Printing apparatus, control method, storage medium, and program

Abstract

To suppress drying of a liquid ejection port due to waiting for a user's cutting instruction.SOLUTION: A printing apparatus capable of setting in advance a cutting setting for operating a cutting unit based on a cutting instruction from a user, the printing apparatus comprising a cap member configured to be switched between a capping state in which a liquid ejection port of a printhead is covered and a non-capping state, a conveyance unit configured to convey a print medium to the printhead, a feeding unit configured to feed a roll sheet as the print medium to the conveyance unit, and the cutting unit configured to cut the print medium on which an image is formed by the printhead, when the standby time reaches a predetermined time, the cutting unit is operated to cut the roll sheet, the roll sheet is retracted from the conveying unit by winding the roll sheet by the feeding unit, and the cap member is switched to the capping state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a recording technique using a liquid. [Background technology]

[0002] In a recording device that can use a long recording medium such as a roll sheet as the recording medium, a cutter is provided to cut the recording medium after the recording operation. Patent Document 1 discloses a recording device that allows the user to select a setting to automatically cut the recording medium after the recording operation, or a setting to cut the recording medium at a timing specified by the user. In the setting to cut the recording medium at a timing specified by the user, the user can confirm that the image (ink image) on the recording medium has dried before cutting the recording medium.

[0003] Furthermore, in recording devices that perform recording by ejecting liquid from a recording head onto a recording medium, a maintenance mechanism is provided to maintain and restore the liquid ejection performance of the recording head. Patent Document 2 discloses a recording device equipped with a maintenance mechanism that shares a motor, which is the driving source, with the transport roller. Sharing a motor between the transport roller and the maintenance mechanism allows for the device to be made smaller. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-85531 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2018-20460 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In a recording device that is configured to cut the recording medium at a user-instructed timing, such as the recording device disclosed in Patent Document 1, the liquid ejection orifices of the recording head may dry out if the device waits for a user instruction for a long time. Capping the liquid ejection orifices with a cap member of a maintenance mechanism is known as a method for preventing the liquid ejection orifices from drying out. However, if the liquid ejection orifices are capped every time the device waits for a user instruction, this can result in a decrease in throughput, for example, in jobs with continuous recording operations. Furthermore, in a recording device that shares a motor with the transport roller, such as the recording device disclosed in Patent Document 2, the transport roller may rotate due to the mechanism when capping occurs, causing the cutting position of the recording medium to change.

[0006] The present invention provides a technique for preventing the liquid ejection orifices from drying out in a printing apparatus that has a cut setting that cuts the printing medium at a timing specified by a user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to the present invention, a cap member that can be switched between a capping state that covers the liquid ejection ports of the recording head and a non-capping state; a conveying means for conveying a recording medium to the recording head; a feeding means for feeding a roll sheet as the recording medium to the conveying means; a cutting means for cutting the recording medium on which an image has been formed by the recording head, A recording device capable of setting in advance a cut-off setting for operating the cut-off means based on a cut-off instruction from a user, When the cutting setting is set, the cap member waits in the uncapping state until the cutting instruction is issued, and when the waiting time reaches a predetermined time, activating the cutting means to cut the roll sheet; The roll sheet is retracted from the conveying means by winding up the roll sheet by the feeding means; switching the cap member to the capping state; A recording device is provided. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a technique for preventing the liquid ejection orifices from drying out in a printing apparatus that is configured to cut the printing medium at a timing specified by a user. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1A and 1B are schematic diagrams of a recording apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] (A) and (B) are explanatory diagrams of the uncapped and capped states. [Figure 3] (A) to (D) are explanatory diagrams of the operation of the maintenance mechanism. [Figure 4] FIG. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by a control unit. [Figure 6] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by a control unit. [Figure 7] 1A is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by a control unit, and FIG. 1B is a diagram showing an example of a display on an input / output unit. [Figure 8] 6A to 6C are flowcharts showing an example of processing executed by a control unit. [Figure 9] 1A is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by a control unit, and FIG. 1B is a diagram showing an example of a display on an input / output unit. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by a control unit. [Figure 11] 1A is a diagram showing an example of a display on an input / output unit, and FIG. 1B is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by a control unit. [Figure 12] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by a control unit. [Figure 13]1A is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the control unit, FIG. 1B is a diagram showing an example of a display of an input / output unit, and FIG. 1C is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by the control unit. [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by a control unit. [Figure 15] 1A is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by a control unit, and FIG. 1B is a diagram showing an example of a display on an input / output unit. [Figure 16] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing executed by a control unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention claimed. Although multiple features are described in the embodiments, not all of these multiple features are necessarily essential to the invention, and multiple features may be combined arbitrarily. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used to designate the same or similar components, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0011] First Embodiment 1(A) and 1(B) are schematic diagrams of a recording apparatus 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention. In the drawings, arrow X indicates the front-to-rear direction (depth direction) of the recording apparatus 1, with +X representing the front side and -X representing the rear side. Arrow Y indicates the left-to-right direction (width direction) of the recording apparatus 1, and is perpendicular to the X direction. Arrow Z indicates the up-to-down direction. FIG. 1(A) shows a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the recording apparatus 1 when viewed from the side, and FIG. 1(B) shows the internal structure of a portion of the recording apparatus 1 when viewed from above. In this embodiment, a case where the present invention is applied to a serial-type inkjet recording apparatus will be described, but the present invention can also be applied to other types of recording apparatuses, and the recording apparatus may be a copier or multifunction peripheral.

[0012] "Recording" does not only include the creation of meaningful information such as characters and figures, but also includes the creation of images, patterns, designs, etc. on a recording medium, whether meaningful or insignificant, or the processing of the medium, regardless of whether it is visible to humans or not. "Recording media" can also be paper, cloth, plastic, film, etc.

[0013] The recording device 1 uses a roll sheet P as a recording medium. The roll sheet P is formed by winding a single sheet into a roll around a cylindrical core. However, cut sheets may also be used as the recording medium. Furthermore, the recording device 1 may be configured so that the user can select between roll sheets and cut sheets as the recording medium.

