Inkjet recording device

Abstract

To easily print an image that matches a three-dimensional pattern onto the printing area. [Solution] The inkjet recording apparatus comprises a transport unit that transports media on which a three-dimensional pattern is formed in the printing area in the transport direction; a printing unit provided above the transport surface of the transport unit and printing an image on the printing area; a height measuring unit that measures the height of the printing area of ​​the media relative to the transport surface; a height data generation unit that generates two-dimensional coordinate height data indicating the height of the printing area based on the measurement result of the height measuring unit; and an image data correction unit that enlarges or reduces the image data so that the position of the two-dimensional coordinate image data for forming an image on the printing area matches the position of the height data.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an inkjet recording apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] In a fabric woven in a jacquard or lace pattern, a three-dimensional pattern can be formed by devising the weaving method. In recent years, in inkjet recording apparatuses such as inkjet textile printers, there has been an increasing demand for printing an image that matches the three-dimensional pattern formed in the printing area of the fabric.

[0003] In the inkjet recording apparatus described in Patent Document 1, while the fabric (referred to as a base fabric in Patent Document 1) is supported on the conveyance surface of the conveyance unit, a camera images the printing area of the fabric to generate imaging data (referred to as imaging image data in Patent Document 1). Next, the control unit of the inkjet recording apparatus extracts a pattern area corresponding to the three-dimensional pattern from the imaging data. Then, the control unit of the inkjet recording apparatus corrects the image data for forming an image in the printing area (referred to as colored image data in Patent Document 1) so that the position of the image data matches the position (shape) of the extracted pattern area.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Incidentally, the three-dimensional patterns formed in the printing area of ​​fabric are the same color as the fabric material, making it difficult to recognize the shape (position) of the three-dimensional patterns from the image data generated by the camera. As a result, there is a problem in that it is difficult to print an image that matches the three-dimensional patterns of the same color as the fabric material. This problem occurs not only when three-dimensional patterns are formed in the printing area of ​​fabric, but also when three-dimensional patterns of the same color as the material of media other than fabric, such as resin sheets, are formed in the printing area of ​​the media.

[0006] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide an inkjet recording device that can easily print an image in the printing area of ​​a media that matches the three-dimensional pattern, even if the three-dimensional pattern formed in the printing area of ​​the media is the same color as the material of the media. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] One aspect of the inkjet recording apparatus of the present invention is A transport unit that transports media with a three-dimensional pattern formed on the printing area in the transport direction, A printing unit is provided above the transport surface of the transport unit and prints an image onto the printing area, A height measuring unit for measuring the height of the printing area relative to the transport surface, A height data generation unit generates two-dimensional coordinate height data indicating the height of the printing area based on the measurement results of the height measurement unit, The system includes an image data correction unit that scales the image data so that the position of the two-dimensional coordinate image data for forming an image in the printing area matches the position of the height data. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, even if the three-dimensional pattern formed in the printing area of ​​the media is the same color as the material of the media, an image matching the three-dimensional pattern can be easily printed in the printing area. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1]Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view of the inkjet recording apparatus according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic plan view showing a cloth, as an example of a media, supported on the conveying surface of the conveying unit. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic plan view showing one aspect of the carriage surrounding the printing unit and height sensor. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic perspective view showing how the height sensor measures the height of the fabric printing area relative to the transport surface of the transport unit. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic plan view showing another aspect of the carriage surrounding the printing unit and multiple height sensors. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing how other height sensors measure the height of the fabric printing area relative to the transport surface of the transport unit. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a control block diagram of the inkjet recording apparatus according to this embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing image data in two-dimensional coordinates. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing feature point data in two-dimensional coordinates. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a schematic plan view showing the measurement trajectory of the height sensor. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a schematic plan view showing other measurement trajectories of the height sensor. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a schematic plan view showing another aspect of the carriage surrounding the printing unit and height sensor. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram showing height data in two-dimensional coordinates. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram showing how 2D coordinate image data and 2D coordinate height data are superimposed on a GUI screen. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram showing how the positions of the feature points in the feature point data are aligned with the positions of the feature points in the height data. [Figure 16]FIG. 16 is a schematic perspective view of an inkjet recording apparatus according to Modification 1 of the present embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a schematic perspective view of an inkjet recording apparatus according to Modification 2 of the present embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a schematic perspective view of an inkjet recording apparatus according to Modification 3 of the present embodiment.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the specification and claims of the present application, the conveyance direction is the conveyance direction in which a medium such as a fabric is conveyed, and in the present embodiment, it is the forward direction. In the specification and claims of the present application, the downstream side is the downstream side in the conveyance direction, and the upstream side is the upstream side in the conveyance direction. Further, in the present embodiment, the X direction is the main scanning direction, that is, the left-right direction. The Y direction is the sub-scanning direction, that is, the front-rear direction. One side of the Y direction is the conveyance direction (forward direction).

[0011] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 6, the configuration of an inkjet recording apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of an inkjet recording apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic plan view showing a state in which a fabric W as an example of a medium is supported on a conveyance surface 20s of a conveyance unit 12. FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view showing an aspect around a carriage 28 including a printing unit 36 and a height sensor 42. FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view showing a state in which the height sensor 42 measures the height of a printing area Wa of the fabric W with respect to the conveyance surface 20s of the conveyance unit 12. FIG. 5 is a schematic plan view showing another aspect around a carriage 28 including a printing unit 36 and a plurality of height sensors 42. FIG. 6 is a schematic view showing a state in which another height sensor 44 measures the height of a printing area Wa of the fabric W with respect to the conveyance surface 20s of the conveyance unit 12.

