Liquid coating device, liquid coating system, liquid coating method, and program

Abstract

To provide a liquid coating device, liquid coating system, liquid coating method, and program capable of improving printing productivity.SOLUTION: A liquid coating device that divides a first print image of print data into a plurality of second print images, scans a discharge head in print regions corresponding to each of the second print images, and discharges liquid from the discharge head onto a print surface, comprises: a determination unit which determines whether or not the first print image fits within a scannable range in which the discharge head can be scanned; and a first changing unit which changes the size of the print region on the print surface on which the first print image or the second print image is printed according to the necessity of division of the first print image determined based on the determination result of the determination unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a liquid application device, a liquid application system, a liquid application method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] When printing print data such as white lines, characters, and symbols on a road surface or the like, when the print area is larger than the range that the carriage provided in the printing device can scan, the print area is divided, and the print image of the print data is divided so that printing can be performed in each of the divided print areas. It is necessary to print by connecting a plurality of print images while moving the printing device. In this case, when the printing device is moved to the next print area, an error occurs in the movement position. Therefore, a buffer area is provided outside the print area to correct the position of the print area with respect to the error. However, in a conventional printing device, since the size of the print area is fixed, when the print image of the print data is divided and printed in each print area, the range in which the carriage scans increases, so that the carriage does not eject ink from the ejection head in that range. There are many areas, and there is a problem that productivity is inhibited.

[0003] As described above, as a technique for printing images in a plurality of ranges on a medium to be printed, when printing images with a width narrower than the width of the continuous paper side by side in continuous paper printing, a plurality of jobs are selected so as to reduce waste paper. A technique for arranging them is disclosed (for example, Patent Document 1).

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the conventional technology, there is a problem that the productivity of printing is not improved because the print area is fixed.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above, and an object thereof is to provide a liquid application device, a liquid application system, a liquid application method, and a program capable of improving printing productivity.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the present invention divides a first print image of print data into a plurality of second print images, and scans a discharge head in a print area corresponding to each of the second print images to discharge a liquid from the discharge head onto a print surface. A liquid application device, comprising: a determination unit that determines whether or not the first print image fits within a scannable range that is a range within which the discharge head can scan; and a first change unit that changes the size of a print area on the print surface for printing the first print image or the second print image according to whether or not the first print image needs to be divided as determined by the determination unit.

Effects of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, printing productivity can be improved.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

Figure 1

Figure 2

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Figure 14

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the liquid application apparatus, the liquid application system, the liquid application method, and the program according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Further, the present invention is not limited by the following embodiments, and the constituent elements in the following embodiments include those that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art, substantially the same ones, and those within the so-called equivalent range. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, changes, and combinations of the constituent elements can be made without departing from the gist of the following embodiments.

[0010] (Overall Configuration and Operation Outline of the Liquid Application Apparatus) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an external view showing the overall configuration of the liquid application device according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the range in which the carriage can scan with respect to the printing device of the liquid application device according to the embodiment and the printing area. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the moving mechanism of the carriage of the liquid application device according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the scannable range and the printing area. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining that the buffer area absorbs the movement error in the liquid application device according to the embodiment. While referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, the overall configuration and the outline of the operation of the liquid application device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0011] The liquid application device 1 shown in FIG. 1 is a device that divides a wide liquid application area such as a road surface into a plurality of printing areas, sequentially moves to each printing area, divides the print data for printing on each printing area into a plurality of print images, and ejects ink (an example of a liquid) for printing. Note that the road surface and the like include roads, wall surfaces of buildings, etc., and hereinafter will be simply referred to as "printing surface". Further, "printing" refers to an operation of forming an image by applying or spraying ink on the installation surface. In FIG. 2, in order to show the internal structure of the printing device 10, a state in which the panel on the front side in the paper surface view of FIG. 2 is removed is shown. As shown in FIG. 1, the liquid application device 1 includes a printing device 10 and a carriage 20.

[0012] The printing device 10 is transportable by the carriage 20 and is a device that performs printing on the installation surface by scanning the carriage 16 equipped with an ink ejection head 16a (an example of an ejection head) described later. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the printing device 10 includes a printing device main body 11, a control device 12, an ink supply system 13, a stand 14, and a carriage 16. Further, as shown in FIG. 3, the printing device 10 includes a frame 11a, a main scanning guide 17, a main scanning motor 17a, a sub-scanning guide 18, a sub-scanning motor 18a, and a timing belt 18b as a moving mechanism for scanning the carriage 16. The moving mechanism is supported by four stands 14 installed on a frame 11a that constitutes the peripheral edge of the bottom surface of the printing device main body 11.

[0013] The printing apparatus main body 11 is the main body of the printing apparatus 10. Inside it, a carriage 16 scans in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction, and various components such as a control device 12 and an ink supply system 13 are mounted on its upper surface.

[0014] The control device 12 is a controller that controls the printing operation of the printing apparatus 10. Specifically, the control device 12 controls the scanning of the carriage 16 in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction, the ink ejection operation of the ejection head mounted on the carriage 16, and the ink supply operation from the ink supply system 13 to the ejection head.

[0015] The ink supply system 13 is a mechanism installed on the upper surface of the printing apparatus main body 11 for supplying ink to the ejection head of the carriage 16. Specifically, the ink supply system 13 includes a tank for storing ink, and supplies ink from the tank to the ink ejection head 16a of the carriage 16 through a supply path such as a tube.

[0016] The stands 14 are respectively installed at the four corners of the bottom surface of the printing apparatus main body 11 having an overall rectangular parallelepiped shape, and are support members that support the printing apparatus 10 by contacting the printing surface. Note that the stands 14 are not limited to four, and may be three or five or more.

[0017] The carriage 16 is a member that mounts an ink ejection head 16a for ejecting ink and scans in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction by the above-described moving mechanism. The scanning of the carriage 16 is controlled by the control device 12. In FIG. 2, for the purpose of explaining the printing range PAR and the scanable range MVR, the carriage 16 when moved to the four corners of the scanable range MVR is illustrated.