[0014] The recording device 1 includes a recording head 2 that ejects ink onto a roll sheet P to form an image on the roll sheet P. The recording head 2 is supported by a carriage 3. Ink is supplied to the recording head 2 as a liquid from an ink tank (not shown). The ink tank may be integrated with the recording head 2 or may be separate. If separate, the ink tank may be mounted on the carriage 3 or may be located in a different location from the carriage 3.

[0015] The carriage 3 is moved back and forth by a moving mechanism 4 in a direction (Y direction in this embodiment) intersecting the conveying direction of the roll sheet P (X direction in this embodiment). The moving mechanism 4 is a mechanism that uses a CR motor (carriage motor) 40 as a drive source, and is, for example, a belt transmission mechanism. The belt transmission mechanism includes a pair of pulleys spaced apart in the Y direction and an endless belt wound around the pair of pulleys, and the carriage 3 is fixed to the endless belt. The CR motor 40 rotates the pulleys to run the endless belt, thereby moving the carriage 3. The moving mechanism 4 may have a guide shaft that guides the movement of the carriage 3 in the Y direction. The guide shaft extends in the Y direction and engages with the carriage 3 so that the carriage 3 can slide freely.

[0016] The recording device 1 includes a feeding unit 5 and a transport unit 6, arranged from the upstream side in the transport direction of the rolled sheet P, as a mechanism for transporting the rolled sheet P. The feeding unit 5 has a support portion 51 that rotatably supports the rolled sheet P. The rolled sheet P is supported in an orientation in which its width direction (the axial direction of the roll) is in the Y direction. The support portion 51 rotates by the driving force of a feeding motor 50, causing the rolled sheet P to rotate. Depending on the rotation direction of the feeding motor 50, the rolled sheet P can be fed out to the downstream transport unit 6, or can be wound up in the opposite direction.

[0017] The transport unit 6 transports the rolled sheet P transported by the feeding unit 5 to the recording head 2. In this embodiment, the transport unit 6 is configured by a transport roller. Specifically, the transport unit 6 includes a drive roller 61 and a driven roller 62 (pinch roller) that is pressed against the drive roller 61 by a spring or the like (not shown). The drive roller 61 is rotated by the driving force of the transport motor 60. When the transport motor 60 rotates forward, the rolled sheet P is sandwiched in the nip portion between the drive roller 61 and the driven roller 62, and the rolled sheet P is transported in the +X direction toward the recording head 2. Furthermore, when the rolled sheet P is being wound up, the transport motor 60 can also rotate reversely to cause the transport unit 6 to transport the rolled sheet P upstream (back toward the feeding unit 5).

[0018] As described above, the recording device 1 of this embodiment is a serial type recording device in which the recording head 2 is mounted on the carriage 3. A recording operation on the rolled sheet P is performed by repeating a transport operation (intermittent transport operation) in which the transport unit 6 transports the rolled sheet P a predetermined distance, and a recording scan in which ink is ejected from the recording head 2 while the carriage 3 is moving while transport is stopped. An image (ink image) is formed on the rolled sheet P by the recording operation. As the rolled sheet P is transported, it is partially discharged from the device through the discharge port 1a.

[0019] A cutting unit 7 is provided downstream of the recording head 2. The cutting unit 7 cuts the rolled sheet P after recording. The cutting unit 7 includes, for example, a cutter 71 that is moved by the driving force of a cutter motor 70. The cutter 71 is moved in a direction intersecting the conveying direction of the rolled sheet P (the Y direction in this embodiment) by the guidance of a guide 72. The cutter 71 waits outside the conveying path of the rolled sheet P, and is moved across the conveying path to cut the rolled sheet P when cutting. The cut rolled sheet P is discharged in its entirety through the discharge port 1a.

[0020] The recording device 1 includes an input / output unit 8 that outputs information to the user and accepts user input instructions. The input / output unit 8 is, for example, a touch panel, or a combination of hard keys and a display. In this embodiment, the input / output unit 8 is a touch panel. The input / output unit 8 may also include a device that outputs sound to the user. The human detection sensor 9 is a human presence sensor that detects whether or not a person (user) is present around the recording device 1, and is, for example, an infrared sensor.

[0021] A maintenance unit 10 is provided at one end of the Y-direction movement range of the carriage 3. The maintenance unit 10 maintains and restores the liquid ejection performance of the recording head 2 when the carriage 3 is at a predetermined stop position (home position). The maintenance unit 10 includes a capping member 11. The capping member 11 prevents the liquid ejection orifices (ink ejection orifices) of the recording head 2 from drying out by covering them. An operating mechanism 13 switches the capping member 11 between a capping state and an uncapping state. Figure 2(A) shows the uncapping state, and Figure 2(B) shows the capping state.

[0022] In the uncapping state shown in Fig. 2(A), the cap member 11 is spaced apart from the liquid ejection orifice surface 2a of the recording head 2. The liquid ejection orifice surface 2a is the bottom surface of the recording head 2, and has multiple liquid ejection orifices formed thereon. In the capping state shown in Fig. 2(B), the cap member 11 is attached to the bottom of the recording head 2, and covers the liquid ejection orifice surface 2a (i.e., each liquid ejection orifice). In the capping state, drying of the liquid ejection orifices is suppressed.

[0023] In the uncapping state, ink can be ejected from the recording head 2 to the cap member 11 (so-called preliminary ejection), thereby maintaining the liquid ejection performance of the recording head 2. As shown in FIG. 1(B), a suction port 11a communicating with the pump 12 is provided on the inner surface of the cap member 11. The ink that has been preliminary ejected to the cap member 11 is discharged from the suction port 11a by driving the pump 12 in the uncapping state (so-called idle suction).

[0024] In this embodiment, the operating mechanism 13 raises and lowers the cap member 11 between a capping state and an uncapping state. The driving source of the operating mechanism 13 is the transport motor 60 of the transport unit 6, and the driving source is shared with the transport unit 6. The driving force of the transport motor 60 is transmitted to the shaft of the drive roller 61 via gears 60a and 61a, and is further transmitted to the operating mechanism 13 via gear 61b and the interrupting mechanism 14.

