Tape printing device and method for controlling tape printing device

Abstract

To prevent printing defects from being generated when printing is performed on a portion where a tape is clamped between a print head and a platen roller.SOLUTION: A tape printing device 1 calculates a clamping point distance CL, which is a distance in an X-axis direction between a tip of a tape T detected by a sensor 43 when a print start command is received and a clamping point E1 of the tape T having been clamped between the print head 26 and the platen roller 17 when the print start command is received, and if a margin distance ML, which is a distance in the X-axis direction from the tip of the tape T to a print start position of the tape T, is shorter than the clamping point distance CL, when the tape T is fed in a +X direction and then fed in a -X direction, for a period during which printing is being performed at the clamping point E1, a feed drive motor 45a is driven so that the tape T is fed at a slower feed speed than a period during which printing is being performed at a second point E2 that is located in the +X direction relative to the clamping point E1, of the tape T.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a tape printing apparatus and a method for controlling a tape printing apparatus. [Background technology]

[0002] As disclosed in Patent Document 1, a conventional tape printer is known that includes a drive motor that rotates a platen roller that feeds the tape in forward and reverse directions, and a print head that clamps the tape between the platen roller and the drive motor and prints on the tape as it is fed in the forward direction. This type of tape printer can shorten the margin distance from the leading edge of the tape to the position where printing begins on the tape by feeding the tape in the reverse direction before printing begins. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2016-141061 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In conventional tape printers, the tape is clamped between the print head and the platen roller even when the tape is not being fed, which causes dents in the tape at the clamped points. As a result, when conventional tape printers start printing after feeding the tape in the reverse direction, there is a risk of print defects such as missing dots or blurred images in the printed image in the dented area. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The tape printing device of the present invention comprises a drive motor that rotates a platen roller so that the tape is fed in a first feed direction and a second feed direction opposite to the first feed direction; a print head that clamps the tape between the print head and the platen roller and prints on the tape as it is fed in the first feed direction; a detection unit that detects the leading edge of the tape; and a control unit. The control unit calculates a clamping point distance, which is the distance in the first feed direction between the leading edge of the tape and the clamping point on the tape that was clamped between the print head and the platen roller when a print start command was acquired. If a margin distance, which is the distance in the first feed direction from the leading edge of the tape to the printing start position on the tape, is shorter than the clamping point distance, the control unit drives the drive motor so that, as the tape is fed in the first feed direction, the tape is fed at a first feed speed while printing is being performed at the clamping point, and at a second feed speed faster than the first feed speed while printing is being performed at a second point on the tape that is located in the second feed direction relative to the clamping point.

[0006] A control method for a tape printing device of the present invention is a control method for a tape printing device equipped with a drive motor that rotates a platen roller so that the tape is fed in a first feed direction and a second feed direction opposite to the first feed direction, a print head that clamps the tape between the platen roller and prints on the tape as it is fed in the first feed direction, and a detection unit that detects the leading edge of the tape, and the method includes the steps of: calculating a clamping point distance, which is the distance in the first feed direction between the leading edge of the tape and the clamping point of the tape that was clamped between the print head and the platen roller when the tape printing device obtained a print start command; and driving the drive motor so that, when the margin distance, which is the distance in the first feed direction from the leading edge of the tape to the printing start position on the tape, is shorter than the clamping point distance, the tape is fed at a first feed speed while printing is being performed at the clamping point, and at a second feed speed faster than the first feed speed while printing is being performed at a second point on the tape that is located in the second feed direction relative to the clamping point. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is an external view of the tape printing device and the tape cartridge. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a tape. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 shows the arrangement of a print head, a sensor, and a cutter. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the tape printing device. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the leading edge of the tape is located in the −X direction from the detection position of the sensor when a print start command is received. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the leading edge of the tape is located in the +X direction from the detection position of the sensor when a print start command is received. [Figure 7] 10 is a graph showing changes in feed speed when low-speed feed control is performed. [Figure 8] 10 is a graph showing changes in feed speed when low-speed feed control is not performed. [Figure 9] 4 is a flowchart showing a printing process according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart continuing from FIG. 9. [Figure 11] 10 is a graph showing changes in feed speed when slow feed control according to the second embodiment is performed. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart showing a part of a printing process according to a second embodiment. [Figure 13] 10 is a graph showing changes in feed speed when slow feed control according to a first modified example is performed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The tape printing device and the method for controlling the tape printing device will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that in some of the drawings, directions based on an XYZ Cartesian coordinate system are used for the sake of convenience of explanation only, and do not limit the following embodiments in any way.

[0009] [First embodiment] 1 is an external view of a tape printing device 1 and a tape cartridge C. The tape printing device 1 is a device that prints on a long piece of tape T. The tape printing device 1 comprises a device case 3 and a mounting section cover 5. On the +Z direction surface of the device case 3, an operation key group 21, a display 22, a cartridge mounting section 23, and a tape ejection port 24 are provided.

[0010] The operation key group 21 accepts various operations by the user, such as editing the print image to be printed on the tape T. The display 22 displays various information, such as an editing screen for the print image. The tape printing device 1 generates print data based on the user's editing operations for the print image, and performs printing processing based on the generated print data.

[0011] The cartridge mounting portion 23 is a recess that is open in the +Z direction. A tape cartridge C is removably mounted in the cartridge mounting portion 23. The mounting portion cover 5 is rotatably attached to the end of the device case 3 in the +Y direction, and opens and closes the cartridge mounting portion 23.

[0012] The tape cartridge C includes a tape core 15, a platen roller 17, a supply core 18, a take-up core 19, and a cartridge case 14 that houses these components.

[0013] The tape T is wound around the tape core 15. The tape T is composed of a printing tape Ta having an adhesive layer formed on its back surface, and a release tape Tb that is adhered to the printing tape Ta by the adhesive layer. The tape T is wound around the tape core 15 with the printing tape Ta on the outside and the release tape Tb on the inside. The ink ribbon R is wound around the payout core 18. The ink ribbon R paid out from the payout core 18 is taken up onto the take-up core 19. The cartridge case 14 is provided with a head insertion hole 12 that penetrates in the Z direction. Furthermore, a tape outlet 13 extending in the Z direction is provided on the -X direction surface of the cartridge case 14. The tape T paid out from the tape core 15 is fed out of the cartridge case 14 from the tape outlet 13.

