Printing apparatus and method for controlling the printing apparatus

Abstract

The present invention provides a printing apparatus and a control method for the printing apparatus that can reduce the margins of the printed tape. [Solution] The printing apparatus comprises a cartridge mounting section into which a tape cartridge capable of housing a printing tape is mounted, a cover that can open and close the cartridge mounting section, a head that prints on the printing tape, and a cutting section that cuts the printing tape printed by the head. The control unit controls the tape transport section to transport the printing tape in the opposite direction over a first transport amount when a predetermined condition is met, and controls the tape transport section to transport the printing tape in the opposite direction over a second transport amount when the predetermined condition is not met. The first and second transport amounts are smaller than the distance from the head to the cutting section, and the first transport amount is larger than the second transport amount. The predetermined condition includes the fact that it is the second or subsequent print command from the user after the cover has been closed.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] For example, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, there is disclosed a printing apparatus including a tape conveyance unit that conveys a long printing tape from a tape cartridge, a printing unit that performs printing on the printing tape, and a cutting unit that cuts the printed printing tape. Such a printing apparatus can reduce the margin length of the printing tape by determining the conveyance amount for conveying the printing tape in the reverse direction based on the consumption amount or usage time of the printing tape.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in such a printing apparatus, the length of the printing tape that extends outside from the discharge port of the tape cartridge is not constant. Therefore, a margin is provided in the conveyance amount for conveying the printing tape in the reverse direction so that the leading end of the printing tape is not accommodated in the tape cartridge. Thus, it is desired to reduce the margin of the printing tape.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A printing apparatus for solving the above problems comprises: a cartridge mounting section into which a tape cartridge capable of accommodating a printing tape is mounted; a cover that can open and close the cartridge mounting section; a head for printing on the printing tape; a tape transport section capable of transporting the printing tape in both the transport direction and the direction opposite to the transport direction; a cutting section for cutting the printing tape printed by the head; and a control section, wherein the control section controls the tape transport section to transport the printing tape over a first transport amount in the opposite direction when a predetermined condition is met, and controls the tape transport section to transport the printing tape over a second transport amount in the opposite direction when the predetermined condition is not met, wherein the first transport amount and the second transport amount are smaller than the distance from the head to the cutting section, the first transport amount is larger than the second transport amount, and the predetermined condition includes the second or subsequent print command from the user after the cover has been closed.

[0006] A printing apparatus for solving the above problems comprises a cartridge mounting section into which a tape cartridge capable of accommodating a printing tape is mounted; a cover that can open and close the cartridge mounting section; a head for printing on the printing tape; a tape transport section capable of transporting the printing tape in both the transport direction and the direction opposite to the transport direction; a cutting section for cutting the printing tape printed by the head; and a control unit, wherein the control unit controls the tape transport section to transport the printing tape over a first transport amount in the opposite direction when predetermined conditions are met, the first transport amount being smaller than the distance from the head to the cutting unit, and the predetermined conditions being the second or subsequent print command from the user after the cover has been closed, and the margin length specified by the user being one-third or less of the distance from the head to the cutting unit.

[0007] A control method for a printing apparatus that solves the above problems is a control method for a printing apparatus comprising a cartridge mounting section into which a tape cartridge capable of accommodating a printing tape is mounted, a cover that can open and close the cartridge mounting section, a head for printing on the printing tape, and a cutting section for cutting the printing tape printed on by the head, wherein when a predetermined condition is met, the printing tape is transported in the opposite direction to the transport direction of the printing tape over a first transport amount, and when the predetermined condition is not met, the printing tape is transported in the opposite direction over a second transport amount, wherein the first transport amount and the second transport amount are smaller than the distance from the head to the cutting section, the first transport amount is larger than the second transport amount, and the predetermined condition is that the user has issued a print command for the second time or later since the cover was closed.

[0008] A control method for a printing apparatus that solves the above problems is a control method for a printing apparatus comprising a cartridge mounting section into which a tape cartridge capable of containing a printing tape is mounted, a cover that can open and close the cartridge mounting section, a head for printing on the printing tape, and a cutting section for cutting the printing tape printed by the head, wherein when predetermined conditions are met, the method is executed to transport the printing tape in the opposite direction to the transport direction of the printing tape over a first transport amount, the first transport amount being smaller than the distance from the head to the cutting section, and the predetermined conditions being the second or subsequent print command from the user after the cover has been closed, and the margin length specified by the user being one-third or less of the distance from the head to the cutting section. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a printing apparatus and tape cartridge according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a top view showing a printing apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a top view showing a printing apparatus according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4]Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the reverse transport amount setting process of the first embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] [First Embodiment] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a printing apparatus and a method for controlling the printing apparatus will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, with the printing apparatus installed on a horizontal surface, the axis intersecting the horizontal surface will be called the Z-axis, the axis intersecting the Z-axis will be called the X-axis, and the axis intersecting the X-axis and the Z-axis will be called the Y-axis. One direction along the X-axis will be called the first width direction X1, and the other direction along the X-axis will be called the second width direction X2. One direction along the Y-axis will be called the forward direction Y1, and the other direction along the Y-axis will be called the backward direction Y2. The upward direction along the Z-axis will be called the upward direction Z1, and the downward direction along the Z-axis will be called the downward direction Z2.