[0025] 3(A) to 3(D) are explanatory diagrams of the operation of the cam plate 110 provided in the operating mechanism 13. The operating mechanism 13 is a translational cam mechanism. The interrupting mechanism 14 includes gears 141 and 142 arranged on the same axis. Engagement portions 143 are formed on the opposing sides of the gears 141 and 142. The gear 142 is provided so as to be displaceable in the axial direction, and receives the driving force of the conveying motor 60.

[0026] As shown in FIG. 3(A), when the gears 141 and 142 are spaced apart and their engaging portions 143 are not engaged, the driving force of the conveyance motor 60 is not transmitted to the gear 141. Therefore, the operating mechanism 13 does not operate. Even if the drive roller 61 of the conveyance unit 6 rotates, for example, when the user pulls out the rolled sheet P while the power is off, the driving force caused by the rotation of the drive roller 61 is not transmitted to the operating mechanism 13 in the state shown in FIG. 3(A). Therefore, the operating mechanism 13 will not operate inadvertently. On the other hand, when the gears 141 and 142 are close to each other and their engaging portions 143 are engaged as shown in FIGS. 3(B) to 3(D), the driving force of the conveyance motor 60 is transmitted to the gear 141. This causes the gear 141 to rotate.

[0027] A plurality of stop positions are set on the movement path of the carriage 3. The interrupting mechanism 14 has a lever member (not shown) that is pressed by the carriage 3 when the carriage 3 moves to a specific stop position (referred to as a gear movement position), and the rotation of the lever member can be used to bring the gear 142 close to the gear 141. In other words, the movement of the carriage 3 can be used to switch the gears 141 and 142 to a drive transmission state in which their engagement portions 143 are engaged with each other.

[0028] A rack 111 that meshes with a gear 141 extends in the X direction on the cam plate 110. Rotation of the gear 141 causes the cam plate 110 to move in the X direction. A guide wall 112 also extends parallel to the rack 111 on the cam plate 110. The guide wall 112 maintains a drive transmission state between the gears 141 and 142. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3B, when the carriage 3 moves to the gear movement position, the gears 141 and 142 are brought into a drive transmission state in which their engagement portions 143 engage with each other. Thereafter, when the cam plate 110 is moved in the +X direction by the drive of the conveyance motor 60, the gear 142 is sandwiched between the gear 141 and the guide wall 112. Since the drive transmission state is maintained while the cam plate 110 is moving, the carriage 3 can move from the gear movement position.

[0029] Cam plate 110 has cam surface 113 that is undulating in the Z direction, and as cam plate 110 moves in the X direction, cap member 11 is raised and lowered via a cam follower (not shown). For example, when cam plate 110 is in the positions shown in Figures 3(A) to 3(C), cap member 11 is in the uncapping state and preliminary ejection is possible. In the position shown in Figure 3(C), dry suction is possible. When cam plate 110 is in the position shown in Figure 3(D), cap member 11 is raised and in the capping state.

[0030] In this embodiment, the actuating mechanism 13 is a translational cam mechanism, but is not limited to this and various other mechanisms can be used. Also, although the conveying motor 60 is used as the drive source for moving the cam plate 110, the actuating mechanism 13 may have its own drive source.

[0031] <Control unit> FIG. 4 is a block diagram of the control unit 20 of the recording device 1. The control unit 20 includes a host I / F (interface) 23 and is capable of communicating with a host computer 200 via a wired or wireless network. The host computer 200 is, for example, an external device that serves as a source of recording data, and a printer driver for the recording device 1 is installed on the host computer 200. The host I / F 23 receives the recording data from the host computer 200, for example, via stream communication. The received recording data can be stored in RAM 25 via a memory controller 25a. The source of the recording data for the recording device 1 may be an image reading device, a digital camera, a smartphone, etc.

[0032] The control unit 20 is an electric circuit having the following configuration connected via a system bus. The CPU 21 is a processor (microcomputer) and is the central processing unit of the control unit 20. The CPU 21 executes programs stored in the Flash ROM 24 to control the overall operation of the recording device 1. The control unit 20 is equipped with multiple storage devices. The Flash ROM 24 is connected to the system bus via the ROM I / F 24a and stores programs executed by the CPU 21 and data required for various controls. The RAM 25 is connected to the system bus via the memory controller 25a and is used as a work area for the CPU 21 or as a temporary storage area for various data. The various data may include setting data related to recording. The number and type of storage devices can be selected as appropriate.

[0033] The image processing unit 22 performs various types of image processing. For example, it performs processing to expand (convert) recording data (for example, data expressed in a page description language) into image data (bitmap image data). The image processing unit 22 also converts the color space (for example, YCbCr) of the image data included in the input print data into a standard RGB color space (for example, sRGB). The image processing unit 22 also performs various image processing on the image data as needed, such as syntax analysis, resolution conversion, image analysis, and image correction. The image data obtained by the image processing is stored in the RAM 25.

[0034] The recording head 2 is connected to the system bus via a head I / F 2b. The maintenance motor 12a that drives the pump 12, the CR motor 40, the feed motor 50, the transport motor 60, and the cutter motor 70 are individually driven by a motor driver 26. The various sensors 27 are connected to the system bus via a sensor I / F 27a, and the CPU 21 can acquire the detection results of the various sensors 27. The human detection sensor 9 is included in the various sensors 27. In addition to the human detection sensor 9, the various sensors 27 also include a sensor that detects the transport position of the roll sheet P and a sensor that detects the position of the carriage 3. The input / output unit 8 is connected to the system bus via an input / output unit I / F 8b. In this embodiment, the input / output unit 8 is fixed to the recording device 1, but is not limited to this. For example, the input / output unit 8 may be a terminal that can communicate with the control unit 20 via a network, and there may be multiple terminals. It is also possible to use a host computer 200 as the input / output unit 8.

[0035] <Processing example> An example of processing executed by the CPU 21 of the control unit 20 will now be described. Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of recording control. When a recording job is received from the host computer 200, the processing of Fig. 5 is executed. The recording job includes recording data and setting data.

