Device with replacement parts

Abstract

Ensure that a device equipped with replacement parts continues to function properly even after the replacement parts have been installed. [Solution] If it is selected that a replacement head is available based on the head availability confirmation screen (S101, S102: YES), the insertion confirmation screen is displayed (S104), and the user is prompted to input head information according to the selection on the insertion confirmation screen (S105~S108). After the input of head information is completed, the user is prompted to replace the inkjet head (S109~S111). After the inkjet head is replaced, ink is introduced into the inkjet head (S112), and initial adjustments are performed (S113).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus having replaceable replacement parts.

Background Art

[0002] As an example of an apparatus having replacement parts, Patent Document 1 describes a printing apparatus having a print head as a replacement part. In the printing apparatus described in Patent Document 1, the user can display a screen asking the user whether to execute the replacement process of the print head by operating the setting screen displayed on the operation panel. When the "Yes" button is pressed on this screen, an unlocking screen for unlocking the front door is displayed. When the "Unlock" button is pressed, the front door is unlocked, the head replacement preparation process is performed, and the print head as a replacement part can be replaced.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Here, when the head is replaced as described in Patent Document 1, there may be a performance difference between the head before replacement and the head after replacement. And due to this performance difference, there is a risk that the printing performance of the printing apparatus will deteriorate after the head is replaced.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus having replacement parts that can operate appropriately even after the replacement parts are replaced.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The apparatus equipped with the replaceable parts of the present invention comprises replaceable replaceable parts and a control unit, wherein the control unit receives input of replacement part information regarding the replaced parts based on user operation when the replaceable parts are replaced. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, when a replacement part is replaced, the device equipped with the replacement part can be operated appropriately by receiving input of replacement part information regarding the replacement part after replacement. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram of the printer's configuration. [Figure 2] This diagram shows the configuration of the discharge inspection section provided in the purge unit. [Figure 3] (a) is a diagram illustrating the signal output from the signal processing circuit when the nozzle is a normal nozzle, and (b) is a diagram illustrating the signal output from the signal processing circuit when the nozzle is an abnormal nozzle. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a printer. [Figure 5] This flowchart shows the process when replacing a print head. [Figure 6] (a) is a diagram illustrating the screen for checking the presence or absence of a print head, and (b) is a diagram illustrating the screen for guiding users through the purchase of a print head. [Figure 7] (a) is a diagram illustrating the insertion confirmation screen, (b) is a diagram illustrating the insertion process, and (c) is a diagram illustrating the first head information input screen. [Figure 8] (a) is a diagram illustrating the second head information input screen, and (b) is a diagram illustrating the head information written on the head. [Figure 9] (a) is a diagram illustrating the head replacement guidance screen, and (b) is a diagram illustrating the replacement completion confirmation screen. [Figure 10]It is a flowchart showing the flow of the initial adjustment process of FIG. 5. [Figure 11] (a) is a diagram for explaining the inclination adjustment pattern, and (b) is a diagram for explaining an input screen for inputting with respect to the recording result of the inclination adjustment pattern. [Figure 12] (a) is a diagram for explaining the ruled line adjustment pattern, and (b) is a diagram for explaining an input screen for inputting with respect to the recording result of the ruled line adjustment pattern. [Figure 13] It is a flowchart showing the flow of the process at the time of head replacement when inputting head information after the head replacement. [Figure 14] It is a diagram for explaining the visual recognition position. [Figure 15] It is a flowchart showing the flow of the process at the time of head replacement when the information described on the head is memorized in advance when the insertion is not at hand. [Figure 16] (a) is a diagram for explaining the head information acquisition guidance screen, and (b) is a diagram for explaining the head information input screen. [Figure 17] It is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a printer provided with a code reading unit. [Figure 18] (a) is a diagram for explaining the code described on the head, and (b) is a diagram for explaining the code described on the insertion. [Figure 19] (a) is a flowchart showing the flow of the process at the time of head replacement when acquiring head information by reading a code before replacing the head, and (b) is a diagram for explaining the code reading guidance screen. [Figure 20] It is a flowchart showing the flow of the process at the time of head replacement when acquiring head information by reading a code or the like after the head replacement.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described.

[0010] <Overall Configuration of the Printer> As shown in FIG. 1, the printer 1 according to the present embodiment includes a carriage 2, a sub-tank 3, an inkjet head 4, a platen 5, transport rollers 6, 7, a purge unit 8, a power plug 19, etc. In the present embodiment, the printer 1 corresponds to the "device equipped with replaceable parts" of the present invention.

[0011] The carriage 2 extends parallel to the left and right directions and is supported by two guide rails 11, 12 arranged at intervals in the front and rear directions. The carriage 2 is connected to a carriage motor 86 shown in FIG. 4 via a belt or the like not shown. By driving the carriage motor 86, the carriage 2 can be moved in the left and right directions along the guide rails 11, 12. Here, in the present embodiment, the left direction is a horizontal direction, and the right direction is the direction opposite to the left direction. Also, in the present embodiment, the front direction is a horizontal direction and is perpendicular to the left and right directions, and the rear direction is the direction opposite to the front direction. In the present embodiment, the left direction corresponds to the "first direction" of the present invention. Also, the right direction corresponds to the "second direction" of the present invention. Also, the front direction corresponds to the "third direction" of the present invention.

[0012] The sub-tank 3 is mounted on the carriage 2. Here, the printer 1 has four cartridge mounting portions 23 arranged in the left and right directions at the front end portion of the right end portion. An ink cartridge 24 is removably mounted on each cartridge mounting portion 23. The ink cartridges 24 store black, yellow, cyan, and magenta inks in order from the one located in the right direction. The sub-tank 3 is connected to the four ink cartridges 24 via four tubes 25, and the four-color inks are supplied from the four ink cartridges 24 to the sub-tank 3. In the present embodiment, the ink cartridge 24 corresponds to the "ink tank" of the present invention.

[0013] The inkjet head 4 is connected to the lower end of the sub-tank 3. The inkjet head 4 ejects ink from a plurality of nozzles 10 formed on its lower surface, the nozzle surface 4a. More specifically, the plurality of nozzles 10 are arranged in a forward and backward direction to form a nozzle row 9. Four rows of nozzle rows 9 are arranged on the nozzle surface 4a in a leftward and rightward direction. From the plurality of nozzles 10, black, yellow, cyan, and magenta inks are ejected in order, starting from those forming the nozzle row 9 located to the right. The inkjet head 4 is supplied with these four colors of ink from the sub-tank 3. The inkjet head 4 is also provided with a media sensor 29. The media sensor 29 is for detecting when the recording paper S, supplied from a paper feed unit (not shown), reaches a position facing the media sensor 29. In this embodiment, the recording paper S corresponds to the "recording medium" of the present invention.

[0014] The platen 5 is positioned below the carriage 2 and the inkjet head 4. The platen 5 is formed in a roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape. The platen 5 supports the recording paper S.

[0015] The transport rollers 6 and 7 are rollers whose axial directions are parallel to the left and right directions, respectively. Transport roller 6 is positioned behind the carriage 2 and platen 5. Transport roller 7 is positioned in front of the carriage 2 and platen 5. The transport rollers 6 and 7 are connected to the transport motor 87 shown in Figure 4 via gears (not shown). When the transport motor 87 is driven, the transport rollers 6 and 7 rotate, and the recording paper S is transported forward.

[0016] The purge unit 8 includes a cap 31, a suction pump 32, and a waste liquid tank 33.

[0017] The cap 31 is positioned to the right of the platen 5. When the carriage 2 is positioned in the purge position to the right of the platen 5, multiple nozzles 10 face the cap 31.

