Recording device, recording method, and program

Abstract

To improve function for assisting user's operation.SOLUTION: A recording device comprises: a first unit group which has at least one functional unit of a plurality of functional units; a second unit group which has at least one other functional unit of the plurality of functional units; and notification means which performs notification in response to an operation which is performed by a user for each of the first unit group and the second unit group. The second unit group is located behind the first unit group in a cross direction of the recording device with respect to the notification means. The notification means performs notification with a sound in a first mode in response to an operation which is performed by the user for the first unit group, and performs notification with a sound in a second mode in response to an operation which is performed by the user for the second unit group.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a recording device, a recording method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, the prices of printers, especially large format printers, have been falling. In addition, with the spread of telecommuting or a combination of commuting and telecommuting, the number of opportunities to print drawings at home or at a work site has increased. In addition, the need for in-house production of posters and flyers is also increasing in retail stores, restaurants, and the like. Under these circumstances, the user base of large format printers is expanding. Large format printers have the function of printing large formats, for example, A3 size. The function of large format printing includes, for example, the function of printing on roll paper. To use a recording medium such as roll paper, users may be required to have operability specific to large format printing.

[0003] However, the operability specific to large-format printing can be difficult to understand for users who are not familiar with large-format printers. Therefore, there is a demand for operability that is easy to understand even for users who are not familiar with large-format printing. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technology that provides the operability specific to large-format printing by notifying the user with a buzzer-like sound. Patent Document 1 discloses a technology that controls the volume of the audio output unit depending on the distance between the location where the paper jam occurred and the audio output unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2011-180481 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, in the technology described in Patent Document 1, if the user is located far from the location where the paper jam occurred but close to the audio output unit, the sound may be unnecessarily loud to prompt the user to operate the device. Therefore, there is room for improvement in the function of assisting the user in operating the device by notifying them with a sound such as a buzzer.

[0006] The present disclosure aims to improve the function of assisting a user in performing operations. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A recording device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a recording device including a plurality of functional units that can be operated by a user, and is equipped with a first unit group having at least one functional unit among the plurality of functional units, a second unit group having at least one other functional unit among the plurality of functional units, and a notification means for providing a notification by sound in response to operations performed by the user on each of the first unit group and the second unit group, wherein the second unit group is positioned rearward of the first unit group in the fore-and-aft direction of the recording device with respect to the notification means, and the notification means provides a notification by a first type of sound in response to operations performed by the user on the first unit group, and provides a notification by a second type of sound that is different from the first type of sound in response to operations performed by the user on the second unit group. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to improve the function of assisting a user's operation. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the appearance of the recording apparatus. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of a recording apparatus. [Diagram 3] 11A and 11B are diagrams illustrating an example of an operation for feeding roll paper to a roll paper feeding section. [Figure 4] 11A and 11B are diagrams illustrating an example of an operation for feeding cut paper to a cut paper feeding section. [Diagram 5] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation for refilling ink. [Figure 6] 11 is a flowchart illustrating a notification operation by sound. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the appearance of the recording apparatus. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of a recording apparatus. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the present disclosure, and not all combinations of features described in the following embodiments are necessarily essential to the solution of the present disclosure. Note that the same reference numbers are used for the same components.

[0011] <<First embodiment>> Fig. 1 is a perspective view of the appearance of the recording device 100. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the recording device 100.

[0012] (Configuration of recording device 100) As shown in Fig. 1, recording device 100 includes a notification unit 101, an operation display unit 102, a roll paper feed unit 103, a cut paper feed unit 104, an ink storage unit 105, and a waste liquid tank unit 106. Each of operation display unit 102, roll paper feed unit 103, cut paper feed unit 104, ink storage unit 105, and waste liquid tank unit 106 is a functional unit that can be operated by a user. In other words, recording device 100 includes multiple functional units that can be operated by a user. Also, as shown in Fig. 2, recording device 100 includes a recording unit 201 and a control unit 202 in addition to the above functional units.

[0013] In the example of FIG. 1, the main body 120 of the recording device 100 includes a front portion 121, a rear portion 122, a right side portion 123, a left side portion 124, a top portion 125, and a bottom portion 126.

[0014] The front part 121 constitutes the front part of the main body 120 of the recording device 100. The rear part 122 is provided at a position opposite to the front part 121 and constitutes the rear part of the main body 120 of the recording device 100. The right side part 123 constitutes the right part of the main body 120 of the recording device 100. The left side part 124 is provided at a position opposite to the right side part 123 and constitutes the left part of the main body 120 of the recording device 100. The top part 125 constitutes the upper part of the main body 120 of the recording device 100. The bottom part 126 is provided at a position opposite to the top part 125 and constitutes the lower part of the main body 120 of the recording device 100. That is, the front part 121, the rear part 122, the right side part 123, the left side part 124, the top part 125, and the bottom part 126 constitute the outer part of the main body 120 of the recording device 100.

[0015] The main body 120 includes a notification unit 101, an operation display unit 102, a roll paper feed unit 103, a cut paper feed unit 104, and a waste liquid tank unit 106. An ink storage unit 105 is provided on a right side surface unit 123 of the main body 120.

[0016] The notification unit 101 in FIG. 1 is provided on the front part 121. The notification unit 101 issues a notification by sound. The notification by sound is triggered by an operation performed by the user on each of the multiple functional units. In other words, the notification unit 101 issues a notification by sound in response to an operation performed by the user on each of the multiple functional units. The notification unit 101 issues a notification by sound from the front part 121 of the main body 120. Therefore, the directionality of the sound notified by the notification unit 101 is in front of the front part 121. Therefore, the sound notified by the notification unit 101 is easy to hear for a user facing the front part 121 of the main body 120. On the other hand, the sound notified by the notification unit 101 is difficult to hear for a user positioned other than the front part 121 of the main body 120.

[0017] Specifically, the following phenomenon occurs in the front-rear direction from the front part 121 to the rear part 122. Here, the front-rear direction from the front part 121 to the rear part 122 refers to the direction along the central axis of the directivity of the sound notified by the notification unit 101. That is, when a user operates a functional unit located in front of the notification unit 101 in the direction along the central axis of the directivity of the sound notified by the notification unit 101, a phenomenon occurs in which the sound notified by the notification unit 101 is easy for the user to hear. On the other hand, when a user operates a functional unit located behind the notification unit 101 in the above-mentioned front-rear direction, a phenomenon occurs in which the sound notified by the notification unit 101 is difficult for the user to hear. For this reason, in the present disclosure, the manner of the sound notified by the notification unit 101 differs depending on which of the multiple functional units is operated by the user, based on the directivity of the sound notified by the notification unit 101. Details of the manner of the sound will be described later.

[0018] In the following description, the front-rear direction from the front part 121 to the rear part 122 will be appropriately referred to as the front-rear direction of the main body 120. In other words, the front-rear direction of the main body 120 refers to the front-rear direction of the recording device 100.

