Tape printing device and control method of tape printing device

Abstract

To suppress a printing position from being deviated due to erroneous detection of a part to be detected.SOLUTION: A tape printing device controls a feeding mechanism so that a first printing tape T1 is fed by a first determination distance in either direction of a -x direction and a +X direction, when a sensor 43 outputs an ON signal, and determines whether an ON-signal outputted before the first printing tape T1 was fed by the first determination distance was outputted or not because a first part H1 to be detected is positioned at a detection position, in accordance with whether a post-feeding output signal, which is outputted by the sensor 43 after the first printing tape T1 is fed by the first determination distance, is the ON-signal or not.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] A conventional printer is known that prints on labels while feeding a printing tape provided with a plurality of labels and cutouts corresponding to each label, as disclosed in Patent Document 1. This type of printer detects the cutouts with an optical sensor, and if the optical sensor is a transmission optical sensor, for example, when the optical sensor outputs a transmission signal, it is determined that the cutout is located at the detection position of the optical sensor. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-069579 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] There are many different types of printing tape, some of which have light-transmitting areas in addition to cutouts. When such special printing tape is used, the optical sensor outputs a transmission signal even when the light-transmitting area is located at the detection position of the optical sensor, just as it does when the cutout is located at the detection position. For this reason, conventional printing devices may mistakenly recognize the light-transmitting area as a cutout, which can result in misalignment of the printing position. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The tape printing device of the present invention includes a feeding mechanism that feeds a printing tape, on which a plurality of printing objects are arranged in the length direction of the printing tape, in a first feeding direction and a second feeding direction opposite to the first feeding direction; a print head that prints on the printing objects on the printing tape that is fed in the first feeding direction; and a detection position that outputs a first detection value when the detection position is located further in the first feeding direction than the printing position of the print head and the leading edge of the printing tape is located further in the second feeding direction than the detection position and when a first region of the printing tape is located at the detection position, and a second detection value when a second region other than the first region of the printing tape is located at the detection position. The printing tape is provided with a detection unit that outputs a signal, and a control unit, and the printing tape is provided with a plurality of detection target units that correspond to each printing object and function as first regions, and when the detection unit outputs a first detection value, the control unit controls the feeding mechanism to feed the printing tape a first distance in either the first feed direction or the second feed direction, and performs an output determination to determine whether the first detection value output before the printing tape was fed the first distance is an output due to the detection target unit being located at the detection position, depending on whether the post-feed output, which is the output of the detection unit after the printing tape has been fed the first distance, is the first detection value.

[0006] The control method for a tape printing device of the present invention includes a feed mechanism that feeds a print tape, on which a plurality of print objects are arranged in the length direction of the print tape, in a first feed direction and a second feed direction opposite to the first feed direction, a print head that prints on the print objects on the print tape that is fed in the first feed direction, and a control device that outputs a first detection value when a detection position is located further in the first feed direction than the printing position of the print head and the leading edge of the print tape is located further in the second feed direction than the detection position and when a first region of the print tape is located at the detection position, and outputs a second detection value when a second region of the print tape other than the first region is located at the detection position. and a detection unit that detects a position of the printing tape corresponding to each printing object, and the printing tape is provided with a plurality of detection target portions that function as first regions, and when a first detection value is output by the detection unit, the tape printing device controls the feeding mechanism to feed the printing tape a first distance in either the first feeding direction or the second feeding direction, and determines whether the first detection value output before the printing tape was fed the first distance is an output due to the detection target portion being located at the detection position, depending on whether the post-feed output, which is the output of the detection unit after the printing tape has been fed the first distance, is the first detection value. [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. 1 shows the arrangement of a print head, a sensor, and a cutter. [Figure 3] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a first print tape. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the leading end of the first print tape is positioned at a cutting position. [Figure 5] 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the end in the +X direction of a first detection target portion provided on a first print tape is located at a detection position. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the tape printing device. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing a first cueing process. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing a second cueing process. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a second print tape. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the leading end of the second print tape is positioned at a cutting position. [Figure 11] 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the end in the +X direction of a second detection target portion provided on a second print tape is located at a detection position. FIG. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart showing a third cueing process. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the leading end of the second print tape according to Modification 1 is positioned at a cutting position. [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart showing a printing process according to a first modification. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of a tape printing device according to a second modification. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a table according to Modification 2. 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, but these directions are not intended to limit the following embodiments in any way.

[0009] [First embodiment] FIG. 1 is an external view of a tape printer 1 and a tape cartridge C. The tape printer 1 prints on a printing object while feeding a printing tape T on which multiple printing objects are arranged in the tape length direction. The printing object in this embodiment is a heat shrink tube 53 (hereinafter referred to as "HST 53", see FIG. 3) that shrinks when heat is applied and is fixed to the object to which it is attached. The user covers the object to which the printing object is attached, such as a cable or cord, with the printed HST 53, and then applies heat with a hair dryer or the like to fix the HST 53 to the object to which it is attached. Hereinafter, the printing tape T on which multiple HSTs 53 are arranged will be referred to as the "first printing tape T1."

[0010] The tape printing device 1 includes a device case 3 and a cartridge mounting section cover 5. On the +Z direction surface of the device case 3, an operation key group 21, a display 22, and a cartridge mounting section 23 are provided.

[0011] The operation key group 21 accepts various user operations, such as editing the print image to be printed on the HST 53 of the first print tape T1. 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 based on the generated print data.

[0012] 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.

[0013] 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 11 that houses these.

[0014] The first print tape T1 is wound around the tape core 15. 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 by the take-up core 19. A head insertion hole 12 is provided in the cartridge case 11, penetrating in the Z direction. A tape outlet 13 extending in the Z direction is provided on the -X direction surface of the cartridge case 11. The first print tape T1 paid out from the tape core 15 is fed out of the cartridge case 11 from the tape outlet 13.

[0015] The cartridge mounting section 23 is provided with a print head 26 and a head cover 20. The print head 26 prints on the HST 53 of the first print tape T1. The head cover 20 partially covers the print head 26.

[0016] 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.

[0017] Furthermore, when the tape cartridge C is mounted in the cartridge mounting section 23, the print head 26 and head cover 20 are inserted into the head insertion hole 12. Subsequently, when the mounting section 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 first print tape T1 and the ink ribbon R are sandwiched between the print head 26 and the platen roller 17.

[0018] In this state, when the feed motor 45a (see FIG. 6) provided in the tape printing device 1 rotates in a first rotation direction, the platen roller 17 and the take-up core 19 rotate so that the first print tape T1 is fed out of the cartridge case 11 from the tape feed outlet 13 and the ink ribbon R is taken up onto the take-up core 19. At this time, the first print tape T1 is fed in the -X direction toward the tape discharge outlet 24. The -X direction is an example of a "first feed direction." Furthermore, when the motor rotates in a second rotation direction that is the opposite direction to the first rotation direction, the platen roller 17 and the pay-out core 18 rotate so that the first print tape T1 is pulled back into the cartridge case 11 and the ink ribbon R is rewound onto the pay-out core 18. At this time, the first print tape T1 is fed in the +X direction. The +X direction is an example of a "second feed direction."

[0019] The print head 26 generates heat according to the print data when the first print tape T1 is being fed in the -X direction. This causes the ink on the ink ribbon R to be transferred to the HST 53 of the first print tape T1, and a print image based on the print data is printed on the HST 53. The first print tape T1 after printing is discharged from the tape discharge port 24.