[0018] Furthermore, the cap 31 is connected to the cap lifting mechanism 88 shown in Figure 4. When the cap lifting mechanism 88 is driven, the cap 31 moves up and down. With the carriage 2 positioned in the purging position, the cap 31 faces the multiple nozzles 10. When the cap 31 is raised by the cap lifting mechanism 88, the upper end of the cap 31 comes into close contact with the nozzle surface 4a, and the multiple nozzles 10 are covered by the cap 31. When the cap 31 is lowered, the multiple nozzles 10 are not covered by the cap 31. Note that the cap 31 is not limited to covering the multiple nozzles 10 by coming into close contact with the nozzle surface 4a. For example, the cap 31 may cover the multiple nozzles 10 by coming into close contact with a frame (not shown) arranged around the nozzle surface 4a of the inkjet head 4.

[0019] The suction pump 32 is a tube pump or the like, and is connected to the cap 31 and the waste liquid tank 33. When the suction pump 32 is driven in the capped state, the purge unit 8 can perform a so-called suction purge, which discharges ink from the inkjet head 4 through multiple nozzles 10. The ink discharged by the suction purge is stored in the waste liquid tank 33.

[0020] For convenience, this explanation assumes that the cap 31 covers all nozzles 10 together, and that during suction purging, ink is discharged from all nozzles 10 within the inkjet head 4. However, this is not the only possible configuration. For example, the cap 31 may have separate parts: one covering multiple nozzles 10 that make up the rightmost nozzle row 9 that ejects black ink, and another covering multiple nozzles 10 that make up the 1st to 3rd nozzle rows 9 from the left, which eject color ink. This configuration allows for selective discharge of either black or color ink from the inkjet head 4 during suction purging. Here, color ink refers to yellow, cyan, and magenta inks. Alternatively, for example, the cap 31 may be provided individually for each nozzle row 9, allowing for individual discharge of ink from each nozzle 10 during suction purging.

[0021] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, the purge unit 8 is provided with a discharge inspection unit 20. The discharge inspection unit 20 includes an electrode 71, a high-voltage power supply circuit 72, a signal processing circuit 73, and a resistor 74.

[0022] The electrode 71 has a rectangular planar shape and is placed inside the cap 31. The electrode 71 is connected to the high-voltage power supply circuit 72 via a resistor 74. The high-voltage power supply circuit 72 applies a predetermined voltage, for example, about 600V, to the electrode 71 under the control of the control unit 80, which will be described later. Meanwhile, the inkjet head 4 is held at ground potential. This creates a potential difference between the inkjet head 4 and the electrode 71. The signal processing circuit 73 is connected to the electrode 71. The signal processing circuit 73 includes a differentiating circuit and outputs a signal to the control unit 80 corresponding to the voltage of the electrode 71. In this embodiment, the signal output from the signal processing circuit 73 is a voltage signal. However, the signal output from the signal processing circuit 73 may be a current signal.

[0023] In this embodiment, with the cap in place, a voltage is applied to the electrode 71 by the high-voltage power supply circuit 72, and each of the multiple nozzles 10 of the inkjet head 4 is driven to eject ink from the nozzle 10 toward the electrode 71.

[0024] In this case, with the capped state described above, and with a predetermined voltage applied to the electrode 71 by the high-voltage power supply circuit 72, and with the discharge drive not being performed, the voltage of the signal output from the signal processing circuit 73 is approximately the voltage V0 shown in Figures 3(a) and (b).

[0025] When ink is ejected from the nozzle 10 by the ejection drive, the ejected ink becomes charged due to the potential difference between the electrode 71 and the inkjet head 4. Therefore, the potential of the electrode 71 changes as the charged ink approaches the electrode 71 and lands on it. After the charged ink lands on the electrode 71, the potential of the electrode 71 decays and returns to the potential it was at before the ink was ejected.

[0026] As a result, when ink is ejected normally from the nozzle 10 by the ejection drive, the signal output from the signal processing circuit 73 rises from voltage V0 to a voltage higher than voltage V0, V1 or higher, then drops to a voltage lower than voltage V0, V2 or lower, and then returns to voltage V0 while repeatedly rising and falling with attenuation.

[0027] On the other hand, if there is a problem with nozzle 10 and the amount of ink ejected from nozzle 10 by the ejection drive is less than normal, the change in the signal output from signal processing circuit 73 is smaller than when ink is ejected normally from nozzle 10, as shown in Figure 3(b). Here, less ink ejected than when ink is ejected normally from nozzle 10 also includes cases where no ink is ejected at all. When no ink is ejected from nozzle 10 by the ejection drive, the signal output from signal processing circuit 73 hardly changes from the voltage V0.

[0028] Thus, in this embodiment, the signal output from the signal processing circuit 73 differs depending on whether or not ink is ejected normally from the nozzle 10 when the ejection drive is performed. In other words, the signal output from the signal processing circuit 73 indicates whether the nozzle 10 is a normal nozzle that ejects ink normally, or an abnormal nozzle that has an abnormality in ink ejection.

[0029] In this embodiment, a predetermined voltage is applied to the electrode 71, the inkjet head 4 is held at ground potential, and the signal processing circuit 73 is configured to output a signal corresponding to the voltage of the electrode 71. However, the embodiment is not limited to this configuration. Alternatively, the electrode 71 may be held at ground potential, and a predetermined voltage may be applied to the inkjet head 4 to create a potential difference between the electrode 71 and the inkjet head 4. The signal processing circuit 73 may then be configured to output a signal corresponding to the voltage of the inkjet head 4 when it is connected to the inkjet head 4 and ejection is performed.

[0030] The power plug 19 is connected to a commercial power source. Power is supplied to the printer 1 when the power plug 19 is connected to a commercial power source.

[0031] <Electrical configuration of the printer> Next, the electrical configuration of printer 1 will be described. As shown in Figure 4, printer 1 is equipped with a control unit 80. The control unit 80 consists of a CPU 81, ROM 82, RAM 83, memory 84, ASIC 85, etc. CPU is an abbreviation for Central Processing Unit. ROM is an abbreviation for Read Only Memory. RAM is an abbreviation for Random Access Memory. ASIC is an abbreviation for Application Specific Integrated Circuit. The control unit 80 controls the operation of the carriage motor 86, inkjet head 4, transport motor 87, cap lifting mechanism 88, high voltage power supply circuit 72, etc. The control unit 80 also receives signals from the media sensor 29 and signal processing circuit 73.

[0032] In addition to the configuration described above, the printer 1 also includes a display unit 69 and an operation unit 68. The display unit 69 is a liquid crystal display or the like. The operation unit 68 is a part operated by the user, such as hard keys or a touch panel provided on the display unit 69. The control unit 80 controls the operation of the display unit 69 and receives signals from the operation unit 68.

[0033] Furthermore, the control unit 80 may be configured such that only the CPU 81 performs the various processing, or only the ASIC 85 performs the various processing, or the CPU 81 and ASIC 85 perform the various processing in cooperation. Also, the control unit 80 may be configured such that one CPU 81 performs the processing alone, or multiple CPUs 81 share the processing. Furthermore, the control unit 80 may be configured such that one ASIC 85 performs the processing alone, or multiple ASICs 85 share the processing.

[0034] <Control during recording> Next, the processing of the control unit 80 when recording an image onto the recording paper S in the printer 1 will be described. In the printer 1, the control unit 80 repeatedly performs a recording path by controlling the carriage motor 86 to move the carriage 2 to the left and to the right, while controlling the inkjet head 4 to eject ink from multiple nozzles 10 toward the recording paper S, and a transport operation by controlling the transport motor 87 to transport the recording paper S toward the forward direction on the transport rollers 6 and 7, thereby recording an image onto the recording paper S.