[0019] Moreover, the notification unit 101 has, for example, a voice synthesis output circuit and a speaker. The voice synthesis output circuit is composed of, for example, a memory, a decoder, a filter circuit, a digital-to-analog converter, and an amplifier. The voice synthesis output circuit performs a first operation, a second operation, a third operation, and a fourth operation as follows. The first operation is an operation of decoding sound data stored in the memory by a decoder. The second operation is an operation of filtering the digital sound data decoded by the first operation by a filter circuit. The third operation is an operation of converting the digital sound data filtered by the second operation into sound data of an analog signal by a digital-to-analog converter. The fourth operation is an operation of expanding the gain of the analog signal for the sound data of the analog signal converted by the third operation by an amplifier. By such first operation, second operation, third operation, and fourth operation, an analog signal constituting the sound data is output from the voice synthesis output circuit. The output analog signal is input to the speaker. As a result, the speaker outputs a sound based on the analog signal constituting the sound data. With this configuration, the notification unit 101 can notify by sound. As described above, the trigger for the notification by sound is an operation performed by the user on each of the multiple functional units. Details of the trigger for the notification by sound will be described later. Also, according to the above configuration example, the directivity of the sound notified by the notification unit 101 is the directivity of the speaker.

[0020] The operation display unit 102 in FIG. 1 is provided on the front unit 121. In one example of FIG. 1, the operation display unit 102 is provided above and toward the center of the notification unit 101. The operation display unit 102 accepts at least one of various operations related to the recording function of the recording device 100 and various settings related to the recording function of the recording device 100. The operation display unit 102 also performs various displays based on at least one of the accepted various operations and various settings. The operation display unit 102 has, for example, an operation acceptance unit such as a plurality of various buttons, and a display unit such as a liquid crystal display. Specifically, when an operation such as recording on a recording medium is accepted by the operation display unit 102, the operation display unit 102 displays the content of the accepted operation. The operation display unit 102 may be composed of a liquid crystal display with a touch panel.

[0021] The roll paper feed unit 103 in Fig. 1 is provided on the rear surface unit 122. The roll paper feed unit 103 stores roll paper. Roll paper is one type of recording medium. The roll paper feed unit 103 feeds the stored roll paper to the recording unit 201 in Fig. 2. Note that the feed configuration from the roll paper feed unit 103 to the recording unit 201 in Fig. 2 is common technical knowledge to those skilled in the art, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0022] The cut paper feed unit 104 in Fig. 1 is provided on the upper surface 125, and further forward than the roll paper feed unit 103. The cut paper feed unit 104 stores cut paper. Cut paper is one type of recording medium. The cut paper feed unit 104 feeds the stored cut paper to the recording unit 201 in Fig. 2. Note that the feed configuration from the cut paper feed unit 104 to the recording unit 201 in Fig. 2 is common technical knowledge to those skilled in the art, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0023] 1 is provided on the right side surface portion 123. The ink storage portion 105 is composed of, for example, an ink tank having an ink inlet, a tank cap that caps the ink inlet, and an ink tank cover that covers the ink tank.

[0024] When the ink in the ink storage unit 105 decreases, ink may be refilled as appropriate. Specifically, in the ink storage unit 105, the tip of an ink bottle is pushed into the ink inlet, thereby injecting the ink in the ink bottle into the ink tank. In the ink storage unit 105, ink is refilled into the ink tank by injecting ink into the ink tank. The ink storage unit 105 refilled with ink becomes capable of supplying ink to the recording unit 201 in FIG. 2. Note that the ink storage unit 105 may be configured such that an ink tank filled with ink can be replaced.

[0025] The waste liquid tank section 106 in FIG. 1 is provided adjacent to the front section 121 and on the left side of the ink storage section 105. The waste liquid tank section 106 is composed of, for example, a removable waste ink tank. An ink absorber made of nonwoven fabric or the like is contained inside the waste ink tank. The waste liquid tank section 106 causes the ink absorber to absorb excess ink generated when the recording section 201 in FIG. 2 uses ink.

[0026] The recording unit 201 in Fig. 2 is provided inside the main body 120 in Fig. 1. The recording unit 201 is composed of, for example, a recording head that ejects ink onto a recording medium, and a moving unit that moves the recording head in the main scanning direction. The moving unit has, for example, a carriage that moves the recording head in the main scanning direction. The recording medium is moved in the sub-scanning direction by a transport roller that transports the recording medium. The recording unit 201 cooperates with each of the functional units based on various commands from the control unit 202, and performs recording on the recording medium.

[0027] From the above explanation, the functional units are arranged as follows: That is, the operation display unit 102, the cut paper feed unit 104, and the waste liquid tank unit 106 are arranged closer to the notification unit 101 than the roll paper feed unit 103 and the ink storage unit 105. In other words, the roll paper feed unit 103 and the ink storage unit 105 are arranged behind the main body 120 in the front-to-rear direction of the main body 120, that is, on the back side of the main body 120.

[0028] In the following description, a configuration having at least one of the functional units of the operation display unit 102, the cut paper feed unit 104, and the waste liquid tank unit 106 will be referred to as a first unit group. Also, a configuration having at least one of the functional units of the roll paper feed unit 103 and the ink storage unit 105 will be referred to as a second unit group.

[0029] In short, the first unit group has at least one functional unit among the multiple functional units. The second unit group has at least one other functional unit among the multiple functional units. The second unit group is provided at a position farther away from the notification unit 101 than the first unit group. In other words, the second unit group is disposed rearward in the front-rear direction of the recording device 100 with respect to the notification unit 101 than the first unit group. That is, the second unit group is provided at a position farther away from the directivity of the sound notified by the notification unit 101 than the first unit group. Here, with respect to the notification unit 101, it means with respect to the sound source of the sound notified by the notification unit 101. For example, if the notification unit 101 has a speaker, the sound source of the sound notified by the notification unit 101 will be the speaker.

[0030] In the example of FIG. 1, the second unit group is disposed behind the first unit group in the front-rear direction of the main body 120. Also, in the front-rear direction of the main body 120, the notification unit 101 notifies the front of the main body 120 of a sound. Note that, in the example of FIG. 1, each of the functional units included in the first unit group is disposed on the same front part 121 as the notification unit 101 or behind the front part 121. However, this is not limited to this example. For example, in the front-rear direction of the main body 120, the first unit group may include a functional unit disposed in front of the notification unit 101.

[0031] The recording device 100 may be provided with a communication unit. The communication unit may have a function of communicating with, for example, a file server outside the recording device 100. The communication unit may acquire data to be recorded on the recording medium from the file server via a communication medium such as a wired medium or a wireless medium. The communication unit may be connected to an external device via, for example, WiFi (registered trademark) or Bluetooth (registered trademark) and acquire data to be recorded on the recording medium from the external device. The recording device 100 may be provided with, for example, an interface circuit capable of transmitting and receiving data to and from a removable recording medium. The removable recording medium is, for example, a USB (Universal Serial Bus). The interface circuit may acquire data to be recorded on the recording medium from the USB.