[0018] The frame 11a is a frame member that constitutes the four sides of the bottom surface of the printing apparatus main body 11. In the frame 11a that constitutes the four sides of the bottom surface of the printing apparatus main body 11 in this way, as shown in FIG. 3, stands 14 are respectively installed at the four corners of the bottom surface.

[0019] The main scanning guide 17 is a guide member that extends in the main scanning direction shown in FIG. 3 and supports the carriage 16 so as to be slidable in the main scanning direction.

[0020] The main scanning motor 17a is a motor for reciprocating the carriage 16 in the main scanning direction along the main scanning guide 17.

[0021] The sub-scanning guide 18 is installed on the frame 11a that extends in the sub-scanning direction shown in FIG. 3, and is a guide member that supports the main scanning guide 17 so as to be slidable in the sub-scanning direction. As shown in FIG. 3, the sub-scanning guide 18 is provided on each of the two frames 11a that extend in the opposing sub-scanning direction so as to support the vicinity of the end of the main scanning guide 17 that extends in the main scanning direction.

[0022] The sub-scanning motor 18a is a motor for reciprocating the main scanning guide 17 in the sub-scanning direction along the sub-scanning guide 18. In this case, a pulley rotated by the sub-scanning motor 18a and a timing belt 18b spanned between a pulley driven thereby are driven by the rotation of the sub-scanning motor 18a, whereby the main scanning guide 17 reciprocates in the sub-scanning direction.

[0023] In this way, the carriage 16 equipped with the ink ejection head 16a can move freely in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction on the surface surrounded by the four frames 11a. Here, while referring to FIGS. 2 and 4, the range within which the carriage 16 can scan and the area to be printed by the ejection of ink from the ink ejection head 16a of the carriage 16 will be described. In FIGS. 2 and 4, the scanable range MVR is the range within which the carriage 16 can physically move (scan) in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction. Also, the print area PAR is the area within the scanable range MVR where the carriage 16 actually scans in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction, and is the default (reference) area to be printed by the ejection of ink from the ink ejection head 16a. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the print range PAR is an area smaller than the scanable range MVR, and a buffer area BAR is configured as the area outside the print area PAR within the scanable range MVR. As described above, the buffer area BAR is an area for absorbing the movement error of the liquid application device 1 generated when the liquid application device 1 prints while moving and connecting a plurality of print images. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, after the ink ejection head 16a prints the print image PIM in the print area PAR1, when the liquid application device 1 is moved to the next position to print a print image for connecting to the print image PIM, a movement error occurs. After that movement, the range within which the carriage 16 can scan is shown as the scanable range MVR in FIG. 5, and the default print area within that scanable range MVR is shown as the print area PAR2. If a print image for connecting to the print image PIM is printed on the print area PAR2 as it is, it cannot be connected to the print image PIM. Therefore, the control device 12 corrects the position of the print area PAR2 to the print area PAR2a using the buffer area BAR within which the carriage 16 can scan. Then, the control device 12 can connect to the print image PIM printed in the print area PAR1 by printing a print image on the corrected print area PAR2a.

[0024] The carriage 20 is a transport device for transporting the printing device 10 to the printing area where printing is to be performed on the printing device 10 by lifting it from the bottom surface. As shown in FIG. 1, the carriage 20 includes a carriage frame 21, a lifting device 22, a lifting device 23, rear wheels 24, front wheels 25, and a handle portion 26.

[0025] The carriage frame 21 is a frame member having a rectangular surrounding shape and is a frame member that supports the printing device 10 from the bottom surface when the printing device 10 is lifted.

[0026] The lifting device 22 is a device that supports a portion on the handle portion 26 side (front side) of the printing device 10 and lifts the printing device 10.

[0027] The lifting device 23 is a device that supports a portion on the side opposite to the handle portion 26 side (rear side) of the printing device 10 and lifts the printing device 10.

[0028] The rear wheels 24 and the front wheels 25 are wheels for moving the carriage 20 forward, backward, left, and right.

[0029] The handle portion 26 is a handle member attached to the front side of the carriage 20 and is gripped by a user (operator). The user can freely move the carriage 20 forward, backward, left, and right by gripping the handle portion 26.

[0030] (Transport operation and lifting operation of the printing device by the carriage) FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a state in which the printing device is being transported by the carriage in the liquid application device according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a state in which the printing device is installed on the printing surface from the carriage in the liquid application device according to the embodiment. With reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, the transport operation and the lifting operation of the printing device 10 by the carriage 20 in the liquid application device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0031] In the liquid application device 1 shown in FIG. 6, the carriage 20 lifts up the printing device 10, and shows a state in which the printing device 10 is being transported with the stand 14 separated from the printing surface. Since the stands 14 of the printing device 10 are each in a state of being separated from the printing surface, the printing device 10 can be freely transported back and forth, left and right by the carriage 20. Thereby, the printing device 10 can be moved to a desired printing area.

[0032] In the liquid application device 1 shown in FIG. 7, the carriage 20 moves the printing device 10 downward, and the printing device 10 is supported by the stand 14 by bringing the stand 14 into contact with the printing surface. In this way, since the printing device 10 supported by the stand 14 is in a fixed state with respect to the printing surface, printing can be executed by scanning the carriage 16 in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction.

[0033] (Hardware Configuration of Liquid Application Device) FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the liquid application device according to the embodiment. With reference to FIG. 8, the hardware configuration of the liquid application device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0034] As shown in FIG. 8, the liquid application device 1 includes a control device 12, a carriage 16, a head movement mechanism 31, a rail movement mechanism 32, a three-dimensional camera 33, a two-dimensional camera 34, a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) receiver 35, and an operation panel 36.

[0035] The control device 12 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 61, a memory 62, an I / F 63, and a unit control circuit 64.

[0036] The CPU 61 is an arithmetic unit that comprehensively controls the operation of the liquid application device 1. The CPU 61 performs data communication with the memory 62, the I / F 63, and the unit control circuit 64 via a bus. Further, the CPU 61 controls the driving of the head movement mechanism 31, the rail movement mechanism 32, and the ink ejection head 16a via the unit control circuit 64, and estimates the self-position of the liquid application device 1 from the positioning signal received by the GNSS receiver 35.