[0014] The cartridge mounting section 23 is provided with a print head 26 and a head cover 20. The print head 26 prints on the tape T. The head cover 20 partially covers the print head 26.

[0015] A platen drive shaft 25, a supply shaft 28, and a take-up shaft 29 protrude in the +Z direction from the bottom surface of the cartridge mounting section 23. When a tape cartridge C is mounted in the cartridge mounting section 23, the platen drive shaft 25, the supply shaft 28, and the take-up shaft 29 engage with the platen roller 17, the supply core 18, and the take-up core 19, respectively.

[0016] Furthermore, when the tape cartridge C is mounted in the cartridge mounting portion 23, the print head 26 and head cover 20 are inserted into the head insertion hole 12. Subsequently, when the mounting portion cover 5 is closed, the print head 26 is moved toward the platen roller 17 by a head movement mechanism (not shown). As a result, the tape T and ink ribbon R are sandwiched between the print head 26 and the platen roller 17.

[0017] In this state, when the feed drive motor 45a (see FIG. 4) provided in the tape printing device 1 rotates in the first rotation direction, the platen roller 17 and the take-up core 19 rotate so that the tape T is fed out of the cartridge case 14 from the tape feed outlet 13 and the ink ribbon R is taken up onto the take-up core 19. The feed drive motor 45a is an example of a "drive motor." At this time, the tape T is fed in the -X direction toward the tape discharge outlet 24. The "-X direction" is an example of a first feed direction.

[0018] Furthermore, when the feed drive motor 45a rotates in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction, the platen roller 17 and the feed core 18 rotate so that the tape T is pulled back into the cartridge case 14 and the ink ribbon R is rewound onto the feed core 18. At this time, the tape T is fed in the +X direction. The "+X direction" is an example of the second feed direction.

[0019] As described above, when the tape cartridge C is installed in the cartridge mounting portion 23 and the mounting portion cover 5 is closed, the tape T is sandwiched between the print head 26 and the platen roller 17. Therefore, a depression occurs in the tape T, particularly in the sandwiched portion E1 (see FIG. 5, etc.) of the print tape Ta, due to the pressing force from the print head 26. Therefore, the tape printer 1 according to this embodiment feeds the tape T in the +X direction before printing. When printing on the sandwiched portion E1, the tape printer 1 performs slow-feed control to slow the feed speed of the tape T while printing on the sandwiched portion E1 compared to while printing on a second portion E2 (see FIG. 5, etc.) located in the +X direction relative to the sandwiched portion E1. This prevents printing defects, such as missing dots or faded images, from occurring in the printed image at the sandwiched portion E1. This embodiment describes this slow-feed control in detail.

[0020] The print head 26 generates heat according to the print data when the tape T is being fed in the -X direction. This causes the ink on the ink ribbon R to be transferred to the print tape Ta of the tape T, and a print image based on the print data is printed on the print tape Ta. The tape T after printing is then discharged from the tape discharge port 24.

[0021] A sensor 43 and a cutter 27 are provided between the cartridge mounting section 23 and the tape ejection opening 24 (see FIG. 3). The sensor 43 is an example of a "detection section." The sensor 43 detects whether or not the tape T is present at the detection position. The cutter 27 cuts the tape T in the Z direction, i.e., in the tape width direction. This separates the printed portion of the tape T.

[0022] 2 is a diagram showing an example of the tape T. As described above, when the tape cartridge C is loaded into the cartridge loading section 23, the length direction of the tape T unwound from the tape cartridge C is the X-axis direction. Below, the tape T will be described using the direction when the tape cartridge C is loaded into the cartridge loading section 23.

[0023] In FIG. 2, the shaded area on the tape T indicates the print target area ES. The print target area ES refers to the area where printing is performed by the print head 26. The print target area ES is a rectangular area that surrounds the print image to be printed on the tape T. In the following description, the distance from the leading edge of the tape T, which is the edge of the tape T in the -X direction, to the edge of the print target area ES in the -X direction is referred to as the "margin distance ML." The margin distance ML is a distance calculated based on the print data. The edge of the print target area ES in the -X direction is the printing start position on the tape T.

[0024] 3 is a diagram showing the arrangement of print head 26, sensor 43, and cutter 27. As shown in the figure, the detection position of sensor 43 is located in the -X direction from the printing position of print head 26. In addition, the cutting position of cutter 27 is located in the -X direction from the detection position of sensor 43.

[0025] In the following description, the distance in the X-axis direction between the detection position of sensor 43 and the printing position of print head 26 is referred to as the "sensor head distance D1." The printing position of print head 26 is the position of heat generating element group 26a provided on print head 26. Heat generating element group 26a is a group of multiple heat generating elements arranged in the Z direction. The sensor head distance D1 is, for example, a length of approximately 5 mm to 20 mm.

[0026] 4, the hardware configuration of the tape printer 1 will be described. The tape printer 1 includes a tape type detection unit 41, a sensor 43, a control unit 44, a print head 26, a feed mechanism 45, and a cutting mechanism 46.

[0027] The tape type detection unit 41 detects the type of the tape T. The tape type detection unit 41 detects the type of the tape T, for example, by optically reading a code image (not shown) provided on the outer surface of the tape cartridge C loaded in the cartridge loading unit 23. In this case, the code image is an image in which tape type information indicating the type of the tape T is coded, such as a two-dimensional code or a barcode.

[0028] The tape type detection unit 41 may detect the type of tape T by acquiring tape type information from a circuit board having a memory element or an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag (neither of which are shown) provided in the tape cartridge C. The tape printing device 1 determines the tape width and tape material according to the tape type detected by the tape type detection unit 41, and controls printing based on the determination result.

[0029] The sensor 43 detects when the leading edge of the tape T passes the detection position of the sensor 43 while the tape T is being fed by the feed mechanism 45. The sensor 43 is configured, for example, as a transmissive photointerrupter, and includes a light-emitting element and a light-receiving element facing each other. The sensor 43 outputs an OFF signal when the light-receiving element is in a light-receiving state, and outputs an ON signal when the light-receiving element is in a non-light-receiving state.

[0030] The control unit 44 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 44a, a read only memory (ROM) 44b, and a random access memory (RAM) 44c.