[0036] Pre-processing is performed in S1. Pre-processing is processing related to preparation for the recording operation. For example, the roll sheet P is transported to the image formation start position. Also, if the cap member 11 is in a capping state, it is switched to an uncapping state. In S2, the recording operation is performed. In the recording operation, as described above, the intermittent transport operation of the roll sheet P by the transport unit 6 and the recording scan by the recording head 2 while transport is stopped are repeated, and an image is formed on the roll sheet P. Post-processing is performed in S3. Post-processing mainly involves processing related to cutting the roll sheet P.

[0037] <Post-processing> In this embodiment, the user can select one of two types of cutting settings for cutting the rolled sheet P. The two types of cutting settings are called the automatic cutting mode and the cutting instruction mode. In the automatic cutting mode, the rolled sheet P is automatically cut by the cutting unit 7 after the recording operation (S2). On the other hand, in the cutting instruction mode, the cutting unit 7 is operated based on the user's cutting instruction to cut the rolled sheet P.

[0038] In the cutting instruction mode, the user can cut the rolled sheet P at a timing of their choice. This has the following advantages for the user. For example, it can prevent the user from placing their hand on the rolled sheet P before it drops to the floor from the discharge port 1a, which could result in smearing the image. Also, by making sure that the image is dry before cutting, it is possible to prevent the image from being touched with the hand, which could degrade its quality.

[0039] The selection of the automatic cutting mode or the cutting instruction mode may be set by the user in the host computer 200, and information indicating the selection result may be included in the print job. The selection may also be received by the input / output unit 8. The selection result may be stored in the RAM 25, for example, and read and referenced as needed. The selection of the automatic cutting mode or the cutting instruction mode may also be automatically selected according to the type of print medium and print data (ink ejection amount, etc.).

[0040] On the other hand, in the cutting instruction mode, the roll sheet P is cut while waiting for a cutting instruction from the user, which may result in a long waiting time. Since the cap member 11 is in an uncapping state when the recording operation (S2) is completed, a long waiting time may cause the liquid ejection ports of the recording head 2 to dry out. Therefore, in this embodiment, the cap member 11 is put into a capping state when the waiting time reaches a predetermined time (referred to as time T). This prevents the liquid ejection ports from drying out. Time T is, for example, about 5 minutes.

[0041] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of post-processing of S3. In S11, information stored in RAM 25 is referenced to determine whether or not the disconnection instruction mode is set. If the disconnection instruction mode is set, acceptance of the disconnection instruction begins and the process proceeds to S12. When acceptance of the disconnection instruction begins, timing of the waiting time also begins. Acceptance of the disconnection instruction is performed by the input / output unit 8. Display control of the input / output unit 8 will be described later with reference to FIGS. 7(A) and 7(B). If the disconnection instruction mode is not set (in the case of the automatic disconnection mode), the process proceeds to S20.

[0042] In S12, it is determined whether or not a cutting instruction has been given by the user. If a cutting instruction has been given, the process proceeds to S20, and if not, the process proceeds to S13. In S20, the cutting unit 7 is driven to cut the roll sheet P. In S21, it is determined whether or not there is a next recording instruction (whether the next recording job has been received), and if there is a next recording instruction, the post-processing ends. Thereafter, pre-processing (S1) begins. If there is no next recording instruction, the process proceeds to S17.

[0043] In S13, it is determined whether it is time for preliminary ejection, and if it is, the process proceeds to S14, where the print head 2 is driven to perform preliminary ejection. In this embodiment, by the processes of S13 and S14, preliminary ejection is performed at predetermined intervals (for example, 2 seconds) while waiting for a disconnection instruction. This makes it possible to prevent the liquid ejection ports from drying out even when the capping member 11 is in an uncapping state. The interval at which preliminary ejection is performed is set from the perspective of preventing drying.

[0044] In S15, it is determined whether the waiting time has reached time T. If the waiting time has reached time T, the process proceeds to S16, and if the waiting time has not reached time T, the process returns to S12 and continues to wait for a disconnection instruction.

[0045] When the standby time reaches time T, as mentioned at the beginning, the cap member 11 is switched from the uncapping state to the capping state, but the conveyance motor 60 must be driven to operate the operating mechanism 13. During standby, the rolled sheet P on which an image has been formed is sandwiched between the drive roller 61 and the driven roller, and driving the conveyance motor 60 would move the rolled sheet P. Therefore, first, in S16, the cutting unit 7 is driven to cut the rolled sheet P on which the image has been formed, even though there is no cutting instruction from the user. This process can be called a forced cutting operation in that it cuts the rolled sheet P without a user instruction.

[0046] In S17, the feeding unit 5 is driven to wind up the rolled sheet P in order to retract the rolled sheet P from the transport unit 6. At this time, the transport unit 6 may also be driven to transport the rolled sheet P in the -X direction. The length to be wound up is at least the distance from the transport unit 6 to the cutting unit 7. As a result of the winding operation in S17, the rolled sheet P is no longer present in the transport unit 6, and the transport motor 60 is driven, making it possible to operate the operating mechanism 13.

[0047] In S18, the cam plate 110 is moved to the position shown in FIG. 3(C), and the pump 12 (maintenance motor 12a) is driven to perform dry suction of the cap member 11. The ink accumulated in the cap member 11 can be discharged by preliminary ejection. In S19, the cam plate 110 is moved to the position shown in FIG. 3(D), and the cap member 11 is switched to the capping state. This makes it possible to prevent the liquid ejection ports of the recording head 2 from drying out. This completes the post-processing.

[0048] Display control of the input / output unit 8 in post-processing will be described with reference to Fig. 7(A). In S31, information stored in RAM 25 is referenced to determine whether or not the disconnection instruction mode is set. If the disconnection instruction mode is set, the process proceeds to S32, where an instruction button for accepting a disconnection instruction from the user is displayed, and acceptance of the disconnection instruction is initiated. Fig. 7(B) shows an example of the display of the input / output unit 8.

[0049] The display example includes messages 8a and 8b and an instruction button 8c, and notifies the user. Message 8a explains that tapping instruction button 8c will cut the roll sheet P, notifying the user that a cutting instruction is pending. Message 8b notifies the user of the remaining time until time T is reached, and in particular indicates the remaining time until the forced cutting operation of S16 is executed. Such notifications can prompt the user to issue a cutting instruction and also notify the user of the timing when the forced cutting operation will be executed.