[0011] <Configuration of the printing device 11> As shown in Figure 1, the printing device 11 is configured to print on a printing medium. The printing medium may be, for example, a long printing tape. A tape cartridge 90 can be installed in the printing device 11. The printing device 11 is configured to print on the printing tape with the tape cartridge 90 installed.

[0012] The tape cartridge 90 can accommodate a printed tape. The tape cartridge 90 can accommodate a roll of printed tape. The tape cartridge 90 accommodates an ink ribbon. The tape cartridge 90 accommodates a roll of ink ribbon.

[0013] The tape cartridge 90 is provided with a cartridge outlet 91. The cartridge outlet 91 may be located on the first width direction X1 side of the tape cartridge 90. The cartridge outlet 91 is configured to discharge the printed tape contained in the tape cartridge 90.

[0014] The tape cartridge 90 is provided with a head insertion hole 92. The head insertion hole 92 is provided so as to penetrate the tape cartridge 90 along the Z axis. With the tape cartridge 90 mounted on the printing device 11, the head 23 and head cover 24, which will be described later, are inserted through the head insertion hole 92 toward the upward Z1.

[0015] The tape cartridge 90 is equipped with a platen roller 93. When the tape cartridge 90 is mounted in the printing device 11, the platen roller 93 is positioned opposite the head 23.

[0016] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the printing apparatus 11 comprises a case 12 and a cover 13. The case 12 is configured to house various components of the printing apparatus 11. The case 12 may be substantially rectangular in shape.

[0017] The cover 13 is openable and closable relative to the case 12. The cover 13 may be rotatably attached to the rear end Y2 of the case 12. The cover 13 covers the case 12 from above Z1. The cover 13 covers the interior of the case 12.

[0018] The cover 13 covers at least the cartridge mounting section 20, which will be described later. In this way, the cover 13 allows the cartridge mounting section 20 to be opened and closed. The cover 13 covers the inside of the case 12 when the tape cartridge 90 is mounted in the cartridge mounting section 20.

[0019] The cover 13 is provided with a protruding portion 13A. When the cover 13 is closed to the case 12, the protruding portion 13A protrudes downward Z2 from the back surface 13B of the cover 13. With the cover 13 closed to the case 12, the protruding portion 13A is inserted into the insertion portion 33, which will be described later.

[0020] The case 12 includes a cartridge mounting portion 20. That is, the printing apparatus 11 includes the cartridge mounting portion 20. The cartridge mounting portion 20 is a recess that is open upward in the Z1 direction. The cartridge mounting portion 20 is capable of attaching and detaching the tape cartridge 90 from above in the Z1 direction. Thus, the tape cartridge 90 can be mounted on the cartridge mounting portion 20. The cartridge mounting portion 20 is capable of accommodating the mounted tape cartridge 90.

[0021] The case 12 includes a discharge port 21. That is, the printing apparatus 11 includes the discharge port 21. The discharge port 21 is a part for discharging the printed label from the inside of the printing apparatus 11 to the outside of the printing apparatus 11. The printed label is discharged in a state where the printing tape is cut.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 2, the case 12 includes a conveyance path 22. The conveyance path 22 is configured to connect the cartridge mounting portion 20 and the discharge port 21. The conveyance path 22 is a path through which the printing tape is conveyed from the tape cartridge 90 mounted on the cartridge mounting portion 20 to the discharge port 21. The direction in which the printing tape is conveyed from the tape cartridge 90 toward the discharge port 21 is an example of the conveyance direction.

[0023] The printing apparatus 11 includes a head 23 and a head cover 24. The head 23 and the head cover 24 are provided on the case 12. The head 23 and the head cover 24 are provided on the cartridge mounting portion 20.

[0024] The head 23 is configured to perform printing on the printing tape. The head 23 may be a thermal head that performs printing on the printing medium using a heating element. The head 23 is provided at the printing position P1. The printing position P1 is a position where printing is performed on the printing medium by the head 23. The printing position P1 is a position along the conveyance path 22. The head cover 24 partially covers the head 23.

[0025] The printing device 11 includes a tape transport unit 14. The tape transport unit 14 is provided in the case 12. The tape transport unit 14 transports the printed tape housed in the tape cartridge 90.

[0026] The tape transport unit 14 transports the printed tape in the transport direction along the transport path 22. The tape transport unit 14 can also transport the printed tape in the opposite direction to the transport direction along the transport path 22. In other words, the tape transport unit 14 can transport the printed tape in both the transport direction and the opposite direction to the transport direction. Hereafter, the direction opposite to the transport direction may simply be referred to as the opposite direction.

[0027] The tape transport section 14 is equipped with a platen shaft 25. In other words, the printing device 11 is equipped with a platen shaft 25. The platen shaft 25 is provided in the case 12. The platen shaft 25 is provided in the cartridge mounting section 20. The platen shaft 25 is provided so as to protrude upward Z1 from the bottom surface of the cartridge mounting section 20. The platen shaft 25 is a shaft for transmitting power to the platen roller 93 of the tape cartridge 90.

[0028] The tape transport section 14 includes a tape boss section 26. In other words, the printing device 11 includes a tape boss section 26. The tape boss section 26 is provided on the case 12. The tape boss section 26 is provided on the cartridge mounting section 20. The tape boss section 26 is provided so as to protrude upward Z1 from the bottom surface of the cartridge mounting section 20. The tape boss section 26 is a protrusion that enables the unwinding of the roll-shaped printing tape housed in the tape cartridge 90.