[0020] A sensor 43 and a full cutter 27 are provided between the cartridge mounting section 23 and the tape discharge port 24 (see Figure 2). The sensor 43 is an example of a "detection section." The sensor 43 detects a first detection target section H1 (see Figure 3) provided on the first print tape T1. The first detection target section H1 is an example of a "detection target section." During printing processing, the tape printing device 1 detects this first detection target section H1 and, based on the detection results, performs cueing for printing on the HST 53. The full cutter 27 cuts the first print tape T1 in the Z direction, i.e., in the tape width direction. This separates the printed portion of the first print tape T1.

[0021] Fig. 2 is a diagram showing the arrangement of the print head 26, sensor 43, and full cutter 27. Fig. 2 shows the arrangement of each component when the tape cartridge C is installed in the cartridge installation section 23. Therefore, the platen roller 17 housed in the cartridge case 11 of the tape cartridge C is positioned opposite the print head 26 with the first print tape T1 sandwiched between them.

[0022] 2, the detection position of sensor 43 is located in the -X direction from the printing position of print head 26. In the following explanation, 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 HS."

[0023] The sensor 43 is a transmissive optical sensor and includes a light-emitting element 43a and a light-receiving element 43b disposed opposite the light-emitting element 43a across the first print tape T1. The sensor 43 outputs an ON signal when the light-receiving element 43b is in a light-receiving state. The ON signal is an example of a "first detection value." The sensor 43 outputs an OFF signal when the light-receiving element 43b is not in a light-receiving state. The OFF signal is an example of a "second detection value." The sensor 43 outputs an ON signal when the leading edge of the first print tape T1 is located in the +X direction relative to the detection position and when a first region of the first print tape T1 is located at the detection position. The first region includes the first detection target portion H1. The sensor 43 outputs an OFF signal when a second region, which is a region of the first print tape T1 other than the first region, is located at the detection position. The second region includes the HST 53.

[0024] 3 is a diagram showing an example of the first print tape T1. The first print tape T1 includes a backing tape 51 and a plurality of HSTs 53 arranged at equal intervals on the backing tape 51. The plurality of HSTs 53 have the same shape and size and are arranged along the length direction of the first print tape T1. As described above, when the tape cartridge C is installed in the cartridge mounting portion 23, the length direction of the first print tape T1 unwound from the tape cartridge C is the X-axis direction. Below, the first print tape T1 will be described using the direction when the tape cartridge C is installed in the cartridge mounting portion 23.

[0025] The mount tape 51 is formed by laminating a translucent adhesive layer and a non-translucent backing layer in this order from the +Y direction. The -Y direction surface of the adhesive layer is an adhesive surface, and the mount tape 51 is attached to the +Y direction of the backing layer via the adhesive surface. The mount tape 51 is formed with a cutout area 52, where the mount layer is cut out in a rectangular shape, and a first detection target area H1, where the mount layer is cut out in a rectangular shape smaller than the cutout area 52. As described above, the cutout area 52 and the first detection target area H1 are translucent because they are areas where the mount layer of the mount tape 51 is cut out. On the other hand, the HST 53 is non-translucent and is attached to the adhesive surface of the translucent adhesive layer in the cutout area 52. Therefore, the area of the cutout area 52 other than the area where the HST 53 is attached is translucent. In the example of the first print tape T1 shown in FIG. 3, light-transmitting areas are formed in the cutout area 52 in the −X direction, +X direction, −Z direction, and +Z direction of the area where the HST 53 is attached.

[0026] Hereinafter, the region having translucency from the end of cutout region 52 in the -X direction to the end of HST 53 in the -X direction will be referred to as "first translucent region 54a." Also, the region having translucency from the end of HST 53 in the +X direction to the end of cutout region 52 in the +X direction will be referred to as "second translucent region 54b."

[0027] 3, the black area on the HST 53 indicates the print target area ES. The print target area ES means 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 HST 53.

[0028] In the following description, the length of the first light-transmitting region 54a in the X-axis direction is referred to as the first length L1. The length of the second light-transmitting region 54b in the X-axis direction is referred to as the second length L2. The length of the first detection target portion H1 in the X-axis direction is referred to as the third length L3. In the X-axis direction, the first length L1 and the second length L2 are shorter than the third length L3.

[0029] The length in the X-axis direction from the end of the first detection target H1 in the +X direction to the end of the first light-transmitting region 54a in the -X direction, which is located in the +X direction from the first detection target H1, is referred to as a fourth length L4. The length in the X-axis direction from the end of the first light-transmitting region 54a in the +X direction to the end of the second light-transmitting region 54b in the -X direction, i.e., the length of the HST 53 in the X-axis direction, is referred to as a fifth length L5. The length in the X-axis direction from the end of the second light-transmitting region 54b in the +X direction to the end of the first detection target H1 in the -X direction, which is located in the +X direction from the second light-transmitting region 54b, is referred to as a sixth length L6.

[0030] The length in the X-axis direction from the end of the first detection target portion H1 in the +X direction to the end of the print target area ES in the -X direction is referred to as the first print start length ML1. The first print start length ML1 is a length calculated based on the print data. The end of the print target area ES in the -X direction is the print start position of the HST 53.

[0031] 4 is a diagram showing a state in which the leading end of the first print tape T1 is located at the cutting position of the full cutter 27. After printing is completed, the tape printing device 1 cuts the first print tape T1 with the first detection target portion H1 located at the cutting position of the full cutter 27. Therefore, at the start of the printing process, the first print tape T1 is usually in the state shown in FIG.

[0032] However, depending on the usage conditions of the tape cartridge C, the leading edge of the first print tape T1 may not be positioned at the cutting position of the full cutter 27 when the printing process starts. For example, if a user removes the tape cartridge C from the cartridge mounting section 23 and accidentally cuts the first print tape T1 with scissors near the tape outlet 13 of the cartridge case 11, the leading edge of the first print tape T1 will be positioned in the +X direction from the detection position. Also, if a user intentionally pulls out the first print tape T1 after removing the tape cartridge C, the leading edge of the first print tape T1 will be positioned in the -X direction from the detection position.

[0033] In this way, the leading edge of the first print tape T1 is not always located at the cutting position of the full cutter 27. Therefore, after starting the printing process, the tape printing device 1 feeds the first print tape T1 in the +X direction to detect the first detection target portion H1. Details will be described later.

[0034] 4, the detection position of the sensor 43 in the Z-axis direction is located approximately in the center of the first print tape T1. This position corresponds to the position in the Z-axis direction of the first detection target portion H1 provided on the first print tape T1.

[0035] 5 is a diagram showing a state in which the end in the +X direction of the first detection target portion H1 provided on the first print tape T1 is located at the detection position of the sensor 43. The tape printing device 1 detects the end in the +X direction of the first detection target portion H1, and based on the detection result, performs cueing to align the print start position of the HST 53 with the print position of the print head 26.

[0036] The hardware configuration of the tape printing device 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 6. The tape printing device 1 includes a sensor 43, a control unit 44, a print head 26, a feeding mechanism 45, and a cutting mechanism 46.

[0037] As described above, the sensor 43 is a transmissive optical sensor. The sensor 43 outputs an ON signal when a first region having light-transmitting properties, such as the first detection target portion H1 of the first print tape T1, is located at the detection position, and outputs an OFF signal when a second region having no light-transmitting properties is located at the detection position.

[0038] The control unit 44 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 44a, a read only memory (ROM) 44b, and a random access memory (RAM) 44c.

[0039] 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.