[0012] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the inkjet recording apparatus 10 according to this embodiment is a printing apparatus that prints an image (color image) onto a fabric W, for example, while transporting the fabric W in the transport direction. The fabric W has multiple printing areas Wa on which the same image is printed, and the multiple printing areas Wa are arranged continuously in the X direction (width direction of the fabric W) and the Y direction (longitudinal direction of the fabric W). The fabric W is, for example, a jacquard woven fabric, and a three-dimensional pattern Wp is formed in each printing area Wa of the fabric W by modifying the jacquard weave. The fabric W is fed from a feed roll (not shown) to the inkjet recording apparatus 10. The fabric W with the printed image is fed out of the inkjet recording apparatus 10 and wound onto a take-up roll (not shown).

[0013] As mentioned above, the fabric W has multiple printing areas Wa, but it is sufficient to have at least one printing area Wa. The media to be printed on is not limited to fabric W, but may also be other media such as resin sheets, as long as a three-dimensional pattern Wp is formed on the printing area Wa.

[0014] As shown in Figure 1, the inkjet recording device 10 includes a transport unit 12 that transports the fabric W unfed from the feed roll in the transport direction. The transport unit 12 has a pair of rotatable transport rollers 14 and 16, which are spaced apart in the Y direction. One of the transport rollers 14 is a drive roller, and the rotation axis (not shown) of the transport roller 14 is linked to a transport motor 18. The other transport roller 16 is a driven roller that rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the transport roller 14.

[0015] The conveying unit 12 has an endless conveying belt 20 that supports the fabric W, and the conveying belt 20 is wound around a pair of conveying rollers 14 and 16. The conveying belt 20 extends in the Y direction, and the portion located on the upper side of the conveying belt 20 is the conveying surface 20s of the conveying unit 12. By rotating the pair of conveying rollers 14 and 16 driven by the conveying motor 18, the conveying belt 20 can be made to circulate and the fabric W can be conveyed in the conveying direction.

[0016] The transport motor 18 has an encoder 22 that detects its rotational speed, and the rotational speed of the transport motor 18 corresponds to the transport distance of the fabric W transported by the transport unit 12. In other words, the inkjet recording device 10 has an encoder 22 that acts as a distance detection unit to detect the transport distance of the fabric W transported by the transport unit 12.

[0017] The inkjet recording device 10 includes a gantry frame 24 installed so as to straddle the transport unit 12. The gantry frame 24 has a support portion 24b extending in the X direction, and the support portion 24b is located above the transport surface 20s of the transport unit 12. The support portion 24b of the gantry frame 24 is provided with a pair of linear guides 26 extending in the X direction, and the pair of linear guides 26 are spaced apart in the vertical direction.

[0018] As shown in Figures 1 and 3, a carriage 28 is mounted on a pair of linear guides 26 so as to be movable in the X direction (main scanning direction) via a plurality of sliding members 30. In other words, the carriage 28 is mounted on the support portion 24b of the gantry frame 24 so as to be movable in the X direction via a pair of linear guides 26, etc. To put it another way, the carriage 28 is mounted above the transport surface 20s of the transport unit 12 so as to be movable in the X direction via the support portion 24b of the gantry frame 24, etc. The carriage 28 moves in the X direction by being driven by a transport motor 32 such as a linear motor. An encoder 34 is provided at an appropriate position on the carriage 28 to detect the position of the carriage 28 in the X direction. The transport distance of the fabric W detected by the encoder 22, which acts as a distance detection unit, corresponds to the relative position (amount of movement) of the carriage 28 in the Y direction with respect to the fabric W.

[0019] The carriage 28 is equipped with a printing unit 36 ​​that prints an image onto the printing area Wa of the fabric W. In other words, the printing unit 36 ​​is provided above (upper side of) the transport surface 20s of the transport unit 12 so as to be movable in the X direction (main scanning direction), and the printing unit 36 ​​moves in the X direction integrally with the carriage 28. The printing unit 36 ​​also has a plurality of head units 38 (38Y, 38M, 38C, 38K) that eject ink onto the printing area Wa of the fabric W to form an image. The plurality of head units 38 (38Y, 38M, 38C, 38K) are units corresponding to four colors of ink: yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K). The plurality of head units 38 (38Y, 38M, 38C, 38K) are arranged at intervals in the X direction.

[0020] Each head unit 38 has a plurality of inkjet heads 40 that eject ink onto the fabric W, and the plurality of inkjet heads 40 are mounted on a carriage 28. The plurality of inkjet heads 40 in each head unit 38 are arranged in a staggered pattern along the Y direction. A plurality of nozzles 40n for ejecting ink are formed at the tip of each inkjet head 40.

[0021] As shown in Figures 1, 3, and 4, a height sensor 42 is provided on the side of the carriage 28 as a height measuring unit to measure the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W relative to the transport surface 20s of the transport unit 12. In other words, the height sensor 42 is provided above (upper side of) the transport surface 20s of the transport unit 12 so as to be movable in the X direction via the carriage 28 and the support portion 24b of the gantry frame 24. The height sensor 42 moves in the X direction integrally with the carriage 28 and the printing unit 36.

