position to the second operation position, in a case where the position of the paper discharge tray is the storage position and a predetermined first condition is satisfied, the control section controls the moving section to perform third control of moving the paper discharge tray to the loaded position and then moving the paper discharge tray to the storage position.

20. A control method characterized by, a control method for a printing device, the printing device includes: a printing section that performs printing of an image on a printed medium; an operation section that is rotatable to a first operation position and a second operation position about a rotation shaft and receives an operation, the first operation position being inclined at a predetermined first angle with respect to a placement surface on which the printing device is placed, the second operation position being inclined at a second angle smaller than the first angle with respect to the placement surface; a paper discharge tray is disposed at a position lower than the rotation shaft in a height direction in which a direction from the placement surface toward the printing device is set as the height direction, the paper discharge tray being movable in a front-rear direction toward a first direction intersecting the height direction; a moving section that moves the paper discharge tray; and a rotation mechanism that rotates the operation section from the first operation position to the second operation position in response to movement of the paper discharge tray, the paper discharge tray is movable to a storage position in which the paper discharge tray is stored in a housing of the printing device, a loaded position in which the printed medium is received, and a predetermined standby position closer to the storage position than the loaded position, in a case where the position of the operation section is the first operation position and the paper discharge tray is moved between the storage position and the standby position, the rotation mechanism rotates the operation section from the first operation position to the second operation position, the control method includes a first control step in which, in a case where the position of the paper discharge tray is the storage position and a predetermined first condition is satisfied, the moving section is controlled to move the paper discharge tray to the standby position.

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