[0050] Returning to FIG. 7(A), in S33 it is determined whether or not there is a disconnection instruction (whether or not the instruction button 8c has been tapped), and if there is a disconnection instruction, the process proceeds to S35, and if not, the process proceeds to S34. In S34 it is determined whether or not time T has elapsed, and if it has elapsed, the process proceeds to S35, and if it has not elapsed, the process returns to S33. In S35, the display of the instruction button is terminated. Here, the display of the instruction button 8c exemplified in FIG. 7(B) as well as the messages 8a and 8b is also terminated.

[0051] Second Embodiment When the forced cutting operation (S16) is performed, it is possible that the user is away from the recording device 1, causing the cut sheet to fall from the discharge port 1a. Depending on the impact of the fall, the cut sheet may be folded or scratched, resulting in a decrease in quality. Therefore, before cutting, the rolled sheet P may be conveyed a predetermined distance in the +X direction and stopped, and then the rolled sheet P may be cut. This brings the leading edge of the rolled sheet P closer to the landing point, thereby reducing the impact of the fall. Figure 8(A) is a flowchart showing an example of the forced cutting operation (S16) processing in this embodiment.

[0052] In S41, the transport unit 6 is driven to transport the roll sheet P a predetermined distance in the +X direction. If necessary, the feeding unit 5 is also driven to assist in transporting the roll sheet P. The transport distance is, for example, 10 cm to several tens of cm. In S42, the cutter motor 70 is driven to cut the roll sheet P. The cut sheet is discharged from the discharge port 1a, but at this time, the leading edge of the cut sheet has already reached or is close to the landing point, which reduces the impact of the fall.

[0053] As another measure to reduce the impact of the drop of the cut sheet after cutting, the cutting speed may be different between the forced cutting operation (S16) and the normal cutting operation (S20). By setting the cutting speed slower in the forced cutting operation (S16) than in the normal cutting operation, the cut sheet drops gently from the discharge port 1a after cutting, thereby reducing the impact of the drop. On the other hand, by setting the cutting speed relatively faster in the normal cutting operation, throughput can be improved. In this embodiment, the cutting speed is the movement speed of the cutter 71.

[0054] 8B is a flowchart showing an example of the normal cutting operation (S20). In S51, the cutting speed is set to the normal speed. In S52, the cutter 71 is moved at the cutting speed set in S51 to cut the roll sheet P.

[0055] 8C is a flowchart showing an example of the forced cutting operation (S16). In S53, the cutting speed is set to a low speed. The low speed is, for example, half the normal speed. In S54, the cutter 71 is moved at the cutting speed set in S53 to cut the roll sheet P.

[0056] Third Embodiment When the forced cutting operation (S16) is performed, the user may be notified that the roll sheet P will be cut before the cutting operation is performed. This allows the user to notice that the forced cutting operation is being performed and prompt the user to prepare, such as by supporting the roll sheet P coming out of the discharge port 1a with their hand. FIG. 9(A) is a flowchart showing an example of the process of the forced cutting operation (S16). In S61, the cutting is waited for a predetermined time. The predetermined time is, for example, several tens of seconds. During this time, the input / output unit 8 displays a warning that the roll sheet P will be cut, as shown in FIG. 9(B). In S62, the cutter motor 70 is driven to cut the roll sheet P. The user who notices the warning can take appropriate action.

[0057] <Fourth embodiment> When the waiting time for the cutting instruction reaches time T, the forced cutting operation (S16) may not be performed, and the roll sheet P may be wound up by the feeding unit 5. Fig. 10 is a flowchart of the post-processing (S3) of this embodiment. The processing different from the example of Fig. 6 will be described.

[0058] If it is determined in S21 that there is no next recording instruction, the process proceeds to S17A. Also, if the waiting time has reached time T in S15, the process proceeds to S17B. Both S17A and S17B are the same as S17 in Fig. 6 in that they are operations for driving the feeding unit 5 to wind up the rolled sheet P in order to evacuate the rolled sheet P from the transport unit 6.

[0059] However, at the stage of S17A, the operation is performed after the roll sheet P has been cut, so the recorded portion of the image is present on the cut sheet after cutting, not on the roll sheet P. The winding length is at least the distance from the transport unit 6 to the cutting unit 7. In contrast, at the stage of S17B, the roll sheet P has not been cut, and the recorded portion of the image is present on the roll sheet P. The winding length is at least the length from the transport unit 6 to the leading edge of the roll sheet P. Depending on the length of the recorded portion in the X direction, at least a portion of the recorded portion of the image will be wound onto the cylindrical portion of the roll sheet P. The winding operation at S17B can also be called a forced winding operation, as it is not commanded by the user.

[0060] Thereafter, the empty suction operation in S18 and the capping in S19 are performed, and the post-processing is completed. In this embodiment, the forced cutting operation (S16) of the roll sheet P is not performed, so there is no deterioration in quality due to the cut sheet falling.

[0061] FIG. 11(A) shows an example of a display of the input / output unit 8 in this embodiment, particularly an example of a display when waiting for a disconnection instruction. The display example of FIG. 11(A) has the same basic configuration as the display example of FIG. 7(B), and includes messages 8a and 8b' and an instruction button 8c to notify the user. Message 8b' notifies the user of the time remaining until time T is reached, and particularly indicates the time remaining until the winding operation of S17B is performed. This notification can prompt the user to issue a disconnection instruction and can also notify the user of the timing when the forced winding operation will be performed.

[0062] Fifth Embodiment The winding speed of the roll sheet P in the forced winding operation (S17B) may be slower than the winding speed of the roll sheet P in the normal winding operation (S17A) in the fourth embodiment. By winding the roll sheet P at a faster speed in the normal winding operation (S17A), throughput can be improved. By winding the roll sheet P at a slower speed in the forced winding operation (S17B), it is possible to prevent the image from rubbing against other parts of the roll sheet P when the recorded portion of the image is wound onto the cylindrical portion of the roll sheet P, thereby preventing quality degradation. The winding speed can be controlled by the rotational speed of the feed motor 50, and in the forced winding operation (S17B), the feed motor 50 is rotated at, for example, half the speed of the normal winding operation (S17A). The rotational speed can be switched at the start of each winding operation (S17A, S17B).