[0022] The height sensor 42 is positioned parallel to the Y direction and emits a band-shaped laser beam (an example of light) LB parallel to the Y direction to measure the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W by time of flight. The measurement range of the height sensor 42 is linear. The width of the laser beam LB emitted from the height sensor 42 is, for example, 20 mm to 50 mm. The resolution of the height sensor 42 is, for example, 1 μm to 5 μm. Note that the method for measuring the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W using the height sensor 42 is not limited to time of flight.

[0023] As shown in Figure 5, the number of height sensors 42 may be multiple, and multiple height sensors 42 may be arranged in a staggered pattern along the Y direction on the carriage 28. Alternatively, instead of providing height sensors 42 on the carriage 28, an area-measuring type height sensor 44 may be provided to measure the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W, as shown in Figure 6. The height sensor 44 emits a rectangular laser beam (an example of light) LB and measures the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W by time of flight. The measurement range of the height sensor 44 is rectangular. The height sensor 42 or height sensor 44 will be referred to as height sensor 42, etc.

[0024] Here, as shown in Figures 1 and 3, the aforementioned linear motor or other moving motor 32 corresponds to the moving unit that moves the height sensor 42 or the like (printing unit 36) in the X direction. The encoder 34 corresponds to the position detection unit that detects the position of the height sensor 42 or the like (printing unit 36) in the X direction. The transport distance of the fabric W detected by the encoder 22 as the distance detection unit corresponds to the relative position (amount of movement) of the height sensor 42 or the like (printing unit 36) in the Y direction relative to the fabric W.

[0025] A display unit 48 (see Figure 7) that displays a graphic user interface (GUI) screen 46 (see Figure 14) is provided near the gantry frame 24. The display unit 48 consists of, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) with a touch panel. The display unit 48 has various operation keys such as a numeric keypad and a start key, and displays various operation screens, image status, and the operating status of each function.

[0026] The control configuration of the inkjet recording apparatus 10 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 7 to 15. Figure 7 is a control block diagram of the inkjet recording apparatus 10 according to this embodiment. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the image data ID in two-dimensional coordinates. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing the feature point data FD in two-dimensional coordinates. Figure 10 is a schematic plan view showing the measurement trajectory of the height sensor 42. Figure 11 is a schematic plan view showing another measurement trajectory of the height sensor 42. Figure 12 is a schematic plan view showing another aspect of the area around the carriage 28 including the printing unit 36 ​​and the height sensor 42.

[0027] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram showing the height data HD in two-dimensional coordinates. Figure 14 is a schematic diagram showing the image data ID in two-dimensional coordinates and the height data HD in two-dimensional coordinates superimposed on the GUI screen 46. Figure 15 is a schematic diagram showing the position of the feature points in the feature point data FD aligned with the position of the feature points in the height data HD.

[0028] As shown in Figure 7, the inkjet recording device 10 includes a control unit 50 that controls the transport unit 12 (transport motor 18), the moving motor 32, the printing unit 36, and the display unit 48, etc. Encoders 22, 34 and a height sensor 42 are connected to the control unit 50. The control unit 50 has a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 52, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 54, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 56. A storage unit 58 and a communication unit 60 are connected to the control unit 50.

[0029] The CPU 52 provides overall control over the operation of the inkjet recording device 10. The CPU 52 reads various control programs and setting data stored in the ROM 54, stores them in the RAM 56, and executes the programs to perform various calculations. The RAM 56 also provides the CPU 52 with a working memory space and stores temporary data. The RAM 56 may include non-volatile memory.

[0030] As shown in Figure 7, the CPU 52 refers to various data stored in the memory unit 58 when performing various arithmetic operations. The memory unit 58 is composed of, for example, a non-volatile semiconductor memory or a hard disk drive. The memory unit 58 stores two-dimensional coordinate image data ID (see Figure 8) for printing an image (color image) onto the printing area Wa of the fabric W, and two-dimensional coordinate feature point data FD (see Figure 9) indicating the feature points of the three-dimensional pattern Wp on the printing area Wa of the fabric W.

[0031] The CPU 52 transmits and receives various types of data to and from external devices (such as personal computers) connected to a communication network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or WAN (Wide Area Network) via the communication unit 60. For example, the CPU 52 receives print jobs sent from external devices via the communication unit 60. The communication unit 60 is composed of a communication control card, such as a LAN card.

[0032] As shown in Figure 7, the control unit 50 monitors the detection results of the encoder 22, the detection results of the encoder 34, and the measurement results of the height sensor 42, etc. Furthermore, by executing various control programs, the control unit 50 has the functions of the operation control unit, height data generation unit, and image data correction unit described in the claims, as follows. The configuration of each function of the control unit 50 is as follows.

[0033] As shown in Figures 7 and 10, the control unit 50, acting as an operation control unit, controls the operation of the moving motor 32 and the height sensor 42, etc., so that the height sensor 42, etc., moves in the X direction and continuously measures the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W. The control unit 50 controls the operation of the moving motor 32 and the height sensor 42, etc., while monitoring the detection results of the encoder 34, etc. The control unit 50 controls the operation of the moving motor 32, the height sensor 42, etc., and the transport motor 18 so that the measurement of the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W and the transport of the fabric W over a predetermined distance are repeated alternately. The predetermined distance is the distance corresponding to the measurement width in the Y direction of the height sensor 42, etc., and is the same distance as the measurement width in the Y direction of the height sensor 42, etc., or a distance slightly shorter than the measurement width in the Y direction of the height sensor 42, etc.