[0040] The print head 26 includes a group of heating elements, and performs printing by thermally transferring ink from the ink ribbon R to the HST 53 of the first print tape T1.

[0041] The feed mechanism 45 includes a feed motor 45a and a platen drive shaft 25. The feed motor 45a is a drive source that drives the platen drive shaft 25. In this embodiment, the feed motor 45a is a stepping motor. The CPU 44a controls the feed amount of the print tape T based on the number of steps by which the feed motor 45a is rotated.

[0042] The cutting mechanism 46 includes a cutter motor 46a and a full cutter 27. The cutter motor 46a is a drive source that drives the full cutter 27. When the cutter motor 46a is driven, the full cutter 27 operates and cuts the printing tape T in the Z direction.

[0043] Here, the main functions of the control unit 44 will be described. After receiving a print start command, the control unit 44 controls the feed mechanism 45 to feed the first print tape T1 in the +X direction. Then, when an ON signal is output from the sensor 43, the control unit 44 controls the feed mechanism 45 to feed the first print tape T1 in the +X direction a first determination distance. The first determination distance is an example of a "first distance." Note that, in this embodiment, the first determination distance is longer than the length of any of the one or more light-transmitting regions 54 present between the first detection target portions H1 in the X-axis direction. As shown in FIG. 3 , in this embodiment, there are two light-transmitting regions 54: a first light-transmitting region 54a having a first length L1 in the X-axis direction and a second light-transmitting region 54b having a second length L2 in the X-axis direction. Therefore, the first determination distance is longer than both the first length L1 and the second length L2. The first judgment distance is shorter than the third length L3, which is the length of the first detection target H1 in the X-axis direction. The first judgment distance is shorter than the length between the first regions in the X-axis direction. That is, in this embodiment, the first judgment distance is shorter than any of the fourth length L4, the fifth length L5, and the sixth length L6.

[0044] When the post-feed output, which is the output of the sensor 43 after the first print tape T1 has been fed the first determination distance, is an ON signal, the control unit 44 determines that the ON signal output before the first print tape T1 was fed the first determination distance was an output caused by the first detection target portion H1 being located at the detection position. Furthermore, when the post-feed output is not an ON signal, the control unit 44 determines that the ON signal output before the first print tape T1 was fed the first determination distance was not an output caused by the first detection target portion H1 being located at the detection position. This is because the first determination distance is set to be shorter than the third length L3, which is the length of the first detection target portion H1, in the X-axis direction, and longer than both the first length L1 and the second length L2, which are the lengths of the light-transmitting region 54.

[0045] Furthermore, if the control unit 44 determines in the output determination that the ON signal output before feeding the first print tape T1 the first determination distance is due to the first detection target H1 being located at the detection position, it controls the feeding mechanism 45 to perform cueing to align the print start position of the HST 53 with the print position of the print head 26. Note that the process of cueing the HST 53 located furthest in the -X direction among the multiple HSTs 53 arranged on the first print tape T1 is hereinafter referred to as the "first cueing process." Furthermore, the HST 53 located furthest in the -X direction among the multiple HSTs 53 arranged on the first print tape T1 is referred to as the "first HST 53." Furthermore, the HST 53 located adjacent to the first HST 53 in the +X direction is referred to as the "second HST 53."

[0046] Furthermore, after the control unit 44 has performed the cueing of the first HST 53, it controls the feed mechanism 45 to feed the first print tape T1 in the -X direction. Then, when an ON signal is output from the sensor 43, the control unit 44 controls the feed mechanism 45 to feed the first print tape T1 in the -X direction a first determination distance. The output determination is the same as above. If the control unit 44 determines in the output determination that the ON signal output before feeding the first print tape T1 the first determination distance is output because the first detection target H1 is located at the detection position, it controls the feed mechanism 45 to perform cueing to align the print start positions of the second and subsequent HSTs 53 with the printing position of the print head 26. The process of cueing the second and subsequent HSTs 53 will be referred to as the "second cueing process."

[0047] Next, the flow of the first cueing process performed by the tape printing device 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart in Figure 7. The first cueing process is an example of a "method of controlling a tape printing device." The first cueing process is initiated when the tape printing device 1 receives a print start command. Upon receiving the print start command, the tape printing device 1 generates print data based on the results of editing the print image by the user, and then initiates the first cueing process.

[0048] In step S01, the tape printing device 1 determines the detection result of the sensor 43. If the control unit 44 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an OFF signal, the process proceeds to step S02. If the control unit 44 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an ON signal, the process proceeds to step S04.

[0049] In step S02, the tape printing apparatus 1 feeds the first print tape T1 in the +X direction.

[0050] In step S03, the tape printer 1 determines the detection result of the sensor 43. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an ON signal, the tape printer 1 proceeds to step S04. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an OFF signal, the tape printer 1 returns to step S02.

[0051] In step S04, the tape printing apparatus 1 feeds the first print tape T1 in the +X direction by a first determination distance.

[0052] In step S05, the tape printer 1 determines the detection result of the sensor 43. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an ON signal, the tape printer 1 proceeds to step S06. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an OFF signal, the tape printer 1 proceeds to step S07.

[0053] In step S06, the tape printing device 1 determines that the first detection target H1 was located at the detection position of the sensor 43. That is, if it is determined in step S01 that an ON signal has been detected, the tape printing device 1 determines that the first detection target H1 was located at the detection position of the sensor 43 at that time. Also, if it is determined in step S03 that an ON signal has been detected, the tape printing device 1 determines that the end of the first detection target H1 in the +X direction was located at the detection position of the sensor 43 at that time.

[0054] In step S07, the tape printer 1 determines that the first detection target H1 was not located at the detection position of the sensor 43. That is, if it is determined in step S01 that an ON signal has been detected, the tape printer 1 determines that the first light-transmitting region 54a or the second light-transmitting region 54b was located at the detection position of the sensor 43 at that time. Also, if it is determined in step S03 that an ON signal has been detected, the tape printer 1 determines that the end of the first light-transmitting region 54a or the second light-transmitting region 54b in the +X direction was located at the detection position of the sensor 43 at that time. After step S07, the tape printer 1 returns to step S02. The determinations in steps S06 and S07 are examples of "output determination."

[0055] In step S08, the tape printing apparatus 1 feeds the first print tape T1 in the -X direction.

[0056] In step S09, the tape printer 1 determines the detection result of the sensor 43. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an OFF signal, the tape printer 1 proceeds to step S10. In this case, the tape printer 1 determines that the end of the first detection target portion H1 in the +X direction has been detected. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an ON signal, the tape printer 1 returns to step S08. Note that when the rotation direction of the feed motor 45a is switched, idle feed control of the feed motor 45a may be performed to reduce the effect of backlash in the gear train mechanism (not shown) that is included in the feed mechanism 45. In this case, steps S08 and S09 may be omitted.

[0057] In step S10, the tape printer 1 performs cueing. If the first print start length ML1 is longer than the sensor head distance HS, the tape printer 1 determines in step S09 that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an OFF signal, and then performs cueing by feeding the first print tape T1 in the -X direction by the length obtained by subtracting the sensor head distance HS from the first print start length ML1. Also, if the first print start length ML1 is shorter than the sensor head distance HS, the tape printer 1 determines in step S09 that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an OFF signal, and then performs cueing by feeding the first print tape T1 in the +X direction by the length obtained by subtracting the first print start length ML1 from the sensor head distance HS.