[0037] The memory 62 is a storage medium such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) or a RAM (Random Access Memory) that stores programs used for driving the CPU 61. Further, the memory 62 is used as a work area for the CPU 61.

[0038] The I / F 63 is a communication interface for connecting various external devices 30 such as a tablet terminal, a smartphone, a PC (Personal Computer), a server, and a notebook PC.

[0039] The unit control circuit 64 is a control circuit that controls the operations of the head movement mechanism 31, the rail movement mechanism 32, and the ink ejection head 16a according to the control by the CPU 61.

[0040] The carriage 16 is equipped with an ink ejection head 16a that ejects ink onto the printing surface, moves in the main scanning direction along the main scanning guide 17 shown in FIG. 3, and moves in the sub-scanning direction as the main scanning guide 17 moves in the sub-scanning direction. Further, the carriage 16 also moves in the height direction.

[0041] The three-dimensional camera 33 is a three-dimensional shape measurement device for surrounding measurement that is supported at the front part of the printing device 10 and images the surroundings of the liquid application device 1. The three-dimensional camera 33 transmits the captured image to the CPU 61 of the control device 12. Note that the three-dimensional camera 33 may be powered by a battery mounted on itself, or may be powered in a manner assuming continuous operation.

[0042] The two-dimensional camera 34 is an imaging device that images the printing surface and the vicinity of the printed image printed on the printing surface. Therefore, the imaging direction of the two-dimensional camera 34 is downward. The two-dimensional camera 34 transmits the captured imaging image to the CPU 61 of the control device 12. Note that the two-dimensional camera 34 may be powered from a battery mounted on itself, or may be powered in a manner assuming continuous operation.

[0043] The GNSS receiver 35 is a receiving device that receives a positioning signal for measuring the current position on the earth from a positioning satellite based on GNSS (for example, GPS (Global Positioning System), etc.). The GNSS receiver 35 transmits the received positioning signal to the control device 12.

[0044] The operation panel 36 is a device that accepts operations on the liquid application device 1 and displays processing results and the like by the liquid application device 1.

[0045] The head movement mechanism 31 is composed of a main scanning guide 17, a main scanning motor 17a, etc., and is a mechanism that reciprocates the carriage 16 in the main scanning direction along the main scanning guide 17 according to the control by the unit control circuit 64.

[0046] The rail movement mechanism 32 is composed of a sub-scanning guide 18, a sub-scanning motor 18a, a timing belt 18b, etc., and is a mechanism that reciprocates the sub-scanning guide 18 in the sub-scanning direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction along the main scanning guide 17 according to the control by the unit control circuit 64. As a result, the carriage 16 supported by the main scanning guide 17 reciprocates in the sub-scanning direction.

[0047] Note that the hardware configuration of the liquid application device 1 shown in FIG. 8 is an example, and other constituent devices may be provided.

[0048] (Configuration and Operation of Functional Blocks of Liquid Application Device) FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of functional blocks of the liquid application device according to the embodiment. With reference to FIG. 9, the configuration and operation of the functional blocks of the liquid application device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0049] As shown in FIG. 9, the liquid application device 1 includes an imaging unit 101, an acquisition unit 102, a storage unit 104, a setting unit 105, an input unit 106, an image processing unit 110, and an image generation unit 120.

[0050] The imaging unit 101 is a functional unit that images each imaging area including each printing area where the liquid application device 1 has moved. Thereby, the imaging unit 101 obtains an imaging image obtained by imaging the imaging area. The imaging unit 101 is realized by the two-dimensional camera 34 shown in FIG. 8.

[0051] The acquisition unit 102 is a functional unit that acquires the imaging image imaged by the imaging unit 101. The acquisition unit 102 is realized, for example, by executing a program by the CPU 61 shown in FIG. 8.

[0052] The storage unit 104 is a functional unit that stores information such as print data, a plurality of print images obtained by dividing the print data, and setting information set by the setting unit 105. The storage unit 104 is realized by the memory 62 shown in FIG. 8.

[0053] The setting unit 105 is a functional unit that sets, in response to an operation on the input unit 106, the selection of processing when the number of divisions when dividing the print data is 4 or less, and the selection of the shape of the print area when the print data is divided, as will be described later. In the present embodiment, as the selection of processing when the number of divisions when dividing the print data is 4 or less, it is assumed that it is possible to set whether to reduce the print image without division or to reduce and divide the print area. The setting unit 105 stores the set information as setting information in 104. The setting unit 105 is realized, for example, by executing a program by the CPU 61 shown in FIG. 8.

[0054] The input unit 106 is a functional unit that receives operation inputs from an operator. The input unit 106 is realized by the operation panel 36 shown in FIG. 8.

[0055] The image processing unit 110 is a functional unit that determines whether to divide a print image of print data based on the size of the print image, and divides the print image into a plurality of parts if division is required. As shown in FIG. 9, the image processing unit 110 includes a determination unit 111, an image size changing unit 112 (second changing unit), a print area changing unit 113 (first changing unit), a dividing unit 114, and a correction unit 115. The image processing unit 110 is realized, for example, by a program being executed by the CPU 61 shown in FIG. 8.

[0056] The determination unit 111 is a functional unit that determines whether a print image of print data fits within the scan range of the carriage 16 (ink ejection head 16a) (for example, the scan range MVR shown in FIG. 4). Further, when the print image of the print data fits within the scan range, the determination unit 111 determines whether the print image fits within the default print area (for example, the print area PAR shown in FIG. 4). Further, when the print image of the print data is divided so as to be printed in a plurality of print areas, the determination unit 111 determines whether the number of divisions is equal to or less than a predetermined number (for example, 4, etc.).

[0057] The image size changing unit 112 is a functional unit that reduces the print image of the print data. Note that the image size changing unit 112 may be able to enlarge the print image of the print data.