[0032] (Control unit 202) Next, the control unit 202 in FIG. 2 will be described. The control unit 202 is composed of, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an I / O interface unit, and a storage device. The storage device is composed of, for example, a non-volatile semiconductor memory. The storage device may store data for various controls of the recording device 100. The ROM may store a program for realizing a control module for various controls of the recording device 100. The program may include, for example, a process for realizing a sound notification by the notification unit 101 when each functional unit is operated. At least one of the data for various controls of the recording device 100 and the program for realizing a control module for various controls of the recording device 100 may be acquired from outside the recording device 100.

[0033] <Active and inactive sounds> The control unit 202 causes the notification unit 101 to notify by using either a valid sound or an invalid sound. <Effective sound> The valid sound is a sound notified by the notification unit 101 to indicate to the user that the user's operation is a valid operation. When the valid sound is notified by the notification unit 101, it indicates that the user's operation was a correct operation. A correct operation is an operation that is performed according to a preset procedure with each functional unit as the operation target. For example, when roll paper is stored in the roll paper feed unit 103, a scenario is assumed in which the flange of the roll holder that holds the roll paper is correctly set in the roll holder slot of the roll paper feed unit 103. In such a scenario, the user's operation may be considered to be a correct operation. In this case, a correctly set state refers to, for example, a state in which the roll paper is set in the roll holder slot without the left and right of the roll holder of the roll paper being mixed up.

[0034] <Invalid sound> The invalid sound is a sound notified by the notification unit 101 to inform the user that the user's operation is invalid. When the invalid sound is notified by the notification unit 101, it indicates that the user's operation was incorrect. An incorrect operation is an operation that is not performed according to a preset procedure with each functional unit as the operation target. For example, a scenario is assumed in which, when the roll paper is stored in the roll paper feed unit 103, the flange of the roll holder that holds the roll paper is not set correctly in the roll holder slot of the roll paper feed unit 103. In such a scenario, the user's operation may be considered to be an incorrect operation. In this case, an incorrect setting state is, for example, a state in which the left and right roll holders of the roll paper are mistaken and the roll paper is set in the roll holder slot.

[0035] The above-mentioned incorrect operation may include an incorrect operation and an invalid operation. For example, when a user attempts to access a folder for which administrator authority is required from the operation display unit 102 using an ID to which administrator authority is not granted, the operation may be considered to be an incorrect operation. Specifically, when administrator authority is set for access to a folder in which data of job history is stored, access by an ID to which administrator authority is not granted may be considered to be an incorrect operation. Also, when administrator authority is set for access to a folder related to LAN settings, access by an ID to which administrator authority is not granted may be considered to be an incorrect operation. Also, for example, when an operation is performed to replace an ink tank in the ink storage unit 105, and it is detected that the replaced ink tank is not a genuine product of the manufacturer, the operation may be considered to be an invalid operation. Also, for example, when an operation is performed to refill an ink tank in the ink storage unit 105 with ink, and the remaining amount of ink in the ink tank cannot be detected correctly, the operation may be considered to be an invalid operation. In other words, the above-mentioned incorrect operation or invalid operation is an operation in an abnormal state. In the case of such an operation in an abnormal state, the invalid sound is a sound indicating a warning in an abnormal state. The ineffective sound may be different from the effective sound, and there is no particular limitation on the form of the ineffective sound.

[0036] <Sound characteristics> When the control unit 202 causes the notification unit 101 to notify using a valid sound, the control unit 202 further changes the manner of the sound depending on which of the multiple functional units is operated by the user. Specifically, when the operation of at least one of the multiple functional units included in the first unit group is a valid operation, the control unit 202 causes the notification unit 101 to notify using a sound of a first manner as a first sound setting. On the other hand, when the operation of at least one of the multiple functional units included in the second unit group is a valid operation, the control unit 202 causes the notification unit 101 to notify using a sound of a second manner as a second sound setting. In other words, the notification unit 101 notifies using a sound of a first manner depending on the operation performed by the user on the first unit group. The notification unit 101 notifies using a sound of a second manner, which is a manner different from the sound of the first manner, depending on the operation performed by the user on the second unit group.

[0037] Specifically, for a valid first operation performed by the user on each of the multiple functional units, notification unit 101 notifies the user with a valid sound indicating that the first operation is a valid operation. For an invalid second operation performed by the user on each of the multiple functional units, notification unit 101 notifies the user with an invalid sound indicating that the second operation is an invalid operation. Here, the first mode sound and the second mode sound are notified as valid sounds. Thus, a user who recognizes either the first mode sound or the second mode sound can be made to recognize that the operation is a valid first operation.

[0038] <Sound characteristics: volume> The sound of the first mode and the sound of the second mode are different modes. For example, the sound of the second mode may be set to a volume louder than the sound of the first mode. Here, the volume refers to the sound pressure level. That is, the volume refers to the loudness of the sound. For example, by setting the sound of the second mode to a volume louder than the sound of the first mode, the user can hear the sound notified by the notification unit 101 even when operating the second unit group located away from the first unit group. Specifically, when the user correctly sets the roll paper in the roll paper feed unit 103, if the sound of the second mode as an effective sound is notified by the notification unit 101, the user can hear the notified sound.

[0039] <Sound characteristics: pitch> Also, for example, the pitch of the second mode may be set to a higher pitch than the pitch of the first mode. Here, the pitch is the height of the sound. That is, the pitch is determined by the frequency of the sound. That is, the pitch is an element that determines the fundamental tone. Specifically, the frequency of the sound of the second mode is set to a higher frequency than the frequency of the sound of the first mode, so that the user can distinguish between the sound of the first mode and the sound of the second mode. That is, the notification unit 101 notifies the user of the sound of the first mode with a sound including a first frequency. The notification unit 101 notifies the user of the sound of the second mode with a sound including a second frequency higher than the first frequency. This makes it possible to inform the user of which of the first unit group and the second unit group the content of the user's operation corresponds to, based on the difference in pitch. Therefore, even in an environment where it is difficult to change the volume, it is possible to inform the user of which of the first unit group and the second unit group the content of the user's operation corresponds to.

[0040] <Sound characteristics: tone> Also, for example, the tone of the second mode may be set to a tone different from the tone of the first mode. Here, the tone is determined by the waveform of the sound. Specifically, the tone is determined by the overtones. That is, the tone is determined by changing the overtones, which are sounds with frequencies that are integer multiples of the fundamental tone. Specifically, the tone of the second mode is set to a tone different from the tone of the first mode, so that the user can distinguish between the sound of the first mode and the sound of the second mode. That is, the notification unit 101 notifies the user of the sound of the first mode in a first tone. The notification unit 101 notifies the user of the sound of the second mode in a second tone different from the first tone. This makes it possible to inform the user of whether the content of the user's operation corresponds to the operation of the first unit group or the second unit group, depending on the difference in tone. Therefore, even in a noisy environment, it is possible to inform the user whether the content of the user's operation corresponds to the operation of the first unit group or the second unit group.