[0029] The tape cartridge 90 is equipped with a reverse rotation prevention mechanism (not shown). The reverse rotation prevention mechanism is located within a core in which the printed tape is wound in a roll. The reverse rotation prevention mechanism functions to prevent the printed tape from rotating in the opposite direction, i.e., the winding direction, when the tape cartridge 90 is not mounted in the cartridge mounting section 20.

[0030] When the tape cartridge 90 is mounted in the cartridge mounting section 20, the tape boss section 26 is inserted into a recess provided on the bottom surface of the tape cartridge 90, thereby releasing the reverse rotation prevention mechanism. With the reverse rotation prevention mechanism released, the printed tape can be transported in both the transport direction and the opposite direction.

[0031] The printing apparatus 11 includes a ribbon winding shaft 27. The ribbon winding shaft 27 is provided in the case 12. The ribbon winding shaft 27 is provided in the cartridge mounting section 20. The ribbon winding shaft 27 is provided so as to protrude upward Z1 from the bottom surface of the cartridge mounting section 20. The ribbon winding shaft 27 is a shaft for winding the ink ribbon housed in the tape cartridge 90.

[0032] As shown in Figure 3, the tape transport section 14 is equipped with a pair of discharge rollers 28. In other words, the printing device 11 is equipped with a pair of discharge rollers 28. The pair of discharge rollers 28 is provided in the case 12. The pair of discharge rollers 28 is positioned along the transport path 22. The pair of discharge rollers 28 is located downstream of the platen shaft 25 and the head 23 in the transport path 22. The pair of discharge rollers 28 is located upstream of the discharge port 21. The pair of discharge rollers 28 is a pair of rollers for discharging the printed tape. The pair of discharge rollers 28 is a pair of rollers for discharging the cut printed labels.

[0033] The printing device 11 includes a cutting unit 29. The cutting unit 29 is provided in the case 12. The cutting unit 29 is configured to cut the printed tape after printing. The cutting unit 29 is configured to fully cut the printed tape. The cutting unit 29 may also be a cutter.

[0034] The cutting section 29 is located along the transport path 22. The cutting section 29 is located downstream of the platen shaft 25 and the head 23 in the transport path 22. The cutting section 29 is located upstream of the discharge roller pair 28 in the transport path 22.

[0035] In this embodiment, the head 23 and the cutting section 29 are separated by a first distance D1 in the transport path 22. That is, the first distance D1 is the distance from the head 23 to the cutting section 29. The cutting section 29 and the discharge roller pair 28 are separated by a second distance D2 in the transport path 22.

[0036] As shown in Figure 2, the printing apparatus 11 includes a control unit 30. The control unit 30 comprehensively controls the printing apparatus 11. The control unit 30 controls various operations performed by the printing apparatus 11. The control unit 30 may be configured as a circuit including α: one or more processors that execute various processes according to a computer program, β: one or more dedicated hardware circuits that execute at least some of the various processes, or γ: a combination thereof. The hardware circuit is, for example, an application-specific integrated circuit. The processor includes a CPU and memory such as RAM and ROM, and the memory stores program code or instructions configured to cause the CPU to execute processes. Memory, or computer-readable media, includes any readable media that can be accessed by a general-purpose or dedicated computer.

[0037] The printing device 11 includes an operation unit 31 and a display unit 32. The operation unit 31 is operable by the user. The operation unit 31 may be, for example, operation buttons. The display unit 32 displays images. The display unit 32 displays images related to printing.

[0038] The printing device 11 includes an insertion section 33. The insertion section 33 is provided in the case 12. The insertion section 33 is configured to open upward Z1. When the cover 13 is closed with the tape cartridge 90 mounted in the cartridge mounting section 20, the protruding section 13A is inserted into the insertion section 33.

[0039] When the protruding portion 13A is inserted into the insertion portion 33, the control unit 30 becomes able to recognize the opening and closing of the cover 13 based on the detection result from a detection unit (not shown). The control unit 30 manages the opening and closing history of the cover 13.

[0040] When the protruding portion 13A is inserted into the insertion portion 33, the control unit 30 controls a head movement mechanism (not shown) to move the head 23 toward the platen roller 93. As a result, the printing tape and ink ribbon are sandwiched between the head 23 and the platen roller 93 at the printing position P1.

[0041] The control unit 30 receives operation signals from the operation unit 31. The control unit 30 displays an image on the display unit 32. The control unit 30 can control the head 23. The control unit 30 can control drive units (not shown) that drive the platen shaft 25 and the ribbon winding shaft 27, respectively. The drive units may be motors. The control unit 30 can control a discharge drive unit (not shown) that drives the discharge roller pair 28. The discharge drive unit may be a motor. The control unit 30 can control a cutting drive unit (not shown) that drives the cutting unit 29. The cutting drive unit may be a motor.

[0042] The control unit 30 can receive print instructions. Print instructions are input to the control unit 30 in response to user operations on the operation unit 31. Print instructions may also be input to the control unit 30 from a terminal device (not shown) that is communicatively connected to the printing device 11. Thus, the printing device 11 may include an information acquisition unit that acquires instructions from the user. The information acquisition unit may be the operation unit 31, or it may be an interface circuit that acquires instructions from the user from a terminal device (not shown).

[0043] A print instruction is data that instructs printing onto a print tape. A print instruction corresponds to one print job. One print job ejects at least one printed label from the print tape. A print instruction contains the print data to be printed onto the print tape.