[0058] Next, the flow of the second cueing process by the tape printing device 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart in Figure 8. The second cueing process is an example of a "method of controlling a tape printing device." The second cueing process is a process for cueing the second and subsequent HSTs 53, and is a process that is started after the first cueing process.

[0059] In step S21, the tape printing apparatus 1 feeds the first print tape T1 in the -X direction.

[0060] In step S22, the tape printer 1 determines the detection result of the sensor 43. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an ON signal, the tape printer 1 proceeds to step S23. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an OFF signal, the tape printer 1 returns to step S21.

[0061] In step S23, the tape printing apparatus 1 feeds the first print tape T1 in the -X direction by a first determination distance.

[0062] In step S24, the tape printer 1 determines the detection result of the sensor 43. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an ON signal, the tape printer 1 proceeds to step S25. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an OFF signal, the tape printer 1 proceeds to step S26.

[0063] In step S25, the tape printing device 1 determines that the first detection target H1 was located at the detection position of the sensor 43. That is, the tape printing device 1 determines that the end of the first detection target H1 in the -X direction was located at the detection position of the sensor 43 at the time when it was determined in step S22 that the detection result of the sensor 43 was an ON signal.

[0064] In step S26, the tape printer 1 determines that the first detection target portion H1 was not located at the detection position of the sensor 43. That is, the tape printer 1 determines that the end of the first light-transmitting area 54a or the second light-transmitting area 54b in the -X direction was located at the time when it was determined in step S22 that the detection result of the sensor 43 was an ON signal. After step S26, the tape printer 1 returns to step S21. The determinations in steps S25 and S26 are examples of "output determination".

[0065] In step S27, the tape printing apparatus 1 feeds the first print tape T1 in the -X direction.

[0066] In step S28, the tape printer 1 determines the detection result of the sensor 43. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an OFF signal, the tape printer 1 proceeds to step S29. In this case, the tape printer 1 determines that the end of the first detection target portion H1 in the +X direction has been detected. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an ON signal, the tape printer 1 returns to step S27.

[0067] In step S29, the tape printer 1 performs cueing. The tape printer 1 performs different cueing depending on whether the margin length ML is longer than the sensor head distance HS. For example, assume that the first detection target portions H1 on the first print tape T1 are arranged in the order of the nth first detection target portion H1, the (n+1)th first detection target portion H1, and the (n+2)th first detection target portion H1 from the -X direction. In this case, the nth HST 53 is arranged between the nth first detection target portion H1 and the (n+1)th first detection target portion H1, and the (n+1)th HST 53 is arranged between the (n+1)th first detection target portion H1 and the (n+2)th first detection target portion H1. In this case, if the margin length ML is longer than the distance HS between the sensor heads, the tape printing device 1 locates the beginning of the nth HST53 based on the detection result of the nth first detection target portion H1, and if the margin length ML is shorter than the distance HS between the sensor heads, the tape printing device 1 locates the beginning of the (n+1)th HST53 based on the detection result of the nth first detection target portion H1.

[0068] As described above, when the sensor 43 outputs an ON signal, the tape printer 1 according to the first embodiment feeds the first print tape T1 a first determination distance in either the −X direction or the +X direction. The first determination distance is longer than both the first length L1 and the second length L2 and shorter than both the third length L3, the fourth length L4, the fifth length L5, and the sixth length L6. If the sensor 43 outputs an ON signal after the first print tape T1 has been fed the first determination distance, the tape printer 1 determines that the ON signal output before the first print tape T1 has been fed the first determination distance was due to the first detection target portion H1 being located at the detection position of the sensor 43. If the sensor 43 outputs an OFF signal after the first print tape T1 has been fed the first determination distance, the tape printer 1 determines that the ON signal output before the first print tape T1 has been fed the first determination distance was not due to the first detection target portion H1 being located at the detection position of the sensor 43. As a result, the tape printing device 1 can accurately detect the first detection target portion H1 even when the first printing tape T1 having the light-transmitting region 54 is used, and can thereby suppress misalignment of the printing position due to erroneous detection of the first detection target portion H1.

[0069] Furthermore, in the first cueing process, the tape printing device performs output determination by feeding the first print tape T1 in the +X direction after obtaining a print start command, so the HST 53 is not wasted.

[0070] [Second embodiment] A second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 9 to 12. In the first embodiment, a first print tape T1 was used as the print tape T, but in this embodiment, a second print tape T2 (see Figure 9) is used. The second print tape T2 is characterized in that a detection target portion H is formed on the printing object. Only differences from the first embodiment will be described below. In this embodiment, components similar to those in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and detailed description will be omitted. Furthermore, modifications applied to components similar to those in the first embodiment are also applied to this embodiment.

[0071] 9 is a diagram showing an example of the second print tape T2. The second print tape T2 is divided by the cuts CL into a plate 61, which is the area inside the cuts CL, and a peripheral area 62, which is the area outside the cuts CL. The plate 61 is an example of a "printing object." The second print tape T2 is made of a thin resin.

[0072] On the second print tape T2, multiple plates 61 of the same shape and size are arranged at equal intervals in the X-axis direction. A second detection target portion H2 is formed at the end of the plate 61 in the -X direction. The second detection target portion H2 is a rounded rectangular through-hole that is elongated in the Z-axis direction. A first hole 63a, a second hole 63b, a third hole 63c, and a fourth hole 63d are formed near the four corners of the plate 61. These four holes 63 are rounded rectangular through-holes that are elongated in the X-axis direction. The areas of the second print tape T2 other than the second detection target portion H2 and the four holes 63 are non-transparent. In FIG. 9, the black areas on the plate 61 indicate the printing target areas ES.

[0073] When printing on the plate 61 is complete, the user bends part of the notch CL to lift the edge of the plate 61 from the peripheral portion 62, and then pinches the lifted edge of the plate 61 to separate the plate 61 from the peripheral portion 62. The user then passes a cable tie or string through the second detection target portion H2 and at least one of the four holes 63 of the peeled-off plate 61. The user then uses the cable tie or string passed through the hole 63 to secure the plate 61 to an attachment object such as a cable or cord.

[0074] The length of the second detection target portion H2 in the X-axis direction is referred to as the eighth length L8. Furthermore, the length in the X-axis direction from the leading edge of the second print tape T2, which is the end of the second print tape T2 in the -X direction, to the end in the -X direction of the second detection target portion H2 provided on the plate 61 located furthest in the -X direction among the multiple plates 61 provided on the second print tape T2, i.e., the first plate 61, is referred to as the ninth length L9. Furthermore, the length in the X-axis direction from the end in the +X direction of the second detection target portion H2 to the end in the -X direction of the printing target area ES is referred to as the second print start length ML2. The second print start length ML2 is a length calculated based on the print data.

[0075] Figure 10 is a diagram showing a state in which the leading end of the second print tape T2 is located at the cutting position of the full cutter 27. After printing is completed, the tape printing device 1 cuts the second print tape T2 in a state in which the peripheral portion 62 between the plates 61 is located at the cutting position of the full cutter 27. Therefore, at the start of the printing process, the second print tape T2 is usually in the state shown in Figure 10.

