Information processor and information processing program

Abstract

To suppress errors on the basis of viscosity in a drive waveform of an inkjet printing head.SOLUTION: An information processor includes a communication part and a control part. The communication part is configured to communicate with an external terminal device. The control part receives information on viscosity of used liquid from the terminal device through the communication part. The control part selects first setting when the viscosity is equal to or more than a first threshold and equal to or less than a second threshold, as setting of an initial discharge waveform of an inkjet head configured to discharge the used liquid, selects second setting different from the first setting when the viscosity is less than the first threshold, and selects third setting different from each of the first setting and the second setting when the viscosity is more than the second threshold. The control part is configured to transmit first setting value data corresponding to the initial discharge waveform to which the selected setting is applied, to the terminal device through the communication part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 15

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The embodiments relate to an information processing device and an information processing program. [Background technology]

[0002] A liquid ejection device having an inkjet printhead generally forms an image on a print medium being transported by inputting a drive signal to a drive element, such as a piezoelectric element, of the inkjet printhead to eject a liquid, such as ink, from a nozzle.

[0003] To form a high-quality image, it is necessary to determine a drive waveform suitable for the inkjet printhead, taking into account the drive conditions of the inkjet printhead, the physical properties of the ink, etc., so that the ink ejection characteristics from the nozzles will be as desired. Hereinafter, a drive waveform suitable for an inkjet printhead will be referred to as a "suitable drive waveform."

[0004] One method for determining an optimal drive waveform is to determine it based on the results of observing the ink ejection and measuring the physical properties of the ink actually used. In order to determine an optimal drive waveform for each inkjet printhead that is compatible with various inks, it is necessary to consider multiple conditions. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-025893 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, to find an optimal drive waveform using this method, the output drive waveform must be used to check the actual print and then the drive waveform must be corrected again, which is time-consuming. If the user does not have a discharge observation device, they must ask the head manufacturer to evaluate the drive waveform. Conversely, if the user has a discharge observation device, they can save time and money by evaluating it themselves. However, it is difficult to perform all evaluations on their own.

[0007] In addition, inkjet printhead manufacturers provide suitable drive waveforms for standard inks. The suitable drive waveform for the ink actually used can be calculated relatively easily by correlating it with the standard ink. However, head manufacturers may not disclose the method for calculating the correlation with the standard ink.

[0008] Furthermore, viscosity is one of the physical properties of ink used in inkjet printheads. Viscosity is a physical property that depends on temperature. If a drive waveform is calculated for ink with too high or too low viscosity based only on the optimal drive waveform for standard ink, there is a risk that the calculated drive waveform will have a large error compared to the ideal value.

[0009] The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and aims to provide an information processing device and an information processing program that are capable of suppressing errors due to viscosity in the drive waveform of an inkjet print head. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] An information processing device according to an embodiment includes a communication unit and a control unit. The communication unit is configured to communicate with an external terminal device. The control unit receives information regarding the viscosity of the liquid used from the terminal device via the communication unit. The control unit selects a first setting as an initial ejection waveform setting for an inkjet head configured to eject the liquid used when the viscosity is equal to or greater than a first threshold value and equal to or less than a second threshold value, selects a second setting different from the first setting when the viscosity is less than the first threshold value, and selects a third setting different from both the first setting and the second setting when the viscosity is greater than the second threshold value. The control unit is configured to transmit first setting value data corresponding to the initial ejection waveform to which the selected setting has been applied to the terminal device via the communication unit. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a liquid ejection device. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a first example of the configuration of a head controller included in the liquid ejection apparatus. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a first example of the configuration of an inkjet head provided in the liquid ejection device. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a second example of the configuration of a head controller included in the liquid ejection apparatus. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a second example of the configuration of an inkjet head provided in the liquid ejection device. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a database server included in the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a web server included in the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an authentication server included in the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 10]FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an application server included in the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of an information processing apparatus that constitutes an information processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a process for selecting driving conditions for an inkjet head. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a method for selecting driving conditions for an inkjet head using the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of an initial working condition proposing process in the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a method for selecting an initial ejection waveform in the information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 16] 6 is a time chart showing an example of an initial ejection waveform to which a first setting selected by the information processing system according to the embodiment is applied. [Figure 17] 10 is a time chart showing an example of an initial ejection waveform to which a second setting selected by the information processing system according to the embodiment is applied. [Figure 18] 10 is a time chart showing an example of an initial ejection waveform to which a third setting selected by the information processing system according to the embodiment is applied. [Figure 19] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a suitable driving condition proposing process in the information processing system according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] An information processing system according to an embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. The embodiment illustrates an apparatus and a method for embodying the technical idea of ​​the invention. The drawings referred to below are schematic or conceptual. In this specification, components with the same reference numerals have substantially the same functions and configurations.

[0013] In the following, an inkjet print head will be abbreviated as an "inkjet head." In the drawings referred to below, the interface will be abbreviated as "IF," the user interface as "UI," the database as "DB," and the personal computer as "PC." In this specification, an apparatus that uses an inkjet head to eject ink and form an image will be referred to as a "liquid ejection apparatus." Data that determines the drive waveform of the inkjet head will be referred to as "setting value data." The setting value data may also be referred to as drive waveform data or waveform data.

[0014] The information processing system according to the embodiment is a system capable of providing a drive waveform for an inkjet head. The information processing system receives information from an external terminal device via a network. The information processing system then calculates setting value data suitable for the inkjet head based on the received information and provides the calculated setting value data to the external terminal device via the network. The liquid ejection device operates using the setting value data provided by the information processing system.

[0015] <1> composition First, the configuration of a general liquid ejection device and the configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment will be described in order.

[0016] <1-1> Configuration of the liquid ejection device 10 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a liquid ejection device 10. The liquid ejection device 10 is, for example, an inkjet recording device. The liquid ejection device 10 performs various processes such as image formation while transporting a print medium, which is a recording medium. Note that the liquid ejection device 10 may also be another device such as a copier.

[0017] 1, the liquid ejection device 10 includes, for example, a control unit 11, a display 14, an operation unit 15, a communication interface 16, a transport motor 21, a motor drive circuit 22, a pump 23, a pump drive circuit 24, a plurality of inkjet heads 25, a head controller 26, a system bus 27, and a power supply circuit 28. Furthermore, although not shown, the liquid ejection device 10 also includes a transport mechanism, a paper feed cassette, a paper output tray, etc.

[0018] The control unit 11 controls the overall operation of the liquid ejection device 10. The control unit 11 includes a processor 12 and a memory 13. The processor 12 is an arithmetic element that executes arithmetic processing. The processor 12 performs various processes, for example, based on programs stored in the memory 13 and data used in the programs. The memory 13 has a rewritable configuration. The memory 13 stores programs, data used in the programs, etc.