[0031] The CPU 44a performs various controls by loading a control program, such as firmware stored in the ROM 44b, into the RAM 44c and executing it. Note that the control unit 44 may use a hardware circuit, such as an ASIC, as a processor instead of the CPU 44a. The processor may also be configured such that one or more CPUs and a hardware circuit, such as an ASIC, operate in cooperation with each other.

[0032] The print head 26 includes a group of heat generating elements 26a (see FIG. 3), and performs printing by thermally transferring ink from the ink ribbon R to the printing tape Ta of the tape T.

[0033] The feed mechanism 45 includes a feed drive motor 45a and a platen drive shaft 25. The feed drive motor 45a is a drive source that drives the platen drive shaft 25. In this embodiment, the feed drive motor 45a is a stepping motor. The CPU 44a controls the feed length of the tape T based on the number of steps by which the feed drive motor 45a is rotated.

[0034] The cutting mechanism 46 includes a cutter drive motor 46a and a cutter 27. The cutter drive motor 46a is a drive source that drives the cutter 27. When the cutter drive motor 46a is driven, the cutter 27 operates and cuts the tape T in the Z direction.

[0035] Here, we will explain the functions of the control unit 44. The functions shown below are functions that are realized by the CPU 44a executing firmware stored in the ROM 44b.

[0036] The control unit 44 calculates the clamping position distance CL, which is the distance between the leading edge of the tape T and the clamping position E1 of the tape T that was clamped between the print head 26 and the platen roller 17 when the print start command was received (see FIG. 5, etc.). Specifically, upon receiving the print start command, the control unit 44 feeds the tape T in the -X direction or +X direction until the leading edge of the tape T passes the detection position of the sensor 43, and calculates the clamping position distance CL based on the feed length of the tape T from when the feeding of the tape T starts until the leading edge of the tape T passes the detection position of the sensor 43 and the feed direction, which is the -X direction or +X direction. A method for calculating the clamping position distance CL will be described later with a specific example. The clamping position E1 is an area that has a length of about 1 mm in the X-axis direction.

[0037] After calculating the clamping position distance CL, the control unit 44 determines whether the margin distance ML is shorter than the clamping position distance CL. This determination determines whether printing will be performed at the clamping position E1. If the margin distance ML is shorter than the clamping position distance CL, printing will be performed at the clamping position E1. If the control unit 44 determines that the margin distance ML is shorter than the clamping position distance CL, it drives the feed drive motor 45a as follows. When the tape T is fed in the -X direction, the control unit 44 drives the feed drive motor 45a so that the tape T is fed at a first feed speed V1 while printing is being performed at the clamping position E1. Furthermore, when the tape T is fed in the -X direction, the control unit 44 drives the feed drive motor 45a so that the tape T is fed at a second feed speed V2 that is faster than the first feed speed V1 while printing is being performed at a second position E2 of the tape T that is located in the +X direction relative to the clamping position E1. 5 and 6, in this embodiment, the second location E2 is the area from the end of the clamping location E1 in the +X direction to the end of the printing area ES in the +X direction. Note that the second location E2 may be a portion of the area in the X-axis direction between the end of the clamping location E1 in the +X direction and the end of the printing area ES in the +X direction. Note that details of the first feed speed V1 and the second feed speed V2 will be described later.

[0038] In this embodiment, when the margin distance ML is shorter than the clamping point distance CL, the control unit 44 drives the feed drive motor 45a so that the tape T is fed at the first feed speed V1 not only while printing is being performed at the clamping point E1, but also from the start of printing by the print head 26 until printing at the clamping point E1 is completed.

[0039] On the other hand, when the control unit 44 determines that the margin distance ML is longer than the clamping position distance CL, the control unit 44 drives the feed drive motor 45a so that the tape T is fed at a fourth feed speed V4 that is faster than the first feed speed V1 while printing is being performed on the tape T. In this embodiment, the control unit 44 drives the feed drive motor 45a so that the tape T is fed at the fourth feed speed V4, which is the same speed as the second feed speed V2.

[0040] A method for calculating the clamping point distance CL will be described with reference to Figures 5 and 6. Figure 5 shows a state in which the leading edge of the tape T is located in the -X direction from the detection position of the sensor 43 when the tape printer 1 receives a print start command. The state in which the leading edge of the tape T is located in the -X direction from the detection position of the sensor 43 when the print start command is received refers to a state in which the sensor 43 is outputting an ON signal when the print start command is received. On the other hand, Figure 6 shows a state in which the leading edge of the tape T is located in the +X direction from the detection position of the sensor 43 when the tape printer 1 receives a print start command. The state in which the leading edge of the tape T is located in the +X direction from the detection position of the sensor 43 when the print start command is received refers to a state in which the sensor 43 is outputting an OFF signal when the print start command is received.

[0041] Generally, after printing is completed, the tape T is cut by the cutter 27, so normally, when a print start command is received, the leading edge of the tape T is at the cutting position of the cutter 27 (see FIG. 3). That is, normally, as shown in FIG. 5, when a print start command is received, the leading edge of the tape T is located in the -X direction from the detection position of the sensor 43. However, for example, if a user cuts the tape T pulled out from the tape outlet 13 of the tape cartridge C using scissors or the like and then mounts the cut tape cartridge C in the cartridge mounting section 23, the leading edge of the tape T may not have reached the detection position of the sensor 43 when a print start command is received. Therefore, when a print start command is received, the tape printer 1 first detects the leading edge of the tape T and then performs cueing to align the print start position of the tape T with the printing position of the print head 26.

[0042] 5, if the leading edge of the tape T is located in the -X direction from the detection position of the sensor 43, when the tape printer 1 receives a print start command, it feeds the tape T in the +X direction, and when the sensor 43 outputs an OFF signal, it determines that the leading edge of the tape T has been detected. If the distance the tape T has been fed in the +X direction at this time is the second distance D2, the clamping point distance CL is calculated by adding the sensor head distance D1 and the second distance D2. The sensor head distance D1 is stored as part of the control data in the ROM 44b, etc.

[0043] 6, if the leading edge of the tape T is located in the +X direction from the detection position of the sensor 43, upon receiving a print start command, the tape printing device 1 feeds the tape T in the -X direction, and when the sensor 43 outputs an ON signal, it determines that the leading edge of the tape T has been detected. If the distance the tape T has been fed in the -X direction at this time is a third distance D3, the clamping point distance CL is calculated by subtracting the third distance D3 from the sensor head distance D1.