[0041] <Sound characteristics: Combination> Also, for example, the sound of the second mode may be different from the sound of the first mode in a combination of at least two of the elements of volume, pitch, and tone. Moreover, the combination may be repeated several times to make the sound even more different. For example, it is known that humans have difficulty hearing high-frequency components of the audible frequency range from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz as they age. Specifically, it is generally known that the upper limit of the audible frequency for adults drops to 16,000 Hz, and that for elderly people, the upper limit of the audible frequency drops from 20,000 Hz to 5,000 Hz. Therefore, the frequencies included in the pitch and tone may be shifted according to the age of the user who uses the recording device 100. For example, if the user is elderly, the frequencies included in each of the pitch and tone may be shifted to the lower frequency side. By changing the frequency of the mode of the sound to be notified according to the age of the user, it is possible to make the sound notified by the notification unit 101 even easier for the user to hear. The age of the user may be determined, for example, from personal information linked to a login ID by requesting the login ID when operating the operation display unit 102.

[0042] <Detection of user actions> The control unit 202 determines whether the notification unit 101 should notify the above-mentioned valid sound or invalid sound. Specifically, when the control unit 202 detects that the functional unit has been operated by the user, it instructs the notification unit 101 to notify based on the detection result. For example, it is assumed that the roll paper feed unit 103 in FIG. 1 has a built-in sensor that detects that the roll paper has been correctly inserted. Therefore, when it is detected that the roll paper has been correctly inserted, the control unit 202 is notified of this. This allows the control unit 202 to determine whether the roll paper has been correctly inserted in the roll paper feed unit 103. When the control unit 202 determines that the roll paper has been correctly inserted in the roll paper feed unit 103, it instructs the notification unit 101 to notify the sound of the second mode as the valid sound. On the other hand, when the control unit 202 determines that the roll paper has not been correctly inserted in the roll paper feed unit 103, it instructs the notification unit 101 to notify the invalid sound.

[0043] It is assumed that the cut paper feed unit 104 in Fig. 1 has a built-in sensor that detects whether the cut paper has been set correctly. Therefore, when it is detected that the cut paper has been set correctly, the control unit 202 is notified to that effect. This allows the control unit 202 to determine whether the cut paper has been set correctly in the cut paper feed unit 104. If the control unit 202 determines that the cut paper has been set correctly in the cut paper feed unit 104, it instructs the notification unit 101 to notify the user of a sound of the first type as a valid sound. On the other hand, if the control unit 202 determines that the cut paper has not been set correctly in the cut paper feed unit 104, it instructs the notification unit 101 to notify the user of an invalid sound.

[0044] It is assumed that the ink storage unit 105 in FIG. 1 has a built-in sensor that detects the opening and closing of the ink tank cover described above. Therefore, when the opening and closing of the ink tank cover is detected, the control unit 202 is notified of the fact. Specifically, after the ink tank cover is opened, the ink tank is refilled with ink, and the ink tank cover is closed. Therefore, by detecting the opening and closing of the ink tank cover, the control unit 202 can determine whether the ink tank of the ink storage unit 105 has been refilled with ink. When the control unit 202 determines that the ink tank of the ink storage unit 105 has been refilled with ink, it instructs the notification unit 101 to notify with the sound of the second mode as the effective sound.

[0045] On the other hand, if the control unit 202 determines that the ink tank of the ink storage unit 105 has not been refilled with ink, it instructs the notification unit 101 to notify of an invalid sound. Specifically, if the control unit 202 detects that the ink tank cover has not been closed even after a preset waiting time has elapsed after the ink tank cover has been opened, the control unit 202 may instruct the notification unit 101 to notify of an invalid sound.

[0046] It is assumed that the main body 120 in FIG. 1 has a built-in sensor that detects the insertion and removal of the waste liquid tank unit 106. Therefore, when the insertion and removal of the waste liquid tank unit 106 is detected, the control unit 202 is notified of the fact. Specifically, it is assumed that after the waste liquid tank unit 106 is removed from the main body 120 of the recording device 100, another waste liquid tank unit 106 is inserted into the main body 120. Therefore, by detecting the insertion and removal of the waste liquid tank unit 106, the control unit 202 can determine whether the waste liquid tank unit 106 has been replaced. When the control unit 202 determines that the waste liquid tank unit 106 has been replaced, it instructs the notification unit 101 to notify the sound of the first mode as the effective sound.

[0047] On the other hand, when the control unit 202 determines that the waste liquid tank unit 106 has not been replaced, it instructs the notification unit 101 to notify the invalid sound. Specifically, when it is detected that the waste liquid tank unit 106 has been removed from the main body 120 and then another waste liquid tank unit 106 has not been inserted into the main body 120 even after a preset waiting time has elapsed, the control unit 202 may instruct the notification unit to notify the invalid sound.

[0048] As described above, the operation display unit 102 in Fig. 1 accepts at least one of various operations related to the recording function of the recording device 100 and various settings related to the recording function of the recording device 100. Also, as described above, the operation display unit 102 in Fig. 1 may accept an unauthorized operation. Specifically, when the control unit 202 determines that the content of the operation accepted by the operation display unit 102 is a valid operation, it instructs the notification unit 101 to notify the user of a sound of a first mode as a valid sound. On the other hand, when the control unit 202 determines that the content of the operation accepted by the operation display unit 102 is an unauthorized operation, it instructs the notification unit 101 to notify the user of an invalid sound.

[0049] <Guidance> The control unit 202 may cause the operation display unit 102 to display guidance for the user's operation based on the content of the user's operation of each functional unit. Specifically, a scenario is envisaged in which the notification unit 101 issues a notification by sound, and further, the operation display unit 102 provides guidance. Examples of such scenarios include the following three scenarios. The first scenario is a scenario for refilling roll paper. The second scenario is a scenario for refilling cut paper. The third scenario is a scenario for refilling ink. The following will explain the scenarios in order, starting with the first scenario.

[0050] <Scenario 1: Refilling the roll paper> FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of an operation for feeding roll paper to the roll paper feed unit 103 in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. When the user refills the recording device 100 with roll paper, the roll paper is inserted into the roll paper feed unit 103. Specifically, when the operation display unit 102 receives an operation for feeding roll paper, the notification unit 101 issues a first type of sound and displays guidance to the user to open the cover of the roll paper feed unit 103. When the control unit 202 detects that the cover of the roll paper feed unit 103 has been opened, the operation display unit 102 displays guidance to the user to insert roll paper into the paper feed opening of the roll paper feed unit 103. When roll paper is inserted into the paper feed opening of the roll paper feed unit 103, the notification unit 101 issues a second type of sound and the operation display unit 102 displays a screen for selecting the paper type. When the user selects a paper type, the operation display unit 102 notifies the user by the notification unit 101 playing a first mode sound, and displays guidance to the user to close the cover of the roll paper feed unit 103. When the control unit 202 detects that the cover of the roll paper feed unit 103 has been closed, the operation display unit 102 starts a mechanical paper feeding operation by the main body 120 of the recording device 100, and the refilling of the roll paper is completed. A specific example of the operation of the first scenario for refilling roll paper will be described in detail using Figure 6.