[0034] In other words, the control unit 50, acting as an operation control unit, controls the operation of the moving motor 32, the height sensor 42, etc., and the transport motor 18 so that the height sensor 42, etc., measures the height of the entire printing area Wa of the fabric W. Alternatively, the control unit 50 may control the operation of the moving motor 32 and the height sensor 42, etc., so that the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W is measured only when the height sensor 42 moves to one side in the X direction.

[0035] As shown in Figures 7, 11, and 12, the control unit 50, acting as an operation control unit, may control the operation of the moving motor 32 and the height sensor 42 so that the height sensor 42 intermittently measures the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W while moving in the X direction. In this case, the height sensor 42 is positioned along a direction inclined in the Y direction and emits a band-shaped laser beam (an example of light) LB in the direction inclined in the Y direction. The measurement interval (measurement period) of the height sensor 42 is set so that the position of one end of the preceding measurement trajectory and the position of the other end of the subsequent measurement trajectory overlap in the X direction.

[0036] As shown in Figures 7 and 13, the control unit 50, acting as a data generation unit, generates two-dimensional coordinate height data HD based on measurement results from the height sensor 42 and the detection results from the encoders 22 and 34 during measurement of the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W. The two-dimensional coordinate height data HD is data indicating the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W relative to the transport surface 20s of the transport unit 12, and the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W is represented, for example, by brightness.

[0037] As shown in Figure 7, the control unit 50, acting as an image data correction unit, scales the image data ID (see Figure 13) in the X and / or Y directions so that the positions of feature points such as edges in the image data ID (see Figure 8) match the positions of feature points such as edges in the height data HD. Specifically, the control unit 50 scales the image data ID in the X and / or Y directions using the following two control methods.

[0038] As shown in Figures 7 and 14, in the first control method, the control unit 50 displays a GUI screen 46 on the display unit 48 and displays two-dimensional coordinate image data and two-dimensional coordinate height data HD superimposed on the GUI screen 46. The control unit 50 then scales the image data ID in the X and / or Y directions on the GUI screen 46, allowing the user to operate it using a mouse (not shown) or the like so that the positions of the feature points of the image data ID match the positions of the feature points of the height data HD.

[0039] As shown in Figures 7 and 15, in the second control method, the control unit 50 scales the feature point data FD stored in the memory unit 58 in the X and / or Y directions so that the positions of the feature points in the feature point data FD match the positions of the feature points in the height data HD. The control unit 50 scales the image data ID in the X and / or Y directions at the same scaling ratio as the feature point data FD. In other words, the control unit 50 scales the image data ID in the X and / or Y directions so that the positions of the feature points in the image data ID match the positions of the feature points in the height data HD via the feature point data FD.

[0040] In this embodiment, it is assumed that the expansion and contraction of the fabric W supported on the transport surface 20s of the transport unit 12 is constant, and that there is no or negligible internal distortion of the fabric W. Therefore, by simply scaling the image data ID in the X and / or Y directions, the position of the feature points of the image data ID can be aligned with the position of the feature points of the height data HD.

[0041] The control unit 50, acting as an operation control unit, controls the operation of the printing unit 36 ​​based on the enlarged or reduced image data ID so as to print an image that matches the three-dimensional pattern Wp onto the printing area Wa of the fabric W. While the image is being printed onto the printing area Wa of the fabric W, the control unit 50 controls the operation of the transport motor 18 and the moving motor 32 while monitoring the detection results of the encoder 34, etc. The control unit 50 repeatedly controls the operation of the printing unit 36, the transport motor 18, and the moving motor 32 so as to print an image that matches the three-dimensional pattern Wp onto multiple printing areas Wa of the fabric W, while monitoring the detection results of the encoder 34, etc.

[0042] With the configuration described above, the control unit 50, acting as an operation control unit, controls the operation of the transport motor 18 and the like to position the leading edge of the fabric W directly below or near the height sensor 42. Next, the control unit 50, acting as an operation control unit, controls the operation of the moving motor 32, the height sensor 42 and the transport motor 18 to alternately measure the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W and transport the fabric W over a predetermined distance. Then, the control unit 50, acting as a data generation unit, generates height data HD based on the measurement results of the height sensor 42 and the like. Furthermore, the control unit 50, acting as an image data correction unit, enlarges and reduces the image data ID in the X and / or Y directions so that the position of the feature points of the image data ID matches the position of the feature points of the height data HD.

[0043] Subsequently, the control unit 50, acting as the motion control unit, controls the operation of the transport motor 18 and other components to temporarily transport the fabric W in the reverse direction (in the opposite direction of transport) so that the leading edge of the fabric W is positioned directly below or near the printing unit 36. Then, the control unit 50, acting as the motion control unit, controls the operation of the printing unit 36 ​​based on the enlarged or reduced image data ID to print an image that matches the three-dimensional pattern Wp onto the printing area Wa of the fabric W. Furthermore, the control unit, acting as the motion control unit, monitors the detection results of the encoder 34 and other components, and repeatedly controls the operation of the printing unit 36, the transport motor 18, and the moving motor 32 to print images onto multiple printing areas Wa of the fabric W.