[0044] Next, referring to the graph in FIG. 7, changes in the feed speed when slow feed control is performed will be described. As described above, the tape printing device 1 performs slow feed control when the margin distance ML is shorter than the clamping position distance CL. In FIG. 7, the area above the horizontal axis indicates the feed speed when the feed drive motor 45a rotates in the first rotation direction, causing the tape T to be fed in the -X direction. In addition, the area below the horizontal axis indicates the feed speed when the feed drive motor 45a rotates in the second rotation direction, causing the tape T to be fed in the +X direction. In addition, FIG. 7 shows changes in the feed speed from a state in which the leading edge of the tape T is at the detection position of the sensor 43, when the margin distance ML is shorter than the sensor head distance D1.

[0045] 7, in order to perform cueing when the leading edge of the tape T is at the detection position of the sensor 43, the tape printing device 1 feeds the tape T in the +X direction by a length obtained by subtracting the margin distance ML from the sensor head distance D1. The feed speed at this time may be the same as the first feed speed V1, may be the same as the second feed speed V2, or may be faster than the first feed speed V1 and slower than the second feed speed V2. Furthermore, the feed speed refers to a constant speed, and does not refer to a speed during acceleration or deceleration.

[0046] When the tape printer 1 feeds the tape T in the +X direction a distance equal to the sensor head distance D1 minus the margin distance ML, the print start position of the tape T reaches the print position of the print head 26, and the rotation direction of the feed drive motor 45a is switched. The tape printer 1 then feeds the tape T in the -X direction a distance equal to the clamping position distance CL minus the margin distance ML plus a first predetermined distance α1. At this time, the tape printer 1 prints using the print head 26 while feeding the tape T in the -X direction at a first feed speed V1. Note that the first predetermined distance α1 is a margin that takes into account feed error and is, for example, approximately 1 mm to 5 mm. In other words, if there is no feed error, the tape printer 1 will print at the clamping position E1 when the tape T has been fed a distance equal to the clamping position distance CL minus the margin distance ML since the tape T began to be fed in the -X direction.

[0047] After feeding the tape T in the -X direction by a length obtained by subtracting the margin distance ML from the clamping position distance CL and adding the first predetermined distance α1, the tape printing device 1 increases the rotation speed of the feed drive motor 45a to accelerate the feed speed and feed the tape T in the -X direction at a second feed speed V2. Thereafter, the tape printing device 1 feeds the tape T in the -X direction at the second feed speed V2 until printing is completed. In this way, from the time printing by the print head 26 starts until printing of the clamping position E1 is completed, the tape printing device 1 feeds the tape T at a first feed speed V1 that is slower than the second feed speed V2, which is the feed speed when printing the second position E2.

[0048] Next, referring to the graph in Figure 8, we will explain how the feed speed changes when the slow feed control is not performed. As described above, the tape printing device 1 does not perform the slow feed control when the margin distance ML is longer than the clamping point distance CL. Figure 8 shows how the feed speed changes from a state in which the leading edge of the tape T is at the detection position of the sensor 43 when the margin distance ML is shorter than the sensor head distance D1.

[0049] As shown in Figure 8, in order to perform cueing when the leading edge of the tape T is at the detection position of the sensor 43, the tape printer 1 feeds the tape T in the +X direction by a length obtained by subtracting the margin distance ML from the sensor head distance D1, and switches the rotation direction of the feed drive motor 45a. Up to this point, the feed control is the same as that shown in Figure 7. After cueing, the tape printer 1 performs printing with the print head 26 while feeding the tape T in the -X direction at a fourth feed speed V4 until printing is completed. In this embodiment, the fourth feed speed V4 is the same as the second feed speed V2.

[0050] In this way, when the margin distance ML is longer than the clamping point distance CL, i.e., when printing is not performed at the clamping point E1, the tape printing device 1 feeds the tape T in the −X direction at a constant feed speed from the beginning to the end of printing.

[0051] Next, the flow of the printing process in the tape printer 1 will be described with reference to the flowcharts in Figures 9 and 10. This printing process is an example of a "method for controlling a tape printer." The printing process is executed when a print start command is received.

[0052] 9, the tape printer 1 determines whether the leading edge of the tape T is located in the -X direction from the detection position of the sensor 43. That is, the tape printer 1 determines whether the sensor 43 is outputting an ON signal. If the tape printer 1 determines that the leading edge of the tape T is located in the -X direction from the detection position of the sensor 43, that is, if it determines that the sensor 43 is outputting an ON signal, it proceeds to step S02. If the tape printer 1 determines that the leading edge of the tape T is not located in the -X direction from the detection position of the sensor 43, that is, if it determines that the sensor 43 is outputting an OFF signal, it proceeds to step S05.

[0053] In step S02, the tape printing apparatus 1 feeds the tape T in the +X direction.

[0054] In step S03, the tape printer 1 determines whether the leading edge of the tape T has passed the detection position of the sensor 43. That is, the tape printer 1 determines whether the sensor 43 has output an OFF signal. If the tape printer 1 determines that the leading edge of the tape T has passed the detection position of the sensor 43, that is, if it determines that the sensor 43 has output an OFF signal, it proceeds to step S04. If the tape printer 1 determines that the leading edge of the tape T has not passed the detection position of the sensor 43, that is, if it determines that the sensor 43 has output an ON signal, it returns to step S02.

[0055] In step S04, the tape printing device 1 calculates the clamping point distance CL. As described above, the tape printing device 1 calculates the clamping point distance CL by adding the sensor head distance D1 and the second distance D2, which is the feed distance of the tape T from when feeding of the tape T starts in the +X direction until the sensor 43 outputs an OFF signal.

[0056] In step S05, the tape printing apparatus 1 feeds the tape T in the -X direction.

[0057] In step S06, the tape printer 1 determines whether the leading edge of the tape T has passed the detection position of the sensor 43. That is, the tape printer 1 determines whether the sensor 43 has output an ON signal. If the tape printer 1 determines that the leading edge of the tape T has passed the detection position of the sensor 43, that is, if it determines that the sensor 43 has output an ON signal, it proceeds to step S07. If the tape printer 1 determines that the leading edge of the tape T has not passed the detection position of the sensor 43, that is, if it determines that the sensor 43 has output an OFF signal, it returns to step S05.