[0058] The print area changing unit 113 is a functional unit that changes the size of the print area within the scan range according to the print image. Specifically, the print area changing unit 113 changes the size of the print area on the print surface for printing the print image (the print image before division if not divided, and the print image after division if divided) according to the necessity of dividing the print image of the print data determined according to the determination result of the determination unit 111. Note that the print area before the change in size (default print area) corresponds to the "first print area" of the present invention, and the print area after the change corresponds to the "second print area" of the present invention.

[0059] The dividing unit 114 is a functional unit that divides the printed image of the print data into a plurality of printed images. Note that the printed image before division corresponds to the "first printed image" of the present invention, and the printed image after division corresponds to the "second printed image" of the present invention.

[0060] The correcting unit 115 is a functional unit that corrects the position of the printing area so as to be connected to the printed image printed at the immediately preceding position from the position of the default printing area by using the buffer area. The correcting unit 115 corrects the position of the printing area so as to be connected to the printed image printed at the immediately preceding position, for example, by template matching using the imaging images before and after the movement acquired by the acquisition unit 102.

[0061] Note that at least any one of the functional units of the above-described image processing unit 110 may be realized not by the liquid application device 1 but by the external device 40. Thereby, the processing load by the liquid application device 1 can be reduced. In this case, the liquid application device 1 and the external device 40 are configured as an example of a liquid application system.

[0062] The image forming unit 120 is a functional unit that performs printing of the printed image on the printing area of the printing surface by controlling the ejection of ink from the ink ejection head 16a while moving the carriage 16 in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction. In this case, the image forming unit 120 scans the carriage 16 over the entire printing area. That is, the printing area is the area that the ink ejection head 16a actually scans. The image forming unit 120 is realized by the unit control circuit 64 shown in FIG. 8. Note that the unit control circuit 64 is shown as a hardware circuit in FIG. 8, but is not limited thereto, and may be realized by a program being executed by the CPU 61. In this case, the image forming unit 120 is realized by a program being executed by the CPU 61 shown in FIG. 8. As shown in FIG. 9, the image forming unit 120 includes a movement control unit 121 and an ejection control unit 122.

[0063] The movement control unit 121 is a functional unit that controls the reciprocating movement of the carriage 16 equipped with the ink ejection head 16a in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction by controlling the head movement mechanism 31 and the rail movement mechanism 32. The movement control unit 121 moves the carriage 16 based on the printing area and the printed image corrected by the correction unit 115.

[0064] The ejection control unit 122 is a functional unit that controls the ink ejection operation of the ink ejection head 16a. The ejection control unit 122 ejects ink from the ink ejection head 16a based on the printed image.

[0065] Note that some or all of the functional units of the acquisition unit 102, the direction identification unit 103, the setting unit 105, the determination unit 111, the image size change unit 112, the one ink supply system 13, the division unit 114, and the correction unit 115 may be realized by a hardware circuit (integrated circuit) such as an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) instead of a program which is software.

[0066] Also, each functional unit of the liquid application device 1 shown in FIG. 9 conceptually shows the functions and is not limited to such a configuration. For example, a plurality of functional units illustrated as independent functional units in the liquid application device 1 shown in FIG. 9 may be configured as one functional unit. On the other hand, the functions of one functional unit in the liquid application device 1 shown in FIG. 9 may be divided into a plurality and configured as a plurality of functional units. Further, each functional unit of the liquid application device 1 does not necessarily have to be configured as a clear software module as the blocks shown in FIG. 9, and it is sufficient that the functions of each functional unit are realized as a whole when the program is executed in the liquid application device 1.

[0067] (Processing when the printed image is not divided) FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the processing when the printed image is not divided in the liquid application device according to the embodiment. With reference to FIG. 10, the processing when the printed image is not divided in the liquid application device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0068] The determination unit 111 determines whether the printed image of the print data fits within the scannable range MVR of the carriage 16. Then, when the printed image of the print data fits within the scannable range, the determination unit 111 determines whether the printed image fits within the default print area PAR.

[0069] In the example shown in FIG. 10(a), it shows that the printed image showing the character "あ" does not fit within the default print area PAR but fits within the scannable range MVR. In this case, the print area changing unit 113 uses the buffer area BAR and expands the print area PAR to the size such that the outer shape of the character "あ" of the printed image fits therein as shown in FIG. 10(b) to obtain the print area PARa. That is, in this case, the splitting unit 114 does not split the printed image of the print data.

[0070] As a result, it is not necessary to move the liquid application device 1, and further, the scanning time of the carriage 16 (i.e., the scanning distance) can be shortened compared to the case where the printed image is split and printed in a plurality of print areas, and the printing productivity can be improved. Also, by improving the printing productivity, the time for road closure in road construction etc. can be shortened.

[0071] Note that it is desirable that the center of gravity of the print area PARa (i.e., the center of gravity of the printed image) expanded by the print area changing unit 113 coincides with the center of gravity of the scannable range MVR. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the shape of the buffer area BARa from being biased when the print area PAR is expanded to the print area PARa, and the usability of the buffer area BARa can be enhanced in the correction of the position of the print area by the correction unit 115.

[0072] (Processing when dividing the printed image) FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining the process when dividing a printed image in the liquid application device according to the embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining that the range scanned by the carriage is reduced by reducing the printing area in the liquid application device according to the embodiment. With reference to FIGS. 11 and 12, the process when dividing the printed image in the liquid application device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described. Specifically, the process when the number of divisions when dividing the printed image of the print data is larger than a predetermined number (for example, 4 or the like) will be described.

[0073] The determination unit 111 determines whether the printed image of the print data fits within the scanable range MVR of the carriage 16. Then, when the printed image of the print data does not fit within the scanable range, the determination unit 111 determines whether the number of divisions is equal to or less than a predetermined number (for example, 4 or the like) when the printed image of the print data is divided so as to be printed in a plurality of print areas. Here, it will be described assuming that the required number of divisions is 8 when printing with the size of the default print area PAR at each position where the liquid application device 1 has moved.