[0019] The display 14 is, for example, a display device such as a liquid crystal display. The display 14 displays images in response to video signals input from the processor 12, a graphics controller (not shown) for performing image processing, etc. The display 14 displays, for example, a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for managing and using the liquid ejection device 10.

[0020] The operation unit 15 has a plurality of operation members that generate operation signals based on user operations. The plurality of operation members may be, for example, a touch sensor, a numeric keypad, a power key, a paper feed key, various function keys, a keyboard, etc. If the display 14 is a touch panel, the display 14 may function as part of the operation unit 15.

[0021] The communication interface 16 is an interface for communicating with external devices. The communication interface 16 communicates with an external terminal device 30 via a wired or wireless network. The network to which the communication interface 16 is connected is, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network).

[0022] The transport motor 21 is a motor for operating a transport mechanism that transports the print medium. The transport mechanism includes a transport belt that transports the print medium, multiple rollers around which the transport belt is stretched, and guides. The multiple rollers include a drive roller and a driven roller. When the transport motor 21 rotates the drive roller, the transport belt that holds the print medium moves. As a result, the print medium moves along a transport path defined by guides arranged near the transport belt.

[0023] The motor drive circuit 22 is a circuit that drives the transport motor 21. The motor drive circuit 22 drives the transport motor 21 in accordance with a transport control signal input from the control unit 11. The motor drive circuit 22, the transport motor 21, and the transport mechanism transport the print medium taken out of the paper feed cassette to the paper discharge tray via the multiple inkjet heads 25. The paper feed cassette is a cassette that stores multiple print media. The paper discharge tray is a tray that stores the print media discharged from the liquid ejection device 10.

[0024] The pump 23 supplies the liquid (ink) in the ink tank to the pressure chambers of each inkjet head 25 via an ink supply path. The ink supply path includes, for example, a tube (not shown) that connects the ink tank to the pressure chambers of each inkjet head 25. The pump 23 is located, for example, on the ink supply path. The pump drive circuit 24 drives the pump 23 in accordance with an ink supply control signal input from the processor 12.

[0025] Each inkjet head 25 is an image forming unit that ejects ink onto a print medium to form an image. Each inkjet head 25 includes an actuator, a sensor, a drive circuit, etc., although not shown. The actuator is a drive element such as a plurality of piezoelectric elements that eject ink from the nozzles. The sensor detects the temperature of the ink, etc. The drive circuit drives the actuator. For example, an inkjet head 25 is provided for each ink color. For example, multiple inkjet heads 25 are provided corresponding to cyan, magenta, yellow, and black, respectively.

[0026] The head controller 26 is a circuit that controls the multiple inkjet heads 25. The head controller 26 generates a drive voltage based on the register value of the setting value data. The head controller 26 also generates a control signal based on the print (printing) data. The head controller 26 then supplies the generated drive voltage and control signal to the inkjet heads 25 to operate the actuators in the inkjet heads 25. In this way, the head controller 26 ejects ink from the nozzles of the inkjet heads 25 to form an image on the print medium being transported by the transport mechanism.

[0027] The system bus 27 is a communication path between the control unit 11, the display 14, the operation unit 15, the communication interface 16, the motor drive circuit 22, the pump drive circuit 24, and the head controller 26. The control unit 11, the display 14, the operation unit 15, the communication interface 16, the motor drive circuit 22, the pump drive circuit 24, and the head controller 26 send and receive information, data, addresses, control signals, commands, responses, etc. via the system bus 27.

[0028] The power supply circuit 28 is a circuit that generates the power required for the operation of the liquid ejection device 10. The power supply circuit 28 converts, for example, AC power supplied from a commercial power source into DC power. The power supply circuit 28 then supplies the converted DC power to each component within the liquid ejection device 10.

[0029] The external terminal device 30 that controls the liquid ejection device 10 is, for example, a control server or a computer. The terminal device 30 can print desired print data by operating the liquid ejection device 10 from a liquid ejection control application or the like. For example, the terminal device 30 transmits print data and register values ​​of the setting value data to the liquid ejection device 10 via the communication interface 16. The liquid ejection device 10 stores the received print data and register values ​​of the setting value data in the memory 13. Then, when setting (configuring) the inkjet head 25, the processor 12 reads the print data and register values ​​of the setting value data from the memory 13 and transmits them to the head controller 26. As a result, the liquid ejection device 10 can form an image on a print medium using the head controller 26.

[0030] <1-1-1> First configuration example A first configuration example of the head controller 26 and the inkjet head 25 included in the liquid ejection device 10 will be described below.

[0031] (1: Configuration of head controller 26) 2 is a block diagram showing a first configuration example of the head controller 26 provided in the liquid ejection device 10, and shows an example of a drive waveform setting circuit that drives the inkjet head 25. As shown in Fig. 2, the first configuration example of the head controller 26 includes a bus bridge 261, a setting value data buffer 262, a print data buffer 263, a control signal generation unit 264, and a drive control unit 265. The drive control unit 265 has a setting value data transfer unit 266, a print data transfer unit 267, and a control signal transfer unit 268.

[0032] The bus bridge 261 transmits and receives setting data, print data, etc. to and from the system bus 27. The bus bridge 261 then transfers setting data to a setting value data buffer 262 and print data to a print data buffer 263.

[0033] The set value data buffer 262 temporarily stores the set value data. The set value data buffer 262 performs necessary processing on the set value data as needed, and outputs the processed set value data to the set value data transfer unit 266 of the drive control unit 265.

[0034] Print data buffer 263 temporarily stores print data. Print data buffer 263 performs necessary processing on the print data as appropriate, and outputs the processed print data to print data transfer unit 267 of drive control unit 265.

[0035] The control signal generation unit 264 generates a control signal for the inkjet head 25 and outputs the generated control signal to the control signal transfer unit 268 of the drive control unit 265. The control signal includes a clock signal for determining operation timing, etc. The control signal generation unit 264 also generates a drive voltage to be supplied to the inkjet head 25 based on the power supplied from the power supply circuit 28, and outputs the drive voltage to the control signal transfer unit 268 of the drive control unit 265.

[0036] The drive control unit 265 controls the drive of the inkjet head 25 based on the setting value data, print data, control signal, and drive voltage. The setting value data transfer unit 266 transfers the setting value data input from the setting value data buffer 262 to the inkjet head 25. The print data transfer unit 267 transfers the print data input from the print data buffer 263 to the inkjet head 25. The control signal transfer unit 268 transfers the control signal and drive voltage input from the control signal generation unit 264 to the inkjet head 25.

[0037] (2: Configuration of inkjet head 25) 3 is a block diagram showing a first configuration example of the inkjet head 25 included in the liquid ejection device 10, and shows an overview of the interface of the inkjet head 25. As shown in FIG. 3, the first configuration example of the inkjet head 25 includes, for example, a driver IC 251 and an actuator group 256.