[0058] In step S07, the tape printing device 1 calculates the clamping point distance CL. As described above, the tape printing device 1 calculates the clamping point distance CL by subtracting the third distance D3, which is the feed distance of the tape T from when feeding of the tape T in the -X direction starts until the sensor 43 outputs an ON signal, from the sensor head distance D1.

[0059] 10, the tape printing apparatus 1 determines whether the margin distance ML is shorter than the clamping point distance CL. If the tape printing apparatus 1 determines that the margin distance ML is shorter than the clamping point distance CL, the tape printing apparatus 1 proceeds to step S09. If the tape printing apparatus 1 determines that the margin distance ML is not shorter than the clamping point distance CL, the tape printing apparatus 1 proceeds to step S13.

[0060] In step S09, the tape printing apparatus 1 determines whether the margin distance ML is shorter than the sensor head distance D1. If the tape printing apparatus 1 determines that the margin distance ML is shorter than the sensor head distance D1, the tape printing apparatus 1 proceeds to step S10. If the tape printing apparatus 1 determines that the margin distance ML is not shorter than the sensor head distance D1, the tape printing apparatus 1 proceeds to step S11.

[0061] In step S10, the tape printing apparatus 1 feeds the tape T in the +X direction by a length obtained by subtracting the margin distance ML from the sensor head distance D1, and aligns the tape T. After step S10, the tape printing apparatus 1 proceeds to step S12.

[0062] In step S11, the tape printing apparatus 1 feeds the tape T in the -X direction by the length obtained by subtracting the distance D1 between the sensor heads from the margin distance ML, and aligns the tape T to the beginning.

[0063] In step S12, the tape printing device 1 drives the print head 26 while feeding the tape T in the -X direction at a first feed speed V1 by a length obtained by subtracting the margin distance ML from the clamping position distance CL and adding the first predetermined distance α1 to the length. At this time, the tape printing device 1 prints at the clamping position E1.

[0064] In step S13, the tape printing apparatus 1 drives the print head 26 while feeding the tape T in the −X direction at the second feeding speed V2.

[0065] In step S14, the tape printer 1 determines whether printing has finished. If it determines that printing has finished, the tape printer 1 ends the printing process. If it determines that printing has not finished, the tape printer 1 returns to step S13.

[0066] In step S15, the tape printing apparatus 1 determines whether the margin distance ML is shorter than the sensor head distance D1. If the tape printing apparatus 1 determines that the margin distance ML is shorter than the sensor head distance D1, the tape printing apparatus 1 proceeds to step S16. If the tape printing apparatus 1 determines that the margin distance ML is not shorter than the sensor head distance D1, the tape printing apparatus 1 proceeds to step S17.

[0067] In step S16, the tape printing apparatus 1 feeds the tape T in the +X direction by the length obtained by subtracting the margin distance ML from the sensor head distance D1, and aligns the tape T. After step S16, the tape printing apparatus 1 proceeds to step S13.

[0068] In step S17, the tape printing apparatus 1 feeds the tape T in the -X direction by the length obtained by subtracting the sensor head distance D1 from the margin distance ML, and aligns the tape T. After step S17, the tape printing apparatus 1 proceeds to step S13.

[0069] As explained above, when the margin distance ML is shorter than the clamping position distance CL, the tape printer 1 according to this embodiment feeds the tape T at a slower feed speed while printing is being performed at the clamping position E1 than while printing is being performed at the second position E2 located in the +X direction relative to the clamping position E1. This allows the tape printer 1 to prevent printing defects when printing at the clamping position E1 of the tape T.

[0070] Furthermore, when the margin distance ML is longer than the clamping point distance CL, the tape printing device 1 does not print at the clamping point E1, and therefore the printing processing time can be shortened by feeding the tape T at a fourth feed speed V4 that is faster than the first feed speed V1.

[0071] Furthermore, since the tape printing device 1 is equipped with a sensor 43, the clamping point distance CL can be accurately calculated based on the feeding length of the tape T from when feeding of the tape T begins until the tip of the tape T passes the detection position of the sensor 43, and the feeding direction of the tape T.

[0072] Furthermore, the tape printing device 1 feeds the tape T at the first feed speed V1 from the start of printing until printing of the clamping portion E1 is completed, so there is no need to perform speed change control from the start of printing until printing of the clamping portion E1 is completed.

[0073] [Second embodiment] A second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 11 and 12. In the first embodiment, the tape T was fed at a first feed speed V1 from the start of printing until printing of the clamping portion E1 was completed. However, in the second embodiment, the tape T is fed at a third feed speed V3, which is faster than the first feed speed V1, from the start of printing until printing of the clamping portion E1 begins. Only differences from the first embodiment will be described below. Note that in this embodiment, components similar to those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted. Furthermore, modifications applied to components similar to those in the first embodiment are also applied to this embodiment.

[0074] Fig. 11 is a graph showing changes in feed speed when the slow feed control according to the second embodiment is performed. Fig. 11 shows changes in feed speed from a state in which the leading edge of the tape T is at the detection position of the sensor 43 when the margin distance ML is shorter than the distance D1 between the sensor heads. As in the first embodiment, the tape printing device 1 feeds the tape T in the +X direction by a length obtained by subtracting the margin distance ML from the distance D1 between the sensor heads in order to perform cueing from a state in which the leading edge of the tape T is at the detection position of the sensor 43.

[0075] Thereafter, the tape printer 1 switches the rotation direction of the feed drive motor 45a and performs printing with the print head 26 while feeding the tape T in the -X direction at a second feed speed V2 by a distance obtained by subtracting the margin distance ML and the second predetermined distance α2 from the clamping position distance CL. The second feed speed V2 at this time is an example of a "third feed speed." That is, in this embodiment, the tape printer 1 feeds the tape T at a third feed speed V3, which is the same speed as the second feed speed V2. The second predetermined distance α2 is a margin that takes feed error into consideration and is, for example, a length of approximately 1 mm to 5 mm.

[0076] After feeding the tape T in the -X direction by the length obtained by subtracting the margin distance ML and the second predetermined distance α2 from the clamping position distance CL, the tape printing device 1 reduces the rotational speed of the feed drive motor 45a to decelerate the feed speed and feed the tape T in the -X direction at the first feed speed V1 by a length obtained by doubling the second predetermined distance α2. If there is no feed error, the tape printing device 1 will print at the clamping position E1 when the tape T has been fed the second predetermined distance α2 after starting to be fed in the -X direction at the first feed speed V1.