[0074] In the example shown in FIG. 11(a), the case where the printed image PIM showing the character "3" that does not fit within the scanable range MVR is divided into a plurality (here, eight) of printed images with the size of the default print area PAR is shown. In this case, when printing with the number of divisions, as shown in FIG. 11(b), the print area changing unit 113 reduces the print area PAR to the print area PARb so that the total size of the print areas of the number of divisions is the size within which the outline of the character "3" of the printed image PIM fits. Then, the dividing unit 114 divides the printed image PIM of the print data with the number of divisions so that it is printed in each of the print areas PARb.

[0075] As a result, the distance for moving the liquid application device 1 is shortened, and further, the scanning time of the carriage 16 can be shortened (i.e., the scanning distance can be shortened) by the amount by which each printing area is reduced, and the printing productivity can be improved. Also, by improving the printing productivity, the time for road closure in road construction or the like can be shortened. Further, the buffer area BAR is expanded to the buffer area BARb by the amount by which the printing area PAR shown in Fig. 12(a) is reduced to the printing area PARb shown in Fig. 12(b), and a margin in the area is provided in the correction of the printing area by the correction unit 115, so that the burden on the operator for moving the liquid application device 1 can be reduced.

[0076] Note that it is desirable that the center of gravity of the reduced printing area PARb (i.e., the center of gravity of the printed image) by the printing area changing unit 113 coincides with the center of gravity of the scannable range MVR. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the shape of the buffer area BARb from being biased when the printing area PAR is reduced to the printing area PARb, and the usability of the buffer area BARb can be enhanced in the correction of the position of the printing area by the correction unit 115.

[0077] Also, the shape of the printing area PARb when the printing area PAR is reduced to the printing area PARb by the printing area changing unit 113 may be settable by the setting unit 105 according to the operation on the input unit 106. For example, the setting unit 105 may be able to select and set the shape of the printing area PARb reduced by the printing area changing unit 113 to a vertically long shape or a horizontally long shape according to the operation on the input unit 106.

[0078] Also, the number of divisions is the same (eight in Fig. 11) before and after the printing area is reduced by the printing area changing unit 113, but it is not limited to this. If the total size of the divided printing areas is such that the outer shape of the printed image of the print data can fit, the number of divisions does not have to be the same.

[0079] In the example shown in FIG. 11, the case where the printing area is reduced by the printing area changing unit 113 has been described. However, if the total size of the divided printing areas is such that the outer shape of the printed image of the print data fits within it, it may be possible to reduce the number of divisions and then expand the printing area.

[0080] (Processing when the number of divisions of the printed image is within a predetermined number) FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining the processing when the number of divisions of the printed image is 4 or less in the liquid application device according to the embodiment. With reference to FIG. 13, the processing for dividing the printed image in the liquid application device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described. Specifically, the processing when the number of divisions when dividing the printed image of the print data is within a predetermined number (for example, 4 or the like) will be described.

[0081] The determination unit 111 determines whether the printed image of the print data fits within the scanable range MVR of the carriage 16. Then, when the printed image of the print data does not fit within the scanable range, the determination unit 111 determines whether the number of divisions is a predetermined number (for example, 4 or the like) or less when the printed image of the print data is divided so as to be printed in a plurality of printing areas. Here, it will be described assuming that the required number of divisions is 4 when printing with the size of the default printing area PAR at each position where the liquid application device 1 has moved. Also, it will be described assuming that the processing for reducing the printed image without division is set as the processing when the number of divisions when dividing the print data is 4 or less by the setting unit 105.

[0082] In the example shown in FIG. 13(a), the case is shown where a printed image showing the character "あ" that does not fit within the scanable range MVR is divided into a plurality (here, 4) of printed images with the size of the default printing area PAR. In this case, as shown in FIG. 13(b), the image size changing unit 112 reduces the printed image of the character "あ" so that its outer shape fits within the scanable range MVR, and the printing area changing unit 113 uses the buffer area BAR to expand the printing area PAR to the printing area PARc so that the outer shape of the reduced printed image fits.

[0083] Accordingly, it is not necessary to move the liquid application device 1, and further, the scanning time of the carriage 16 can be shortened (i.e., the scanning distance can be shortened) compared to the case where the printed image is divided and printed in a plurality of printing areas, and the printing productivity can be improved. Also, by improving the printing productivity, it is possible to shorten the time of road closure in road construction or the like.

[0084] Note that it is desirable that the center of gravity of the printing area PARc enlarged by the printing area changing unit 113 (i.e., the center of gravity of the printed image) coincides with the center of gravity of the scanable range MVR. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the shape of the buffer area BARc shown in FIG. 13(b) from being biased when the printing area PAR is enlarged to the printing area PARc, and the usability of the buffer area BARc can be enhanced in the correction of the position of the printing area by the correction unit 115.

[0085] Also, as processing when the number of divisions when dividing the print data by the setting unit 105 is 4 or less, if a process of reducing and dividing the printing area is set, the process described with reference to FIG. 11 above may be performed.

[0086] (Flow of the overall operation of the liquid application device) FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the overall operation of the liquid application device according to the embodiment. With reference to FIG. 14, the flow of the overall operation of the liquid application device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0087] <Step S11> The image processing unit 110 reads the print data stored in the storage unit 104, or acquires the print data when the print data is received from the external device 40 via the I / F 63. Then, it proceeds to step S12.

[0088] <Step S12> The determination unit 111 of the image processing unit 110 determines whether the printed image of the print data fits within the scanable range of the carriage 16 (for example, the scanable range MVR shown in FIG. 4). If the printed image does not fit within the scanable range (step S12: No), the process proceeds to step S13. If it fits (step S12: Yes), the process proceeds to step S18.

[0089] <Step S13> Furthermore, when the determination unit 111 divides the printed image of the print data so as to be printed in a plurality of print areas, the determination unit 111 determines whether the number of divisions is equal to or less than a predetermined number (for example, 4 or the like). If the number of divisions is equal to or less than the predetermined number (step S13: Yes), the process proceeds to step S14. If it is more than the predetermined number (step S13: No), the process proceeds to step S17.

[0090] <Step S14> When the setting unit 105 has set, in advance, as processing when the number of divisions when dividing the print data is equal to or less than a predetermined number, a process of reducing the printed image without division (step S14: Yes), the process proceeds to step S15. When a process of reducing and dividing the print area is set (step S14: No), the process proceeds to step S16.