[0038] The driver IC 251 is a drive circuit for the inkjet head 25. Specifically, the driver IC 251 drives the actuator group 256. The driver IC 251 has a drive signal generation circuit 252 and a data processing circuit 255. The drive signal generation circuit 252 receives set value data from a set value data transfer unit 266. The data processing circuit 255 receives print data from a print data transfer unit 267, and receives control signals and drive voltages from a control signal transfer unit 268.

[0039] The drive signal generation circuit 252 generates drive signals for the actuator group 256 based on the setting value data input from the setting value data transfer unit 266 and the control of the data processing circuit 255. The drive signal generation circuit 252 has a drive waveform generation circuit 253 and an analog switch circuit 254. The drive waveform generation circuit 253 generates a digital drive waveform based on the setting value data and print data, and outputs the generated drive waveform to the analog switch circuit 254. The analog switch circuit 254 has multiple switch elements. Based on the input digital drive waveform, the analog switch circuit 254 generates an analog drive signal by selectively turning on one of multiple switch elements to which different drive voltages are supplied. The analog switch circuit 254 then outputs the generated analog drive signal to the actuator group 256.

[0040] The data processing circuit 255 supplies drive voltages of multiple levels to the multiple switch elements of the analog switch circuit 254 based on the drive voltage input from the control signal transfer unit 268. The data processing circuit 255 also generates a control signal for the drive signal generation circuit 252 based on the print data input from the print data transfer unit 267 and the control signal input from the control signal transfer unit 268. The data processing circuit 255 then outputs the generated control signal to the drive signal generation circuit 252.

[0041] The actuator group 256 has a plurality of actuators. Each actuator is a driving element that expands and contracts a pressure chamber that contains ink, causing ink droplets to be ejected from a nozzle that communicates with the pressure chamber. For example, each actuator is a piezoelectric driving element made of PZT (lead zirconate titanate). Each actuator in the actuator group 256 operates in accordance with a driving signal input from the driver IC 251. For example, each actuator expands and contracts a pressure chamber that contains ink, causing ink droplets to be ejected from a nozzle.

[0042] <1-1-2> Second configuration example The second configuration example of the head controller 26 and the inkjet head 25 provided in the liquid ejection device 10 will be described below, focusing on the differences from the first configuration example.

[0043] (1: Configuration of head controller 26) 4 is a block diagram showing a second configuration example of the head controller 26 provided in the liquid ejection device 10, and shows an example of a drive waveform setting circuit that drives the inkjet head 25. As shown in Fig. 4, the second configuration example of the head controller 26 includes a bus bridge 261, a setting value data buffer 2621, a print data buffer 263, a control signal generation unit 264, and a drive control unit 2651. The drive control unit 2651 has a drive waveform generation circuit 2661, a print data transfer unit 267, and a control signal transfer unit 268.

[0044] The setting value data buffer 2621 temporarily stores the setting value data. The setting value data buffer 2621 performs necessary processing on the setting value data as appropriate, and outputs the processed setting value data to a drive waveform generation circuit 2661 of the drive control unit 2651. The drive waveform generation circuit 2661 generates a digital drive waveform based on the setting value data input from the setting value data buffer 2621, and outputs the generated drive waveform to the inkjet head 25. The other configurations of the second configuration example of the head controller 26 are the same as those of the first configuration example.

[0045] (2: Configuration of inkjet head 25) 5 is a block diagram showing a second configuration example of the inkjet head 25 included in the liquid ejection device 10, and shows an overview of the interface of the inkjet head 25. As shown in FIG. 5, the second configuration example of the inkjet head 25 includes, for example, a driver IC 2511 and an actuator group 256.

[0046] The driver IC 2511 is a drive circuit for the inkjet head 25. Specifically, the driver IC 2511 drives the actuator group 256. The driver IC 2511 has an analog switch circuit 2521 and a data processing circuit 2551. The analog switch circuit 2521 receives a digital drive waveform from a drive waveform generation circuit 2661. The data processing circuit 2551 receives print data from a print data transfer unit 267, and receives a control signal and a drive voltage from a control signal transfer unit 268.

[0047] The analog switch circuit 2521 has a plurality of switch elements. The analog switch circuit 2521 generates an analog drive signal by selectively turning on one of a plurality of switch elements to which different drive voltages are supplied, based on the control of the data processing circuit 2551 and the input digital drive waveform. The analog switch circuit 2521 then outputs the generated analog drive signal to the actuator group 256.

[0048] The data processing circuit 2551 supplies drive voltages of multiple levels to multiple switch elements included in the analog switch circuit 2521 based on the drive voltage input from the control signal transfer unit 268. The data processing circuit 2551 also generates a control signal for the analog switch circuit 2521 based on the print data input from the print data transfer unit 267 and the control signal input from the control signal transfer unit 268. The data processing circuit 2551 then outputs the generated control signal to the analog switch circuit 2521. The other configurations of the second configuration example of the inkjet head 25 are the same as those of the first configuration example.

[0049] <1-2> Configuration of information processing system 50 Fig. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing system 50 according to an embodiment. As shown in Fig. 6, the information processing system 50 is realized, for example, by a cloud system made up of multiple servers and the like. The function of proposing operating conditions by the cloud system is provided, for example, in the form of a user interface using a web application or in the form of an API published as a web API mainly via the control server of the liquid ejection device 10 and the like. Specifically, the information processing system 50 includes, for example, a web server 51, an authentication server 52, an application server 54, a web API server 55, and a database server 56.

[0050] The web server 51 provides a user interface when an external terminal device 30 accesses the information processing system 50. The web server 51 cooperates with the authentication server 52, the application server 54, the web API server 55, and the database server 56 via this user interface to receive requests from the terminal device 30 and return responses to the requests to the terminal device 30.

[0051] The authentication server 52 has a login function and a firewall function. In FIG. 6, the firewall function of the authentication server 52 is shown as a firewall 53. The firewall 53 protects the application server 54 and the web API server 55 from unauthorized access and the like. Based on the authentication result received from the authentication server 52, the firewall 53 permits authorized terminal devices 30 to access the application server 54 and the web API server 55.

[0052] The application server 54 provides an execution environment for web applications. Based on information received from the terminal device 30 via the web server 51, the application server 54 calculates setting value data for generating a drive waveform suitable for the inkjet head 25. The application server 54 then stores the setting value data in the database server 56. The application server 54 also transmits the generated setting value data or the setting value data read from the database server 56 to the terminal device 30 via the web server 51.

[0053] The web API server 55 provides an API (Application Programming Interface). Based on information received from the terminal device 30 via the web server 51, the web API server 55 calculates setting value data for generating a drive waveform suitable for the inkjet head 25. The web API server 55 then stores the setting value data in the database server 56. The web API server 55 also transmits the generated setting value data or the setting value data read from the database server 56 to the terminal device 30 via the web server 51.