[0035] <Replacing the inkjet print head> Next, we will explain how to replace the inkjet head 4. In printer 1, the inkjet head 4 is a replaceable part. In printer 1, the user can initiate the replacement process for the inkjet head 4 by performing a predetermined replacement start operation on the operation unit 68. Specifically, when the user performs the above replacement start operation on the operation unit 68, the control unit 80 executes the process according to the flowchart in Figure 5.

[0036] To explain the flowchart in Figure 5 in detail, the control unit 80 first displays the head presence / absence confirmation screen 101 shown in Figure 6(a) on the display unit 69 (S101). In this embodiment, the head presence / absence confirmation screen 101 corresponds to the "first selection screen" of the present invention.

[0037] The head presence confirmation screen 101 is a screen that allows the user to select whether or not a replacement inkjet head 4 is available. In this embodiment, the replacement inkjet head 4 corresponds to the "replacement part for replacement" in the present invention. The head presence confirmation screen 101 has a message section 101A and selection sections 101B and 101C. The message section 101A displays a message asking whether or not a replacement inkjet head 4 is available to the user. The selection section 101B is the part that is selected when the replacement inkjet head 4 is available to the user. The selection section 101C is the part that is selected when the replacement inkjet head 4 is not available to the user.

[0038] If the operation unit 68 is a hard key, the user can select selection units 101B and 101C by operating the hard key. If the operation unit 68 is a touch panel provided on the display unit 69, the user can select selection units 101B and 101C by touching the area of ​​the display unit 69 where the selection units 101B and 101C are displayed. The same applies to each selection unit, button, etc., described below.

[0039] If selection unit 101C is selected, that is, if the user does not have a replacement inkjet head 4 (S102: NO), the control unit 80 displays a head purchase guidance screen 102, as shown in Figure 6(b), on the display unit 69 (S103), and then the process according to the flowchart in Figure 5 is completed. The head purchase guidance screen 102 has a message unit 102A and a selection unit 102B.

[0040] The message section 102A displays a message prompting the user to purchase a replacement inkjet head 4, a message guiding the user to where to purchase a replacement inkjet head 4, a URL to connect to the website where the replacement inkjet head 4 is sold, and a message regarding the purchase of the replacement inkjet head 4. In addition, as shown in Figure 6(b), the head purchase guidance screen 102 may also include a code 102C such as a barcode or QR code to connect to the website where the replacement inkjet head 4 is sold. The selection section 102B is the part selected when the display of the head purchase guidance screen 102 is terminated.

[0041] If the selection unit 101B is selected, that is, if the replacement inkjet head 4 is available to the user (S102:YES), the control unit 80 displays the insertion confirmation screen 103 shown in Figure 7(a) on the display unit 69 (S104).

[0042] Here, when a replacement inkjet head 4 is purchased, an insertion 99 as shown in Figure 7(b) is included. The insertion 99 is a sheet containing information about the inkjet head 4, such as head information. In this embodiment, the head information consists of head parameters, media sensor parameters, and a serial number. Head parameters are parameters related to the performance of the inkjet head 4. More specifically, they are parameters related to the ejection performance of the head. For example, they are parameters that indicate the rank of the ink ejection quality from the nozzles of the inkjet head 4. Here, head parameters are not limited to parameters related to the ejection performance of the head. For example, they may be parameters such as the tilt of the head or the flow resistance. Media sensor parameters are sensor characteristic values ​​of the media sensor 29. More specifically, they are parameters that allow the media sensor 29 to detect the recording paper S more accurately. For example, they may be parameters that indicate the degree of tilt of the media sensor 29 relative to the recording paper S in the inkjet head 4, or parameters related to the threshold for detecting the amount of light. The serial number is a unique number assigned to the inkjet head 4 at the time of manufacture. Here, the serial number may include information such as the date of manufacture and the place of manufacture. In this embodiment, the head information corresponds to the "replacement parts information" of the present invention.

[0043] The insertion confirmation screen 103 is a screen for selecting whether or not the insertion 99 is in the user's possession. The insertion confirmation screen 103 has a message section 103A and selection sections 103B and 103C.

[0044] Message section 101A displays a message asking whether the insertion 99 is in the user's possession. Selection section 103B is selected if the insertion 99 is in the user's possession. Selection section 103C is selected if the insertion 99 is not in the user's possession.

[0045] If the selection unit 103B is selected, that is, if the insertion 99 is in the user's possession (S105: YES), the control unit 80 displays the first head information input screen 104, as shown in Figure 7(c), on the display unit 69 (S106).

[0046] The first head information input screen 104 includes a message section 104A, an input information display section 104B, a numeric keypad 104C, and a selection section 104D. The message section 104A displays a message prompting the input of head information described in the insertion 99.

[0047] The input information display unit 104B displays the head parameters, media sensor parameters, and serial number as input head information. The numeric keypad 104C consists of number buttons 104C1 numbered "0" through "9". The user can input the head parameters, media sensor parameters, and serial number by operating the number buttons 104C1. The selection unit 104D is selected when the input of head information is complete.

[0048] If the selection unit 103C is selected, that is, if the insertion 99 is not in the user's possession (S105: NO), the control unit 80 displays the second head information input screen 105, as shown in Figure 8(a), on the display unit 69 (S107).

[0049] The second head information input screen 105 includes a message section 105A, an input information display section 105B, a numeric keypad 105C, and a selection section 105D. The message section 105A displays a message prompting the user to input the head information written on the inkjet head 4. Here, for example, as shown in Figure 8(b), a sticker 4b is attached to the front of the inkjet head 4, and the sticker 4b contains the head parameters, media sensor parameters, and serial number as head information.

[0050] The input information display unit 105B is the same as the input information display unit 104B of the first head information input screen 104. The numeric keypad 105C is the same as the numeric keypad 104C of the first head information input screen 104 and consists of number buttons 105C1 from "0" to "9". The selection unit 105D is the same as the selection unit 104D of the first head information input screen 104.

[0051] In this embodiment, the first head information input screen 104 and the second head information input screen 105 correspond to the "input instruction screen" of the present invention. In this embodiment, the control unit 80 accepts head information input by displaying either the first head information input screen 104 or the second head information input screen 105 on the display unit 69.

[0052] The control unit 80 displays the first head information input screen 104 or the second head information input screen 105 on the display unit 69, and then waits until the selection unit 104D or selection unit 105D is selected, that is, until the input of head information is completed (S108: NO). When the selection unit 104D or selection unit 105D is selected, that is, when the input of head information is completed (S108: YES), the control unit 80 displays the head replacement guidance screen 106 shown in Figure 9(a) on the display unit 69 (S109). In this embodiment, the head replacement guidance screen 106 serves as both the "guidance screen" and the "replacement instruction screen" of the present invention.

[0053] The head replacement guidance screen 106 displays a message prompting the user to unplug the power plug 19 from the commercial power source, replace the inkjet head 4, and then plug the power plug 19 back into the commercial power source after the inkjet head 4 replacement is complete. It also displays the procedure for replacing the inkjet head 4 after unplugging the power plug 19. The replacement procedure includes steps such as (1) releasing the lock lever on the inkjet head 4, (2) removing the currently installed inkjet head 4, (3) installing the new inkjet head 4, and (4) securing the new inkjet head 4 with the lock lever. The user can replace the inkjet head 4 by following the instructions on the head replacement guidance screen 106, unplugging the power plug 19 from the commercial power source to stop the power supply to the printer 1, removing the inkjet head 4 from the carriage 2, and installing the new inkjet head 4 into the carriage 2.