[0091] <Step S15> The division unit 114 of the image processing unit 110 does not divide the printed image of the print data. The image size change unit 112 of the image processing unit 110 reduces the printed image of the print data so that its outer shape fits within the scanable range (see, for example, FIG. 13(b)). Then, the print area change unit 113 of the image processing unit 110 uses the buffer area to expand the print area so that the outer shape of the reduced printed image fits (see, for example, FIG. 13(b)). Then, the process proceeds to step S21.

[0092] <Step S16> First, the splitting unit 114 of the image processing unit 110 splits the print image of the print data into a number of splits (in this case, not exceeding a predetermined number) such that it can be printed in a plurality of default print areas (see, for example, FIG. 11(a)). Then, the print area changing unit 113 reduces the print area so that the total size of the print areas of that number of splits is such that the outer shape of the print image of the print data fits within it (see, for example, FIG. 11(b)). Then, the splitting unit 114 splits the print image of the print data into that number of splits so that it can be printed in each of the reduced print areas. Note that the shape when the print area is reduced by the print area changing unit 113 may be settable by the setting unit 105 according to the operation on the input unit 106. Then, the process proceeds to step S21.

[0093] <Step S17> First, the splitting unit 114 splits the print image of the print data into a number of splits such that it can be printed in a plurality of default print areas (see, for example, FIG. 11(a)). Then, the print area changing unit 113 reduces the print area so that the total size of the print areas of that number of splits is such that the outer shape of the print image of the print data fits within it (see, for example, FIG. 11(b)). Then, the splitting unit 114 splits the print image of the print data into that number of splits so that it can be printed in each of the reduced print areas. Note that the shape when the print area is reduced by the print area changing unit 113 may be settable by the setting unit 105 according to the operation on the input unit 106. Then, the process proceeds to step S21.

[0094] <Step S18> When the print image of the print data fits within the scannable range, the determination unit 111 further determines whether or not the print image fits within the default print area (for example, the print area PAR shown in FIG. 4). When the print image does not fit within the default print area (step S18: No), the process proceeds to step S19, and when it fits (step S18: Yes), the process proceeds to step S20.

[0095] <Step S19> The dividing unit 114 shall not divide the printed image of the print data. Then, the print area changing unit 113 uses the buffer area to expand the print area to a size that can accommodate the outer shape of the printed image (see, for example, FIG. 10(b)). Then, the process proceeds to step S21.

[0096] <Step S20> Since the printed image of the print data fits within the default print area, the dividing unit 114 does not divide the printed image, and the print area changing unit 113 does not change the size of the print area. Then, the process proceeds to step S21.

[0097] <Step S21> The operator moves the liquid application device 1 to the initial position. Then, the process proceeds to step S22.

[0098] <Step S22> The image forming unit 120 of the liquid application device 1 performs printing of the printed image on the printing surface by controlling the ejection of ink from the ink ejection head 16a while moving the carriage 16 in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction with respect to the print area corresponding to the moved initial position. Then, the process proceeds to step S23.

[0099] <Step S23> The operator moves the liquid application device 1 to the print area to be printed next. Then, the process proceeds to step S24.

[0100] <Step S24> The correction unit 115 of the image processing unit 110 uses the buffer area to correct the position of the print area so that it can be connected to the printed image printed at the previous position from the position of the default print area. The correction unit 115 corrects the position of the print area so that it can be connected to the printed image printed at the previous position, for example, by template matching using the captured images before and after the movement acquired by the acquisition unit 102. Then, the process proceeds to step S25.

[0101] <Step S25> The image forming unit 120 performs printing of a printed image on the printing surface by controlling the ejection of ink from the ink ejection head 16a while moving the carriage 16 in the main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction with respect to the corrected printing area at the moved position. Then, the process proceeds to step S26.

[0102] <Step S26> The image processing unit 110 checks whether printing has been completed up to the last printed image. If printing has not been completed up to the last printed image (step S26: No), the process returns to step S23. If printing has been completed up to the last printed image (step S26: Yes), the overall operation (printing operation) of the liquid application device 1 is terminated.

[0103] As described above, in the liquid application device 1 according to the present embodiment, the determination unit 111 determines whether the printed image of the print data fits within the scannable range, which is the range where the ink ejection head 16a can scan. The print area changing unit 113 changes the size of the print area on the printing surface for printing the printed image (or the printed image after division) according to the necessity of dividing the printed image determined according to the determination result by the determination unit 111. As a result, the scanning time of the ink ejection head 16a can be shortened (i.e., the scanning distance can be shortened), and the printing productivity can be improved. Further, by improving the printing productivity, the time for road closure in road construction or the like can also be shortened.

[0104] Also, in the liquid application device 1 according to the present embodiment, the determination unit 111 further determines whether or not the printed image of the print data fits within the default print area that serves as a reference. When it is determined by the determination unit 111 that the printed image of the print data fits within the scannable range and does not fit within the default print area, the print area changing unit 113 enlarges the default print area so that the printed image fits therein. As a result, it is not necessary to move the liquid application device 1, and further, the scanning time of the ink ejection head 16a can be shortened (i.e., the scanning distance can be shortened) compared to the case where the printed image is divided and printed in a plurality of print areas, and the printing productivity can be improved. Also, by improving the printing productivity, it is possible to shorten the time of road closure in road construction or the like.

[0105] Also, in the liquid application device 1 according to the present embodiment, when it is determined by the determination unit 111 that the printed image of the print data does not fit within the scannable range, the print area changing unit 113 reduces the default print area so that the total size of the plurality of print areas is the size within which the printed image fits, and the dividing unit 114 divides the printed image of the print data into a plurality of printed images so that each printed image is printed in the print area reduced by the print area changing unit 113. As a result, the distance to move the liquid application device 1 is shortened, and further, the scanning time of the ink ejection head 16a can be shortened (i.e., the scanning distance can be shortened) by the amount by which each print area is reduced, and the printing productivity can be improved. Also, by improving the printing productivity, it is possible to shorten the time of road closure in road construction or the like. Further, the buffer area is enlarged by the amount by which the print area is reduced, and there is a margin in the correction of the print area by the correction unit 115, so the burden on the operator to move the liquid application device 1 can be reduced.