[0054] The database server 56 manages a database set 57. The database set 57 includes databases of various servers included in the information processing system 50. The database server 56 stores appropriate data in the database set 57 in response to requests from the authentication server 52, the application server 54, and the web API server 55. The database server 56 also reads data requested by the authentication server 52, the application server 54, and the web API server 55 from the database set 57 and provides the data to the requesting server.

[0055] If the access from the terminal device 30 to the information processing system 50 is appropriate, the information processing system 50 receives the parameters via the web server 51. Then, the information processing system 50 uses the application server 54 or the web API server 55 to calculate setting value data for generating a suitable drive waveform for the inkjet head 25, and transmits the calculated setting value data to the terminal device 30 via the web server 51.

[0056] When the terminal device 30 is a user PC or an administrator PC that controls the liquid ejection device 10, the user or administrator operating the terminal device 30 uses a user interface screen of a web application, such as a web browser, displayed on the terminal device 30. In this case, the terminal device 30 sends a request to the web server 51, for example, via HTTPS communication, and receives a response from the web server 51. The UI screen of the web application is created using, for example, HTML, CSS, JavaScript (registered trademark), etc. Furthermore, when the terminal device 30 is a user PC or an administrator PC, the application server 54 receives a request for providing parameters, including the drive conditions of the inkjet head 25 and the physical properties of the ink, and a drive waveform.

[0057] When the terminal device 30 is a control server that controls the liquid ejection device 10, the terminal device 30 sends a request to the web server 51 using an API published as a web API, for example, and receives a response from the web server 51. When the terminal device 30 is a control server, the web API server 55 receives a request to provide parameters including the drive conditions of the inkjet head 25 and the physical property values ​​of the ink, as well as a drive waveform.

[0058] In the information processing system 50, the web server 51 functions as a communication unit that communicates with the terminal device 30 via the network. The web server 51, application server 54, and web API server 55 work in cooperation with the database server 56 to create response information in response to received information from the terminal device 30 and function as a response unit that provides the response information to the terminal device 30. The information processing system 50 has at least one of the functions of the application server 54 and the web API server 55. The number of servers constituting the information processing system 50 may be one or more. The information processing system 50 may use a server that has multiple functions of the above-mentioned servers, or may be composed of a single server (computer). Hereinafter, a computer that may constitute the information processing system 50 will be referred to as an "information processing device 60."

[0059] <1-2-1> Functional configuration of database server 56 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the database server 56 included in the information processing system 50 according to the embodiment. As shown in Fig. 7, the database server 56 further includes, for example, a data management function 561, a data update function 562, and a user management function 563. The database set 57 stores, for example, a user interface database 570, a customer database, a user database 572, an ID database 573, a whitelist 574, a serial number (S / N) database 575, a password (PW) database 576, a coefficient database 577, an operation log database 578, and master data 579.

[0060] The data management function 561 manages the data of each database stored in the database set 57. The data update function 562 provides a function for updating data of each database when logged in to the information processing system 50 as an administrator. The user management function 563 manages users who use the information processing system 50.

[0061] The user interface database 570 stores data related to the user interface provided by the web server 51. The customer database 571 stores data related to customers who use the information processing system 50. The user database 572 stores data related to users who use the information processing system 50. The user database 572 stores, for example, user IDs and passwords linked to the user IDs. Both the user IDs and passwords are unique identification information. The user IDs and passwords are linked one-to-one.

[0062] The ID database 573 stores data related to IDs used in the information processing system 50. The ID database 573 stores, for example, waveform disclosure IDs. The waveform disclosure ID is identification information that proves that the purchaser owns a discharge observation device or the like. For example, the waveform disclosure ID is issued to a purchaser when purchasing a discharge observation device or the like. The waveform disclosure ID is unique identification information. The waveform disclosure ID is linked one-to-one to the discharge observation device or the like. The whitelist 574 stores data related to subjects who are permitted to log in to the information processing system 50.

[0063] The serial number database 575 stores data related to the serial numbers of the inkjet heads. Each serial number is associated with a corresponding inkjet head 25. For example, the serial number is registered in the serial number database 575 when the inkjet head 25 is purchased. The password database 576 stores data related to passwords used in the information processing system. The coefficient database 577 and master data 579 store data referenced when using the drive waveform selection algorithm. The operation log database 578 stores operation logs of the information processing system 50.

[0064] <1-2-2> Functional configuration of web server 51 8 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of a web server 51 included in an information processing system 50 according to the embodiment, and also shows a database referenced by the web server 51. As shown in FIG. 8, the web server 51 includes a communication function 511 and a user interface providing function 512.

[0065] The communication function 511 can be connected to a network and controls communication between the information processing system 50 and the terminal device 30. The user interface providing function 512 refers to the user interface database 570 and provides a user interface.

[0066] <1-2-3> Functional configuration of authentication server 52 9 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the authentication server 52 included in the information processing system 50 according to the embodiment, and also shows a database referenced by the authentication server 52. As shown in FIG. 9, the authentication server 52 includes a login function 521.

[0067] The login function 521 provides a login function to users of the information processing system 50. The login function 521 can distinguish between an administrator and other users. To log in as an administrator, in addition to an administrator ID and password, the user may be required to register an IP address of the domain origin for identifying the user as the administrator. For example, when the terminal device 30 accesses as an administrator, the login function 521 identifies the access source domain. In this case, the domain origin of the administrator is registered as a whitelist 574 in the firewall function (firewall 53) of the authentication server 52.

[0068] The authentication server 52 receives login information for the terminal device 30 from the web server 51, and permits the permitted terminal device 30 to log in through cooperation between the login function 521 and a whitelist 574 that holds information about permitted terminal devices 30. The authentication server 52 also requests the new terminal device 30 to input necessary information using the login function. The authentication server 52 then identifies the access source domain, registers the necessary information and the access source domain in the whitelist 574, and permits the login. The authentication server 52 then outputs the authentication result to the firewall 53.

[0069] When the terminal device 30 logs in to the information processing system 50 as an administrator, it can register users in the user database 572 and perform operations that are authorized by the administrator, such as accessing each database. The authentication server 52 may have a function to check the serial number of the inkjet head entered after logging in against the customer database 571 and the serial number database 575.

[0070] <1-2-4> Functional configuration of application server 54 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an application server 54 included in an information processing system 50 according to an embodiment, and also shows databases referenced by the application server 54. As shown in FIG. 10, the application server 54 has a drive waveform providing function 541, an ink temperature and viscosity calculation engine 542, a drive waveform selection algorithm 543, an ink temperature and viscosity calculation engine update function 544, and a drive waveform selection algorithm. The application server 54 uses a serial number database 575, a coefficient database 577, an operation log database 578, and master data 579.