[0044] The print instructions include the margin length when printing on the print tape. The margin length is provided at both ends in the longitudinal direction of the print tape. The margin length includes the front margin length in the transport direction and the rear margin length in the opposite direction. The front margin length and the rear margin length may be the same.

[0045] A print instruction includes whether or not to perform continuous printing. A print instruction also includes the number of sheets to be printed continuously. In continuous printing, the same image is printed on multiple sheets of printing medium. These multiple sheets of printing medium may be printed labels cut from a printing tape. Thus, continuous printing indicates the printing of multiple sheets, and a print instruction that includes continuous printing is an instruction to print multiple sheets. The printing device 11 can perform continuous printing, but it does not have to.

[0046] When a print command is input, the control unit 30 heats up the print head 23 based on the print data included in the print command. This causes the control unit 30 to transfer ink from the ink ribbon to the print tape, thereby printing on the print tape. In particular, the control unit 30 prints on the print tape according to the margin length included in the print command. The control unit 30 prints on the print tape as the number of print media included in the print command.

[0047] The control unit 30 drives the tape transport unit 14 to transport the printed tape in the transport direction. As a result, the printed tape contained in the tape cartridge 90 is discharged from the cartridge outlet 91 at its leading edge and transported along the transport path 22. When a print command is input, the control unit 30 drives the ribbon winding shaft 27. As a result, the ink ribbon is wound up inside the tape cartridge 90.

[0048] The control unit 30 controls the cutting unit 29 to cut the printing tape at a position corresponding to the margin length included in the print instruction. As a result, the printed tape is cut from the unprinted tape and discharged from the discharge port 21.

[0049] In this embodiment, the control unit 30 can transport the printed tape in both the transport direction and the opposite direction by driving the platen shaft 25. In particular, when a print command is input, the control unit 30 may transport the printed tape in the opposite direction over a predetermined transport amount. The predetermined transport amount varies depending on whether or not predetermined conditions are met.

[0050] <Reverse transport amount setting process> The reverse transport amount setting process will now be explained with reference to Figure 4. The reverse transport amount setting process is executed by the control unit 30 in response to the input of a print instruction to print with a predetermined margin length. The predetermined margin length may be the shortest of several margin lengths that can be specified by the user. The predetermined margin length is one-third or less of the first distance D1.

[0051] As shown in Figure 4, in step S10, the control unit 30 determines whether the power to the printing device 11 remains on. If the control unit 30 determines that the power to the printing device 11 is not continuously on, it proceeds to step S14. If the control unit 30 determines that the power to the printing device 11 remains on, it proceeds to step S11.

[0052] In step S11, the control unit 30 determines whether the cover 13 is continuously closed based on the opening and closing history of the cover 13. If the control unit 30 determines that the cover 13 is not continuously closed, it proceeds to step S14. If the control unit 30 determines that the cover 13 is continuously closed, it proceeds to step S12.

[0053] In step S12, the control unit 30 determines whether it is the second or subsequent print command. More specifically, the control unit 30 determines whether it is the second or subsequent print command after the power has been turned on and the cover 13 has been closed.

[0054] To give a specific example, if a print command is input while the cover 13 remains closed after the power has been turned on, the control unit 30 will determine that it is not a second or subsequent print command.

[0055] When the cover 13 is opened and closed after at least one print command has been input since the power was turned on with the cover 13 closed, the control unit 30 determines that the print command is not the second or subsequent print command. When the cover 13 is opened and closed after at least one print command has been input since the power was turned on with the cover 13 closed, the control unit 30 determines that the print command is the second or subsequent print command.

[0056] When the power is turned on with the cover 13 closed, and at least one print command is received, and then the power is turned off and then on in sequence, the control unit 30 determines that the print command is not the second or subsequent print command. When the power is turned on with the cover 13 closed, and at least one print command is received, and then the power is turned off and then on in sequence, the control unit 30 determines that the print command is the second or subsequent print command.

[0057] If the control unit 30 determines that it is not the second or subsequent print instruction, it proceeds to step S14. In other words, if the control unit 30 determines that it is the first or subsequent print instruction, it proceeds to step S14. If the control unit 30 determines that it is the second or subsequent print instruction, it proceeds to step S13.

[0058] In step S13, the control unit 30 executes a first transport amount setting process. In this process, the control unit 30 stores the first transport amount in memory as the amount by which the printed tape is transported in the opposite direction to the transport direction. As a result, the control unit 30 sets the first transport amount as the amount by which the printed tape is transported in the opposite direction to the transport direction.

[0059] In step S14, the control unit 30 performs a second transport amount setting process. In this process, the control unit 30 stores the second transport amount in memory as the amount by which the printed tape is transported in the opposite direction to the transport direction. As a result, the control unit 30 sets the second transport amount as the amount by which the printed tape is transported in the opposite direction to the transport direction.

[0060] The first and second transport volumes are smaller than the first distance D1. The first transport volume is larger than the second transport volume. The first transport volume is the transport volume corresponding to the margin length specified by the user. The first transport volume may be two-thirds or more of the first distance D1. The second transport volume may be less than two-thirds of the first distance D1 and half or more of the first distance D1. For example, if the first distance D1 is 9 mm and the margin length specified by the user is 1 mm, the first transport volume may be 8 mm and the second transport volume may be 5 mm.

[0061] Thus, when a predetermined condition is met, the control unit 30 controls the tape transport unit 14 to transport the printed tape in the opposite direction over a first transport amount, triggered by the input of a print command. When the predetermined condition is not met, the control unit 30 controls the tape transport unit 14 to transport the printed tape in the opposite direction over a second transport amount, triggered by the input of a print command.