[0054] At this time, the power supply to printer 1 is stopped when the power plug 19 is unplugged from the commercial power source, and the process according to the flowchart in Figure 5 is interrupted. Subsequently, when the power plug 19 is plugged back into the commercial power source and the power supply to printer 1 is restored, the process according to the flowchart in Figure 5 resumes.

[0055] When the power plug 19 is plugged into a commercial power source, the control unit 80 displays a replacement confirmation screen 107 on the display unit 69, as shown in Figure 9(b) (S110). In this embodiment, the replacement confirmation screen 107 corresponds to the "second selection screen" of the present invention.

[0056] The replacement confirmation screen 107 is a screen for selecting whether or not the inkjet head 4 has been replaced. The replacement confirmation screen 107 has a message section 107A and selection sections 107B and 107C.

[0057] Message section 107A displays a message asking whether the replacement of inkjet head 4 has been completed. Selection section 107B is selected when the replacement of inkjet head 4 has been completed. Selection section 107C is selected when the replacement of inkjet head 4 has not been completed.

[0058] If selection unit 107C is selected, that is, if the replacement of the inkjet head 4 is not yet complete (S111: NO), the process returns to S109. If selection unit 107B is selected, that is, if the replacement of the inkjet head 4 is complete (S111: YES), the control unit 80 causes ink to be introduced into the replaced inkjet head 4 (S112). More specifically, the control unit 80 controls the carriage motor 86, cap lifting mechanism 88, suction pump 32, etc., in the same way as when performing suction purging, to send the ink stored in the ink cartridge 24 to the inkjet head 4 and introduce ink into the inkjet head 4.

[0059] Next, the control unit 80 performs an initial adjustment process (S113), and then the process ends. In the initial adjustment process, the control unit 80 performs the process according to the flowchart in Figure 10.

[0060] To explain in detail, the control unit 80 first performs adjustments based on the input head information (S201). Adjustments based on head information include, for example, adjustments to the drive voltage and drive waveform of the inkjet head 4 according to the head rank indicated by the head parameter, and adjustments related to the detection of the recording paper S by the media sensor 29 according to the tilt and light intensity of the media sensor 29 indicated by the media sensor parameter.

[0061] Next, the control unit 80 performs a nozzle inspection process (S202). In the nozzle inspection process of S202, the control unit 80 controls the carriage motor 86, the cap lifting mechanism 88, etc. to set the cap to the state described above, and then controls the high-voltage power supply circuit 72 to apply voltage to the electrode 71, causing the inkjet head 4 to perform the ejection drive for each of the multiple nozzles 10, and when each ejection drive is performed, the control unit 80 checks whether each nozzle 10 is a normal nozzle or an abnormal nozzle based on the signal output from the signal processing circuit 73.

[0062] If there is an abnormal nozzle among the multiple nozzles 10 of the inkjet head 4 (S203: YES), the control unit 80 performs a nozzle recovery process (S204), and then the process returns to S202. In the nozzle recovery process of S204, the control unit 80 recovers the abnormal nozzles by performing actions such as suction purging and flushing, which involves driving the inkjet head 4 to discharge ink from the abnormal nozzles toward the cap 31, depending on the number of abnormal nozzles. In the flowchart of Figure 10, for convenience, the nozzle recovery process of S204 is always performed and then the process returns to S202 whenever there is an abnormal nozzle among the multiple nozzles 10 of the inkjet head 4, but this is not limited to this. For example, if there is an abnormal nozzle among the multiple nozzles 10 of the inkjet head 4 even after repeatedly performing the nozzle recovery process a predetermined number of times or more, an error screen may be displayed on the display unit 69 and the process according to the flowchart of Figure 10 may be terminated.

[0063] If there are no abnormal nozzles among the multiple nozzles 10 of the inkjet head 4 (S203:NO), the control unit 80 controls the carriage motor 86, inkjet head 4, transport motor 87, etc., to record multiple tilt adjustment patterns 121 as shown in Figure 11(a). Figure 11(a) shows the case where five tilt adjustment patterns 121 are recorded. Each tilt adjustment pattern 121 consists of two line segments 121A and 121B and an identification number 121C. The line segments 121A and 121B extend along the forward and backward directions. The identification number 121C is a number used to allow the user to identify the tilt adjustment pattern 121.

[0064] When recording multiple tilt adjustment patterns 121, the control unit 80 first records the identification numbers 121C of the multiple tilt adjustment patterns 121 by performing a recording pass. Subsequently, the control unit 80 transports the recording paper S a predetermined distance by performing a transport operation, and then records the line segments 121A of the multiple tilt adjustment patterns 121 by performing a recording pass.

[0065] At this time, when recording any one line segment 121A, ink is ejected at the same time from multiple nozzles 10 that form the nozzle row 9. When recording line segments 121A other than the one mentioned above, the ejection timing of adjacent nozzles 10 that make up the nozzle row 9 is shifted by a certain amount of time. Furthermore, the time by which the ejection timing of adjacent nozzles 10 that make up the nozzle row 9 is shifted is made different for line segments 121A other than the one mentioned above.

[0066] Subsequently, the transport operation transports the recording paper S forward for approximately the same length as the line segment 121A, and then, a recording path is performed in which ink is ejected from multiple nozzles 10 of the inkjet head 4 at the same timing as when recording the line segment 121A of the multiple tilt adjustment patterns 121, thereby recording the line segments 121B of the multiple tilt adjustment patterns 121.

[0067] Returning to Figure 10, the control unit 80 then displays the first pattern selection screen 108, as shown in Figure 11(b), on the display unit 69 (S206). The first pattern selection screen 108 has a message unit 108A and a plurality of selection units 108B.

[0068] The message section 108A displays a message prompting the user to select the number of the slope adjustment pattern 121 that minimizes the difference between line segment 121A and line segment 121B. Multiple selection sections 108B are for selecting the slope adjustment pattern 121 and are provided individually for each of the multiple slope adjustment patterns 121. Each selection section 108B displays a number corresponding to the identification number 121C.

[0069] The control unit 80 waits until one of the selection units 108B is selected, that is, until one of the tilt adjustment patterns 121 is selected (S207: NO). When one of the selection units 108B is selected, that is, when one of the tilt adjustment patterns 121 is selected (S207: YES), the control unit 80 executes the first discharge timing adjustment process (S208). In the first discharge timing adjustment process of S208, the control unit 80 adjusts the amount by which the discharge timing is shifted between the plurality of nozzles 10 constituting the nozzle row 9, based on which tilt adjustment pattern 121 was selected. In this embodiment, the processes of S205 to S208 correspond to the "tilt adjustment process" of the present invention.

[0070] Next, the control unit 80 controls the carriage motor 86, inkjet head 4, transport motor 87, etc., to record multiple line adjustment patterns 122 as shown in Figure 12(a). Figure 12(a) shows the case where five line adjustment patterns 122 are recorded. Each line adjustment pattern 122 consists of two line segments 122A and 122B and an identification number 122C.

[0071] Line segment 122A is a line segment that is approximately parallel to the forward and backward directions. Line segment 122B is a line segment that is inclined with respect to the forward and backward directions and intersects with line segment 122A. Identification number 122C is a number used to allow the user to identify the ruled line adjustment pattern 122.