[0071] The application server 54 executes an application related to waveform proposal after verifying the login and the serial number database 575. The drive waveform providing function 541 provides the terminal device 30 with setting value data (driving conditions) for generating the generated preferred drive waveform. The drive waveform providing function 541 can also correct the setting value data based on the viscosity or temperature of the ink. The ink temperature / viscosity calculation engine 542 is an engine that calculates the viscosity of the ink based on the temperature of the ink.

[0072] The drive waveform selection algorithm 543 accepts waveform selection parameters such as ink temperature and viscosity, ink physical property information, and type of inkjet head 25 as input variables. Examples of ink physical property information include ink type, ink specific gravity, and surface tension. Examples of ink types include UV-curable ink, oil-based ink, solvent ink, ceramic ink, and water-based ink. The drive waveform selection algorithm 543 calculates an estimated drive waveform (estimated drive voltage value) suitable for the inkjet head 25 being used based on the reference drive waveform, the input waveform selection parameters, and an associated database. The drive waveform selection algorithm 543 references, for example, a coefficient database 577 and master data 579. The coefficient database 577 and master data 579 are databases based on inkjet head evaluation results.

[0073] The drive waveform selection algorithm 543 and its dedicated database (e.g., coefficient database 577 and master data 579) may be provided separately for the initial drive condition proposal process and the preferred drive waveform selection process, which will be described later. The drive waveform selection algorithm 543 associated with the initial drive condition proposal process (hereinafter also referred to as the first drive waveform selection algorithm) derives a drive waveform based on waveform selection parameters, for example. On the other hand, the drive waveform selection algorithm 543 associated with the preferred drive waveform selection process (hereinafter also referred to as the second drive waveform selection algorithm) derives a drive waveform based on measurement values ​​obtained by observing the ejection of the inkjet head 25 using an initial ejection waveform, for example.

[0074] The ink temperature / viscosity calculation engine update function 544 is a function block for updating the ink temperature / viscosity calculation engine 542. The drive waveform selection algorithm update function 545 is a function block for updating the drive waveform selection algorithm 543. The ink temperature / viscosity calculation engine update function 544 and the drive waveform selection algorithm update function 545 are provided to, for example, an administrator. In other words, the terminal device 30 can update the ink temperature / viscosity calculation engine 542 and the drive waveform selection algorithm 543 by logging in to the information processing system 50 as the administrator.

[0075] 10, similar to the application server 54. That is, the functional configuration of the web API server 55 is the same as that of the application server 54.

[0076] <1-2-5> Hardware configuration of the information processing device 60 Fig. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an information processing device 60 constituting the information processing system 50 according to the embodiment. As shown in Fig. 11, the information processing device 60 includes, for example, a processor 61, a read only memory (ROM) 62, a random access memory (RAM) 63, an auxiliary storage device 64, an input device 65, an output device 66, a communication device 67, and a bus 68. The processor 61, the ROM 62, the RAM 63, the auxiliary storage device 64, the input device 65, the output device 66, and the communication device 67 are connected to one another via the bus 68, and can transmit and receive data and information via the bus 68.

[0077] The processor 61 is configured by a general-purpose hardware processor including, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a GPU (Graphical Processing Unit). The processor 61 controls the entire information processing device 60. The processor 61 executes programs deployed in the RAM 63 to realize various functions.

[0078] The ROM 62 is a non-volatile memory that constitutes a part of the main storage device. The ROM 62 non-temporarily stores a startup program required when starting up the processor 61. The ROM 62 is configured, for example, by an EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), and stores the startup program and various settings at the time of startup of the information processing device 60.

[0079] The RAM 63 is a volatile memory that constitutes part of the main storage device. The RAM 63 temporarily stores programs required for processing by the processor 61 and data required for executing the programs. In other words, the RAM 63 is used as a working area for the processor 61.

[0080] The auxiliary storage device 64 is a non-volatile memory such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD), etc. The auxiliary storage device 64 non-temporarily stores the programs executed by the processor 61 and data required for executing the programs.

[0081] The input device 65 is, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, etc. The output device 66 is, for example, a display device such as a display. The input device 65 and the output device 66 may be configured with other devices. The input device 65 and the output device 66 may be configured with an input / output device having the functions of both devices.

[0082] The communication device 67 is a communication interface that can be connected to a network. The communication device 67 has a function of transmitting and receiving data and information to and from the terminal device 30 via the network. The communication device 67 may be divided into a receiving device and a transmitting device.

[0083] When the information processing device 60 starts up, the processor 61 executes a program and starts up the operating system (OS). Under control of the OS, the processor 61 monitors input instructions, connections to external devices, and the like. Under control of the OS, the processor 61 also sets up a program area and a data area in the RAM 63. In response to an instruction to start up the information processing system 50, the processor 61 loads a driving waveform providing program from the auxiliary storage device 64 into the program area of ​​the RAM 63 and loads data required for executing the driving waveform providing program from the auxiliary storage device 64 into the data area of ​​the RAM 63. The processor 61 calculates data in the data area in accordance with the driving waveform providing program and writes the calculation results to the data area. Through these operations, the processor 61, RAM 63, and auxiliary storage device 64 work together to execute the functions of the web server 51, authentication server 52, firewall 53, application server 54, web API server 55, and database server 56 of the information processing system 50.

[0084] The program stored in the auxiliary storage device 64 may be provided to the computer via a computer-readable recording medium on which the program is recorded. Such a recording medium is, for example, a disk such as a flexible disk, an optical disk (CD-ROM, CD-R, DVD-ROM, DVD-R, etc.), a magneto-optical disk (MO, etc.), or a semiconductor memory. Alternatively, the program may be stored in a server on a network and downloaded from the server to be stored in the auxiliary storage device 64.

[0085] Furthermore, the external terminal device 30 that uses the information processing system 50 may also be configured as a computer similar to the information processing device 60. That is, the hardware configuration of the terminal device 30 may be similar to that of the information processing device 60.

[0086] <2> operation Next, the operation of the information processing system 50 according to the embodiment will be described.

[0087] <2-1> An example of how to select driving conditions 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a method for selecting the driving conditions of the inkjet head 25. An example of a procedure for selecting setting value data for the inkjet head 25 will be described below with reference to FIG.

[0088] First, in step ACT11, the inkjet head 25 is driven by the basic drive waveform, whereby the inkjet head 25 ejects ink (liquid) to form an image on the print medium.

[0089] Next, in step ACT12, the ink discharge is evaluated using a discharge observation device. Factors used to evaluate the ink discharge include, for example, the size, speed, and shape of the discharged ink droplets, as well as the resolution, color reproducibility, clarity, and dot position accuracy of the image formed on the printing medium.