[0076] However, depending on the usage status of the tape cartridge C, the leading edge of the second print tape T2 may not necessarily be located at the cutting position of the full cutter 27 at the start of the printing process. In other words, the second detection target H2 may not necessarily be located in the -X direction from the detection position of the sensor 43 at the start of the printing process. For example, if the detection position of the sensor 43 is located between the leading edge of the second print tape T2 and the second detection target H2 at the start of the printing process, when the tape printer 1 feeds the second print tape T2 in the +X direction after the start of the printing process, the sensor 43 will first output an ON signal when the leading edge of the second print tape T2 passes the detection position. In such a case, to avoid erroneously detecting the ON signal output as being due to detection of the second detection target H2, the tape printer 1 performs an output determination at the start of the printing process to determine whether the ON signal output is due to detection of the second detection target H2. Note that, as shown in FIG. 10 , the detection position of the sensor 43 in the Z-axis direction corresponds to the position of the second detection target H2 but does not correspond to the positions of the four holes 63. Therefore, none of the four holes 63 will be erroneously detected as the second detection target portion H2.

[0077] 11 is a diagram showing a state in which the end in the +X direction of the second detection target portion H2 provided on the second print tape T2 is located at the detection position of the sensor 43. The tape printing device 1 detects the end in the +X direction of the second detection target portion H2, and based on the detection result, performs cueing to align the printing start position of the plate 61 with the printing position of the print head 26.

[0078] Here, the main functions of the control unit 44 according to this embodiment will be described. After receiving a print start command, the control unit 44 controls the feed mechanism 45 to feed the second print tape T2 in the +X direction. Then, when an ON signal is output from the sensor 43, the control unit 44 controls the feed mechanism 45 to feed the second print tape T2 in the +X direction a second determination distance. The second determination distance is an example of the "first distance." The second determination distance is a determination distance in the third cueing process, which will be described later. In this embodiment, the second determination distance is longer than the eighth length L8 and shorter than the ninth length L9 (see FIG. 9).

[0079] If the post-feed output, which is the output of the sensor 43 after the second print tape T2 has been fed the second determination distance, is not an ON signal, the control unit 44 determines that the ON signal output before the second print tape T2 has been fed the second determination distance is an output caused by the second detection target portion H2 being located at the detection position. Furthermore, if the post-feed output, which is the output of the sensor 43 after the second print tape T2 has been fed the second determination distance, is an ON signal, the control unit 44 determines that the ON signal output before the second print tape T2 has been fed the second determination distance is not an output caused by the second detection target portion H2 being located at the detection position. This is because the second determination distance is set to a length that is longer than the eighth length L8, which is the length of the second detection target portion H2 in the X-axis direction, and shorter than the ninth length L9, which is the length from the tip of the second print tape T2 to the end in the -X direction of the second detection target portion H2 provided on the first plate 61.

[0080] If the control unit 44 determines in the output judgment that the ON signal output before the second printing tape T2 is fed the second judgment distance is an output due to the second detection target part H2 being located at the detection position, it controls the feed mechanism 45 to perform a cueing operation to align the printing start position of the plate 61 with the printing position of the print head 26.

[0081] Next, the flow of the third cueing process, which is the cueing process of the tape printer 1 according to this embodiment, will be described with reference to the flowchart in Figure 12. The third cueing process is an example of a "method of controlling a tape printer." The third cueing process is started when the tape printer 1 receives a print start command. When the tape printer 1 receives the print start command, it generates print data based on the results of editing the print image by the user, and then starts the third cueing process.

[0082] In step S31, the tape printing device 1 determines the detection result of the sensor 43. If the control unit 44 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an OFF signal, the process proceeds to step S32. If the control unit 44 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an ON signal, the process proceeds to step S34.

[0083] In step S32, the tape printing apparatus 1 feeds the second print tape T2 in the +X direction.

[0084] In step S33, the tape printer 1 determines the detection result of the sensor 43. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an ON signal, the tape printer 1 proceeds to step S34. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an OFF signal, the tape printer 1 returns to step S32.

[0085] In step S34, the tape printing apparatus 1 feeds the second print tape T2 in the +X direction by a second determination distance.

[0086] In step S35, the tape printer 1 determines the detection result of the sensor 43. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an OFF signal, the tape printer 1 proceeds to step S36. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an ON signal, the tape printer 1 proceeds to step S37.

[0087] In step S36, the tape printing device 1 determines that the second detection target H2 was located at the detection position of the sensor 43. That is, if it is determined in step S31 that an ON signal has been detected, the tape printing device 1 determines that the second detection target H2 was located at the detection position of the sensor 43 at that time. Also, if it is determined in step S33 that an ON signal has been detected, the tape printing device 1 determines that the end of the second detection target H2 in the +X direction was located at the detection position of the sensor 43 at that time.

[0088] In step S37, the tape printer 1 determines that the second detection target portion H2 was not located at the detection position of the sensor 43. That is, when it is determined in step S31 that an ON signal has been detected, the tape printer 1 determines that the leading edge of the second print tape T2 was located in the +X direction from the detection position of the sensor 43 at that time. Furthermore, when it is determined in step S33 that an ON signal has been detected, the tape printer 1 determines that the leading edge of the second print tape T2 was located at the detection position of the sensor 43 at that time. The determinations in steps S36 and S37 are examples of "output determination."

[0089] In step S38, the tape printing apparatus 1 feeds the second print tape T2 in the -X direction.

[0090] In step S39, the tape printer 1 determines the detection result of the sensor 43. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an OFF signal, the tape printer 1 proceeds to step S40. In this case, the tape printer 1 determines that the leading end of the second print tape T2 has been detected. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an ON signal, the tape printer 1 returns to step S38.

[0091] In step S40, the tape printing apparatus 1 feeds the second print tape T2 in the -X direction.

[0092] In step S41, the tape printer 1 determines the detection result of the sensor 43. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an ON signal, the tape printer 1 proceeds to step S42. In this case, the tape printer 1 determines that the end of the second detection target portion H2 in the -X direction has been detected. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an OFF signal, the tape printer 1 returns to step S40.

[0093] In step S42, the tape printing apparatus 1 feeds the second print tape T2 in the -X direction.

[0094] In step S43, the tape printer 1 determines the detection result of the sensor 43. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an OFF signal, the tape printer 1 proceeds to step S44. In this case, the tape printer 1 determines that the end of the second detection target portion H2 in the +X direction has been detected. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an ON signal, the tape printer 1 returns to step S42.

[0095] In step S44, the tape printer 1 performs cueing. If the margin length ML is longer than the sensor head distance HS, the tape printer 1 determines in step S43 that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an OFF signal, and then performs cueing by feeding the second print tape T2 in the -X direction by the length obtained by subtracting the sensor head distance HS from the margin length ML. Also, if the margin length ML is shorter than the sensor head distance HS, the tape printer 1 determines in step S43 that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an OFF signal, and then performs cueing by feeding the second print tape T2 in the +X direction by the length obtained by subtracting the margin length ML from the sensor head distance HS.

[0096] After aligning the first plate 61, the tape printer 1 according to this embodiment aligns the second and subsequent plates 61 without performing an output determination. Furthermore, when cutting the second print tape T2 after printing on the plate 61, the tape printer 1 according to this embodiment detects the end of the second detection target portion H2 in the +X direction, then feeds the second print tape T2 in the -X direction by a predetermined length to cut the second print tape T2. In this case, the predetermined length is the distance in the X-axis direction between the detection position of the sensor 43 and the cutting position of the full cutter 27 minus the eighth length L8 and the ninth length L9.

[0097] As described above, the tape printing device 1 according to the second embodiment can suppress misalignment of the printing position due to erroneous detection of the second detection target portion H2, even when the second printing tape T2 having the second detection target portion H2 formed on the plate 61 is used.