[0062] The predetermined conditions include that the margin length specified by the user is one-third or less of the first distance D1. The predetermined conditions also include that the power is on and the cover 13 is continuously closed, and that this is the second or subsequent print command from the user.

[0063] Thus, the predetermined conditions can also be said to include the fact that the tape cartridge 90 remains installed in the cartridge mounting section 20, and that the user has issued a print command for the second time or later. In other words, the control unit 30 determines that the tape cartridge 90 remains installed in the cartridge mounting section 20 if the cover 13 remains closed after the power is turned on. The control unit 30 determines that the predetermined conditions are met when the user has issued a print command for the second time or later since the tape cartridge 90 was installed in the cartridge mounting section 20.

[0064] <Operation and Effects of the First Embodiment> The operation and effects of the first embodiment will now be described. (1-1) When a predetermined condition is met, the control unit 30 transports the printed tape in the opposite direction over a first transport amount, and when the predetermined condition is not met, it transports the printed tape in the opposite direction over a second transport amount. The first and second transport amounts are smaller than the distance from the head 23 to the cutting section 29, and the first transport amount is larger than the second transport amount. The predetermined condition includes the fact that it is the second or subsequent print command from the user after the cover 13 has been closed.

[0065] With this configuration, if certain conditions are met, including the fact that it is the second or subsequent print command issued by the user after the cover 13 has been closed, the print tape can be transported in the opposite direction over a first transport amount that is larger than the second transport amount. In the second or subsequent print commands issued after the cover 13 has been closed, there is a high probability that the state in which the print tape was cut during the first print command after the cover 13 was closed will be maintained. Therefore, there is a high probability that the length of the print tape discharged from the tape cartridge 90 will be the length up to the cut section 29. As a result, even without a tape detection unit to detect the leading edge of the print tape, the leading edge of the print tape will not be contained in the tape cartridge 90, and the print tape can be transported in the opposite direction over the first transport amount. Therefore, the excess length of the print tape can be reduced.

[0066] Even if the predetermined conditions are not met, the printed tape can be transported in the opposite direction over a second transport volume smaller than the first transport volume, without ejecting any unprinted labels. Therefore, the excess material on the printed tape can be reduced.

[0067] (1-2) The predetermined conditions include the margin length specified by the user being one-third or less of the first distance D1. With this configuration, even if the margin length specified by the user is one-third or less of the first distance D1, the leading edge of the printed tape will not be contained in the tape cartridge 90, and the printed tape can be transported in the opposite direction over the first transport amount. Therefore, the margin of the printed tape can be reduced.

[0068] (1-3) The predetermined conditions include the power being turned on and the cover 13 remaining closed, and the user issuing a print command for the second time or later. With the power on and the cover 13 remaining closed, there is a high probability that the state in which the print tape was cut during the first print command will be maintained during the second and subsequent print commands by the user. For this reason, even if a tape detection unit for detecting the leading edge of the print tape is not provided, if the predetermined conditions are met, the leading edge of the print tape will not be contained in the tape cartridge 90, and the print tape can be transported in the opposite direction over a first transport amount that is larger than the second transport amount. Therefore, the excess space on the print tape can be reduced.

[0069] [Second Embodiment] Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the following description, redundant explanations of the same configuration as in the previously described embodiment will be omitted or simplified, and configurations that differ from those in the previously described embodiment will be described.

[0070] In the second embodiment, in step S14 of Figure 4, the control unit 30 may set the second transport amount to 0. In other words, the control unit 30 does not have to transport the printed tape in the opposite direction when the predetermined conditions are not met.

[0071] In such a case, the control unit 30 may transport the printed tape in the transport direction, cut the printed tape with the cutting unit 29 to a margin length specified by the user, and print on the printed tape with the head 23.

[0072] More specifically, the control unit 30 controls the cutting unit 29 to cut the printed tape after the leading edge of the printed tape reaches the discharge roller pair 28 along the transport path 22. The control unit 30 then causes the head 23 to print on the printed tape so that the margin length from the position where the cutting unit 29 cuts the printed tape becomes the margin length specified by the user.

[0073] To give a specific example, if a predetermined condition is not met, the control unit 30 may control the system to transport the printed tape over the sum of the first distance D1 and the second distance D2, and then have the cutting unit 29 cut the printed tape.

[0074] If the predetermined conditions are not met, the control unit 30 may transport the print tape over a distance equal to the sum of the second distance D2 and the margin length, and then start printing on the print tape with the head 23. This allows the margin length specified by the user to be achieved, even if the print tape is not transported in the opposite direction when the predetermined conditions are not met, although one unprinted print label will be ejected.

[0075] <Operation and Effects of the Second Embodiment> The operation and effects of the second embodiment will now be described. (2-1) When the predetermined conditions are not met, the control unit 30 transports the printed tape in the transport direction without transporting the printed tape in the opposite direction. The control unit 30 causes the cutting unit 29 to cut the printed tape to a margin length specified by the user. With this configuration, even when the predetermined conditions are not met, printing with a margin length of one-third or less of the distance from the head 23 to the cutting unit 29 can be achieved without transporting the printed tape in the opposite direction.

[0076] [Example of changes] This embodiment can be implemented with the following modifications. This embodiment and the following modifications can be combined with each other to the extent that they do not contradict each other technically.