[0106] Further, in the liquid application device 1 according to the present embodiment, when the determination unit 111 further divides the printed image of the print data into a plurality of parts so as to be printed in each of the default print areas, the determination unit 111 determines whether or not the number of divisions is within a predetermined number. When the determination unit 111 determines that the printed image does not fit within the scannable range and the number of divisions is within the predetermined value, the image size changing unit 112 reduces the printed image so as to fit within the scannable range, and the print area changing unit 113 enlarges the default print area so that the printed image reduced by the image size changing unit 112 fits therein. As a result, it is not necessary to move the liquid application device 1, and further, the scanning time of the ink ejection head 16a can be shortened (that is, the scanning distance can be shortened) as compared with the case where the printed image is divided and printed in a plurality of print areas, and the printing productivity can be improved. Further, by improving the printing productivity, it is also possible to shorten the time for road closure in road construction or the like.

[0107] In the above-described embodiment, when at least any one of the functions of the liquid application device 1 is realized by executing a program, the program is provided by being incorporated in advance in a ROM or the like. Further, in the above-described embodiment, the program executed by the liquid application device 1 may be configured to be recorded and provided on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R (Compact Disk-Recordable), or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) in an installable format or an executable format file. Further, in the above-described embodiment, the program executed by the liquid application device 1 may be configured to be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and downloaded via the network for providing. Further, in the above-described embodiment, the program executed by the liquid application device 1 may be configured to be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet. Further, in the above-described embodiment, the program executed by the liquid application device 1 has a module configuration including at least any one of the above-described functional units, and as actual hardware, the CPU reads the program from the above-described storage device and executes it, so that the above-described functional units are loaded and generated on the main storage device.

[0108] Aspects of the present invention are as follows. <1>A liquid application device that divides a first print image of print data into a plurality of second print images and scans a discharge head in a print area corresponding to each of the second print images to discharge a liquid from the discharge head onto a print surface, a determination unit that determines whether or not the first print image fits within a scannable range, which is a range within which the discharge head can scan; a first changing unit that changes the size of a print area on the print surface for printing the first print image or the second print images according to whether or not the first print image needs to be divided, which is determined according to the determination result by the determination unit; and a liquid application device provided with the same. <2>The determination unit further determines whether or not the first printed image fits within a first printing area serving as a reference. The first modification unit is the liquid application device according to <1> above, which expands the first printing area to a second printing area so that the first printed image fits therein when the determination unit determines that the first printed image fits within the scannable range and does not fit within the first printing area. <3>When the determination unit determines that the first printed image does not fit within the scannable range, the first modification unit reduces the first printing area serving as a reference to a second printing area so that the total size of the plurality of printing areas is the size within which the first printed image fits. The liquid application device according to <1> or <2> above, further comprising a dividing unit that divides the first printed image into a plurality of second printed images so that the first printed image is printed on each of the second printing areas reduced by the first modification unit. <4>The determination unit further determines whether or not the number of divisions is within a predetermined number when the first printed image is divided into a plurality so as to be printed on each of the first printing areas serving as a reference. When the determination unit determines that the first printed image does not fit within the scannable range and the number of divisions is within the predetermined value, the liquid application device further comprises a second modification unit that reduces the first printed image so that it fits within the scannable range. The first modification unit is the liquid application device according to <1> or <2> above, which expands the first printing area to a second printing area so that the first printed image reduced by the second modification unit fits therein. <5>When the number of divisions is within a predetermined number when the first printed image is divided into a plurality so as to be printed on each of the first printing areas serving as a reference, a setting unit is further provided that sets whether to perform a process of reducing the first printed image without division or a process of reducing the first printing area and dividing the first printed image. When the first modification unit is set to a process of reducing the first printing area and dividing the first printing image so that the first printing image does not fit within the scannable range as determined by the determination unit, the number of divisions is within the predetermined value, and the first printing area is reduced by the setting unit, the first printing area is reduced to form a second printing area such that the total size of the plurality of printing areas fits within the size of the first printing image. The liquid application device according to <4> above, further comprising a dividing unit that divides the first printing image into a plurality of second printing images so that the first printing image is printed on each of the second printing areas reduced by the first modification unit. The liquid application device according to any one of <1> to <5> above, wherein the center of gravity of the printing area whose size has been changed by the first modification unit coincides with the center of gravity of the scannable range. The liquid application device according to any one of <1> to <6> above, further comprising a correction unit that corrects the position of the printing area using a buffer area other than the printing area in the scannable range so as to be connected to a printing image printed at the previous position. The liquid application device according to any one of <1> to <7> above, wherein the liquid application device scans the discharge head in the printing area while moving to the printing area corresponding to each of the second printing images, and discharges liquid from the discharge head onto the printing surface. A liquid application system that divides a first printing image of print data into a plurality of second printing images, and scans a discharge head in the printing area corresponding to each of the second printing images to discharge liquid from the discharge head onto a printing surface, a determination unit that determines whether the first printing image fits within a scannable range that is a range within which the discharge head can scan; a modification unit that changes the size of a printing area on the printing surface for printing the first printing image or the second printing image according to the necessity of dividing the first printing image determined according to the determination result by the determination unit; and includes a liquid application system. <10> A liquid application device including the discharge head; An external device including the determination unit and the modification unit The liquid coating system according to <8>, including this <11>A liquid coating method for dividing a first printed image of print data into a plurality of second printed images and scanning a discharge head in a printing area corresponding to each of the second printed images to discharge liquid from the discharge head onto a printing surface, comprising: A determination step of determining whether the first printed image fits within a scanable range, which is a range within which the discharge head can scan; A modification step of modifying the size of a printing area on the printing surface for printing the first printed image or the second printed images according to the necessity of dividing the first printed image determined according to the determination result of the determination step; A liquid coating method having this <12>A program for causing a computer included in a liquid coating apparatus that divides a first printed image of print data into a plurality of second printed images and scans a discharge head in a printing area corresponding to each of the second printed images to discharge liquid from the discharge head onto a printing surface to Execute a determination step of determining whether the first printed image fits within a scanable range, which is a range within which the discharge head can scan; And a modification step of modifying the size of a printing area on the printing surface for printing the first printed image or the second printed images according to the necessity of dividing the first printed image determined according to the determination result of the determination step. It is a program for execution.