[0063] Sixth Embodiment In the first embodiment, when the forced cutting operation (S16) is performed, if the image on the roll sheet P is not sufficiently dry, the recorded portion of the image may come into contact with surrounding objects when the cut sheet falls after cutting, resulting in a deterioration in quality. Also, in the fourth embodiment, when the forced winding operation (S17B) is performed, if the image on the roll sheet P is not sufficiently dry, show-through or a deterioration in image quality may occur when the recorded portion of the image is wound around the cylindrical portion of the roll sheet P.

[0064] If the time T is increased, the drying of the image is promoted, but the drying of the liquid ejection orifices also progresses, and to prevent this, a large amount of ink is wasted through preliminary ejection.

[0065] On the other hand, the drying time of an image varies depending on printing conditions such as the type of recording medium and the amount of ink ejected. For example, plain paper takes less time to dry than glossy paper. Also, between a photo image, which requires a large amount of ink ejection, and a text image, which requires a small amount of ink ejection, the text image takes less time to dry.

[0066] Therefore, the time T may be set for each recording according to the recording conditions. FIG. 11(B) is a flowchart showing an example of this setting process, which is executed before the start of post-processing. In S71, the recording conditions are acquired. The recording conditions are, for example, various settings included in the recording job, such as the type of recording medium and recording data. An evaluation value related to the ink ejection amount can be obtained from the recording data, and the evaluation value may be, for example, the average number of ink ejections per scan. In S72, the time T is set based on the recording conditions acquired in S71. The relationship between the time T and the recording conditions can be tabulated and stored in the Flash ROM 24 in advance, and the stored table may be referenced in the setting in S72.

[0067] Seventh Embodiment In the fourth embodiment, when the forced winding operation (S17B) is performed, the recorded portion of the image remains on the roll sheet P, and so it must be ejected before the next recording. As a prerequisite, in this embodiment, information indicating that the forced winding operation has been performed (referred to as winding information) is saved. The saving destination is, for example, the Flash ROM 24 or the RAM 25. Figure 12 is a flowchart of the post-processing (S3) of this embodiment. Processing that differs from the example of Figure 10 will be described.

[0068] After the forced winding operation is performed in S17B, the winding information is saved in S22. In this embodiment, the winding information includes information indicating the length of the wound roll sheet P in addition to the fact that the forced winding operation has been performed.

[0069] An example of the discharge and cutting operations of the roll sheet P using the winding information will be described below. The discharge and cutting operations are executed when a predetermined condition is met. For example, they can be executed when instructed by the user or automatically at the next recording time. Figure 13(A) is a flowchart showing an example of the discharge and cutting operations based on user instructions, which are executed repeatedly periodically.

[0070] In S71, it is determined whether or not the winding information has been saved. If saved, the process proceeds to S72; if not saved, the process ends. In S72, an instruction button is displayed on the input / output unit 8. FIG. 13(B) is a diagram showing an example of the display on the input / output unit 8. In the example shown, a message 8d is displayed informing that there is a recorded portion on the roll sheet P waiting to be discharged due to the forced winding operation (S17B), along with an instruction button 8e for instructing the discharge and cutting of the portion. The user can instruct the execution of the discharge and cutting operation by tapping the instruction button 8e.

[0071] Returning to FIG. 13(A), in S73 it is determined whether or not a command has been given from the user (whether the command button 8e has been tapped), and if so, the process proceeds to S74. In S74, the discharge and cutting operation is performed. Here, the feeding unit 5 and the transport unit 6 are driven so that the roll sheet P is fed out by the length of the roll sheet P that is included in the winding information. Thereafter, the cutting unit 7 is driven to cut the roll sheet P. As a result, the cut sheet with the wound recording portion is discharged.

[0072] In the example of FIG. 13(A), the ejection and cutting operations are executed on the condition that a user gives an instruction, but the ejection and cutting operations may also be executed on the condition that the human detection sensor 9 detects that a user is present around the recording device 1.

[0073] Next, Figure 13(C) shows an example of processing to be executed at the next recording time. The example shown is an example executed in pre-processing (S1). In S75, it is determined whether or not rewinding information has been saved. If saved, the process proceeds to S76. If not saved, other pre-processing processing is executed in S77. In S76, the discharge and cutting operation is performed. Here, the feeding unit 5 and the transport unit 6 are driven so that the roll sheet P is fed out by the length of the rolled roll sheet P included in the rewinding information. Then, the cutting unit 7 is driven to cut the roll sheet P. This causes the cut sheet with the wound recording portion to be discharged.

[0074] Eighth Embodiment When the waiting time for the user's cutting instruction reaches time T, the forced cutting operation (S16) is performed and the normal winding operation (S17A) is performed, or the forced winding operation (S17B) is performed without performing the forced cutting operation. Figure 14 is a flowchart of the post-processing (S3) of this embodiment. Processing different from the example of Figure 6 will be described.

[0075] If it is determined in S21 that there is a next recording instruction, the process proceeds to S17A, where a normal winding operation is performed. The details of the normal winding operation in S17A are the same as those of the fourth embodiment.

[0076] If the waiting time has reached the time T in S15, the process proceeds to the selection process in S23. In the selection process, a selection is made as to whether to perform the forced cutting operation (S16) and then the normal winding operation (S17A), or to perform the forced winding operation (S17B) without performing the forced cutting operation.

[0077] Selection methods include, for example, a method in which the user selects an operation previously selected by the user, and a method in which selection is made based on the recording conditions. In the former case, the user may select an operation for each recording job, or a uniform selection may be made regardless of the recording job. In the latter case, selection can be made based on the drying state of the image on the roll sheet P. The drying time of an image varies depending on recording conditions such as the type of recording medium and the amount of ink ejected. For example, plain paper takes less time to dry than glossy paper. Furthermore, text images take less time to dry than photographic images, which require a large amount of ink ejection, compared with text images, which require a small amount of ink ejection. If the image is not sufficiently dried, performing a forced rewinding operation may result in show-through or a deterioration in image quality. Therefore, performing a forced cutting operation to eject the recorded portion is more advantageous. If the image has already dried to a certain extent, performing a forced rewinding operation is less likely to cause the above problems. Since a forced cutting operation may result in damage to the recorded portion due to the cut sheet falling, selecting a forced rewinding operation is more advantageous.