[0077] The control unit 30 can execute various processes and various decisions in any order, as long as it is not technically contradictory. The control unit 30 can execute multiple processes as one process. The control unit 30 can execute one process as multiple processes. The control unit 30 can execute one decision as multiple decisions. The control unit 30 can execute multiple decisions as one decision.

[0078] The control unit 30 may provide notification if the predetermined conditions are not met. The control unit 30 may also provide notification if the predetermined conditions are not met, indicating that the margin length will not be as specified by the user.

[0079] The control unit 30 may notify whether or not to print if the predetermined conditions are not met. In such cases, the control unit 30 may print according to the user's permission. The control unit 30 may also cancel printing according to the user's cancellation instruction.

[0080] The control unit 30 may provide various notifications. The control unit 30 may provide various notifications by displaying an image on the display unit 32. The control unit 30 may provide various notifications by outputting a notification sound from a speaker (not shown). The control unit 30 may provide various notifications by emitting a light-emitting unit (not shown) in a predetermined light-emitting pattern. The control unit 30 may provide various notifications by transmitting notification data to a terminal device (not shown).

[0081] In the first embodiment, the control unit 30 may cause the cutting unit 29 to cut the leading edge of the first printable label to be printed if the predetermined conditions are not met. This results in the ejection of an unprinted label, but the margin length of the first printable label can be accurately achieved.

[0082] In the second embodiment, the control unit 30 does not need to have the cutting unit 29 cut the leading edge of the first printable label to be printed if the predetermined conditions are not met. This prevents unprinted labels from being ejected.

[0083] In the second embodiment, if the predetermined conditions are not met, the control unit 30 may transport the print tape in the transport direction over a margin length specified by the user, and then start printing on the print tape with the head 23. If the predetermined conditions are not met, the control unit 30 may start transporting the print tape in the transport direction after starting printing on the print tape with the head 23.

[0084] The specified conditions do not have to include at least one of the multiple conditions. The specified conditions may include other conditions other than the multiple conditions. For example, another condition may include the elapsed of a predetermined amount of time.

[0085] The predetermined conditions may include the fact that the print instruction is not for continuous printing. In other words, the predetermined conditions may include the fact that the user's print instruction is not for continuous printing. Thus, the control unit 30 may set the amount of transport for transporting the print tape in the opposite direction as the first transport amount when the print instruction is not for continuous printing.

[0086] The predetermined conditions do not necessarily have to include whether or not the power has been turned on. For example, the predetermined conditions may include the fact that it is the second or subsequent print command from the user after the cover 13 has been closed, regardless of whether or not the power has been turned on. In this way, the control unit 30 may set the transport amount for transporting the print tape in the opposite direction as the first transport amount, regardless of whether or not the power has been turned on.

[0087] The first distance D1 and the second distance D2 may be arbitrary. The first and second transport amounts may be arbitrary as long as the first transport amount is smaller than the first distance D1 and the first transport amount is larger than the second transport amount. For example, if the first distance D1 is 9 mm and the margin length is 3 mm, the first transport amount may be 6 mm.

[0088] The number of margin lengths that can be specified by the user may be arbitrary. The margin lengths that can be specified by the user may be arbitrary. Multiple margin lengths that can be specified by the user may include the default margin length and margin lengths other than the default margin length.

[0089] The specified margin length may be arbitrary. There may be multiple specified margin lengths. The specified margin length may include a margin length that is not the shortest of the multiple margin lengths. The specified margin length may include a margin length that is greater than one-third of the first distance D1 and less than or equal to half of the first distance D1. In other words, the specified condition may include the fact that the margin length specified by the user is greater than one-third of the first distance D1 and less than or equal to half of the first distance D1.

[0090] A second transport amount is pre-set as the transport amount for transporting the printed tape in the opposite direction, and the control unit 30 may change the transport amount for transporting the printed tape in the opposite direction from the second transport amount to the first transport amount in step S13 when a predetermined condition is met. In this case, the control unit 30 does not need to execute step S14 when the predetermined condition is not met.

[0091] A first transport amount is pre-set as the transport amount for transporting the printed tape in the opposite direction, and the control unit 30 may change the transport amount for transporting the printed tape in the opposite direction from the first transport amount to the second transport amount in step S14 if the predetermined conditions are not met. In this case, the control unit 30 does not need to execute step S13 if the predetermined conditions are met.

[0092] The printing device 11 may also include a second cutting section for half-cutting the printing tape, separate from the cutting section 29. The second cutting section is located along the transport path 22. In this case, the cutting section 29 may be a first cutting section that fully cuts the printing tape. The second cutting section may be located downstream of the cutting section 29, or it may be located upstream of the cutting section 29.

[0093] The printing device 11 may include the platen roller 93 itself. The tape cartridge 90 may not include the platen roller 93 but may have a platen roller insertion hole. The platen roller insertion hole is a hole through which the platen roller 93 can be inserted. When the tape cartridge 90 is mounted in the cartridge mounting section 20, the platen roller 93 is inserted through the platen roller insertion hole.

[0094] The printing device 11 may be configured to receive long printing tapes from an external source. In such a case, the printing tape from outside the printing device 11 is introduced into the tape cartridge 90.

[0095] As used herein, the expression "at least one of" means one or more of the desired options. For example, as used herein, if there are two options, the expression "at least one of" means either one option or both of the two options. As another example, as used herein, if there are three or more options, the expression "at least one of" means either one option or any combination of two or more options.