[0077] Thereafter, the tape printing device 1 increases the rotation speed of the feed drive motor 45a to accelerate the feed speed, and feeds the tape T in the -X direction at the second feed speed V2 until printing is completed. In this way, the tape printing device 1 according to the second embodiment feeds the tape T at the second feed speed V2 from the time printing by the print head 26 starts until printing of the clamping portion E1 starts, and after printing of the clamping portion E1 is completed, and feeds the tape T at the first feed speed V1, which is slower than the second feed speed V2, while printing the clamping portion E1.

[0078] 12 is a flowchart showing a part of the printing process according to the second embodiment. The tape printing apparatus 1 performs the process shown in FIG.

[0079] In step S21, the tape printing device 1 drives the print head 26 while feeding the tape T in the -X direction at a second feed speed V2 by a length obtained by subtracting the margin distance ML and the second predetermined distance α2 from the clamping point distance CL.

[0080] In step S22, the tape printer 1 drives the print head 26 while feeding the tape T in the -X direction at the first feed speed V1 by a length twice the second predetermined distance α2. At this time, the tape printer 1 prints at the clamped position E1.

[0081] In step S23, the tape printing apparatus 1 drives the print head 26 while feeding the tape T in the −X direction at the second feeding speed V2.

[0082] In step S24, the tape printer 1 determines whether printing has finished. If it determines that printing has finished, the tape printer 1 ends the printing process. If it determines that printing has not finished, the tape printer 1 returns to step S23.

[0083] As described above, the tape printer 1 according to the second embodiment drives the feed drive motor 45a so that the tape T is fed at a speed faster than the first feed speed V1 from the time printing by the print head 26 starts until printing of the clamped portion E1 begins. This allows the tape printer 1 according to the second embodiment to reduce the printing process time compared to the tape printer 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0084] In the second embodiment, the following modifications can be adopted. [Variation 1] The tape printer 1 may drive the feed drive motor 45a to feed the tape T at a third feed speed V3, which is slower than the second feed speed V2, from the start of printing by the print head 26 until printing of the clamping portion E1 begins. FIG. 13 is a graph showing changes in feed speed when the slow feed control according to this modification is performed. FIG. 13 shows changes in feed speed from a state in which the leading edge of the tape T is at the detection position of the sensor 43 when the margin distance ML is shorter than the sensor head distance D1. To perform cueing, the tape printer 1 feeds the tape T in the +X direction by a distance calculated by subtracting the margin distance ML from the sensor head distance D1, from a state in which the leading edge of the tape T is at the detection position of the sensor 43. After cueing, the tape printer 1 feeds the tape T in the -X direction at the third feed speed V3 by a distance calculated by subtracting the margin distance ML and the second predetermined distance α2 from the clamping portion distance CL. The third feed speed V3 is faster than the first feed speed V1 and slower than the second feed speed V2. The feed control after the tape T has been fed in the -X direction by the length obtained by subtracting the margin distance ML and the second predetermined distance α2 from the clamping position distance CL is the same as the feed control shown in FIG.

[0085] In this way, according to the tape printing device 1 of this modified example, the tape T is fed at the third feed speed V3, which is slower than the second feed speed V2, from the start of printing until printing of the clamping point E1 begins, so even if the time from the start of printing until printing of the clamping point E1 begins is short, there is no need to suddenly increase the speed to the second feed speed V2.

[0086] [Variation 2] During the period from the start of printing until printing of the clamping portion E1 begins, if the clamping portion distance CL is longer than the reference distance, the tape printing device 1 may feed the tape T at the second feed speed V2, and if the clamping portion distance CL is shorter than the reference distance, the tape printing device 1 may feed the tape T at a third feed speed V3 slower than the second feed speed V2. With this configuration, it is possible to prevent sudden acceleration control from being performed when the clamping portion distance CL is short.

[0087] As a further modification, the tape printing device 1 may determine whether to feed the tape T at the second feed speed V2 or at a third feed speed V3 slower than the second feed speed V2 from the start of printing until printing of the clamping location E1 begins, based on one or more conditions including the clamping location distance CL, the tape width of the tape T, the ambient temperature of the location where the tape printing device 1 is installed, the print content, and the temperature of the print head 26. The print content varies depending on the print type, which indicates whether text printing or graphic printing, the print area of the print image or print target area ES, and the data amount of the print data.

[0088] In the first and second embodiments, the following modifications can be adopted. [Variation 3] Based on the type of tape T, the tape printer 1 may switch between driving the feed drive motor 45a so that the tape T is fed at a first feed speed V1 and driving the feed drive motor 45a so that the tape T is fed at a second feed speed V2 while printing is being performed at the clamping position E1. For example, the tape printer 1 may be configured to perform slow feed control when the type of tape T is a predetermined type and not perform slow feed control when the type of tape T is not the predetermined type. In this case, the tape printer 1 acquires the tape type by detecting the tape type using the tape type detection unit 41 (see FIG. 4). The tape type detection unit 41 is an example of an "acquisition unit." When the type of tape T detected by the tape type detection unit 41 is the predetermined type, the control unit 44 drives the feed drive motor 45a so that the tape T is fed at the first feed speed V1 while printing is being performed at the clamping position E1. In addition, when the type of tape T detected by the tape type detection unit 41 is not a predetermined type, the control unit 44 drives the feed drive motor 45a so that the tape T is fed at a second feed speed V2 while printing is being performed at the clamping location E1.

[0089] In this modified example, a table (not shown) listing tape types that are subject to slow feed control is stored in the ROM 44b. If the type of tape T detected by the tape type detection unit 41 is recorded in the table, the control unit 44 determines that the type of tape T detected by the tape type detection unit 41 is a predetermined type. If the type of tape T detected by the tape type detection unit 41 is not recorded in the table, the control unit 44 determines that the type of tape T detected by the tape type detection unit 41 is not a predetermined type.

[0090] In this way, with the tape printing device 1 of this modified example, when the type of tape T detected is not the specified type, such as when the type of tape T is tape T that is not easily dented, there is no need to feed the tape T at a low speed while printing is being performed at the clamping point E1 of the tape T, thereby preventing unnecessary extension of the printing processing time.