[0090] Next, in step ACT13, the evaluation result is checked. For example, the evaluation result is checked by comparing the numerical values ​​of each parameter obtained by the processing of step ACT12 with a predetermined threshold. For example, the evaluation result is judged as OK if the numerical value of each parameter is higher than the predetermined threshold, and is judged as NG if not.

[0091] If the evaluation result in step ACT13 is NG (ACT13: NO), the process proceeds to step ACT14, where a drive waveform is reselected. Subsequently, in step ACT15, the inkjet head 25 is driven by the reselected drive waveform. The inkjet head 25 then ejects ink based on the reselected drive waveform, forming an image on the printing medium. Thereafter, the process of step ACT12 and the process of step ACT13 are executed. That is, an ejection evaluation is performed using the reselected drive waveform, and the evaluation result is checked. The processes of steps ACT14, ACT15, and ACT12 are repeated until the evaluation result in step ACT13 is OK.

[0092] If the evaluation result in step ACT13 is OK (ACT13: YES), the process proceeds to step ACT16, where setting value data is selected. Specifically, the setting value data to be selected is, for example, the drive waveform when the evaluation result in the process of step ACT13 is OK, and the setting value data that generates that drive waveform is selected as the suitable setting value data. After that, the series of processes in FIG. 12 ends.

[0093] <2-2> Selection of driving conditions 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a process for selecting drive conditions for the inkjet head 25 using the information processing system 50 according to this embodiment. An example of a procedure for selecting setting value data for the inkjet head 25 according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG.

[0094] First, in step ACT21, user authentication processing is executed. Specifically, when a user inputs an instruction to start using the information processing system 50 into the terminal device 30, the terminal device 30 transmits a request to start using the information processing system 50. The terminal device 30 then receives a UI screen for login processing from the information processing system 50. The user operates the terminal device 30 and inputs a user ID and password based on the UI screen for login processing. If the same user ID and password are registered in the user database 572, login is permitted, and the process proceeds to step ACT22.

[0095] Next, in step ACT22, an ID matching process is executed. In the ID matching process, it is confirmed whether or not the ink discharge observation can be evaluated. Specifically, the terminal device 30 displays a UI screen for the ID matching process based on instructions from the information processing system 50, and prompts the user to input a waveform disclosure ID. When the user inputs the waveform disclosure ID, the information processing system 50 queries the ID database 573. If the waveform disclosure ID matches any of the waveform disclosure IDs stored in the ID database 573, the information processing system 50 recognizes the user as the owner of the discharge observation device, etc., and proceeds to the processing of step ACT23.

[0096] Next, in step ACT23, S / N matching processing is performed. Specifically, the terminal device 30 displays a UI screen for the S / N matching processing based on instructions from the information processing system 50, and prompts the user to input the serial number of the inkjet head 25. When the user inputs the serial number of the inkjet head 25, the information processing system 50 queries the serial number database 575. If the serial number matches any of the serial numbers stored in the serial number database 575, the information processing system 50 determines that the matching result is OK and proceeds to the processing of step ACT24.

[0097] Next, in step ACT24, the user selects whether to create an initial ejection waveform. Specifically, the terminal device 30 displays options for whether to create an initial ejection waveform based on instructions from the information processing system 50, and prompts the user to make a selection. For example, if the user has not yet acquired an initial ejection waveform, the user selects to create an initial ejection waveform. On the other hand, if the user has already acquired an initial ejection waveform and has further acquired measurement values ​​from the ejection observation, the user selects not to create an initial ejection waveform.

[0098] If it is selected to create an initial ejection waveform (ACT24: YES), the process proceeds to step ACT25, where an initial drive condition proposal process is executed. In the initial drive condition proposal process, when selection parameters such as the physical properties of the liquid to be used are input, the information processing system 50 generates an initial ejection waveform and provides it to the terminal device 30. When the process of step ACT25 is completed, the series of processes in FIG. 13 ends. Note that when the initial ejection waveform is acquired, the user performs ejection observation using the provided initial ejection waveform. Items to be implemented in the ejection observation include, for example, the ink ejection speed and ink volume.

[0099] If it is selected not to create an initial ejection waveform (ACT24: NO), the process proceeds to step ACT26, where a suitable driving condition proposing process is executed. In the suitable driving condition proposing process, when the setting value data of the initial ejection waveform and measurement values ​​based on the print result using the initial ejection waveform are input, the information processing system 50 generates a suitable driving waveform and provides it to the terminal device 30. When the process of step ACT26 is completed, the series of processes in FIG. 13 ends.

[0100] <2-2-1> Initial drive condition proposal process 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the initial working condition proposing process in the information processing system 50 according to the embodiment. An example of the procedure of the initial working condition proposing process will be described below with reference to FIG.

[0101] First, in step ACT31, the user inputs waveform selection parameters using the terminal device 30. Specifically, the terminal device 30 receives a UI screen for inputting waveform selection parameters from the information processing system 50. The user then operates the terminal device 30 to input waveform selection parameters based on the UI screen for inputting waveform selection parameters. The waveform selection parameters include ink physical property information, ejection conditions (e.g., temperature), etc.

[0102] Next, in step ACT32, the information processing system 50 checks the input parameters entered in step ACT31. If the check result is NG (ACT32: NO), the information processing system 50 displays an error message on the terminal device 30 and urges the user to execute the process of step ACT31 again.

[0103] If the check result is OK (ACT32: YES), the information processing system 50 executes an initial waveform selection process in step ACT33. Specifically, the information processing system 50 identifies the inkjet head type from the serial number based on the input waveform selection parameters, and then derives an initial ejection waveform using the drive waveform selection algorithm 543 and a dedicated database associated with the initial drive conditions. The dedicated database is, for example, a coefficient database 577 and master data 579.

[0104] Next, in step ACT34, the information processing system 50 executes an initial waveform proposal process. Specifically, the information processing system 50 calculates initial setting value data for generating an initial ejection waveform. The information processing system 50 also generates an initial password linked to the initial setting value data using the authentication server 52. The information processing system 50 transmits the initial setting value data and the initial password to the terminal device 30 using the web server 51.

[0105] Next, in step ACT35, the terminal device 30 acquires initial setting value data. In step ACT36, the terminal device 30 displays a waveform password (initial password). The initial setting value data and the waveform password may be stored in the memory of the terminal device 30. This completes the series of processes in FIG. 14. In this way, the information processing system 50 can provide an initial ejection waveform to the user's terminal device 30.

[0106] Thereafter, although not shown in the figure, the user drives the inkjet head 25 using the initial setting value data and performs measurements using a discharge observation device or the like to observe the discharge. The measured values ​​in the discharge observation are, for example, the ink discharge speed or discharge volume. The ink discharge speed tends to increase as the drive voltage is increased. Similarly, the ink discharge volume (weight) tends to increase as the drive voltage is increased. The discharge speed can be measured by measuring the distance that ink droplets travel from the nozzle when illuminated with a strobe. The discharge volume can also be calculated by measuring the weight of the discharged ink droplets.