[0072] When recording multiple ruled line adjustment patterns 122, the control unit 80 first records the line segment 122A of one ruled line adjustment pattern 122 by a recording path that moves the carriage 2 to the left. Subsequently, it records the line segment 122B of the same ruled line adjustment pattern 122 by a recording path that moves the carriage 2 to the right.

[0073] Next, the recording paper S is transported forward by the transport operation over a distance longer than the line segments 122A and 122B, and then, as described above, multiple line adjustment patterns 122 are recorded by repeatedly recording the line segments 122A and 122B of one line adjustment pattern 122.

[0074] Furthermore, at this time, the timing of ink ejection from multiple nozzles 10 in the recording path in which carriage 2 is moved to the left to record line segment 122A is made the same among the line adjustment patterns 122. On the other hand, the timing of ink ejection from multiple nozzles 10 in the recording path in which carriage 2 is moved to the right to record line segment 122B is made different among the line adjustment patterns 122. In addition, identification number 122C is recorded in at least one of the recording paths for recording line segments 122A and 122B of each line adjustment pattern 122, or in a separate recording path.

[0075] Returning to Figure 10, the control unit 80 then displays the second pattern selection screen 109, as shown in Figure 12(b), on the display unit 69 (S210). The second pattern selection screen 109 has a message unit 109A and a plurality of selection units 109B.

[0076] Message section 109A displays a message prompting the user to select the number of the line adjustment pattern 122 whose intersection point with line segment 122A and line segment 122B is closest to the center of line segments 122A and 122B. Multiple selection sections 109B are for selecting line adjustment patterns 122 and are provided individually for each of the multiple line adjustment patterns 122. Each selection section 109B displays a number corresponding to identification number 122C.

[0077] The control unit 80 waits until one of the selection units 109B is selected, that is, until one of the line adjustment patterns 122 is selected (S211: NO). When one of the selection units 109B is selected, that is, when one of the line adjustment patterns 122 is selected (S211: YES), the control unit 80 executes the second ejection timing adjustment process (S212), and then the process ends. In the second ejection timing adjustment process of S212, the control unit 80 adjusts the relationship between the ink ejection timing from the multiple nozzles 10 between the recording path that moves the carriage 2 to the left and the recording path that moves the carriage 2 to the right, based on which line adjustment pattern 122 was selected. In this embodiment, the processes of S209 to S212 correspond to the "line adjustment process" of the present invention.

[0078] <Effects> In this embodiment, when the inkjet head 4, which is a replacement part, is replaced, the printer 1 can be operated appropriately after the inkjet head 4 is replaced by accepting input of head information regarding the replaced inkjet head 4. This is achieved by performing settings based on the input head information, such as head parameters, media sensor parameters, and serial number, even if there are performance differences between the inkjet head 4 before replacement and the inkjet head 4 after replacement.

[0079] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the user can easily input head information by operating the operation unit 68 based on the head information input screens 104 and 105.

[0080] Furthermore, in this embodiment, before replacing the inkjet head 4, a head presence / absence confirmation screen 101 is displayed on the display unit 69 to allow the user to select whether or not a replacement inkjet head 4 is available. If a replacement inkjet head 4 is available, the user is instructed to replace the inkjet head 4. This prevents the user from unnecessarily performing operations to replace the inkjet head 4 when a replacement inkjet head 4 is not available.

[0081] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the replacement confirmation screen 107 is displayed on the display unit 69, allowing the user to select whether or not the replacement of the inkjet head 4 has been completed, thereby enabling the printer 1 to understand that the inkjet head 4 has been replaced.

[0082] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the head replacement guidance screen 106 is displayed on the display unit 69 to prompt the user to unplug the power plug 19 from the commercial power supply before replacing the inkjet head 4. This prevents the inkjet head 4 from being replaced while the power plug 19 is plugged into the commercial power supply, i.e., while power is being supplied to the printer 1.

[0083] Furthermore, in this embodiment, after the input of head information is complete, the head replacement guidance screen 106 is displayed on the display unit 69 to prompt the user to replace the inkjet head 4. This prevents a situation where the head information cannot be input because the head information is unknown after the inkjet head 4 is replaced, and ensures that the printer 1 operates properly after the inkjet head 4 is replaced by performing settings based on the head information.

[0084] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the printer 1 can be operated properly after the inkjet head 4 is replaced by performing nozzle inspection, tilt adjustment, and scribe adjustment processes on the replaced inkjet head 4. In addition, after confirming that ink is ejected normally from the nozzles 10 in the nozzle inspection process, the tilt adjustment process adjusts for the deviation in the landing position due to the tilt in the direction in which the nozzles 10 are aligned, and then the scribe adjustment process adjusts for the deviation in the landing position when the carriage 2 is moved to the left and when it is moved to the right. This allows the printer 1 to operate properly after the inkjet head 4 is replaced, compared to performing these processes in a different order.

[0085] <Variation> Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible as long as they are within the scope of the claims.

[0086] In the above-described embodiment, an insertion confirmation screen 103 is displayed on the display unit 69 to allow the user to select whether or not the insertion 99 is in their possession. If the insertion 99 is in the user's possession, a first head information input screen 104 prompting the user to input the head information described on the insertion 99 is displayed on the display unit 69. On the other hand, if the insertion 99 is not in the user's possession, a second head information input screen 105 prompting the user to input the head information described on the inkjet head 4 is displayed on the display unit 69. However, this is not the only embodiment.

[0087] For example, if the replacement inkjet head 4 does not come with an insertion 99, and the replacement inkjet head 4 is in the user's possession (S102:YES), a head information input screen prompting the user to input the head information described on the inkjet head 4 may be displayed on the display unit 69. In this case, the user can input the head information described on the inkjet head 4.

[0088] Furthermore, if an insertion 99 is included with the replacement inkjet head 4, and the replacement inkjet head 4 is in the user's possession (S102:YES), a head information input screen prompting the user to input the head information described on the insertion 99 or the head information described on the inkjet head 4 may be displayed on the display unit 69, regardless of whether the user has the insertion 99 or not. In this case, if the user has the insertion 99, the user can input the head information described on the insertion 99 or the head information described on the inkjet head 4. On the other hand, if the user does not have the insertion 99, the user can input the head information described on the inkjet head 4.

[0089] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the head information was entered before replacing the inkjet head 4, but this is not the only possible configuration.

[0090] In Modification 1, when the user performs the above replacement start operation on the operation unit 68, the control unit 80 processes according to the flowchart in Figure 13. More specifically, the control unit 80 executes the same processes S301 to S303 as in S101 to S103 of the above embodiment. Also, in S302, when it is selected that the replacement inkjet head 4 is in the user's possession (S302: YES), the control unit 80 executes the same processes S304 to S306 as in S109 to S111 of the above embodiment.

[0091] Furthermore, in S306, when it is selected that the replacement of the inkjet head 4 has been completed (S306:YES), the control unit 80 displays the insertion confirmation screen 103 shown in Figure 7(a) on the display unit 69, similar to S104 in the above-described embodiment (S307). In the modified example 1, the insertion confirmation screen 103 displayed on the display unit 69 in S307 corresponds to the "fourth selection screen" of the present invention.

[0092] Then, if it is selected that the insertion 99 is in the user's possession (S308: YES), the control unit 80 displays the first head information input screen 104 shown in Figure 7(c) on the display unit 69, similar to S106 in the above-described embodiment (S309).

[0093] If it is selected that the insertion 99 is not in the user's possession (S308: NO), the control unit 80 controls the carriage motor 86 to move the carriage 2 to a visible position (S310), and then, similar to S107 in the above embodiment, displays the second head information input screen 105 shown in Figure 8(a) on the display unit 69 (S311).