[0091] As a further modification, the tape printer 1 may store in the ROM 44b a table listing tape types that are not subject to the slow feed control, rather than a list of tape types that are subject to the slow feed control. The table may also be stored outside the tape printer 1. For example, the table may be stored in a server that can communicate with the tape printer 1.

[0092] [Variation 4] When receiving a print start command, the tape printer 1 may determine whether the state in which the tape T is clamped between the print head 26 and the platen roller 17 has continued for a certain period of time or more, and may decide whether to perform slow feed control based on the determination result. In this case, if the tape printer 1 determines that the state in which the tape T is clamped has continued for a certain period of time or more and the margin distance ML is shorter than the clamping point distance CL, the tape printer 1 performs slow feed control. Also, if the tape printer 1 determines that the state in which the tape T is clamped has not continued for a certain period of time or more, the tape printer 1 does not perform slow feed control even if the margin distance ML is shorter than the clamping point distance CL.

[0093] [Variation 5] In addition to or instead of the sensor 43, the tape printing device 1 may be provided with a camera (not shown) for detecting the leading end of the tape T. In this modification, the camera is an example of a "detection unit." In this case, the tape printing device 1 may use the camera to capture an image of the feeding path of the tape T and calculate the clamping point distance CL by image recognition of the captured image.

[0094] [Variation 6] The firmware for the tape printing device 1 may be provided to the customer as a program. A storage medium on which the firmware for the tape printing device 1 is recorded may be provided to the customer. The tape printing device 1 may use a printing method other than the thermal transfer method, such as an inkjet method. The tape printing device 1 does not have to be configured to be able to mount a tape cartridge C. For example, the tape printing device 1 may be equipped with a platen roller and print on a tape T supplied from outside the tape printing device 1. Other modifications may be made as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0095] [Note] The tape printing device and the method for controlling the tape printing device will be described below.

[0096] The tape printing device 1 includes a feed drive motor 45a that rotates the platen roller 17 so that the tape T is fed in the -X direction and in the +X direction opposite to the -X direction, a print head 26 that clamps the tape T between itself and the platen roller 17 and prints on the tape T being fed in the -X direction, a sensor 43 that detects the leading end of the tape T, and a control unit 44, and the control unit 44 determines the relationship in the X-axis direction between the leading end of the tape T and a clamping position E1 of the tape T that was clamped between the print head 26 and the platen roller 17 when the print start command was received. The control unit 44 calculates a clamping point distance CL, which is the distance in the X-axis direction from the tip of the tape T to the printing start position on the tape T, and if the margin distance ML, which is the distance in the X-axis direction from the tip of the tape T to the printing start position on the tape T, is shorter than the clamping point distance CL, the control unit 44 drives the feed drive motor 45a so that when the tape T is fed in the -X direction, the tape T is fed at a first feed speed V1 while printing is being performed at the clamping point E1, and the tape T is fed at a second feed speed V2 faster than the first feed speed V1 while printing is being performed at a second point E2 on the tape T that is located in the +X direction relative to the clamping point E1.

[0097] The control method for the tape printer 1 is a control method for the tape printer 1 that includes: a feed drive motor 45a that rotates the platen roller 17 so that the tape T is fed in the -X direction and the +X direction opposite to the -X direction; a print head 26 that clamps the tape T between itself and the platen roller 17 and prints on the tape T being fed in the -X direction; and a sensor 43 that detects the leading end of the tape T, wherein the tape printer 1 detects a clamping position E1 of the tape T that was clamped between the print head 26 and the platen roller 17 when it received a print start command, , and if a margin distance ML, which is the distance in the X-axis direction from the tip of the tape T to the printing start position of the tape T, is shorter than the clamping point distance CL, when the tape T is fed in the -X direction, the tape T is fed at a first feed speed V1 while printing is being performed at the clamping point E1, and the tape T is fed at a second feed speed V2 faster than the first feed speed V1 while printing is being performed at a second point E2 of the tape T located in the +X direction relative to the clamping point E1.

[0098] According to this configuration, when the margin distance ML is shorter than the clamping position distance CL, the tape printer 1 feeds the tape T at a slower feed speed while printing is being performed at the clamping position E1 than while printing is being performed at the second position E2 located in the +X direction relative to the clamping position E1. This makes it possible for the tape printer 1 to suppress the occurrence of printing defects when printing at the clamping position E1 of the tape T.

[0099] In the above-mentioned tape printing device 1, when the margin distance ML is longer than the clamping distance CL, it is preferable that the control unit 44 drives the feed drive motor 45a so that the tape T is fed at a fourth feed speed V4 that is faster than the first feed speed V1 while printing is being performed on the tape T.

[0100] According to this configuration, the tape printing device 1 does not print at the clamping point E1 when the margin distance ML is longer than the clamping point distance CL, and therefore the printing processing time can be shortened by feeding the tape T at a fourth feed speed V4 that is faster than the first feed speed V1.

[0101] In the above-described tape printing device 1, the sensor 43 detects that the leading end of the tape T has passed the detection position, and when the control unit 44 receives a print start command, it feeds the tape T in the -X direction or the +X direction until the leading end of the tape T passes the detection position, and it is preferable to calculate the clamping point distance CL based on the feeding length of the tape T from when feeding of the tape T starts until the leading end of the tape T passes the detection position and the feeding direction, which is the -X direction or the +X direction.

[0102] According to this configuration, the tape printing device 1 is equipped with a sensor 43 that detects when the leading end of the tape T passes the detection position, and therefore the clamping point distance CL can be accurately calculated based on the feeding length of the tape T from when feeding of the tape T begins until the leading end of the tape T passes the detection position of the sensor 43, and the feeding direction of the tape T.

[0103] In the above-mentioned tape printing device 1, when the margin distance ML is shorter than the clamping point distance CL, it is preferable that the control unit 44 drives the feed drive motor 45a so that the tape T is fed at a first feed speed V1 from the start of printing by the print head 26 until printing of the clamping point E1 is completed.

[0104] According to this configuration, the tape printing device 1 feeds the tape T at the first feed speed V1 from the start of printing until printing of the clamping point E1 is completed, so that the occurrence of printing defects can be suppressed without performing speed change control from the start of printing until printing of the clamping point E1 is completed.