[0044] Incidentally, since the scaling of image data IDs is performed on a pixel-by-pixel basis, fractional values ​​of less than one pixel occur as errors when scaling image data IDs. Furthermore, the transport distance of the fabric W can exceed 100m, and when printing images on multiple printing areas Wa arranged along the Y direction, the cumulative error associated with the scaling of image data IDs becomes significant. For this reason, it is desirable for the control unit 50 to have the following configuration.

[0045] As shown in Figures 2 and 7, the control unit 50, acting as an operation control unit, controls the operation of the moving motor 32, the height sensor 42, etc., and the transport motor 18 so that the height sensor 42, etc., measures the height of the entire area of ​​a predetermined other printing region Wa. Based on the measurement results of the height sensor 42, etc., and the detection results of the encoders 22 and 34 during the measurement of the height of the predetermined other printing region Wa of the fabric W, the control unit 50 generates other height data (not shown) in two-dimensional coordinates. The predetermined other printing region Wa is another printing region Wa located downstream (adjacent) to the printed printing region Wa.

[0046] The control unit 50, acting as an image data correction unit, calculates the difference in the Y direction (transport direction) of other height data relative to the scaled image data ID. If the difference in the Y direction of the other height data is greater than half a pixel, the control unit 50 expands the last single pixel line data in the Y direction of the scaled image data ID to two pixels of line data. If the difference in the Y direction of the other height data is greater than half a pixel on the negative side, the control unit 50 deletes the last single pixel line data in the Y direction of the scaled image data ID. In other words, the control unit 50, acting as an image data correction unit, adjusts the scaled image data ID so that the difference in the Y direction of the other height data is within the acceptable range of half a pixel.

[0047] According to the configuration of the inkjet recording apparatus 10 in this embodiment, as described above, the height sensor 42, etc., measures the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W relative to the transport surface 20s of the transport unit 12. The control unit 50 generates two-dimensional coordinate height data HD based on the measurement results of the height sensor 42, etc. The control unit 50 scales the image data ID in the X direction and / or Y direction so that the positions of the feature points of the image data ID match the positions of the feature points of the height data HD. Therefore, the control unit 50 can correct the image data ID so that it can print an image that matches the three-dimensional pattern Wp, based on the two-dimensional coordinate height data HD rather than the imaging data generated by the camera.

[0048] Therefore, according to the inkjet recording apparatus 10 of this embodiment, even if the three-dimensional pattern Wp formed in the printing area Wa of the fabric W is the same color as the material of the fabric W, the shape (position) of the three-dimensional pattern Wp can be easily recognized from the height data HD. As a result, an image (color image) that matches the three-dimensional pattern Wp can be easily printed in the printing area Wa of the fabric W.

[0049] Furthermore, according to the configuration of the inkjet recording apparatus 10 in this embodiment, the control unit 50 controls the operation of the moving motor 32 and the height sensor 42, etc., so that the height sensor 42, etc., measures the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W while moving in the X direction. The control unit 50 controls the operation of the moving motor 32, the height sensor 42, etc., and the transport motor 18 so that the measurement of the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W and the transport of the fabric W over a predetermined distance are repeated alternately. The control unit 50 generates two-dimensional coordinate height data HD based on the measurement results of the height sensor 42, etc. Therefore, by continuously measuring the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W while the height sensor 42, etc., moves in the X direction, the two-dimensional coordinate height data HD can be generated with high accuracy.

[0050] Therefore, according to the inkjet recording apparatus 10 of this embodiment, an image aligned with the three-dimensional pattern Wp can be printed with high precision onto the printing area Wp of the fabric W.

[0051] Furthermore, according to the configuration of the inkjet recording apparatus 10 in this embodiment, the control unit 50 controls the operation of the moving motor 32 and the height sensor 42 so that the height sensor 42 intermittently measures the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W while moving in the X direction. Therefore, the measurement time of the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W can be shortened.

[0052] Therefore, according to the inkjet recording apparatus 10 of this embodiment, the speed of a series of processes from the start of the height measurement process of the printed area Wa of the fabric W to the end of the scaling process of the image data ID can be increased.

[0053] Furthermore, according to the configuration of the inkjet recording apparatus 10 in this embodiment, the control unit 50 enlarges or reduces the image data ID when the user operates the GUI screen 46 so that the position of the image data ID matches the position of the height data HD. Therefore, the enlargement or reduction processing of the image data ID by the control unit 50 can be simplified.

[0054] Therefore, according to the inkjet recording apparatus 10 of this embodiment, the speed of a series of processes from the start of the height measurement process of the printed area Wa of the fabric W to the end of the scaling process of the image data ID can be increased.

[0055] Furthermore, according to the configuration of the inkjet recording apparatus 10 in this embodiment, the control unit 50 enlarges or reduces the image data ID so that the position of the feature points of the image data ID matches the position of the feature points of the height data HD via the feature point data FD. Therefore, the enlargement or reduction processing of the image data ID by the control unit 50 can be made more efficient.

[0056] Therefore, according to the inkjet recording apparatus 10 of this embodiment, the speed of a series of processes from the start of the height measurement process of the printed area Wa of the fabric W to the end of the scaling process of the image data ID can be increased.