[0078] Printing conditions are, for example, various settings included in a print job, such as the type of print medium and print data. An evaluation value related to the amount of ink ejected can be obtained from the print data, and the evaluation value can be, for example, the average number of ink ejections per scan. Printing conditions also include, for example, the type of image. This can be categorized by color, such as monochrome, a specific number of colors such as two colors, or full color, or by the content to be printed, such as line drawings, images (photographs, etc.), or a mixture of these. Furthermore, there are image settings, such as density, resolution, and roughness.

[0079] In S24, it is determined whether or not the forced cutting operation has been selected based on the selection result in S23. If it has been selected, the process proceeds to S16, and if it has not been selected (if the forced winding operation has been selected), the process proceeds to S17B.

[0080] In S16, a forced cutting operation is performed. The details are the same as those of the forced cutting operation described in the first embodiment. After that, the process proceeds to S17A, where a normal winding operation is performed. As described above, the details of the normal winding operation in S17A are the same as those of the normal winding operation in the fourth embodiment. After that, the process proceeds to S16.

[0081] In S17B, a forced winding operation is performed, which is the same as the forced winding operation in the fourth embodiment, and then the process proceeds to S16.

[0082] As described above, in this embodiment, when the waiting time for the user's cutting instruction reaches time T, a forced cutting operation or a forced winding operation is selectively performed, so that an operation can be performed according to the user's wishes and recording conditions.

[0083] Ninth Embodiment When the disconnection instruction mode is set, a notification may be issued to prompt the user to issue a disconnection instruction even at times other than during post-processing. This allows the user to be prompted to issue a disconnection instruction. The notification may be issued continuously or periodically during the pre-processing (S1) and recording operation (S2), or may be issued continuously or periodically during the recording operation (S2).

[0084] FIG. 15(A) shows an example of notification by a display on the input / output unit 8, and shows an example of display control on the input / output unit 8. In S81, the information stored in the RAM 25 is referenced to determine whether or not the disconnection instruction mode is set. If the disconnection instruction mode is set, the process proceeds to S82, and a display prompting the user to issue a disconnection instruction is started. FIG. 15(B) shows an example of such a display. In the illustrated example, a message prompting the user to issue a disconnection instruction after the recording operation has ended is displayed. By issuing such a notification before post-processing (S3), the user can be prompted to issue a disconnection instruction.

[0085] Returning to FIG. 15(A), in S83 it is determined whether or not post-processing (S3) has started. If it is determined that post-processing has started, the process proceeds to S84. In S84, the display that prompted the user to issue a disconnection instruction is ended. In S85, the display of an instruction button that accepts the user's disconnection instruction is started, and acceptance of the disconnection instruction begins. An example of the display is as described with reference to FIG. 7(B). In S86 it is determined whether or not a disconnection instruction has been issued (in the example of FIG. 7(B), whether or not the instruction button 8c has been tapped), and if there is a disconnection instruction, the process proceeds to S88, and if there is not, the process proceeds to S87. In S87 it is determined whether or not time T has elapsed, and if it has elapsed, the process proceeds to S88, and if it has not elapsed, the process returns to S86. In S88, the display of the instruction button is ended.

[0086] Next, if the notifications in Fig. 7(B) and Fig. 15(B) do not catch the user's attention, they will waste power. Therefore, the notification may be executed only when the presence of a user is detected around the recording device 1. Fig. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of processing that replaces the example of processing in Fig. 15(A).

[0087] In S91, the information stored in RAM 25 is referenced to determine whether or not the disconnection instruction mode is set. If the disconnection instruction mode is set, the process proceeds to S92, where the detection result of the human detection sensor 9 is obtained to determine whether or not a user has been detected around the recording device 1. If a user is detected, the process proceeds to S93; if not, the process proceeds to S94. In S93, a display prompting the user to issue a disconnection instruction is displayed, as exemplified in FIG. 15(B). In S94, a display prompting the user to issue a disconnection instruction is not displayed.

[0088] In S95, it is determined whether post-processing (S3) has started. If it is determined that post-processing has started, the process proceeds to S96. The detection result of the human detection sensor 9 is acquired, and it is determined whether a user has been detected around the recording device 1. If a user is detected, the process proceeds to S97, and if not, the process proceeds to S98. In S97, the display of an instruction button for accepting a disconnection instruction from the user begins, and acceptance of the disconnection instruction begins. An example of the display is as described with reference to Figure 7(B). Note that if a display prompting a disconnection instruction has been displayed, this is ended. In S98, the instruction button is not displayed.

[0089] In S99, it is determined whether or not a disconnection instruction has been given (in the example of FIG. 7(B) whether or not the instruction button 8c has been tapped), and if a disconnection instruction has been given, the process ends. If an instruction button has been displayed, the process ends. If no disconnection instruction has been given, the process proceeds to S100. In S100, it is determined whether or not time T has elapsed, and if not, the process returns to S96. If it has elapsed, the process ends. If an instruction button has been displayed, the process ends.