[0098] Regardless of the above two embodiments, the following modifications can be adopted. [Variation 1] As a modified example of the second embodiment, a second print tape T2 shown in FIG. 13 may be used. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a state in which the leading end of the second print tape T2 according to this modified example is located at the cutting position. The second print tape T2 according to this modified example has a wider gap in the X-axis direction between the plates 61 and the second print start length ML2 than the second print tape T2 according to the second embodiment (see FIG. 9). In this modified example, after detecting the end of the second detection target portion H2 in the -X direction, the tape printer 1 stops feeding the second print tape T2 in the -X direction and cuts the second print tape T2. Therefore, when the second print tape T2 is cut, the second print tape T2 is usually in the state shown in FIG. 13. That is, when the second print tape T2 is cut, the detection position of the sensor 43 is located between the center of the second detection target portion H2 in the X-axis direction and the end of the second detection target portion H2 in the -X direction.

[0099] 14 is a flowchart showing the printing process according to this modification. The printing process is started after the third cueing process. The third cueing process is the same as in the second embodiment, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0100] In step S51, the tape printing apparatus 1 feeds the second print tape T2 in the -X direction while driving the print head 26. Note that step S51 is performed based on print data that has been generated in advance.

[0101] In step S52, the tape printer 1 determines whether printing has finished. If the tape printer 1 determines that printing has finished, it proceeds to step S53. If the tape printer 1 determines that printing has not finished, it returns to step S51.

[0102] In step S53, the tape printing apparatus 1 feeds the second print tape T2 in the -X direction.

[0103] In step S54, the tape printer 1 determines the detection result of the sensor 43. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an ON signal, the tape printer 1 proceeds to step S55. In this case, the tape printer 1 determines that the end of the second detection target portion H2 in the -X direction has been detected. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an OFF signal, the tape printer 1 returns to step S53.

[0104] In step S55, the tape printer 1 determines whether or not there is next printing. The tape printer 1 determines whether or not there is next printing based on the printing data. The next printing refers to printing on a plate 61 located in the +X direction of the plate 61 on which printing was completed in step S52. If the tape printer 1 determines that there is next printing, it proceeds to step S58. On the other hand, if the tape printer 1 determines that there is not next printing, it proceeds to step S56.

[0105] In step S56, the tape printer 1 stops feeding the second print tape T2 in the -X direction. If it is determined in step S54 that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an ON signal, the cutting position is within the range between the plates 61 in the X-axis direction. Therefore, in this modified example, there is no need to perform a rewinding process before cutting the second print tape T2.

[0106] In step S57, the tape printing apparatus 1 cuts the second print tape T2. After step S57, the tape printing apparatus 1 ends the printing process.

[0107] In step S58, the tape printer 1 stops feeding the second print tape T2 in the -X direction. As in step S56, in this modified example, the rewinding process before cutting the second print tape T2 is not necessary.

[0108] In step S59, the tape printing apparatus 1 cuts the second print tape T2.

[0109] In step S60, the tape printing apparatus 1 feeds the second print tape T2 in the -X direction.

[0110] In step S61, the tape printer 1 determines the detection result of the sensor 43. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an OFF signal, the tape printer 1 proceeds to step S62. In this case, the tape printer 1 determines that the end of the second detection target portion H2 in the +X direction has been detected. If the tape printer 1 determines that the detection result of the sensor 43 is an ON signal, the tape printer 1 returns to step S60.

[0111] In step S62, the tape printing apparatus 1 performs cueing. The cueing method is the same as that in the second embodiment (step S44 in FIG. 12).

[0112] As described above, the tape printer 1 according to this modified example cuts the second print tape T2 based on the detection of the end of the second detection target portion H2 in the -X direction. If the second print tape T2 according to this modified example shown in FIG. 13 were cut based on the detection of the end of the second detection target portion H2 in the +X direction, as in the second embodiment, a rewinding process would be required to feed the second print tape T2 in the +X direction for cueing. In contrast, in this modified example, the second print tape T2 is cut based on the detection of the end of the second detection target portion H2 in the -X direction, eliminating the need for a rewinding process and ultimately reducing the job time. Furthermore, assuming that the distance in the X-axis direction between the detection position of the sensor 43 and the cutting position of the full cutter 27 is the sensor-cutter distance, the second print tape T2 is cut based on the detection of the end of the second detection target portion H2 in the -X direction under the following conditions, eliminating the need for a rewinding process during cutting. The conditions are that the length from the end of plate 61 in the -X direction to the end of second detection target H2 in the +X direction is shorter than the sensor-cutter distance, and that the length from the end of plate 61 in the -X direction to the end of second detection target H2 in the -X direction is greater than the sensor-cutter distance.

[0113] [Variation 2] The tape printing device 1 may be configured to be capable of using multiple types of print tape T with one device. Figure 15 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the tape printing device 1 according to this modification. The tape printing device 1 according to this modification includes a tape type detection unit 41.

[0114] The tape type detection unit 41 detects the type of the print tape T. The tape type detection unit 41 detects the type of the print tape T, for example, by optically reading a code image (not shown) provided on the outer surface of the tape cartridge C attached to the cartridge attachment unit 23. In this case, the code image is an image in which type information indicating the type of the print tape T is coded, and is, for example, a two-dimensional code or a barcode.

[0115] The tape type detection unit 41 may detect the type of the printing tape T by acquiring 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.

[0116] The tape printer 1 according to this modified example also includes a storage unit 81 in the ROM 44b. The storage unit 81 stores a table 82 shown in Fig. 16. The table 82 is information that associates the type of print tape T with a determination distance and a determination algorithm. The determination algorithm is information that indicates whether, when the post-feed output is an ON signal, it is determined that an ON signal output before the print tape T is fed the determination distance is an output that is due to the detection target portion H being located at the detection position, or whether, when the post-feed output is not an ON signal, it is determined that an ON signal output before the print tape T is fed the determination distance is an output that is due to the detection target portion H being located at the detection position.

[0117] The control unit 44 according to this modified example acquires the type of print tape T detected by the tape type detection unit 41. The control unit 44 is an example of an "acquisition unit." The control unit 44 also references the table 82 and makes an output determination based on the determination distance and determination algorithm corresponding to the acquired type of print tape T. For example, when the control unit 44 acquires "Type A" as the type of print tape T, it sets the determination distance to "3 mm" and sets "Algorithm A" as the determination algorithm. For example, "Type A" is the type of the first print tape T1, and "Algorithm A" is a determination algorithm that, when the post-feed output is an ON signal, determines that the ON signal output before feeding the print tape T the determination distance is an output due to the detection target portion H being located at the detection position.

[0118] In this way, the tape printing device 1 according to this modification is compatible with multiple types of print tape T with different determination distances and determination algorithms, and regardless of the type of print tape T used, it is possible to prevent deviation of the print position due to erroneous detection of the detection target portion H. Furthermore, the tape printing device 1 is equipped with a tape type detection unit 41, and therefore can automatically obtain the type of tape.

[0119] As a further modification, the tape printing device 1 may acquire the type of the print tape T inputted through the operation key group 21. The operation key group 21 is an example of an "input unit." With this configuration, the tape printing device 1 can acquire the type of the print tape T without having a tape type detection unit 41.

[0120] As a further modification, the table 82 may associate the type of print tape T with the determination distance, or may associate the type of print tape T with the determination algorithm. In the former case, the tape printing device 1 may make an output determination based on the determination distance corresponding to the acquired type of print tape T and a predetermined determination algorithm. In the latter case, the control unit 44 may make an output determination based on the determination algorithm corresponding to the acquired type of print tape T and a predetermined determination distance.