[0051] <Second scenario: Refilling cut paper> FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of an operation for feeding cut paper to the cut paper feed unit 104 in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. When the user refills the recording device 100 with cut paper, the cut paper is set in the cut paper feed unit 104. Specifically, when the operation display unit 102 receives an operation for feeding cut paper, the notification unit 101 issues a first type sound and displays guidance to the user to open the cover of the cut paper feed unit 104. When the control unit 202 detects that the cover of the cut paper feed unit 104 has been opened, the operation display unit 102 displays guidance to the user to set the cut paper in the paper feed opening of the cut paper feed unit 104. When the cut paper is set in the paper feed opening of the cut paper feed unit 104, the notification unit 101 issues a first type sound and the operation display unit 102 displays a paper type selection screen. When a paper type is selected by the user via operation and display unit 102, notification unit 101 issues a first sound and displays guidance to the user to close the cover of cut paper feed unit 104. When control unit 202 detects that the cover of cut paper feed unit 104 has been closed, operation and display unit 102 completes the refilling of cut paper.

[0052] <Third Scenario: Ink Refill> FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of an operation of setting an ink bottle in the ink storage unit 105 and refilling ink in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. In FIG. 5, it is assumed that the user operates the ink storage unit 105 at a position farther away from the front side of the notification unit 101. Therefore, it is assumed that the user is in a situation where it is difficult to hear the sound notified by the notification unit 101. When the user uses an ink bottle to refill the ink storage unit 105 with ink, the ink bottle is pushed into the ink storage unit 105. Specifically, when the operation display unit 102 receives an operation to refill ink, the notification unit 101 notifies the user of a sound of the first mode and displays guidance to open the ink tank cover and the tank cap to the user. When the control unit 202 detects that the ink tank cover and the tank cap have been opened, the operation display unit 102 displays guidance to the user to align the tip of the ink bottle with the ink inlet and push it in. When the tip of the ink bottle is pushed into the ink inlet, notification unit 101 issues a notification with a sound of the second mode, and operation display unit 102 displays a screen that allows the user to select which ink color has been refilled from cyan, magenta, yellow, or black. When the user selects the ink color to be refilled, notification unit 101 issues a notification with a sound of the first mode, and displays guidance to the user to close the ink tank cover and tank cap. When control unit 202 detects that the ink tank cover and tank cap have been closed, operation display unit 102 completes the ink refill.

[0053] <Example of operation> Fig. 6 is a flowchart explaining the notification operation by sound from the recording device 100 when feeding roll paper in the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The flowchart in Fig. 6 is realized by the CPU of the control unit 202 reading into the RAM and executing the programs for implementing each control module stored in the ROM. Note that some or all of the functions of the steps in Fig. 6 may be realized by hardware such as an ASIC or electronic circuit. The symbol "S" in the explanation of each process indicates that it is a step in the flowchart diagram.

[0054] The flowchart in Fig. 6 is started when the user selects an icon corresponding to replacing the roll paper from among various operation menus displayed on the operation display unit 102. Note that the trigger that starts the processing of the flowchart in Fig. 6 is not limited to the above example, and may be started, for example, when a screen notifying that the roll paper has run out is displayed on the operation display unit 102 and the user operates that screen. The processing of the flowchart in Fig. 6 corresponds to the first scenario described above, which is refilling the roll paper.

[0055] In S600, the control unit 202 starts the process of the roll paper feed operation. For example, an icon corresponding to the contents of replacing the roll paper is selected via the operation display unit 102. In S601, the control unit 202 judges whether or not a paper feed operation from the operation display unit 102 has been detected. If it is judged that a paper feed operation from the operation display unit 102 has been detected, the control unit 202 proceeds to S602. If it is judged that a paper feed operation from the operation display unit 102 has not been detected, the control unit 202 proceeds to S604. That is, the paper feed operation from the operation display unit 102 can be omitted as described later. In S602, the control unit 202 causes the notification unit 101 to output a valid sound with a first sound setting. That is, S602 is a process in which the notification unit 101 outputs a sound of a first mode. After S602, the control unit 202 proceeds to S603. In S603, the control unit 202 causes the operation display unit 102 to display guidance. That is, the operation display unit 102 prompts the user to open the cover of the roll paper feed unit 103. For example, the operation display unit 102 displays an image showing the position of the cover of the roll paper feed unit 103. This allows the user to know the position of the cover of the roll paper feed unit 103. Note that steps S601 to S603 are unnecessary processes if the user knows the position of the cover of the roll paper feed unit 103, and can be omitted as appropriate.

[0056] After S603, the control unit 202 proceeds to S604. In S604, the control unit 202 determines whether or not the cover of the roll paper feed unit 103 has been opened. If it is determined that the cover of the roll paper feed unit 103 has been opened, the control unit 202 proceeds to S605. If it is determined that the cover of the roll paper feed unit 103 has not been opened, the control unit 202 returns to S601. In S605, the control unit 202 causes the operation display unit 102 to display guidance. That is, the operation display unit 102 prompts the user to insert roll paper into the paper feed opening of the roll paper feed unit 103. After S605, the control unit 202 proceeds to S606. In S606, the control unit 202 determines whether or not roll paper has been inserted into the roll paper feed unit 103. If it is determined that roll paper has been inserted into the roll paper feed unit 103, the control unit 202 proceeds to S607. If it is determined in S606 that roll paper is not inserted in the roll paper feed unit 103, the control unit 202 proceeds to S614. In S607, the control unit 202 causes the notification unit 101 to output the effective sound in the second sound setting. That is, S607 is a process in which the notification unit 101 outputs the sound in the second mode. After S607, the control unit 202 proceeds to S608. In S608, the control unit 202 causes the operation display unit 102 to display a paper type selection screen. That is, S608 is a process in which a registration screen is displayed to register in the recording device 100 whether the recording medium inserted in the roll paper feed unit 103 is a roll paper or a cut paper. In S609, the control unit 202 determines whether a paper type has been selected. If it is determined that a paper type has been selected, the control unit 202 proceeds to S610. For example, if the user selects roll paper as the recording medium, the recording device 100 registers that the paper type of the recording medium inserted into the roll paper feed unit 103 is roll paper. By performing such processing, the recording device 100 becomes able to recognize that the recording medium inserted into the roll paper feed unit 103 is roll paper. After S609, the control unit 202 proceeds to S610. If it is determined in S609 that a paper type has not been selected, the control unit 202 proceeds to S615. In S610, the control unit 202 causes the notification unit 101 to output a valid sound with a first sound setting. That is, S610 is a process in which the notification unit 101 outputs a sound in a first manner.After S610, the control unit 202 proceeds to S611. In S611, the control unit 202 causes the operation display unit 102 to display guidance. That is, the operation display unit 102 prompts the user to close the cover of the roll paper feed unit 103. For example, the operation display unit 102 displays an image indicating that the cover of the roll paper feed unit 103 is open. This allows the user to know that the cover of the roll paper feed unit 103 is open after inserting roll paper into the roll paper feed unit 103. After S611, the control unit 202 proceeds to S612. In S612, the control unit 202 determines whether the cover of the roll paper feed unit 103 is closed. If it is determined that the cover of the roll paper feed unit 103 is closed, the control unit 202 proceeds to S613. If it is determined that the cover of the roll paper feed unit 103 is not closed, the control unit 202 proceeds to S616. In S613, the control unit 202 performs a mechanical paper feeding operation. That is, the end of the roll paper is transported to the recording unit 201 by a transport roller (not shown) or the like. This puts the recording unit 201 into a standby state in which it can record information on the roll paper. After S613, the control unit 202 ends the paper feeding operation.