[0094] Here, we will explain the viewing position. In printer 1, for example, as shown in Figure 14, the work is performed with a cover (not shown) open when replacing the inkjet head 4. With the cover open, the carriage 2 is positioned at the viewing position approximately in the center of its movement range in the left and right directions, as shown by the solid line in Figure 14, and the user can view the head information written on the sticker 4b attached to the front of the inkjet head 4. In contrast, for example, as shown by the dashed line in Figure 14, when the carriage 2 is in the purged position, the housing of printer 1 is positioned in front of the inkjet head 4, and the user cannot view the head information written on the sticker 4b attached to the front of the inkjet head 4.

[0095] Then, following the display of the first head information input screen 104 by S309, or the display of the second head information input screen 105 by S311, the control unit 80 executes the processing S312 to S314, which is the same as S108, S112, and S113 in the above-described embodiment.

[0096] In Modification 1, the head information is entered after the inkjet head 4 is replaced. This prevents a situation where the head information is entered but then cannot be replaced for some reason, rendering the head information entry useless.

[0097] Furthermore, in Modification 1, if the insertion 99 is not in the user's possession, the carriage 2 is moved to a viewing position after the inkjet head 4 is replaced, making the head information written on the inkjet head 4 visible. This allows the user to input the head information written on the inkjet head 4 even if the insertion 99 is not in their possession. On the other hand, if the user has the insertion 99, the user can input the head information written on the insertion 99 without moving the carriage 2 to a viewing position.

[0098] Furthermore, in Modification 1, after replacing the inkjet head 4, ink is introduced from the ink cartridge 24 to the replaced inkjet head 4 only after the head information input is complete. This prevents unnecessary ink from being introduced to the replaced inkjet head 4 if, for example, it is not possible to input the head information after replacing the inkjet head 4 for some reason and the original inkjet head 4 is returned to its original state.

[0099] Furthermore, in Modification 1, after the replacement of the inkjet head 4 is complete, an insertion confirmation screen 103 is displayed on the display unit 69 to check whether the insertion 99 is in the user's possession. Then, the carriage 2 is moved to a visible position only if the insertion 99 is not in the user's possession. However, this is not the only modification.

[0100] For example, if the replacement inkjet head 4 does not come with an insertion strip, after the replacement of the inkjet head 4 is complete, the control unit 80 may move the carriage 2 to a visible position regardless of whether the insertion strip 99 is in the user's possession, without displaying the insertion confirmation screen 103 on the display unit 69. In this case, the user can input the head information written on the inkjet head 4.

[0101] Furthermore, even if an insertion is included with the replacement inkjet head 4, after the replacement of the inkjet head 4 is complete, the control unit 80 may move the carriage 2 to a visible position regardless of whether the insertion 99 is in the user's possession or not, without displaying the insertion confirmation screen 103 on the display unit 69. In this case, if the user does not have the insertion 99, the user can input the head information written on the inkjet head 4. On the other hand, if the user has the insertion 99, the user can input either the head information written on the inkjet head 4 or the head information written on the insertion 99.

[0102] In Modification 2, when the user performs the above-mentioned replacement start operation on the operation unit 68, the control unit 80 processes according to the flowchart in Figure 15. More specifically, the control unit 80 executes the same processes S401 to S405 as in S101 to S105 of the above-described embodiment. In Modification 2, the insertion confirmation screen 103 displayed on the display unit 69 in S404 corresponds to the "third selection screen" of the present invention.

[0103] Furthermore, in Modification 2, if it is selected in S405 that the insertion 99 is in the user's possession (S405: YES), the control unit 80 executes the same processing as S304 to S306 in Modification 1, from S408 to S410.

[0104] Furthermore, if it is selected in S405 that the insertion 99 is not in the user's possession (S405: NO), the control unit 80 displays the head information acquisition guidance screen 110 shown in Figure 16(a) on the display unit 69 (S406).

[0105] The head information acquisition guidance screen 110 has a message section 110A and a selection section 110B. The message section 110A displays a message prompting the user to note down and acquire head information such as head parameters, media sensor parameters, and serial number, which are written on the inkjet head 4. The selection section 110B is the part that is selected when the acquisition of head information is complete.

[0106] The control unit 80 then waits until the selection unit 110B is selected, that is, until the acquisition of the head information described in the inkjet head 4 is complete (S407: NO). When the selection unit 110B is selected, that is, when the acquisition of the head information described in the inkjet head 4 is complete (S407: YES), the control unit 80 executes the same process as S304 to S306 in Modification 1, from S408 to S410.

[0107] Then, when it is selected in S410 that the replacement of the inkjet head 4 has been completed (S410:YES), the control unit 80 displays the head information input screen 111 shown in Figure 16(b) on the display unit 69 (S411).

[0108] The head information input screen 111 includes a message section 111A, an input information display section 111B, a numeric keypad 111C, and a selection section 111D. The message section 111A displays a message prompting the user to input head information, either by taking notes based on the head information described in the insertion 99 or the head information acquisition guidance screen 110 displayed in S406.

[0109] The input information display unit 111B is the same as the input information display unit 104B of the first head information input screen 104. The numeric keypad 111C is the same as the numeric keypad 104C of the first head information input screen 104 and consists of number buttons 111C1 from "0" to "9". The selection unit 111D is the same as the selection unit 104D of the first head information input screen 104.

[0110] The control unit 80 then waits until the selection unit 111D is selected, that is, until the input of head information is complete (S412: NO). When the selection unit 111D is selected, that is, when the input of head information is complete (S412: YES), the control unit 80 executes the same processes as S112 and S113 in the above embodiment, as in S413 and S414.

[0111] In the modified example 2, when the user is prompted to input head information after the inkjet head 4 has been replaced, if it is selected that the insertion 99 is in the user's possession based on the insertion confirmation screen 103, the head replacement guidance screen 106 is displayed on the display unit 69 to prompt the user to replace the inkjet head 4. This prevents a situation where the user is unable to input head information after the inkjet head 4 has been replaced if the insertion 99 is not in their possession.

[0112] Furthermore, if, based on the insertion confirmation screen 103, it is selected that the insertion 99 is not in the user's possession, the head information acquisition guidance screen 110 is displayed on the display unit 69 to prompt the user to memorize the head information, and then the head replacement guidance screen 106 is displayed on the display unit 69 to prompt the user to replace the inkjet head 4. Therefore, even if the insertion 99 is not in the user's possession, the user can input the memorized head information after the inkjet head 4 has been replaced.

[0113] Furthermore, in Modification 2, it is not necessary to display the insertion confirmation screen 103 on the display unit 69 before replacing the inkjet head 4. For example, if the replacement inkjet head 4 does not come with an insertion 99, in Modification 2, the head information acquisition guidance screen 110 may always be displayed when it is selected in S402 that there is a replacement inkjet head 4. Also, even if the replacement inkjet head 4 comes with an insertion 99, in Modification 2, the head information acquisition guidance screen 110 may always be displayed when it is selected in S402 that there is a replacement inkjet head 4.

[0114] Furthermore, while the above examples show that the user inputs head information by operating the control unit 68, this is not the only way.

[0115] As shown in Figure 17, the printer 150 according to the modified example 3 has the same configuration as the printer 1 of the above-described embodiment, in addition to being equipped with a code reading unit 151. The code reading unit 151 is for reading codes such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes. The control unit 80 acquires the information indicated by the code based on the code reading result by the code reading unit 151. Here, the code reading unit 151 may be a scanner.