[0057] Furthermore, according to the configuration of the inkjet recording apparatus 10 in this embodiment, multiple height sensors 42 are arranged on the carriage 28 along the Y direction. Therefore, by increasing the distance corresponding to the measurement width of the height sensors 42 in the Y direction by the number of height sensors 42, the measurement time for the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W can be shortened.

[0058] Therefore, according to the inkjet recording apparatus 10 of this embodiment, the speed of a series of processes from the start of the height measurement process of the printed area Wa of the fabric W to the end of the scaling process of the image data ID can be increased.

[0059] Furthermore, according to the configuration of the inkjet recording apparatus 10 in this embodiment, a height sensor 44 with a rectangular measurement range can be used instead of the height sensor 42. In this case, the measurement range of the height sensor 44 can be sufficiently secured, and the measurement time for the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W can be shortened.

[0060] Therefore, according to the inkjet recording apparatus 10 of this embodiment, the speed of a series of processes from the start of the height measurement process of the printed area Wa of the fabric W to the end of the scaling process of the image data ID can be increased.

[0061] Furthermore, according to the configuration of the inkjet recording apparatus 10 in this embodiment, the control unit 50 generates other height data based on the measurement results of the height sensor 42 and the detection results of the encoders 22 and 34 during the measurement of the height of other predetermined printing areas Wa of the fabric W. The control unit 50 adjusts the scaled image data ID so that the difference in the Y direction of the other height data is within an acceptable range. Therefore, when printing an image on a number of printing areas Wa arranged along the Y direction, it is possible to avoid exceeding the acceptable range due to the scaling of the image data ID.

[0062] Therefore, according to the inkjet recording apparatus 10 of this embodiment, even when printing images on a number of printing areas Wa arranged along the Y direction, variations in image quality can be suppressed.

[0063] Referring to Figure 16, the configuration of the inkjet recording device 10A according to Modification 1 of this embodiment will be described. Figure 16 is a schematic perspective view of the inkjet recording device 10A according to Modification 1 of this embodiment.

[0064] As shown in Figure 16, the inkjet recording device 10A according to Modification 1 of this embodiment has the same configuration as the inkjet recording device 10 according to this embodiment (see Figure 1). The differences in the configuration of the inkjet recording device 10A according to Modification 1 of this embodiment from the configuration of the inkjet recording device 10 according to this embodiment will be explained below. For the sake of convenience of explanation, the same reference numerals are used for components that have the same function as those described in this embodiment, and their descriptions will not be repeated.

[0065] The inkjet recording device 10A includes a second gantry frame 62 installed so as to straddle the transport unit 12, and the second gantry frame 62 is located downstream of the printing unit 36 ​​(gantry frame 24). The second gantry frame 62 has a support portion 62b extending in the X direction, and the support portion 62b is located above the transport surface 20s of the transport unit 12. A linear guide 64 extending in the X direction is provided on the support portion 62b of the second gantry frame 62.

[0066] The linear guide 64 supports the second carriage 66 so as to be movable in the X direction (main scanning direction) via a plurality of sliding members (not shown). In other words, the support portion 62b of the second gantry frame 62 is provided so as to be movable in the X direction via the linear guide 64, etc. In other words, the second carriage 66 is provided so as to be movable in the X direction on the downstream side of the printing unit 36 ​​above (upper side) the transport surface 20s of the transport unit 12 via the support portion 62b of the second gantry frame 62, etc. The second carriage 66 also moves in the X direction by being driven by a second moving motor 68 such as a linear motor. An encoder 70 for detecting the position of the second carriage 66 in the X direction is provided at an appropriate position on the second carriage 66.

[0067] In the inkjet recording device 10A, the height sensor 42 is located at an appropriate position on the second carriage 66, rather than on the side of the carriage 28. In other words, the height sensor 42 is located downstream of the printing unit 36 ​​above (upper side of) the transport surface 20s of the transport unit 12, and is movable in the X direction via the support portion 62b of the second carriage 66 and the second gantry frame 62. The height sensor 42 moves in the X direction integrally with the second carriage 66.

[0068] Here, the second moving motor 68, such as a linear motor, corresponds to the moving unit that moves the height sensor 42 in the X direction (main scanning direction). The encoder 70 corresponds to the position detection unit that detects the position of the height sensor 42 in the X direction.

[0069] Although not shown in the diagram, in the inkjet recording device 10A, the control unit 50 (see Figure 7) controls the second moving motor 68, and the encoder 70 is connected to the control unit 50. As described above, the control unit 50 has the functions of an motion control unit, a height data generation unit, and an image data correction unit.

[0070] According to the configuration of the inkjet recording apparatus 10A in Modification 1 of this embodiment, the height sensor 42 is provided so as to be movable in the X direction on the downstream side of the printing unit 36 ​​above the transport surface 20s of the transport unit 12. Therefore, after the height sensor 42 measures the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W, the printing unit 36 ​​can print an image on the printing area Wa of the fabric W without the transport unit 12 having to transport the fabric W in the reverse direction. Furthermore, the height sensor 42 can measure the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W while the printing unit 36 ​​is printing an image.

[0071] Therefore, according to the modified example 1 of this embodiment, the convenience of the inkjet recording device 10A can be improved.