[0107] (1: How to select the initial discharge waveform) 15 is a flowchart showing an example of a method for selecting an initial ejection waveform in the information processing system 50 according to the embodiment. Hereinafter, an example of a method for selecting an initial ejection waveform in the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0108] First, in step ACT41, the information processing system 50 acquires information about the viscosity of the liquid (ink) used from the terminal device 30. This information about the viscosity of the ink includes information about the viscosity at the temperature in the user's environment.

[0109] Next, in step ACT42, the information processing system 50 checks the viscosity value VV. Specifically, the information processing system 50 compares the viscosity value VV acquired in step S41 with, for example, two thresholds. In this example, the two thresholds used are a first threshold THa and a second threshold THb. The first threshold THa is, for example, 7 mPa s. The second threshold THb is, for example, 13 mPa s.

[0110] In step ACT42, if THa ≤ VV ≤ THb, proceed to step ACT43 and apply the first setting to the initial ejection waveform. In step ACT42, if VV < THa, proceed to step ACT44 and apply the second setting to the initial ejection waveform. In step ACT43, if THb < VV, proceed to step ACT45 and apply the third setting to the initial ejection waveform. When any of the processes in steps ACT44, ACT43, and ACT45 is completed, the series of processes in FIG. 15 ends.

[0111] (2: Specific example of initial ejection waveform) Hereinafter, referring to FIGS. 16 to 18, specific examples of the initial ejection waveform selected by the information processing system 50 based on the viscosity magnitude will be described.

[0112] FIG. 16 is a time chart showing an example of the initial ejection waveform to which the first setting selected by the information processing system 50 according to the embodiment is applied. FIG. 17 is a time chart showing an example of the initial ejection waveform to which the second setting selected by the information processing system 50 according to the embodiment is applied. FIG. 18 is a time chart showing an example of the initial ejection waveform to which the third setting selected by the information processing system 50 according to the embodiment is applied. The vertical axis of the waveforms shown in each of FIGS. 16 to 18 indicates the height of the voltage applied to the drive elements of the actuator group 256. Each of FIGS. 16 to 18 shows the ejection waveform used when the inkjet head 25 continuously drops ink twice. Note that the number of continuously ejected drops is not limited to two.

[0113] 16, the ejection waveform used for one drop by the inkjet head 25 includes a pull time and a rest time. During the pull time, a voltage VA is applied to the drive elements of the actuator group 256. During the rest time, a voltage VB higher than the voltage VA is applied to the drive elements of the actuator group 256. In the initial ejection waveform to which the first setting is applied, each drop has a pull time tA and a rest time tB. Here, tA corresponds to the frequency length of the natural frequency of the inkjet head, and tB corresponds to α times this natural frequency.

[0114] As shown in Figure 17, in the initial ejection waveform when the second setting is applied, the pull time of each drop is tA and the rest time is tC, which is longer than tB. That is, in the second setting, the rest time of each drop is set longer than in the first setting. Here, tC is β times the natural frequency of tA.

[0115] As shown in Figure 18, in the initial ejection waveform when the third setting is applied, the pull time of each drop is tA and the rest time is tD, which is shorter than tB. In other words, in the third setting, the rest time of each drop is set shorter than in the first setting. Here, tD is γ times the natural frequency of tA. Note that α, β, and γ are arbitrary values.

[0116] As described above, the waveform of one drop in the initial ejection waveform to which the first setting is applied includes applying a first voltage (VA) followed by applying a second voltage (VB) for a first time (tB). The waveform of one drop in the initial ejection waveform to which the second setting is applied includes applying a first voltage (VA) followed by applying a second voltage (VB) for a second time (tC) longer than the first time (tB). The waveform of one drop in the initial ejection waveform to which the third setting is applied includes applying a first voltage (VA) followed by applying a second voltage (VB) for a third time (tD) shorter than the first time (tB).

[0117] <2-2-2> Optimal driving condition proposal process 19 is a flowchart showing an example of a suitable working condition proposing process in the information processing system 50 according to the embodiment. An example of the procedure of the suitable working condition proposing process in the information processing system 50 according to the embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG.

[0118] First, in step ACT51, the user inputs a waveform password using the terminal device 30. Specifically, the terminal device 30 receives a UI screen for inputting a waveform password (initial password) from the information processing system 50. Then, the user operates the terminal device 30 to input the waveform password based on the UI screen for inputting the waveform password.

[0119] Next, in step ACT52, the information processing system 50 executes password information processing. Specifically, the information processing system 50 causes the authentication server 52 to query the password database for the waveform password input in step ACT51.

[0120] Next, in step ACT53, the information processing system 50 checks the result of the matching in step ACT52. If the result of the matching is NG (ACT53: NO), the information processing system 50 displays an error message on the terminal device 30 and urges the user to perform the process of step ACT51 again.

[0121] If the collation result is OK (ACT53: YES), the user inputs the measurement values ​​using the terminal device 30 in step ACT54. Specifically, the terminal device 30 is provided with a UI screen for inputting the measurement values ​​of the discharge observation from the information processing system 50. The user then operates the terminal device 30 to input the measurement values ​​of the discharge observation based on the UI screen for inputting the measurement values. The discharge observation involves, for example, measuring the value of the ink discharge speed or the discharge volume by the inkjet head 25. That is, in step ACT54, the measurement value related to the ink discharge speed or the ink discharge volume is input.

[0122] Next, in step ACT55, the information processing system 50 checks the input parameters input in step ACT54. If the check result is NG (ACT55: NO), the information processing system 50 displays an error message on the terminal device 30 and prompts the user to execute the process of step ACT54 again.

[0123] If the check result is OK (ACT55: YES), the information processing system 50 executes a suitable waveform selection process in step ACT56. Specifically, the information processing system 50 identifies the inkjet head type from the serial number based on the input measurement values, and then derives a suitable drive waveform using the drive waveform selection algorithm 543 and a dedicated database (a dedicated DB for suitable waveforms) associated with suitable drive conditions. If the measurement value input in step ACT54 is the ejection speed, the information processing system 50 derives a suitable drive waveform based on the ejection speed, and if the measurement value is the ejection volume, the information processing system 50 derives a suitable drive waveform based on the ejection volume.

[0124] Next, in step ACT57, the information processing system 50 executes a suitable waveform proposal process. Specifically, the information processing system 50 calculates setting value data for generating a suitable drive waveform. Then, the information processing system 50 transmits the setting value data to the terminal device 30 via the web server 51.

[0125] Next, in step ACT58, the terminal device 30 acquires the setting value data, thereby completing the series of processes in FIG.