[0096] [Note] The following describes the technical concepts and their effects as understood from the embodiments and modifications described above. These technical concepts and their effects can be combined with each other to the extent that they do not contradict each other.

[0097] [1] The printing apparatus comprises a cartridge mounting section into which a tape cartridge capable of accommodating a printing tape is mounted, a cover that can open and close the cartridge mounting section, a head for printing on the printing tape, a tape transport section capable of transporting the printing tape in both the transport direction and the direction opposite to the transport direction, a cutting section for cutting the printing tape printed by the head, and a control section, wherein the control section controls the tape transport section to transport the printing tape over a first transport amount in the opposite direction when a predetermined condition is met, and controls the tape transport section to transport the printing tape over a second transport amount in the opposite direction when the predetermined condition is not met, wherein the first transport amount and the second transport amount are smaller than the distance from the head to the cutting section, the first transport amount is larger than the second transport amount, and the predetermined condition includes the second or subsequent print command from the user after the cover has been closed.

[0098] With this configuration, if certain conditions are met, including the fact that it is the second or subsequent print command issued by the user after the cover has been closed, the print tape can be transported in the opposite direction over a first transport amount that is larger than the second transport amount. In the second and subsequent print commands issued after the cover has been closed, there is a high probability that the state in which the print tape was cut during the first print command after the cover was closed will be maintained. Therefore, there is a high probability that the length of the print tape ejected from the tape cartridge will be the length up to the cut point. As a result, even without a tape detection unit to detect the leading edge of the print tape, the leading edge of the print tape will not be contained in the tape cartridge, and the print tape can be transported in the opposite direction over the first transport amount. Therefore, the excess length of the print tape can be reduced.

[0099] Even if the predetermined conditions are not met, the printed tape can be transported in the opposite direction over a second transport volume that is smaller than the first transport volume. Therefore, the excess space on the printed tape can be reduced.

[0100] [2] The above-mentioned printing apparatus, wherein the predetermined conditions further include the fact that the margin length specified by the user is one-third or less of the distance from the head to the cutting section. With this configuration, even if the margin length specified by the user is less than one-third of the distance from the head to the cutting section, the leading edge of the printed tape will not be contained in the tape cartridge, and the printed tape can be transported in the opposite direction over the first transport distance. Therefore, the margin of the printed tape can be reduced.

[0101] [3] The printing apparatus comprises a cartridge mounting section into which a tape cartridge capable of accommodating a printing tape is mounted, a cover that can open and close the cartridge mounting section, a head for printing on the printing tape, a tape transport section capable of transporting the printing tape in both the transport direction and the direction opposite to the transport direction, a cutting section for cutting the printing tape printed by the head, and a control unit, wherein the control unit controls the tape transport section to transport the printing tape over a first transport amount in the opposite direction when predetermined conditions are met, the first transport amount being smaller than the distance from the head to the cutting unit, and the predetermined conditions being the second or subsequent print command from the user after the cover has been closed, and the margin length specified by the user being one-third or less of the distance from the head to the cutting unit.

[0102] With this configuration, if certain conditions are met, including the fact that it is the second or subsequent print command issued by the user after the cover has been closed, the print tape can be transported in the opposite direction over the first transport distance. In the second and subsequent print commands issued after the cover has been closed, there is a high probability that the state in which the print tape was cut during the first print command after the cover was closed will be maintained. Therefore, there is a high probability that the length of the print tape ejected from the tape cartridge will be the length up to the cut point. As a result, even without a tape detection unit to detect the leading edge of the print tape, the leading edge of the print tape will not be contained in the tape cartridge, and the print tape can be transported in the opposite direction over the first transport distance. In addition, even if the margin length specified by the user is one-third or less of the distance from the head to the cut point, the leading edge of the print tape will not be contained in the tape cartridge, and the print tape can be transported in the opposite direction over the first transport distance. Therefore, the margin of the print tape can be reduced.

[0103] [4] In the above-described printing apparatus, the control unit may, when the predetermined conditions are not met, transport the printing tape in the transport direction without transporting the printing tape in the opposite direction, and cut the printing tape at the cutting unit to a margin length specified by the user.

[0104] With this configuration, even if the predetermined conditions are not met, printing can be achieved with a margin length of one-third or less of the distance from the head to the cutting section, without having to transport the printing tape in the opposite direction.

[0105] [5] In the above-mentioned printing apparatus, the predetermined conditions may include the fact that the power is turned on and the cover remains closed, and that it is the second or subsequent print command issued by the user.

[0106] With this configuration, when the power is on and the cover remains closed, there is a high probability that the state in which the print tape was cut during the first print command will be maintained during subsequent print commands from the user. Therefore, even without a tape detection unit to detect the leading edge of the print tape, if certain conditions are met, the leading edge of the print tape will not be contained in the tape cartridge, and the print tape can be transported in the opposite direction over a first transport amount that is larger than the second transport amount. Consequently, the excess space on the print tape can be reduced.

[0107] [6] A method for controlling a printing apparatus comprising a cartridge mounting section into which a tape cartridge capable of accommodating a printing tape is mounted, a cover that can open and close the cartridge mounting section, a head for printing on the printing tape, and a cutting section for cutting the printing tape printed on by the head, wherein when a predetermined condition is met, the method is performed to transport the printing tape over a first transport amount in the opposite direction to the transport direction of the printing tape, and when the predetermined condition is not met, the method is performed to transport the printing tape over a second transport amount in the opposite direction, wherein the first transport amount and the second transport amount are smaller than the distance from the head to the cutting section, the first transport amount is larger than the second transport amount, and the predetermined condition is that the user has issued a print command for the second time or later since the cover was closed. This configuration produces the same effect as [1].