[0072] Referring to Figure 17, the configuration of the inkjet recording device 10B according to Modification 2 of this embodiment will be described. Figure 17 is a schematic perspective view of the inkjet recording device 10B according to Modification 2 of this embodiment.

[0073] As shown in Figure 17, the inkjet recording device 10B according to Modification 2 of this embodiment has the same configuration as the inkjet recording device 10A according to Modification 1 of this embodiment (see Figure 16). The differences in the configuration of the inkjet recording device 10B according to Modification 2 of this embodiment compared with the configuration of the inkjet recording device 10A according to Modification 1 of this embodiment will be explained below. For the sake of convenience of explanation, components having the same function as those described in Modification 1 of this embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will not be repeated.

[0074] In the inkjet recording device 10B, the linear guide 64, second carriage 66, second moving motor 68, and encoder 70 (see Figure 9) are omitted. Multiple height sensors 42 are provided on the support portion 62b of the second gantry frame 62. In other words, multiple height sensors 42 are provided on the downstream side of the printing unit 36 ​​above (upper side of) the transport surface 20s of the transport unit 12. The multiple height sensors 42 are arranged in a staggered pattern along the X direction.

[0075] Although not shown in the diagram, in the inkjet recording device 10B, the control unit 50 (see Figure 7) also functions as an operation control unit, a height data generation unit, and an image data correction unit, as described above.

[0076] In the configuration of the inkjet recording apparatus 10B according to Modification 2 of this embodiment, the multiple height sensors 42 are provided on the downstream side of the printing unit 36 ​​above the transport surface 20s of the transport unit 12 and are arranged along the X direction. Therefore, the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W can be measured without moving the height sensors 42 in the X direction. Furthermore, after measuring the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W, the printing unit 36 ​​can print an image on the printing area Wa of the fabric W without the transport unit 12 having to transport the fabric W in the reverse direction. Moreover, the multiple height sensors 42 can measure the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W while the printing unit 36 ​​is printing the image.

[0077] Therefore, according to the modified example 2 of this embodiment, the inkjet recording device 10B can be made more convenient.

[0078] Referring to Figure 18, the configuration of the inkjet recording device 10C according to Modification 3 of this embodiment will be described. Figure 18 is a schematic perspective view of the inkjet recording device according to Modification 3 of this embodiment.

[0079] As shown in Figure 18, the inkjet recording device 10C according to Modification 3 of this embodiment has the same configuration as the inkjet recording device 10B according to Modification 2 of this embodiment (see Figure 17). The differences in the configuration of the inkjet recording device 10B according to Modification 3 of this embodiment compared with the configuration of the inkjet recording device 10B according to Modification 2 of this embodiment will be explained below. For the sake of convenience of explanation, components having the same function as those described in Modification 2 of this embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will not be repeated.

[0080] In the inkjet recording device 10C, the gantry frame 24, linear guide 26, carriage 28, transport motor 32, encoder 34, and printing unit 36 ​​(see Figure 17) are omitted. In addition, a printing unit 72 is provided above (upper side of) the transport surface 20s of the transport unit 12, which prints an image (color image) onto the fabric W in a single pass. The printing unit 72 has multiple head units 74 (74Y, 74M, 74C, 74K) that eject ink into multiple printing areas Wa of the fabric W to form an image in a single pass. The multiple head units 74 (74Y, 74M, 74C, 74K) are units corresponding to four colors of ink: yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K). Multiple head units 74 (74Y, 74M, 74C, 74K) are arranged at intervals in the Y direction, and each head unit 74 extends in the X direction (main scanning direction).

[0081] Each head unit 74 has a plurality of inkjet heads (not shown) that eject ink onto the fabric W, and the plurality of inkjet heads 40 are arranged in a staggered pattern along the Y direction. A plurality of nozzles (not shown) for ejecting ink are formed at the tip of each inkjet head of each head unit 74. Each head unit 74 may be configured to be movable in the main scanning direction via a carriage (not shown).

[0082] Although not shown in the diagram, in the inkjet recording device 10C, the control unit 50 (see Figure 7) controls the printing unit 72. As described above, the control unit 50 has the functions of an operation control unit, a height data generation unit, and an image data correction unit.

[0083] According to the configuration of the inkjet recording device 10C in Modification 3 of this embodiment, the printing unit 72 prints an image onto the fabric W in a single pass. Therefore, high-speed printing by the printing unit 72 is possible without moving the printing unit 72 in the X direction.

[0084] Similar to the configuration of the inkjet recording device 10B (see Figure 17) according to Modification 2 of this embodiment, the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W can be measured without moving the height sensor 42 in the X direction. Furthermore, after measuring the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W, the printing unit 72 can print an image onto the printing area Wa of the fabric W without the fabric W being transported in the reverse direction by the transport unit 12. Moreover, while the printing unit 72 is printing the image, multiple height sensors 42 can measure the height of the printing area Wa of the fabric W.

[0085] Therefore, according to the modified example 3 of this embodiment, the inkjet recording device 10C can be made more convenient.