Explanation of Signs

[0109] 1 Liquid coating apparatus 10 Printing apparatus 11 Printing apparatus main body 11a Frame 12 Control device 13 Ink supply system 14 Stand 16 Carriage 16a Ink discharge head 17 Main scanning guide 17a Main scanning motor 18 sub-scanning guides 18a sub-scanning motor 18b timing belt 20 carriages 21 carriage frames 22, 23 lifting devices 24 rear wheels 25 front wheels 26 handle part 31 head movement mechanism 32 rail movement mechanism 33 three-dimensional camera 34 two-dimensional camera 35 GNSS receiver 36 operation panel 40 external device 101 imaging unit 102 acquisition unit 104 storage unit 105 setting unit 106 input unit 110 image processing unit 111 determination unit 112 image size change unit 113 printing area change unit 114 splitting unit 115 correction unit 120 image creation unit 121 movement control unit 122 ejection control unit BAR, BARa, BARb, BARc buffer areas MVR scanable range PAR, PAR1, PAR2, PAR2a, PARa, PARb, PARc printing areas PIM printed image

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0110]

Patent Document 1

Claims

1. A liquid application device that divides a first printed image of print data into a plurality of second printed images and scans a discharge head in a printing area corresponding to each of the second printed images to discharge liquid from the discharge head onto a printing surface, comprising: a determination unit that determines whether or not the first printed image fits within a scannable range that is a range within which the discharge head can scan; a first change unit that changes the size of a printing area on the printing surface for printing the first printed image or the second printed images according to whether or not the first printed image needs to be divided, as determined according to the determination result by the determination unit; A liquid application device comprising the above.

2. The determination unit further determines whether or not the first printed image fits within a first printing area that serves as a reference; The liquid application device according to Claim 1, wherein when the determination unit determines that the first printed image fits within the scannable range and does not fit within the first printing area, the first change unit enlarges the first printing area so that the first printed image fits therein to obtain a second printing area.

3. When the determination unit determines that the first printed image does not fit within the scannable range, the first change unit reduces a reference first printing area to obtain a second printing area such that the total size of a plurality of printing areas is a size within which the first printed image fits; The liquid application device according to Claim 1 or 2, further comprising a dividing unit that divides the first printed image into a plurality of second printed images such that the first printed image is printed on each of the second printing areas reduced by the first change unit.

4. The determination unit further determines whether or not the number of divisions is within a predetermined number when the first printed image is divided into a plurality so as to be printed in each of the first printing areas that serve as a reference; When the determination unit determines that the first printed image does not fit within the scannable range and the number of divisions is within the predetermined value, the liquid application device further comprises a second change unit that reduces the first printed image so that it fits within the scannable range; The liquid application device according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein the first change unit enlarges the first printing area so that the first printed image reduced by the second change unit fits therein to obtain a second printing area.

5. When the first printed image is divided into a plurality of parts so as to be printed in each of the first printing areas serving as a reference, and the number of divisions is within a predetermined number, a setting unit is provided for setting whether to reduce the first printed image without division or to reduce the first printing area and divide the first printed image. When the first changing unit determines that the first printed image does not fit within the scannable range by the determination unit, the number of divisions is within the predetermined value, and the setting unit sets the process of reducing the first printing area and dividing the first printed image, the first printing area is reduced to a second printing area so that the total size of the plurality of printing areas fits within the size of the first printed image. The liquid application device according to claim 4, further comprising a dividing unit that divides the first printed image into a plurality of second printed images so that the first printed image is printed in each of the second printing areas reduced by the first changing unit.

6. The liquid application device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the center of gravity of the printing area whose size has been changed by the first changing unit coincides with the center of gravity of the scannable range.

7. The liquid application device according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a correcting unit that corrects the position of the printing area so as to be connected to the printed image printed at the previous position by using a buffer area other than the printing area in the scannable range.

8. The liquid application device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the liquid application device scans the discharge head in the printing area while moving to the printing area corresponding to each of the second printed images, and discharges liquid from the discharge head onto the printing surface.

9. A liquid application system that divides a first printed image of print data into a plurality of second printed images, and scans a discharge head in a printing area corresponding to each of the second printed images to discharge liquid from the discharge head onto a printing surface, a determination unit that determines whether the first printed image fits within a scannable range that is a range within which the discharge head can scan; a changing unit that changes the size of a printing area on the printing surface for printing the first printed image or the second printed image according to the necessity of dividing the first printed image determined according to the determination result by the determination unit; A liquid application system including.

10. A liquid application device including the discharge head; An external device including the determination unit and the changing unit; The liquid coating system according to claim 9, which includes

11. A liquid coating method for dividing a first printed image of print data into a plurality of second printed images and scanning a discharge head in a printing area corresponding to each of the second printed images to discharge liquid from the discharge head onto a printing surface, a determination step of determining whether the first printed image fits within a scanable range, which is a range within which the discharge head can scan; a change step of changing the size of a printing area on the printing surface for printing the first printed image or the second printed images according to the necessity of dividing the first printed image determined according to the determination result of the determination step; The liquid coating method having

12. A program for causing a computer included in a liquid coating apparatus, which divides a first printed image of print data into a plurality of second printed images and scans a discharge head in a printing area corresponding to each of the second printed images to discharge liquid from the discharge head onto a printing surface, to execute a determination step of determining whether the first printed image fits within a scanable range, which is a range within which the discharge head can scan; and a change step of changing the size of a printing area on the printing surface for printing the first printed image or the second printed images according to the necessity of dividing the first printed image determined according to the determination result of the determination step. ​

Images