[0090] <Other embodiments> The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program.The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0091] The invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the following claims are appended to apprise the public of the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. a cap member that can be switched between a capping state that covers the liquid ejection ports of the recording head and a non-capping state; a conveying means for conveying a recording medium to the recording head; a feeding means for feeding a roll sheet as the recording medium to the conveying means; a cutting means for cutting the recording medium on which an image has been formed by the recording head, A recording device capable of setting in advance a cut-off setting for operating the cut-off means based on a cut-off instruction from a user, When the cutting setting is set, the cap member waits in the uncapping state until the cutting instruction is issued, and when the waiting time reaches a predetermined time, activating the cutting means to cut the roll sheet; The roll sheet is retracted from the conveying means by winding up the roll sheet by the feeding means; switching the cap member to the capping state; A recording device characterized by:

2. 2. The recording device according to claim 1, When the disconnection setting is set, a preliminary ejection is performed to eject ink from the recording head onto the cap member while waiting for the disconnection instruction. A recording device characterized by:

3. 3. The recording device according to claim 2, a suction unit that sucks ink ejected onto the cap member from the cap member; When the disconnection setting is set, the suction unit sucks ink from the cap member when the waiting time reaches the predetermined time, and then switches the cap member to the capping state. A recording device characterized by:

4. 4. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, a notification means for notifying a user that the disconnection instruction is being waited for while the disconnection instruction is being waited for; A recording device characterized by:

5. 5. The recording device according to claim 4, The notification by the notification means includes at least notification of the remaining time until the standby time reaches the predetermined time. A recording device characterized by:

6. 4. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, a notification unit that notifies a user to issue a disconnection instruction when the disconnection setting is set, A recording device characterized by:

7. 7. The recording device according to claim 6, a detection means for detecting whether or not a user is present around the recording device; the notification means issues the notification on the condition that the user is detected by the detection means. A recording device characterized by:

8. 2. The recording device according to claim 1, the cap member is switched to the capping state by a driving force of a driving source of the conveying means; A recording device characterized by:

9. 2. The recording device according to claim 1, When the cutting setting is set and the waiting time reaches the predetermined time, the conveying unit conveys the recording medium by a predetermined amount and stops conveying before activating the cutting unit to cut the roll sheet. A recording device characterized by:

10. 2. The recording device according to claim 1, If the disconnection setting is set, Based on the cutting instruction, the cutting means is operated at a first cutting speed to cut the roll sheet; When the waiting time reaches the predetermined time, the cutting means is operated to cut the roll sheet at a second cutting speed slower than the first cutting speed. A recording device characterized by:

11. 11. The recording device according to claim 1, wherein: a notification unit configured to notify a user that the rolled sheet will be cut before the cutting unit cuts the rolled sheet when the waiting time reaches the predetermined time, A recording device characterized by:

12. 9. The recording device according to claim 8, When the disconnection setting is set and the waiting time reaches the predetermined time, The roll sheet is retracted from the conveying means by winding up the roll sheet by the feeding means; switching the cap member to the capping state; A recording device characterized by:

13. 13. The recording device according to claim 12, If the disconnection setting is set, After cutting the roll sheet based on the cutting instruction, the feeder winds up the roll sheet at a first winding speed; When the waiting time reaches the predetermined time, the feeding unit winds up the roll sheet at a second winding speed slower than the first winding speed, thereby retracting the recording medium from the conveying unit and switching the cap member to the capping state. A recording device characterized by:

14. 14. The recording device according to claim 12 or 13, When the cutting setting is set and the roll sheet is wound up by the feeding means because the standby time has reached the predetermined time, information indicating that the roll sheet has been wound up is stored in a storage means. A recording device characterized by:

15. 15. The recording device according to claim 14, The information includes information indicating the length of the roll sheet that has been wound up. A recording device characterized by:

16. 16. The recording device according to claim 14 or claim 15, When the information is stored in the storage means and a predetermined condition is met, an operation of discharging the wound roll sheet is executed. A recording device characterized by:

17. 17. The recording device according to claim 16, The predetermined condition is a user instruction. A recording device characterized by:

18. 9. The recording device according to claim 8, When the cutting setting is set and the waiting time reaches the predetermined time, after the first operation or the second operation, the cap member is switched to the capping state; the first operation is an operation of activating the cutting means to cut the roll sheet and retracting the roll sheet from the conveying means by winding up the roll sheet with the feeding means, The second operation is an operation of retracting the rolled sheet from the conveying means by winding up the rolled sheet by the feeding means without cutting the rolled sheet. A recording device characterized by:

19. 19. The recording device according to claim 18, selecting the first operation or the second operation based on a recording condition; A recording device characterized by:

20. 13. The recording device according to claim 1 or claim 12, the predetermined time is set based on recording conditions; A recording device characterized by:

21. a cap member that can be switched between a capping state that covers the ink ejection ports of the recording head and an uncapping state; a conveying means for conveying a recording medium to the recording head; a feeding means for feeding a roll sheet as the recording medium to the conveying means; a cutting unit that cuts the recording medium on which an ink image has been formed by the recording head, and a cutting setting that operates the cutting unit based on a cutting instruction from a user can be preset, When the disconnection setting is set, the cap member waits for the disconnection instruction in the uncapping state, and when the waiting time reaches a predetermined time, activating the cutting means to cut the roll sheet; The roll sheet is retracted from the conveying means by winding up the roll sheet by the feeding means; switching the cap member to the capping state; A control method comprising:

22. a cap member that can be switched between a capping state that covers the ink ejection ports of the recording head and an uncapping state; a conveying means for conveying a recording medium to the recording head; a feeding means for feeding a roll sheet as the recording medium to the conveying means; a cutting unit that cuts the recording medium on which an ink image has been formed by the recording head, and a storage medium that stores a program that causes a computer to execute a control method for a recording apparatus that can preset a cutting setting for operating the cutting unit based on a cutting instruction from a user, The control method includes: When the disconnection setting is set, the cap member waits for the disconnection instruction in the uncapping state, and when the waiting time reaches a predetermined time, activating the cutting means to cut the roll sheet; The roll sheet is retracted from the conveying means by winding up the roll sheet by the feeding means; switching the cap member to the capping state; A storage medium characterized by:

23. a cap member that can be switched between a capping state that covers the ink ejection ports of the recording head and an uncapping state; a conveying means for conveying a recording medium to the recording head; a feeding means for feeding a roll sheet as the recording medium to the conveying means; a cutting unit that cuts the recording medium on which an ink image has been formed by the recording head, and a cutting setting that operates the cutting unit based on a cutting instruction from a user can be preset, The control method includes: When the disconnection setting is set, the cap member waits for the disconnection instruction in the uncapping state, and when the waiting time reaches a predetermined time, activating the cutting means to cut the roll sheet; The roll sheet is retracted from the conveying means by winding up the roll sheet by the feeding means; switching the cap member to the capping state; A program characterized by:

Images