[0057] In S614, the control unit 202 determines whether or not cancel has been selected. If it is determined that cancel has been selected, the control unit 202 ends the paper feed operation. If it is determined that cancel has not been selected, the control unit 202 returns to S606. That is, S606 is repeated. In S615, the control unit 202 determines whether or not cancel has been selected. If it is determined that cancel has been selected, the control unit 202 ends the paper feed operation. If it is determined that cancel has not been selected, the control unit 202 returns to S609. That is, S609 is repeated. In S616, the control unit 202 determines whether or not cancel has been selected. If it is determined that cancel has been selected, the control unit 202 ends the paper feed operation. If it is determined that cancel has not been selected, the control unit 202 returns to S612. That is, S612 is repeated.

[0058] <Advantages of the First Embodiment> As described above, according to the present embodiment, the function of assisting the user's operation can be improved. Specifically, the second unit group is disposed behind the first unit group in the front-rear direction of the recording device 100 with respect to the notification unit 101. The notification unit 101 notifies the user with a sound of a first mode in response to an operation performed by the user on the first unit group. The notification unit 101 notifies the user with a sound of a second mode, which is different from the sound of the first mode, in response to an operation performed by the user on the second unit group. This configuration eliminates the problem that the user has difficulty hearing the sound notified by the notification unit 101 even when operating the second unit group. Therefore, the recording device 100 can improve the function of assisting the user's operation.

[0059] <<Second embodiment>> In the second embodiment, a description of the same configuration as in the first embodiment will be omitted. In the second embodiment, the arrangement of each functional unit is different from that in the first embodiment. Fig. 7 is an external perspective view of a recording device 700 in the second embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 8 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the recording device 700 in the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] (Configuration of recording device 700) As shown in FIG. 7, the recording device 700 includes a notification unit 701, an operation display unit 702, a first roll paper feed unit 703, a second roll paper feed unit 704, an ink storage unit 705, and a waste liquid tank unit 706. The operation display unit 702, the first roll paper feed unit 703, the second roll paper feed unit 704, the ink storage unit 705, and the waste liquid tank unit 706 are each a functional unit that can be operated by a user. That is, the recording device 700 includes a plurality of functional units that can be operated by a user. Also, as shown in FIG. 8, the recording device 700 includes a recording unit 801 and a control unit 802 in addition to the above-mentioned functional units. The notification unit 701 corresponds to the notification means in this disclosure. The operation display unit 702 corresponds to the operation display means in this disclosure. The first roll paper feed unit 703 corresponds to the first roll paper feed means in this disclosure. The second roll paper feed unit 704 corresponds to the second roll paper feed means in this disclosure. The ink storage unit 705 corresponds to the ink storage means in this disclosure. The waste liquid tank unit 706 corresponds to the waste liquid tank means in this disclosure. The recording unit 801 corresponds to the recording means in this disclosure.

[0061] Here, in the example of FIG. 7, the main body 720 of the recording device 700 includes a front part 721, a rear part 722, a right part 723, a left part 724, an upper part 725, and a lower part 726. The front part 721 constitutes the front part of the main body 720 of the recording device 700. The rear part 722 is provided at a position opposite to the front part 721, and constitutes the rear part of the main body 720 of the recording device 700. The right part 723 constitutes the right part of the main body 720 of the recording device 700. The left part 724 is provided at a position opposite to the right part 723, and constitutes the left part of the main body 720 of the recording device 700. The upper part 725 constitutes the upper part of the main body 720 of the recording device 700. The lower part 726 is provided at a position opposite to the upper part 725, and constitutes the lower part of the main body 720 of the recording device 700. That is, the front portion 721 , the rear portion 722 , the right portion 723 , the left portion 724 , the upper portion 725 , and the lower portion 726 form the outer portion of the main body 720 of the recording device 700 .

[0062] The main body 720 includes a first roll paper feeder 703 and a second roll paper feeder 704. A notification unit 701, an operation display unit 702, an ink storage unit 705, and a waste liquid tank unit 706 are provided on a right side 723 of the main body 720. The notification unit 701 in FIG. 7 has the same function as the notification unit 101 in FIG. 1. That is, the notification unit 701 issues a notification by sound in response to an operation performed by a user on each of a plurality of functional units. The notification unit 701 issues a notification by sound from the right side 723 toward the front. The forward direction is the direction from the rear part 722 toward the front part 721, which is the direction along the front of the main body 720. In addition, since the human ear faces forward, it is known that sounds from the front are easy to hear. Therefore, the sound notified by the notification unit 701 is easy to hear for a user who performs various operations on the front side of the notification unit 701. On the other hand, for a user who performs various operations above, below, or behind notification unit 701, the sound notified by notification unit 701 is hard to hear.

[0063] The operation display unit 702 in FIG. 7 has the same function as the operation display unit 102 in FIG. 1. The ink storage unit 705 in FIG. 7 has the same function as the ink storage unit 105 in FIG. 1. The waste liquid tank unit 706 in FIG. 7 has the same function as the waste liquid tank unit 106 in FIG. 1. The first roll paper feed unit 703 and the second roll paper feed unit 704 in FIG. 7 have the same mechanical configuration for transporting roll paper as the roll paper feed unit 103 in FIG. 1, but differ in the configuration for inserting roll paper. Specifically, the roll paper feed unit 103 in FIG. 1 is configured to insert roll paper from above the main body 120. In contrast, the first roll paper feed unit 703 and the second roll paper feed unit 704 in FIG. 7 are configured to insert roll paper from the front of the main body 720. The recording unit 801 in FIG. 8 has the same function as the recording unit 201 in FIG. 2. A control unit 802 in FIG. 8 has the same functions as the control unit 202 in FIG.

[0064] (Positional relationship with notification unit 701) Ink storage unit 705 is disposed behind notification unit 701. It is therefore assumed that the user operates ink storage unit 705 behind notification unit 701. In this case, it is difficult for the user to hear the sound notified by notification unit 701. For this reason, a sound of a second type is set as the effective sound notified based on the operation of ink storage unit 705. For example, when control unit 802 detects that ink storage unit 705 has been operated, the second sound setting may be set so that notification unit 701 notifies with the sound of the second type.