[0116] In Modification 3, for example, as shown in Figure 18(a), the seal 4b attached to the surface of the inkjet head 4 has a code 4c indicating the head information in addition to the head information described in the above embodiment. Also in Modification 3, for example, as shown in 18(b), the insertion 99 has a code 99a indicating the head information in addition to the head information described in the above embodiment.

[0117] In Modification 3, when the user performs the above replacement start operation on the operation unit 68, the control unit 80 processes according to the flowchart in Figure 19(a). More specifically, the control unit 80 executes the same processes S501 to S503 as in S101 to S103 of the above embodiment. Then, in S502, if it is selected that the replacement inkjet head 4 is in the user's possession (S502: YES), the control unit 80 displays a code reading guidance screen 112 on the display unit 69 as shown in Figure 19(b) (S504). The code reading guidance screen 112 displays a message prompting the user to have the code reading unit 151 read the code 4c described on the inkjet head 4 or the code 99a described on the insertion 99. Thus, in Modification 3, the control unit 80 accepts head information input based on the user operation of having the code reading unit 151 read the code 4c described on the inkjet head 4 or the code 99a described on the insertion 99.

[0118] Subsequently, the control unit 80 waits until the code reading unit 151 has finished reading the code 4c described on the inkjet head 4 or the code 99a described on the insertion 99 (S505: NO). When the code reading unit 151 has finished reading the code 4c described on the inkjet head 4 or the code 99a described on the insertion 99 (S505: YES), the control unit 80 executes the processing S506 to S510, which is the same as S109 to S113 in the above embodiment.

[0119] In the modified example 3, head information can be easily input by having the code reader 151 read either code 4c written on the inkjet head 4 or code 99a written on the insertion 99.

[0120] Even when head information is obtained by reading a code, the head information may be obtained after the inkjet head 4 is replaced. For example, Modification 4 relates to the same printer 150 shown in Figure 17 as Modification 3. In Modification 4, when the user performs the above replacement start operation on the operation unit 68, the control unit 80 processes according to the flowchart in Figure 20. More specifically, the control unit 80 executes the S601 to S608 processes, which are the same as S301 to S308 in Modification 3. Then, in S608, if it is determined that the insertion 99 is not in the user's possession (S608: NO), the control unit 80 executes the S609 to S611 processes, which are the same as S310 to S312 in Modification 3.

[0121] In S608, if the control unit 80 determines that the insertion 99 is in the user's possession (S608: YES), it displays a code reading guidance screen 112 on the display unit 69, similar to that shown in Figure 19(b) in Modification 3 (S612). However, in Modification 4, unlike in Modification 3, a message prompting the code reading unit 151 to read the code 99a written on the insertion 99 is displayed on the code reading guidance screen 112. The control unit 80 then waits until the code reading unit 151 has finished reading the code 99a written on the insertion 99 (S613: NO).

[0122] When it is determined in S611 that the input of head information has been completed (S611:YES), and when it is determined in S613 that the reading of code 99a described in insertion 99 has been completed (S613:YES), the control unit 80 executes the same processing in S614 and S615 as in S313 and S314 of Modified Example 3.

[0123] In the modified example 4, if the insertion 99 is in the user's possession, the head information can be easily input by having the code reading unit 151 read the code 99a written on the insertion 99.

[0124] Furthermore, head information may be input through user operations other than operating the control unit provided on the printer and reading codes by the code reader provided on the printer. For example, the printer may be connected to an external device such as a PC or smartphone in a communication manner. The printer's control unit may send a signal to the external device, causing the external device's display to show a screen for inputting head information. When the user inputs head information through user operations on the external device based on this screen, the head information may be transmitted from the external device to the printer.

[0125] Furthermore, in the above example, when the user performs the replacement start operation on the operation unit 68, the control unit 80 first displays a head availability confirmation screen 101 on the display unit 69 to allow the user to select whether or not a replacement inkjet head 4 is available. Then, if the user selects that a replacement inkjet head 4 is available based on the head availability confirmation screen 101, the control unit 80 instructs the user to input head information and replace the inkjet head 4. However, this is not the only possible solution.

[0126] For example, in the above embodiment, when the user performs the replacement start operation on the operation unit 68, the control unit 80 may execute the processes S104 to S113 without performing the processes S101 to S103, or it may execute the processes assuming that the replacement inkjet head 4 is in the user's possession. In this case, for example, if the user realizes during the head replacement process that the replacement inkjet head 4 is not in their possession, they may terminate the process by performing an appropriate operation on the operation unit 68.

[0127] Furthermore, in the above example, after instructing the user to replace the inkjet head 4 by displaying the head replacement guidance screen 106 on the display unit 69, a replacement confirmation screen 107 is displayed on the display unit 69 for the user to select whether or not the replacement of the inkjet head 4 has been completed. Based on the replacement confirmation screen 107, if it is selected that the inkjet head 4 has not been replaced, the head replacement guidance screen 106 is displayed on the display unit 69, and if it is selected that the inkjet head 4 has been replaced, the process proceeds to the next step, but this is not limited to this. For example, after instructing the user to replace the inkjet head 4 by displaying the head replacement guidance screen 106 on the display unit 69, the power supply to the printer may be stopped by unplugging the power plug 19 from the commercial power supply, and then, when the power supply to the printer is resumed by plugging the power plug 19 back into the commercial power supply, the replacement of the inkjet head 4 may be considered complete and the process proceeds to the next step.

[0128] Furthermore, in the above example, the head replacement guidance screen 106 displayed a message instructing the replacement of the inkjet head 4 and prompting the user to unplug the power plug 19 from the commercial power supply before replacing the inkjet head 4. In other words, the head replacement guidance screen 106 served as both a replacement instruction screen instructing the replacement of the inkjet head 4 and a guidance screen prompting the user to unplug the power plug 19 from the commercial power supply before replacing the inkjet head 4, but it is not limited to this. For example, the replacement instruction screen instructing the replacement of the inkjet head 4 and the guidance screen prompting the user to unplug the power plug 19 from the commercial power supply before replacing the inkjet head 4 may be displayed separately on the display unit 69. Alternatively, the guidance screen prompting the user to unplug the power plug 19 from the commercial power supply before replacing the inkjet head 4 may not be displayed on the display unit 69.

[0129] Furthermore, in the above example, during the initial adjustment process, the control unit 80 performs nozzle inspection after adjustment based on head information, then tilt adjustment, and then score line adjustment. However, this is not limited to this.

[0130] For example, the adjustment based on head information, nozzle inspection process, tilt adjustment process, and score line adjustment process may be performed in a different order than described above. Alternatively, at least some of the nozzle inspection process, tilt adjustment process, and score line adjustment process may be performed.

[0131] Furthermore, in the above example, ink was introduced into the inkjet head 4 after the head information input and the replacement of the inkjet head 4 were completed, but this is not limited to this. For example, when head information input is performed after the replacement of the inkjet head 4, ink may be introduced into the inkjet head 4 during the period including the time when the head information input is being performed after the replacement of the inkjet head 4.

[0132] Furthermore, in the above example, ink was introduced to the inkjet head 4 by sending the ink stored in the ink cartridge 24 to the inkjet head 4 using a suction pump 32 connected to the cap 31, but this is not the only way. For example, a pump could be provided between the inkjet head 4 and the cartridge mounting section 23, and the ink stored in the ink cartridge 24 could be sent to the inkjet head 4 using this pump, thereby introducing ink to the inkjet head 4.

[0133] Furthermore, in the above examples, the head information consisted of head parameters, media sensor parameters, and serial number, but is not limited to these. The head information may include only one or two of the above three pieces of information. Also, the head information may include information other than these three pieces of information regarding the inkjet head 4. In this case, the head information may include at least one of the above three pieces of information, or it may not include any of the above three pieces of information.