[0121] [Variation 3] In the first and second embodiments, the detection position of the sensor 43 in the Z axis direction does not necessarily have to be located at approximately the center of the first print tape T1 or the second print tape T2. The detection position of the sensor 43 in the Z axis direction only needs to correspond to the position of the detection target portion H provided on the print tape T in the Z axis direction.

[0122] [Variation 4] In the first and second embodiments, the sensor 43 may be a reflective optical sensor instead of a transmissive optical sensor.

[0123] [Variation 5] In the first and second embodiments, a mechanical switch may be used instead of the sensor 43. The mechanical switch is an example of a "detection unit." In this modification, it is assumed that the first print tape T1 has a portion of the backing tape 51 cut out that corresponds to the first detection target portion H1 and the light-transmitting area 54, which function as the first area. The mechanical switch outputs a first detection value when the first area of the print tape T being fed in the -X direction or +X direction is located at the detection position, i.e., when the tip of the mechanical switch has penetrated the print tape T. The mechanical switch also outputs a second detection value when the second area of the print tape T is located at the detection position, i.e., when the tip of the mechanical switch has not penetrated the print tape T. In this way, the tape printing device 1 can achieve the effects of the above embodiments even when a mechanical switch is used as the detection unit.

[0124] [Variation 6] In the first print tape T1, the first detection target portion H1 may be a shape other than a rectangle. In the second print tape T2, the second detection target portion H2 may be a shape other than a rounded rectangle. In the second print tape T2, the second detection target portion H2 does not necessarily have to be formed on the plate 61, but may be formed on the peripheral portion 62. In addition, the printing objects arranged on the first print tape T1 or the second print tape T2 may be labels or the like instead of the HST 53 or the plate 61. In addition, the multiple printing objects arranged on the print tape T do not necessarily have to be the same shape and size, and do not necessarily have to be arranged at equal intervals in the X-axis direction.

[0125] [Variation 7] The tape printing device 1 does not have to be configured to be able to mount the tape cartridge C. For example, the tape printing device 1 may be one that includes a platen roller, or one that prints on a print tape T that is supplied from outside the tape printing device 1.

[0126] [Variation 8] The firmware for the tape printer 1 may be provided to the customer as a program. Alternatively, a storage medium on which the firmware for the tape printer 1 is recorded may be provided to the customer. The tape printer 1 may use a printing method other than the thermal transfer method, such as an inkjet method. The feed motor 45a may be a DC motor or other drive motor instead of a stepping motor. Other modifications may be made as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0127] [Note] The tape printing device and the method for controlling the tape printing device will be described below. The tape printing device 1 includes a feed mechanism 45 that feeds the print tape T, on which a plurality of print objects are arranged in the length direction of the print tape T, in the -X direction and the +X direction; a print head 26 that prints on the print objects on the print tape T that is fed in the -X direction; a sensor 43 that outputs a first detection value when its detection position is located in the -X direction from the printing position of the print head 26 and when the leading end of the print tape T is located in the +X direction from the detection position and when a first region of the print tape T is located at the detection position, and that outputs a second detection value when a second region of the print tape T other than the first region is located at the detection position; and a control unit. 44, and the printing tape T is provided with a plurality of detection target portions H which are provided in correspondence with each printing object and function as first regions, and when a first detection value is output by the sensor 43, the control unit 44 controls the feeding mechanism 45 to feed the printing tape T a first distance in either the -X direction or the +X direction, and performs an output determination to determine whether the first detection value output before the printing tape T was fed the first distance is an output due to the detection target portion H being located at the detection position, depending on whether the post-feed output which is the output of the sensor 43 after the printing tape T has been fed the first distance is the first detection value.

[0128] The control method for the tape printer 1 includes a feed mechanism 45 that feeds the print tape T, on which a plurality of print objects are arranged in the length direction of the print tape T, in the -X direction and +X direction, a print head 26 that prints on the print objects on the print tape T that is fed in the -X direction, and a sensor 43 that outputs a first detection value when the detection position is located in the -X direction from the printing position of the print head 26 and when the leading end of the print tape T is located in the +X direction from the detection position and when a first region of the print tape T is located at the detection position, and that outputs a second detection value when a second region of the print tape T other than the first region is located at the detection position. A control method for a tape printing device 1, in which the printing tape T is provided with a plurality of detection target portions H that correspond to each printing object and function as first regions, and when a first detection value is output by the sensor 43, the tape printing device 1 controls the feeding mechanism 45 to feed the printing tape T a first distance in either the -X direction or the +X direction, and determines whether the first detection value output before the printing tape T was fed the first distance is an output due to the detection target portion H being located at the detection position, depending on whether the post-feed output, which is the output of the sensor 43 after the printing tape T has been fed the first distance, is the first detection value.

[0129] According to this configuration, when the sensor 43 outputs a first detection value, the tape printer 1 feeds the print tape T a first distance, and, depending on whether the output after feeding the print tape T the first distance is the first detection value, determines whether the first detection value output before feeding the print tape T the first distance is an output caused by the detection target portion H being located at the detection position. This allows the tape printer 1 to accurately detect the detection target portion H, and ultimately prevents deviation of the printing position due to erroneous detection of the detection target portion H.

[0130] In the above-described tape printing device 1, after receiving a print start command, the control unit 44 controls the feed mechanism 45 to feed the printing tape T in one direction, the +X direction, and if it is determined in the output determination that the first detection value output before the printing tape T is fed the first distance is an output due to the detection target part H being located at the detection position, it is preferable to control the feed mechanism 45 to perform a cueing operation to align the printing start position of the printing object with the printing position of the print head 26.

[0131] According to this configuration, after receiving a print start command, the tape printer 1 performs output determination by feeding the print tape T in the +X direction, so that no printing material is wasted.

[0132] In the above-described tape printing device 1, the sensor 43 is an optical sensor, and the printing tape T is provided with one or more light-transmitting regions 54 that are positioned between the detection target portions H and H, have a length in the -X direction that is shorter than the length of the detection target portions H, and function as first regions, and the first distance is longer than the length of any of the one or more light-transmitting regions 54 in the -X direction, shorter than the length of the detection target portion H, and shorter than the length between the first regions, and if the post-feeding output is the first detection value, the control unit 44 preferably determines that the first detection value output before the printing tape T is fed the first distance is an output caused by the detection target portion H being located at the detection position, and if the post-feeding output is not the first detection value, the control unit 44 preferably determines that the first detection value output before the printing tape T is fed the first distance is not an output caused by the detection target portion H being located at the detection position.

[0133] According to this configuration, the tape printing device 1 can suppress deviation of the printing position due to erroneous detection of the detection target portion H, even when a printing tape T provided with the light-transmitting region 54 is used.

[0134] In the above-described tape printing device 1, the sensor 43 is an optical sensor, the printing tape T has a detection target portion H formed on the printing object, the first distance is longer than the length of the detection target portion H in the -X direction and shorter than the length from the tip of the printing tape T to the end in the +X direction of the detection target portion H that is located furthest in the -X direction among the multiple detection target portions H, and if the post-feed output is not the first detection value, the control unit 44 preferably determines that the first detection value output before the printing tape T is fed the first distance is an output caused by the detection target portion H being located at the detection position, and if the post-feed output is the first detection value, the control unit 44 preferably determines that the first detection value output before the printing tape T is fed the first distance is not an output caused by the detection target portion H being located at the detection position.