[0065] The operation display unit 702 is disposed above the notification unit 701. It is therefore assumed that the user operates the operation display unit 702 above the notification unit 701. In this case, it is difficult for the user to hear the sound notified by the notification unit 701. For this reason, a sound of a second type is set as an effective sound notified based on the operation of the operation display unit 702. For example, when the control unit 802 detects that the operation display unit 702 has been operated, the second sound setting may be set so that the notification unit 701 notifies the user of the sound of the second type.

[0066] The first roll paper feed unit 703 and the second roll paper feed unit 704 are disposed to the left of the notification unit 701. The first roll paper feed unit 703 and the second roll paper feed unit 704 are configured so that roll paper is inserted from the front of the main body 720. Therefore, the user operates the first roll paper feed unit 703 and the second roll paper feed unit 704 on the front side of the notification unit 701. Therefore, the sound notified by the notification unit 701 is easy for the user to hear. For this reason, the sound of the first type may be set as the effective sound notified based on the operation of the first roll paper feed unit 703 and the second roll paper feed unit 704. For example, when the control unit 802 detects that at least one of the first roll paper feed unit 703 and the second roll paper feed unit 704 has been operated, the first sound setting may be set so that the notification unit 701 issues a first type of sound notification.

[0067] The waste liquid tank section 706 is disposed below the notification section 701. The waste liquid tank section 706 is configured to remove the waste ink tank by pulling the waste ink tank forward of the notification section 701. Therefore, the user operates the waste liquid tank section 706 on the forward side of the notification section 701. Therefore, the sound notified by the notification section 701 is easy for the user to hear. For this reason, a sound of a first type may be set as an effective sound notified based on the operation of the waste liquid tank section 706. For example, when the control section 802 detects that the waste liquid tank section 706 has been operated, the first sound setting may be set so that the notification section 701 notifies the user of the sound of the first type.

[0068] <Effects of the second embodiment> As described above, according to this embodiment, the function of assisting the user's operation can be improved. Specifically, for functional units operated in front of the notification unit 701, a sound of a first type is set. On the other hand, for functional units operated other than in front of the notification unit 701, a sound of a second type is set. As a result, in an operation situation in which the user has difficulty hearing the sound notified by the notification unit 701, the notification is made with the sound of the second type. Therefore, the function of assisting the user's operation can be improved.

[0069] <<Other embodiments>> In the above-described embodiments, the explanation has been given based on an example in which guidance is displayed on the operation display unit 102. That is, an example in which the user's operation is assisted by both the guidance displayed by the operation display unit 102 and the sound notified by the notification unit 101 has been given. However, the present invention is not limited to this example. The operation display unit 102 may not display guidance, and the notification unit 101 may notify by sound. That is, when the user's operation of a functional unit is valid, the recording device 100 may notify by the notification unit 101 of a valid sound.

[0070] Also, in the above-mentioned first and second embodiments, an example has been described in which the recording device 100 is not provided with a scanner unit. However, the present invention is not limited to these examples. For example, the recording device 100 may include a scanner unit. When this scanner unit is arranged as the second unit group, it is provided at a position farther away from the notification unit 101 than the first unit group. On the other hand, when this scanner unit is arranged as the first unit group, it is provided at a position closer to the notification unit 101 than the second unit group.

[0071] In the above-described first embodiment, an example was described in which sound settings differ depending on which of a plurality of functional units has been operated by the user, with the directivity of the sound notified by the notification unit 101 as a reference. In the above-described second embodiment, an example was described in which sound settings differ depending on which of a plurality of functional units has been operated by the user, with the directivity of the sound notified by the notification unit 701 as a reference. However, the present invention is not limited to these examples. For example, the directivity of the sound notified by the notification unit 101 is not limited to the first and second embodiments.

[0072] Specifically, in the first embodiment, when notification unit 101 issues a sound notification from front portion 121 of main body 120 of recording device 100, the directional strength of the sound notified by notification unit 101 is greatest in a direction toward the front from front portion 121 of main body 120 of recording device 100. In this case, as disclosed herein, at least one of the functional units of operation display unit 102, cut paper feed unit 104, and waste liquid tank unit 106 may be appropriately referred to as a first unit group. Also, at least one of the functional units of roll paper feed unit 103 and ink storage unit 105 may be appropriately referred to as a second unit group.

[0073] However, unlike the first embodiment, when notification unit 101 issues a sound notification from top surface 125 of main body 120 of recording device 100, the directional strength of the sound notified by notification unit 101 is greatest in a direction directed upward from top surface 125 of main body 120 of recording device 100. In this case, waste liquid tank unit 106 may be referred to as a first unit group. Also, at least one of the functional units of operation display unit 102, roll paper feed unit 103, cut paper feed unit 104, and ink storage unit 105 may be referred to as a second unit group.

[0074] Similarly, in the second embodiment, when notification unit 701 issues a sound notification from front portion 121 of main body 120 of recording device 700, the directional strength of the sound notified by notification unit 101 is greatest in a direction toward the front from front portion 121 of main body 120 of recording device 700. In this case, as disclosed herein, at least one of the functional units of first roll paper feed unit 703, second roll paper feed unit 704, and waste liquid tank unit 706 is appropriately referred to as a first unit group. Also, at least one of the functional units of operation display unit 702 and ink storage unit 705 is appropriately referred to as a second unit group.

[0075] However, unlike the second embodiment, when notification unit 701 issues a sound notification from top surface 125 of main body 120 of recording device 700, the directional strength of the sound notified by notification unit 701 is greatest in a direction directed upward from the top surface of the main body of recording device 700. In this case, at least one of the functional units of operation display unit 702 and ink storage unit 705 may be referred to as a first unit group. Also, at least one of the functional units of first roll paper feed unit 703, second roll paper feed unit 704, and waste liquid tank unit 706 may be referred to as a second unit group.

[0076] In the above-described first embodiment, an example has been described in which the sound of the second mode may be set to a volume higher than that of the sound of the first mode. However, the present invention is not limited to these examples. For example, the sound of the first mode may be set to a volume higher than that of the sound of the second mode. Even with such a setting, the sound of the first mode and the sound of the second mode can be distinguished by the user. That is, the notification unit 101 notifies the sound of the second mode at a second volume. The notification unit 101 may notify the sound of the first mode at a first volume higher than that of the sound of the second mode. This makes it possible for the user to recognize that the operation on the first unit group and the operation on the second unit group are different operations regarding the operation content.

[0077] In the above-described first and second embodiments, examples of operations premised on guidance have been described. However, the present invention is not limited to these examples. For example, at least one of S603, S605, and S611 in FIG. 6 may be omitted.

[0078] The present invention can also be realized by a process in which a program for implementing one or more of the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and one or more processors in a computer of the system or device read and execute the program. The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that implements one or more of the functions.

[0079] The disclosure of the present embodiment includes configurations typified by the following examples of a recording device, a recording method, and a program.