[0126] As described above, the user measures numerical data on the ink ejection performance using the initial ejection waveform, and then sends this numerical data to the information processing system 50 again. This allows the information processing system 50 to select a suitable drive waveform for the evaluation temperature used by the user, and transmit (output) it to the terminal device 30. Therefore, the information processing system 50 can provide the user's terminal device 30 with a suitable ejection drive waveform.

[0127] <3> Effects of the embodiment When the information processing system 50 according to the embodiment receives a request from a user to create an initial ejection waveform, it selects an initial ejection waveform based on the waveform selection parameters input by the user and provides the selected waveform to the terminal device 30. Information on the ink type can provide general information on the ink's physical properties. Meanwhile, viscosity varies with temperature. However, depending on the ink's contents, it is not possible to calculate a precise viscosity value based on temperature alone. Therefore, it is preferable that the waveform selection parameters include information on viscosity at the temperature used by the user.

[0128] The information processing system 50 according to the embodiment calculates waveforms with different shapes based on detailed viscosity information at the temperature of the ejection use conditions input from the first drive waveform selection algorithm and its dedicated database, and can provide simplified ejection drive waveforms (initial ejection waveforms) with different UL (unit lengths) of these waveforms. Specifically, when viscosity data for the evaluation temperature used by the user is input as physical property information included in the waveform selection parameters, the information processing system 50 according to the embodiment provides an initial ejection waveform with a first setting applied when the viscosity is THa≦VV≦THb, an initial ejection waveform with a second setting applied when the viscosity is less than THa, and an initial ejection waveform with a third setting applied when the viscosity is greater than THb. In this way, the information processing system 50 according to the embodiment can generate and provide a user with a more suitable initial ejection waveform depending on the viscosity.

[0129] Furthermore, when the ejection speed or ejection volume is measured in ejection observation using the initial ejection waveform, the information processing system 50 according to the embodiment can provide a more suitable drive waveform based on the measured ejection speed or ejection volume and the second drive waveform selection algorithm. In other words, the information processing system 50 according to the embodiment can generate a suitable drive waveform by feeding back the results of the ejection observation using the initial ejection waveform to the information processing system 50.

[0130] As described above, the user of the terminal device 30 can receive setting value data for generating a suitable drive waveform from the information processing system 50 by first transmitting waveform selection parameters, then conducting discharge observation, and then transmitting the measured values ​​(discharge speed or discharge volume) from the discharge observation. In other words, the user can obtain more suitable discharge drive conditions for the ink and inkjet head 25 to be used via the network. As a result, by using the information processing system 50, the user of the terminal device 30 can receive setting value data for generating a suitable drive waveform without incurring much effort, time, or expense.

[0131] <4> others The program executed by the information processing system 50 according to the embodiment may be transferred in a state stored in an electronic device, or may be transferred in a state not stored in an electronic device. In the latter case, the program may be transferred via a network, or may be transferred in a state stored in a storage medium. The storage medium is a non-transitory tangible medium. The storage medium is a computer-readable medium. The storage medium may take any form, such as a CD-ROM or a memory card, as long as it is capable of storing the program and is computer-readable.

[0132] The processes described in the above embodiments may be realized by dedicated hardware. The processes described in the above embodiments may be a mixture of processes executed by software and processes executed by hardware, or may be one of the two. The flowcharts used to explain the operations in the above embodiments are merely examples. The order of the processes described using the flowcharts may be changed, other processes may be added, some processes may be omitted, or some processes may be executed in parallel, to the extent possible.

[0133] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the inventions and their equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0134] 10...liquid ejection device, 11...control unit, 12, 61...processor, 13...memory, 14...display, 15...operation unit, 16...communication interface, 21...conveyance motor, 22...motor drive circuit, 23...pump, 24...pump drive circuit, 25...inkjet head, 26...head controller, 27...system bus, 28...power supply circuit, 30...terminal device, 50...information processing system, 51...web server, 52...authentication server, 53...firewall, 54...application server, 55...web API server, 56...database server, 57...database set, 60...information processing processing device, 62...ROM, 63...RAM, 64...auxiliary storage device, 65...input device, 66...output device, 67...communication device, 68...bus, 252...drive signal generation circuit, 253, 2661...drive waveform generation circuit, 254, 2521...analog switch circuit, 255, 2551...data processing circuit, 256...actuator group, 261...bus bridge, 262, 2621...setting value data buffer, 263...print data buffer, 264...control signal generation unit, 265, 2651...drive control unit, 266...setting value data transfer unit, 267...print data transfer unit, 268...control signal transfer unit, 251, 2511...driver IC

Claims

1. a communication unit configured to communicate with an external terminal device; receiving information about the viscosity of the liquid used from the terminal device via the communication unit; as a setting of an initial ejection waveform of an inkjet head configured to eject the working liquid, a first setting is selected when the viscosity is equal to or greater than a first threshold value and equal to or less than a second threshold value, a second setting different from the first setting is selected when the viscosity is less than the first threshold value, and a third setting different from both the first setting and the second setting is selected when the viscosity is greater than the second threshold value; a control unit configured to transmit first setting value data corresponding to an initial ejection waveform to which the selected setting has been applied to the terminal device via the communication unit; Information processing device.

2. a waveform of one drop in the initial ejection waveform to which the first setting is applied includes applying a first voltage and then applying a second voltage higher than the first voltage for a first period of time; a waveform of one drop in the initial ejection waveform to which the second setting is applied includes applying the first voltage and then applying the second voltage for a second time period that is longer than the first time period; a waveform of one drop in the initial ejection waveform to which the third setting is applied includes applying the first voltage and then applying the second voltage for a third time period that is shorter than the first time period; The information processing device according to claim 1 .

3. the control unit is further configured to generate second setting value data corresponding to a drive waveform different from the initial ejection waveform based on measurement values ​​of ejection observation of the used liquid when the inkjet head ejects the used liquid using the setting value data, and output the second setting value data to the terminal device via the communication unit. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

4. the measured value is the ejection speed of the liquid when the inkjet head ejects the liquid using the first setting value data; The information processing device according to claim 3 .

5. the measured value is the ejection volume of the liquid when the inkjet head ejects the liquid using the first set value data; The information processing device according to claim 3 .

6. On the computer, receiving information about the viscosity of the liquid used from an external source; selecting a first setting as an initial ejection waveform setting for an inkjet head configured to eject the working liquid when the viscosity is equal to or greater than a first threshold value and equal to or less than a second threshold value, selecting a second setting different from the first setting when the viscosity is less than the first threshold value, and selecting a third setting different from both the first setting and the second setting when the viscosity is greater than the second threshold value; transmitting setting value data corresponding to the initial discharge waveform to which the selected setting is applied to an external device; Information processing program.

Images