[0086] Although this embodiment has been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments described above. Furthermore, various modifications and changes can be made to the specific examples described above within the scope of the gist of the present invention as described in the claims. [Industrial applicability]

[0087] The present invention is useful as an inkjet recording device that can easily print an image that matches the three-dimensional pattern on the printing area of ​​the media, even if the three-dimensional pattern formed on the printing area of ​​the media is the same color as the material of the media. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0088] 10. Inkjet recording device 12 Conveying section 14 Conveyor rollers 16 Conveyor rollers 18. Conveyor motor 20 Conveyor belts 20s Conveyor surface 22 encoders 24 Gantry frame 24b Support part 26 Linear Guide 28 Carriage 30 Sliding member 32 Mobile Motors 34 encoders 36. Printing Department 38 Head Units 38Y Head Unit 38M Head Unit 38C Head Unit 38K Head Unit 40 inkjet heads 40n nozzle 42 Height sensor 44 Height sensor 46 GUI screen 48 Display section 50 Control Unit 52 CPU 54 ROM 56 RAM 58 Memory section 60 Communications Department 10A Inkjet Recording Device 62 Second gantry frame 62b Support part 64 Linear Guide 66 Second Carriage 68 Second mobile motor 70 encoders 10B Inkjet Recording Device 10C Inkjet Recording Device 72 Printing Department 74 Head Unit 74M Head Unit 74Y Head Unit 74C Head Unit 74K head unit ID image data FD Feature Point Data HD Height Data LB laser light (light) W Fabric (Media) Wa Printing Area WP 3D Pattern

Claims

1. A transport unit that transports media with a three-dimensional pattern formed on the printing area in the transport direction, A printing unit is provided above the transport surface of the transport unit and prints an image onto the printing area, A height measuring unit for measuring the height of the printing area relative to the transport surface, A height data generation unit generates two-dimensional coordinate height data indicating the height of the printing area based on the measurement results of the height measurement unit, The system includes an image data correction unit that scales the image data so that the position of the two-dimensional coordinate image data for forming an image in the printing area matches the position of the height data. Inkjet recording device.

2. The system further includes an operation control unit that controls the operation of the height measuring unit to measure the height of the printing area, and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the printing unit based on the image data that has been enlarged or reduced by the image data correction unit to print an image onto the printing area that matches the three-dimensional pattern. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The height measuring unit is provided above the transport surface so as to be movable in the main scanning direction perpendicular to the transport direction, A distance detection unit for detecting the transport distance of the media transported by the transport unit, A moving unit that moves the height measuring unit in the main scanning direction, The system further includes a position detection unit for detecting the position of the height measuring unit in the main scanning direction, The operation control unit controls the operation of the moving unit and the height measuring unit so that the height measuring unit measures the height of the printing area while moving in the main scanning direction, and controls the operation of the moving unit, the height measuring unit, and the transport unit so that the measurement of the height of the printing area and the transport of media over a distance corresponding to the measurement width of the height measuring unit are repeated alternately. The height data generation unit generates the height data based on the measurement results of the height measurement unit, the detection results of the distance detection unit, and the detection results of the position detection unit. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The operation control unit controls the movement of the moving unit and the height measuring unit so that the height measuring unit moves in the main scanning direction and continuously measures the height of the printing area. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 3.

5. The operation control unit controls the movement of the moving unit and the height measuring unit so that the height measuring unit intermittently measures the height of the printing area while moving in the main scanning direction. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 3.

6. It further includes a display unit that displays a graphical user interface (GUI) screen, The image data correction unit enlarges or reduces the image data when the user operates it on the GUI screen so that the position of the image data matches the position of the height data. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1.

7. The image data correction unit enlarges or reduces the feature point data so that the position of the feature point data in the two-dimensional coordinate system, which indicates the feature points of the three-dimensional pattern in the printed area, matches the position of the height data, and also enlarges or reduces the image data by the same enlargement or reduction ratio as the correction unit. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1.

8. The operation control unit controls the operation of the height measuring unit to measure the height of other printed areas located downstream of the printed printed area, The height data generation unit generates other height data in two-dimensional coordinates indicating the height of the other printing area based on the measurement results of the height measurement unit. The image data correction unit calculates the difference in the transport direction of the other height data with respect to the enlarged or reduced image data. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 2.

9. The image data correction unit adjusts the enlarged or reduced image data so that the difference is within an acceptable range. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 8.

10. The carriage is further provided above the transport surface and is movable in a main scanning direction perpendicular to the transport direction, The printing unit and the height measuring unit are each provided on the carriage and move integrally with the carriage in the main scanning direction. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1.

11. The number of height measuring units is multiple, and the multiple height measuring units are arranged on the carriage along the transport direction. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 10.

12. The carriage is further provided above the transport surface and is movable in a main scanning direction perpendicular to the transport direction, The printing unit is provided on the carriage and moves integrally with the carriage in the main scanning direction. The height measuring unit is provided above the transport surface, on the upstream side of the printing unit, so as to be movable in the main scanning direction. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1.

13. The carriage is further provided above the transport surface and is movable in a main scanning direction perpendicular to the transport direction, The printing unit is provided on the carriage and moves integrally with the carriage in the main scanning direction. The number of height measuring units is multiple, and the multiple height measuring units are provided on the upstream side of the printing unit above the transport surface and are arranged along the main scanning direction. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1.

14. The aforementioned printing unit prints an image onto the media in a single pass. The number of height measuring units is multiple, and the multiple height measuring units are provided on the upstream side of the printing unit above the transport surface and are arranged along the main scanning direction. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1.

15. The measurement range of the height measuring section is linear. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1.

16. The measurement range of the height measuring section is rectangular. The inkjet recording apparatus according to claim 1.

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