[0134] Furthermore, in the above example, ink was supplied to the inkjet head 4 from an ink cartridge 24 that was detachably attached to the cartridge mounting section 23, but this is not limited to this. For example, the printer may not have a cartridge mounting section, but instead have an ink tank fixed to the housing of the printer 1 and from which ink can be refilled. Ink may then be supplied to the inkjet head 4 from this ink tank.

[0135] Furthermore, while the above explanation has used the case where the replacement part is an inkjet head as an example, it is not limited to this. The replacement part may be a part other than the inkjet head of the printer, such as an ink cartridge or a waste ink tank. If the replacement part is an ink cartridge, for example, information on the amount of ink stored in the ink cartridge may be obtained based on the input information about the ink cartridge, and the remaining amount of ink in the ink cartridge may be detected based on this information. If the replacement part is a waste ink tank, for example, information on the amount of waste liquid that the waste liquid tank can store may be obtained based on the input information about the waste liquid tank, and the remaining amount of waste liquid that can be stored in the waste liquid tank may be detected based on this information.

[0136] Furthermore, while the above describes an example of applying the present invention to an inkjet printer equipped with a so-called serial head that ejects ink from multiple nozzles while moving left and right with the carriage, the invention is not limited to this. For example, the present invention can also be applied to an inkjet printer equipped with a so-called line head that extends along the entire length of the platen 5 in left and right directions. In this case, the replacement parts may be, for example, the line head, ink cartridge, and waste ink tank. The present invention can also be applied to a laser printer that records images by adhering toner to recording paper. In this case, the replacement parts may be the photoconductor drum and toner cartridge.

[0137] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to application to printers for recording images, such as inkjet printers and laser printers. For example, the present invention can also be applied to devices other than printers that have interchangeable parts, such as scanners equipped with a reading head as an interchangeable part. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0138] 1: Printer 2: Carriage 4: Inkjet head 4c: Code 10: Nozzle 19: Power plug 20: Discharge Inspection Department 24: Ink Cartridges 68:Operation unit 69:Display section 80: Control Unit 99: Insertion 99a: Code 101: Head confirmation screen 103: Insertion confirmation screen 104: First Head Information Input Screen 105: Second Head Information Input Screen 106: Head replacement guidance screen 107: Head replacement confirmation screen 108: First Pattern Selection Screen 109: Second pattern selection screen 111: Head information input screen 121: Tilt adjustment pattern 122: Line adjustment pattern 150: Printer 151: Code reading unit

Claims

1. Replaceable replacement parts, It comprises a control unit and, The control unit, A device equipped with a replacement part, characterized in that, when the replacement part is replaced, it accepts input of replacement part information regarding the replacement part after replacement, based on user operation.

2. It includes a code reading unit that reads the code, The apparatus equipped with replacement parts according to claim 1, characterized in that the user operation is an operation in which the user causes the code reading unit to read a code indicating the replacement parts information.

3. It includes an operating unit operated by the user, The apparatus equipped with replacement parts according to claim 1, characterized in that the user operation is an operation in which the user inputs the replacement parts information at the operation unit.

4. The device equipped with the aforementioned replacement parts is a printer that records images onto a recording medium, The apparatus equipped with the replacement part according to claim 1, characterized in that it is provided with an inkjet head as the replacement part.

5. The apparatus equipped with the replacement parts according to claim 4, characterized in that the replacement parts information is information about the parameters of the inkjet head.

6. The apparatus equipped with the replacement part according to claim 1, characterized in that the replacement part information is information about the serial number of the replacement part.

7. The apparatus comprising the replacement part according to claim 1, characterized in that the replacement part information is information described on the replacement part.

8. Equipped with a display unit, The control unit, Before accepting the input of the replacement part information, a first selection screen is displayed on the display unit to allow the user to select whether or not the replacement part to be replaced is available to the user. The apparatus equipped with a replacement part according to claim 1, characterized in that, based on the first selection screen, if it is selected that the replacement part to be replaced is available to the user, the device accepts input of the replacement part information.

9. Equipped with a display unit, The control unit, The apparatus equipped with the replacement part according to claim 1, characterized in that a second selection screen for selecting whether or not the replacement part has been replaced is displayed on the display unit.

10. Power plug and It includes a display unit, The apparatus equipped with a replacement part according to claim 1, characterized in that the control unit displays a guidance screen on the display unit prompting the user to unplug the power cord before replacing the replacement part.

11. Equipped with a display unit, The control unit, The apparatus equipped with the replacement part according to claim 1, characterized in that an input instruction screen prompting the input of replacement part information is displayed on the display unit before the replacement part is replaced.

12. Equipped with a display unit, The control unit, The apparatus equipped with the replacement part according to claim 1, characterized in that, after the replacement part has been replaced, an input instruction screen prompting the user to input information about the replacement part is displayed on the display unit.

13. The device equipped with the aforementioned replacement parts is a printer that records images onto a recording medium, A carriage that moves in a first direction and in a second direction opposite to the first direction, The carriage is equipped with the aforementioned replacement part, an inkjet head, The inkjet head contains the replacement parts information, The control unit, The apparatus for replacement parts according to claim 12, characterized in that, after the inkjet head has been replaced, the carriage is moved to a visible position where the user can see the replacement part information written on the inkjet head.

14. The control unit, After the inkjet head has been replaced, a third selection screen is displayed on the display unit to allow the user to select whether or not they have an insertion slip containing the replacement part information. The device equipped with a replacement part according to claim 13, characterized in that, if it is selected that the insertion is not available based on the third selection screen, the carriage is moved to the viewing position.

15. The control unit, Before the replacement part is replaced, a fourth selection screen is displayed on the display unit to allow the user to select whether or not they have an insertion containing information about the replacement part. The apparatus equipped with a replacement part according to claim 12, characterized in that, when it is selected that the insertion is available based on the fourth selection screen, a replacement instruction screen prompting the replacement of the replacement part is displayed on the display unit.

16. The device equipped with the aforementioned replacement parts is a printer that records images onto a recording medium, A carriage that moves in a first direction and in a second direction opposite to the first direction, The replacement part includes an inkjet head mounted on the carriage and having a plurality of nozzles arranged in a third direction intersecting the first and second directions, The control unit, After replacing the inkjet head, a nozzle inspection process is performed to check whether the ink ejection from the nozzle is normal. Subsequently, a tilt adjustment process is performed to correct the misalignment of the ink droplet placement on the recording medium caused by the tilt in the direction in which the multiple nozzles in the inkjet head are aligned. The apparatus, equipped with the replacement part according to claim 1, is characterized in that it then performs a scribed line adjustment process to adjust the difference in the ink landing position on the recording medium when the carriage is moved in the first direction and ink is ejected from the nozzle to the recording medium by the inkjet head, and when the carriage is moved in the second direction and ink is ejected from the nozzle to the recording medium by the inkjet head.

17. The device equipped with the aforementioned replacement parts is a printer that records images onto a recording medium, The aforementioned replacement part is an inkjet head, An ink tank containing ink for supplying to the aforementioned inkjet head, The system includes a pump that sends the ink stored in the ink tank to the inkjet head, The control unit, The apparatus equipped with replacement parts according to claim 12, characterized in that, after the replacement of the inkjet head, the input instruction screen is displayed on the display unit, and after the input of the replacement parts information is completed, the pump is used to introduce ink into the inkjet head by sending the ink stored in the ink tank to the inkjet head.

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