[0135] According to this configuration, even when a printing tape T on which a detection target portion H is formed on the printing object is used, the tape printing device 1 can suppress deviation of the printing position due to erroneous detection of the detection target portion H.

[0136] The above-mentioned tape printing device 1 preferably further comprises an acquisition unit that acquires the type of printing tape T, and a memory unit 81 that stores a table 82 that associates the type of printing tape T with the first distance, and the control unit 44 refers to the table 82 and makes an output determination based on the first distance corresponding to the type of tape acquired by the acquisition unit.

[0137] According to this configuration, the tape printing device 1 can accommodate multiple types of printing tape T with different first distances, and regardless of which printing tape T is used, it is possible to suppress deviation of the printing position due to erroneous detection of the detection target portion H.

[0138] The above-described tape printing device 1 further includes an acquisition unit that acquires the type of print tape T, and a memory unit 81 that stores a table 82 that associates the type of print tape T with a determination algorithm for determining, when the post-feed output is the first detection value, whether the first detection value output before the print tape T is fed the first distance is an output due to the detection target portion H being located at the detection position, or, when the post-feed output is not the first detection value, whether the first detection value output before the print tape T is fed the first distance is an output due to the detection target portion H being located at the detection position, and it is preferable that the control unit 44 refers to the table 82 and makes an output determination based on the determination algorithm that corresponds to the type of print tape T acquired by the acquisition unit.

[0139] According to this configuration, the tape printing device 1 can handle multiple types of printing tape T with different determination algorithms, and regardless of which printing tape T is used, it is possible to suppress deviation of the printing position due to erroneous detection of the detection target portion H.

[0140] It is preferable that the above-described tape printing device 1 further includes a tape type detection unit 41 that detects the type of the print tape T, and the acquisition unit acquires the type of the print tape T detected by the tape type detection unit 41.

[0141] According to this configuration, the tape printing device 1 can automatically obtain the type of the print tape T.

[0142] It is preferable that the above-described tape printing device 1 further comprises an input unit for inputting the type of the print tape T, and the acquisition unit acquires the type of the print tape T input by the input unit.

[0143] According to this configuration, the tape printing device 1 can obtain the type of the print tape T without having the tape type detection unit 41. [Explanation of symbols]

[0144] 1...tape printing device, 26...printing head, 41...tape type detection unit, 43...sensor, 44...control unit, 45...feed mechanism, 53...HST, 54...light-transmitting area, 61...plate, 81...memory unit, 82...table, H...detection target unit, H1...first detection target unit, H2...second detection target unit, T...printing tape, T1...first printing tape, T2...second printing tape.

Claims

1. a feeding mechanism that feeds the printing tape, on which a plurality of printing objects are arranged in the length direction of the printing tape, in a first feeding direction and a second feeding direction opposite to the first feeding direction; a print head that prints on the printing object on the print tape being fed in the first feed direction; a detection unit that outputs a first detection value when a detection position is located further in the first feed direction than a printing position of the print head, the leading edge of the print tape is located further in the second feed direction than the detection position, and when a first region of the print tape is located at the detection position, and that outputs a second detection value when a second region of the print tape other than the first region is located at the detection position; a control unit, The printing tape is provided with a plurality of detection target portions that correspond to the respective printing objects and function as the first areas, The control unit When the detection unit outputs the first detection value, the feeding mechanism is controlled to feed the printing tape a first distance in either the first feed direction or the second feed direction, and an output determination is made to determine whether the first detection value output before the printing tape was fed the first distance is an output due to the detection target being located at the detection position, depending on whether the post-feed output, which is the output of the detection unit after the printing tape has been fed the first distance, is the first detection value.

2. The control unit controls the feed mechanism to feed the printing tape in the second feed direction as the one direction after obtaining a print start command, and if it determines in the output determination that the first detection value output before the printing tape is fed the first distance is an output due to the detection target being located at the detection position, it controls the feed mechanism to perform a cueing operation to align the print start position of the printing object with the printing position of the print head.

3. the detection unit is an optical sensor, the printing tape is provided with one or more light-transmitting regions that are positioned between the detection target portions, have a length in the first feed direction that is shorter than a length of the detection target portions, and function as the first region; the first distance is longer than a length of any of the one or more light-transmitting regions, shorter than a length of the detection target portion, and shorter than a length between the first regions, in the first feed direction; when the post-feed output is the first detection value, the control unit determines that the first detection value output before the print tape is fed the first distance is an output caused by the detection target portion being located at the detection position, The tape printing device described in claim 2, characterized in that, if the post-feed output is not the first detection value, the control unit determines that the first detection value output before the printing tape is fed the first distance is not an output caused by the detection target being located at the detection position.

4. the detection unit is an optical sensor, the printing tape is provided with the detection target portion formed on the printing object, the first distance is longer than a length of the detection target portion in the first feed direction and shorter than a length from a leading end of the print tape to an end in the second feed direction of the detection target portion that is furthest from the plurality of detection target portions in the first feed direction, when the post-feed output is not the first detection value, the control unit determines that the first detection value output before the print tape is fed the first distance is an output due to the detection target portion being located at the detection position, The tape printing device described in claim 2, characterized in that, when the post-feed output is the first detection value, the control unit determines that the first detection value output before the printing tape is fed the first distance is not an output caused by the detection target being located at the detection position.

5. an acquisition unit that acquires the type of the print tape; a storage unit that stores a table that associates the type of the print tape with the first distance, 2. The tape printing device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit refers to the table and makes the output determination based on the first distance corresponding to the type of printing tape acquired by the acquisition unit.

6. an acquisition unit that acquires the type of the print tape; a storage unit that stores a table that associates the type of the print tape with a determination algorithm for determining, when the post-feed output is the first detection value, whether the first detection value output before the print tape is fed the first distance is an output due to the detection target portion being located at the detection position, or, when the post-feed output is not the first detection value, whether the first detection value output before the print tape is fed the first distance is an output due to the detection target portion being located at the detection position, 2. The tape printing device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit refers to the table and performs the output determination based on the determination algorithm corresponding to the type of the print tape acquired by the acquisition unit.

7. Further, a tape type detection unit is provided to detect the type of the printing tape, 7. The tape printing device according to claim 5, wherein the acquisition unit acquires the type of the print tape detected by the tape type detection unit.

8. An input unit for inputting the type of the printing tape is further provided, 7. The tape printing device according to claim 5, wherein the acquisition unit acquires the type of the print tape input by the input unit.

9. a feeding mechanism that feeds the printing tape, on which a plurality of printing objects are arranged in the length direction of the printing tape, in a first feeding direction and a second feeding direction opposite to the first feeding direction; a print head that prints on the printing object on the print tape being fed in the first feed direction; a detection unit that outputs a first detection value when a detection position is located further in the first feed direction than a printing position of the print head, when a leading end of the print tape is located further in the second feed direction than the detection position, and when a first region of the print tape is located at the detection position, and that outputs a second detection value when a second region of the print tape other than the first region is located at the detection position, The printing tape is provided with a plurality of detection target portions that correspond to the respective printing objects and function as the first areas, The tape printing device A control method for a tape printing device, characterized in that when the detection unit outputs the first detection value, the feed mechanism is controlled to feed the printing tape a first distance in either the first feed direction or the second feed direction, and depending on whether the post-feed output, which is the output of the detection unit after the printing tape has been fed the first distance, is the first detection value, it is determined whether the first detection value output before the printing tape was fed the first distance is an output due to the detection target being located at the detection position.

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