[0080] <Configuration 1> A recording device including a plurality of user-operable functional units, a first unit group having at least one functional unit among the plurality of functional units; a second unit group having at least one other functional unit among the plurality of functional units; a notification means for notifying the user by sound in response to an operation performed by the user on each of the first unit group and the second unit group; Equipped with the second unit group is disposed behind the first unit group in a front-rear direction of the recording device with respect to the notification means, The notification means includes: providing a notification with a sound of a first manner in response to an operation performed by the user on the first group of units; In response to an operation performed by the user on the second group of units, a notification is given with a sound of a second manner that is different from the sound of the first manner. A recording apparatus comprising:

[0081] <Configuration 2> A recording device including a plurality of user-operable functional units, a first unit group having at least one functional unit among the plurality of functional units; a second unit group having at least one other functional unit among the plurality of functional units; a notification means for notifying the user by sound in response to an operation performed by the user on each of the first unit group and the second unit group; Equipped with The second unit group is provided at a position farther away from the directivity of the sound notified by the notification means than the first unit group; The notification means includes: providing a notification by a sound of a first type in response to a valid operation performed by the user on the first group of units; In response to a valid operation performed by the user on the second group of units, a notification is given with a sound of a second manner different from the sound of the first manner. A recording device comprising:

[0082] <Configuration 3> the notification means notifies, in response to a valid first operation performed by the user on each of the plurality of functional units, a valid sound indicating that the first operation is a valid operation, and notifies, in response to an invalid second operation performed by the user on each of the plurality of functional units, an invalid sound indicating that the second operation is an invalid operation; 2. The recording device according to claim 1, wherein the first mode sound and the second mode sound are notified as the effective sound.

[0083] <Configuration 4> The recording device according to configuration 3, wherein the notification means notifies the first type of sound at a first volume and notifies the second type of sound at a second volume that is louder than the first volume.

[0084] <Component 5> The recording device according to configuration 3, wherein the notification means notifies the first type of sound by a sound including a first frequency, and notifies the second type of sound by a sound including a second frequency higher than the first frequency.

[0085] <Component 6> 4. The recording device according to claim 3, wherein the notification means notifies the first manner of sound in a first tone and notifies the second manner of sound in a second tone different from the first tone.

[0086] <Component 7> 7. The recording device according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, wherein the first unit group is located at the same position as the notification means or in front of the notification means in a front-to-rear direction of the recording device.

[0087] <Component 8> 8. The recording apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, wherein the first unit group includes at least one of an operation display means, a cut paper feeding means, and a waste liquid tank means.

[0088] <Component 9> 8. The recording apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, wherein the second unit group includes at least one of a roll paper supply unit and an ink storage unit.

[0089] <Component 10> 8. The recording apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, wherein the first unit group includes at least one of a first roll paper supply means, a second roll paper supply means, and a waste liquid tank means.

[0090] <Component 11> 8. The recording apparatus according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, wherein the second unit group includes at least one of an operation display unit and an ink storage unit.

[0091] <Component 12> A recording method for a recording device including a plurality of user-operable functional units, comprising: a step of notifying a first unit group having at least one functional unit among the plurality of functional units and a second unit group having at least one other functional unit among the plurality of functional units by sound in response to an operation performed by the user; the second unit group is disposed behind the first unit group in a front-rear direction of the recording device with respect to a sound source of the sound, The notifying step includes: providing a notification with a sound of a first manner in response to an operation performed by the user on the first group of units; In response to an operation performed by the user on the second group of units, a notification is given with a sound of a second manner that is different from the sound of the first manner. 23. A recording method for a recording apparatus comprising:

[0092] <Component 13> A program for causing a computer to execute each step of the recording method according to claim 12. [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 100,700 Recording devices 101,701 Notification Department

Claims

1. A recording device including a plurality of user-operable functional units, a first unit group having at least one functional unit among the plurality of functional units; a second unit group having at least one other functional unit among the plurality of functional units; a notification means for notifying the user by sound in response to an operation performed by the user on each of the first unit group and the second unit group; Equipped with the second unit group is disposed behind the first unit group in a front-rear direction of the recording device with respect to the notification means, The notification means is providing a notification with a sound of a first type in response to an operation performed by the user on the first group of units; In response to an operation performed by the user on the second group of units, a notification is given by using a sound of a second mode, which is different from the sound of the first mode. A recording apparatus comprising:

2. A recording device including a plurality of user-operable functional units, a first unit group having at least one functional unit among the plurality of functional units; a second unit group having at least one other functional unit among the plurality of functional units; a notification means for notifying the user by sound in response to an operation performed by the user on each of the first unit group and the second unit group; Equipped with the second unit group is provided at a position farther away from the directivity of the sound notified by the notification means than the first unit group; The notification means is providing a notification by a sound of a first type in response to a valid operation performed by the user on the first group of units; In response to a valid operation performed by the user on the second group of units, a notification is given by using a sound of a second mode, which is different from the sound of the first mode. A recording apparatus comprising:

3. the notification means notifies, in response to a valid first operation performed by the user on each of the plurality of functional units, a valid sound indicating that the first operation is a valid operation, and notifies, in response to an invalid second operation performed by the user on each of the plurality of functional units, an invalid sound indicating that the second operation is an invalid operation; 2. The recording device according to claim 1, wherein the first type sound and the second type sound are notified as the effective sound.

4. 4. The recording device according to claim 3, wherein the notification means notifies the user of the first type of sound at a first volume and notifies the user of the second type of sound at a second volume that is greater than the first volume.

5. 4. The recording device according to claim 3, wherein the notification means notifies the first type of sound by a sound including a first frequency, and notifies the second type of sound by a sound including a second frequency higher than the first frequency.

6. 4. The recording device according to claim 3, wherein the notification means notifies the first type of sound in a first tone and notifies the second type of sound in a second tone different from the first tone.

7. 7. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first unit group is positioned at the same position as the notification unit or in front of the notification unit in the front-rear direction of the recording apparatus.

8. 7. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first unit group includes at least one of an operation display means, a cut paper feed means, and a waste liquid tank means.

9. 7. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second unit group includes at least one of a roll paper supply unit and an ink storage unit.

10. 7. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first unit group includes at least one of a first roll paper feed means, a second roll paper feed means, and a waste liquid tank means.

11. 7. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second unit group includes at least one of an operation display unit and an ink storage unit.

12. A recording method for a recording device including a plurality of user-operable functional units, comprising: a step of notifying a first unit group having at least one functional unit among the plurality of functional units and a second unit group having at least one other functional unit among the plurality of functional units by sound in response to an operation performed by the user, the second unit group is disposed behind the first unit group in a front-rear direction of the recording device with respect to a sound source of the sound, The notifying step includes: providing a notification with a sound of a first type in response to an operation performed by the user on the first group of units; In response to an operation performed by the user on the second group of units, a notification is given by using a sound of a second mode, which is different from the sound of the first mode.

23. A recording method for a recording apparatus comprising:

13. A program for causing a computer to execute each step of the recording method according to claim 12.

Images