[0108] [7] A method for controlling a printing apparatus comprises a cartridge mounting section into which a tape cartridge capable of containing a printing tape is mounted, a cover that can open and close the cartridge mounting section, a head for printing on the printing tape, and a cutting section for cutting the printing tape printed on by the head, wherein when predetermined conditions are met, the method is executed to transport the printing tape in the opposite direction to the transport direction of the printing tape over a first transport amount, the first transport amount being smaller than the distance from the head to the cutting section, the predetermined conditions being the second or subsequent print command from the user after the cover has been closed, and the margin length specified by the user being one-third or less of the distance from the head to the cutting section. This configuration produces the same effect as [3]. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0109] 11...Printing device, 12...Case, 13...Cover, 13A...Protrusion, 13B...Back side, 14...Tape transport section, 20...Cartridge mounting section, 21...Outlet, 22...Transport path, 23...Head, 24...Head cover, 25...Platen shaft, 26...Tape boss section, 27...Ribbon winding shaft, 28...Outlet roller pair, 29...Cutting section, 30...Control unit, 31...Operation unit, 32...Display unit, 33...Insertion section, 90...Tape cartridge, 91...Cartridge outlet, 92...Head insertion hole, 93...Platen roller, D1...First distance, D2...Second distance, P1...Printing position, X1...First width direction, X2...Second width direction, Y1...Forward, Y2...Rearward, Z1...Upward, Z2...Downward.

Claims

1. A cartridge mounting section into which a tape cartridge capable of housing printed tape is installed, The cartridge mounting section includes a cover that can be opened and closed, A print head that prints on the aforementioned printing tape, A tape transport unit capable of transporting the printed tape in both the transport direction and the direction opposite to the transport direction, A cutting unit for cutting the printed tape printed by the head, It comprises a control unit and, The control unit, When predetermined conditions are met, the tape transport unit is controlled to transport the printed tape over a first transport amount in the opposite direction. When the aforementioned predetermined conditions are not met, the tape transport unit is controlled to transport the printed tape in the opposite direction over a second transport amount. The first conveying amount and the second conveying amount are less than the distance from the head to the cutting section. The first transport volume is greater than the second transport volume. The aforementioned predetermined conditions include the fact that the user has issued a print command for the second time or later after the cover has been closed. A printing apparatus characterized by the following features.

2. A printing apparatus according to claim 1, The aforementioned predetermined condition further includes that the margin length specified by the user is one-third or less of the distance from the head to the cutting portion. A printing apparatus characterized by the following features.

3. A cartridge mounting section into which a tape cartridge capable of housing printed tape is installed, The cartridge mounting section includes a cover that can be opened and closed, A print head that prints on the aforementioned printing tape, A tape transport unit capable of transporting the printed tape in both the transport direction and the direction opposite to the transport direction, A cutting unit for cutting the printed tape printed by the head, It comprises a control unit and, The control unit controls the tape transport unit to transport the printed tape over a first transport amount in the opposite direction when a predetermined condition is met. The first transport amount is less than the distance from the head to the cutting section. The predetermined conditions include the fact that it is the second or subsequent print command by the user after the cover has been closed, and that the margin length specified by the user is one-third or less of the distance from the head to the cutting section. A printing apparatus characterized by the following features.

4. A printing apparatus according to claim 3, When the predetermined conditions are not met, the control unit transports the printed tape in the transport direction without transporting it in the opposite direction, and cuts the printed tape at the cutting section to a margin length specified by the user. A printing apparatus characterized by the following features.

5. A printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The aforementioned predetermined conditions include the power being turned on and the cover remaining closed, and the user issuing a print command for the second time or later. A printing apparatus characterized by the following features.

6. A control method for a printing apparatus comprising: a cartridge mounting section into which a tape cartridge capable of housing a printing tape is mounted; a cover that can open and close the cartridge mounting section; a head for printing on the printing tape; and a cutting section for cutting the printing tape printed by the head, When predetermined conditions are met, the printed tape is transported in the opposite direction to the transport direction of the printed tape over a first transport amount, When the aforementioned predetermined conditions are not met, the printed tape is transported in the opposite direction over a second transport amount, and the following is performed: The first conveying amount and the second conveying amount are less than the distance from the head to the cutting section. The first transport volume is greater than the second transport volume. The aforementioned predetermined conditions include the fact that the user has issued a print command for the second time or later after the cover has been closed. A method for controlling a printing apparatus, characterized by the following:

7. A control method for a printing apparatus comprising: a cartridge mounting section into which a tape cartridge capable of housing a printing tape is mounted; a cover that can open and close the cartridge mounting section; a head for printing on the printing tape; and a cutting section for cutting the printing tape printed by the head, When predetermined conditions are met, the printed tape is transported in the opposite direction to the transport direction of the printed tape over a first transport amount. The first transport amount is less than the distance from the head to the cutting section. The predetermined conditions include the fact that it is the second or subsequent print command by the user after the cover has been closed, and that the margin length specified by the user is one-third or less of the distance from the head to the cutting section. A method for controlling a printing apparatus, characterized by the following:

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