[0105] In the above-described tape printing device 1, when the margin distance ML is shorter than the clamping point distance CL, it is preferable that the control unit 44 drives the feed drive motor 45a so that the tape T is fed at a third feed speed V3 faster than the first feed speed V1 from the start of printing by the print head 26 until printing of the clamping point E1 begins.

[0106] According to this configuration, the tape printing device 1 feeds the tape T at a third feed speed V3 that is faster than the first feed speed V1 from the start of printing until printing of the clamping point E1 begins, thereby shortening the printing processing time compared to when printing is performed at the first feed speed V1 until printing of the clamping point E1 is completed.

[0107] In the above-described tape printing device 1, when the margin distance ML is shorter than the clamping point distance CL, it is preferable that the control unit 44 drives the feed drive motor 45a so that the tape T is fed at a third feed speed V3, which is slower than the second feed speed V2, from the time when printing by the print head 26 starts until printing of the clamping point E1 begins.

[0108] According to this configuration, the tape printing device 1 feeds the tape T at a third feed speed V3 slower than the second feed speed V2 from the start of printing until printing of the clamping point E1 begins, so even if the time from the start of printing until printing of the clamping point E1 begins is short, there is no need to suddenly increase the speed to the second feed speed V2.

[0109] In the above-described tape printing device 1, when the margin distance ML is shorter than the clamping point distance CL, it is preferable that the control unit 44 drives the feed drive motor 45a so that the tape T is fed at the same speed as the second feed speed V2, that is, the third feed speed V3, from the start of printing by the print head 26 until printing of the clamping point E1 begins.

[0110] According to this configuration, the tape printing device 1 feeds the tape T at the same feed speed from the start of printing until printing begins at the clamping point E1 as it does while printing is being performed at the second point E2, thereby further shortening the printing processing time.

[0111] It is preferable that the above-mentioned tape printing device 1 further includes an acquisition unit that acquires the type of tape T, and the control unit 44 switches between driving the feed drive motor 45a so that the tape T is fed at a first feed speed V1 and driving the feed drive motor 45a so that the tape T is fed at a second feed speed V2 while printing is being performed at the clamping location E1, based on the type of tape T acquired by the acquisition unit.

[0112] According to this configuration, when the type of tape T acquired is tape T that is not easily dented, the tape printing device 1 does not need to feed the tape T at a slower feed speed while printing is being performed at the clamping point E1 of the tape T than while printing is being performed at the second point E2 of the tape T, thereby preventing unnecessary extension of the printing processing time. [Explanation of symbols]

[0113] 1...tape printing device, 17...platen roller, 26...printing head, 41...tape type detection unit, 43...sensor, 44...control unit, 45a...feed drive motor, CL...clamping point distance, E1...clamping point, E2...second point, ML...margin distance, T...tape, V1...first feed speed, V2...second feed speed, V3...third feed speed, V4...fourth feed speed.

Claims

1. a drive motor that rotates the platen roller so that the tape is fed in a first feed direction and a second feed direction opposite to the first feed direction; a print head that holds the tape between itself and the platen roller and prints on the tape as it is fed in the first feed direction; a detection unit that detects the leading end of the tape; a control unit, the control unit calculates a clamping point distance, which is the distance in the first feed direction between the leading end of the tape and a clamping point of the tape that was clamped between the print head and the platen roller when a print start command was received; The control unit drives the drive motor so that, when the margin distance, which is the distance in the first feed direction from the tip of the tape to the printing start position on the tape, is shorter than the clamping point distance, the tape is fed at a first feed speed while printing is being performed at the clamping point, and the tape is fed at a second feed speed faster than the first feed speed while printing is being performed at a second location on the tape that is located in the second feed direction relative to the clamping point.

2. 2. The tape printing device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit drives the drive motor so that the tape is fed at a fourth feed speed faster than the first feed speed while printing is being performed on the tape when the margin distance is longer than the clamping point distance.

3. the detection unit detects that the leading end of the tape has passed a detection position, 2. The tape printing device according to claim 1, wherein, when the control unit receives the print start command, the control unit feeds the tape in the first feed direction or the second feed direction until the leading end of the tape passes the detection position, and calculates the clamping point distance based on the tape feed length from when tape feeding starts until the leading end of the tape passes the detection position and the feed direction, which is the first feed direction or the second feed direction.

4. 2. The tape printing device according to claim 1, wherein, when the margin distance is shorter than the clamping point distance, the control unit drives the drive motor so that the tape is fed at the first feed speed from the start of printing by the print head until printing of the clamping point is completed.

5. 2. The tape printing device according to claim 1, wherein, when the margin distance is shorter than the clamping point distance, the control unit drives the drive motor so that the tape is fed at a third feed speed faster than the first feed speed from the time when printing by the print head starts until printing of the clamping point begins.

6. The tape printing device according to claim 5, characterized in that, when the margin distance is shorter than the clamping point distance, the control unit drives the drive motor so that the tape is fed at a third feed speed, which is slower than the second feed speed, from the time when printing by the print head starts until printing of the clamping point begins.

7. The tape printing device according to claim 5, characterized in that, when the margin distance is shorter than the clamping point distance, the control unit drives the drive motor so that the tape is fed at the same speed as the second feed speed as the third feed speed from the time when printing by the print head starts until printing of the clamping point begins.

8. further comprising an acquisition unit for acquiring the type of the tape; The tape printing device according to claim 1, characterized in that the control unit switches between driving the drive motor so that the tape is fed at the first feed speed and driving the drive motor so that the tape is fed at the second feed speed while printing is being performed at the clamping location, based on the type of tape acquired by the acquisition unit.

9. a drive motor that rotates the platen roller so that the tape is fed in a first feed direction and a second feed direction opposite to the first feed direction; a print head that holds the tape between itself and the platen roller and prints on the tape as it is fed in the first feed direction; a detection unit that detects the leading end of the tape, The tape printing device calculating a nip distance, which is the distance in the first feed direction between the leading end of the tape and a nip point of the tape that was nipped between the print head and the platen roller when a print start command was received; a step of driving the drive motor so that, when the margin distance, which is the distance in the first feed direction from the tip of the tape to the printing start position on the tape, is shorter than the clamping point distance, the tape is fed at a first feed speed while printing is being performed at the clamping point, and the tape is fed at a second feed speed faster than the first feed speed while printing is being performed at a second location on the tape that is located in the second feed direction relative to the clamping point.

Images