Recording device and recording method

Abstract

To reduce the time between receiving a recording instruction and starting recording. [Solution] The recording device is arranged in the path of the recording medium being transported by a transport means for transporting the recording medium and includes a heating device for heating a liquid applied to the recording medium, an acquisition means for acquiring the permitted temperature from a storage device which stores information indicating the permitted temperature, which is the temperature at which recording to the recording medium is permitted to begin, and a recording control means for controlling a recording means that performs recording on the recording medium. The permitted temperature is set lower than a target temperature defined for fixing the liquid applied to the recording medium to the recording medium, and the recording control means causes the recording means to start recording when the temperature of the heating device reaches the permitted temperature.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an image forming apparatus that reduces the time until recording starts. This image forming apparatus measures the surface temperature of a heating roller, which is a heating device, with a sensor, and predicts the arrival time at the printing temperature by calculating the rate of increase in the measured surface temperature. Further, this image forming apparatus feeds paper so that the recording medium is conveyed at the predicted arrival time.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The time from receiving a recording instruction to starting recording in a recording apparatus can be one of the important viewpoints for a user. Therefore, it is desired to shorten the time from receiving a recording instruction to starting recording.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A recording device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: a transport means for transporting a recording medium; a heating device arranged in the path of the recording medium transported by the transport means for heating a liquid applied to the recording medium; an acquisition means for acquiring the permitted temperature from a storage device which stores information indicating the permitted temperature, which is the temperature at which recording to the recording medium is permitted to begin; and a transport control means for controlling the transport means, wherein the permitted temperature is set lower than a target temperature defined for fixing the liquid applied to the recording medium to the recording medium, and the transport control means initiates transport by the transport means when the temperature of the heating device reaches the permitted temperature. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, the time from when a recording instruction is received until recording begins can be shortened. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing an example of the external configuration of an inkjet recording device. [Figure 2] This block diagram shows an example of the configuration of an inkjet recording device. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of the configuration of an ejection port forming substrate provided in a recording head. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the discharge port row. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of recording an image in 8-pass mode. [Figure 6] This flowchart shows an example of a series of processes performed in the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This graph shows an example of the temperature change of the heating device in the first embodiment. [Figure 8] This graph shows an example of the temperature transition of another heating device in the first embodiment. [Figure 9] This flowchart shows an example of a series of processes performed in the second embodiment. [Figure 10]This graph shows an example of the temperature transition of the heating device in the second embodiment. [Figure 11] This flowchart shows an example of a series of processes performed in the third embodiment. [Figure 12] This graph shows an example of the temperature transition of the heating device in the third embodiment. [Figure 13] This flowchart shows an example of a series of processes performed in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 14] This graph shows an example of the temperature transition of the heating device in the fourth embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the attached drawings. The following embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, and not all combinations of features described in the following embodiments are essential to the solution of the present invention. The same reference numerals are used for identical components, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0009] [First Embodiment] <overview> A recording device is known in which ink is applied to a recording medium, which is then transported to a heating device, and the ink applied to the recording medium is fixed by heating in the heating device. In this recording device, there is a warm-up time until the temperature of the heating device reaches a temperature at which the ink can be fixed. If the transport of the recording medium to the heating device begins only after the heating device has reached a temperature at which the ink can be fixed, the time from when the recording device receives a recording instruction to when it starts recording becomes very long. Below, with reference to the figure, an example of shortening the time from when a recording instruction is received to when it starts recording will be explained. In the referenced figure, the X direction and Y direction are defined. The X direction and Y direction are orthogonal to each other.

[0010] <Device configuration> FIG. 1(a) is a perspective view showing an example of the external configuration of an inkjet recording apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 1(a), a part is omitted for explaining the internal mechanism of the inkjet recording apparatus 10. The inkjet recording apparatus 10 is an apparatus that scans a recording head 11 and discharges a liquid to perform recording on a recording medium 12. In the example of FIG. 1, the recording medium 12 is roll paper. The inkjet recording apparatus 10 records (forms) an image on the recording medium 12 by repeating a recording operation and a conveyance operation. The recording operation is an operation of discharging a liquid while scanning the recording head 11 in the main scanning direction. The conveyance operation is an operation of conveying the recording medium 12 in the sub-scanning direction. The main scanning direction and the sub-scanning direction intersect. In the example of FIG. 1, the main scanning direction is the +X direction or the -X direction, and the sub-scanning direction is the -Y direction.

[0011] The recording head 11 is mounted on a carriage 13. The carriage 13 is attached to a guide shaft 14 so as to be movable along the guide shaft 14. The guide shaft 14 is arranged along the main scanning direction. The recording head 11 mounted on the carriage 13 can reciprocate in the main scanning direction along the guide shaft 14.

[0012] In the present embodiment, a bidirectional recording method is adopted as a recording method for the recording medium 12. The bidirectional recording method is a method of discharging a liquid from the recording head 11 and performing recording on the recording medium 12 both when the recording head 11 moves in the forward path and when the recording head 11 moves in the return path. When the recording head 11 is scanned one or more times with the discharge of the liquid, the recording medium 12 is conveyed by a predetermined amount. The liquid discharged from the recording head 11 contains at least ink. In the present embodiment, the liquid discharged from the recording head 11 is composed of an ink containing a coloring material and a reaction liquid containing a reactant that reacts with the coloring material.

[0013] FIG. 1(b) is a schematic diagram showing a part of the inkjet recording apparatus 10. The arrow in FIG. 1(b) indicates the conveyance direction of the recording medium. In the inkjet recording apparatus 10, when a recording command is input, the first unit area of the recording medium 12 is conveyed to the recording unit. This recording unit is a discharge site where ink and a reaction liquid are discharged. This discharge site is located between the platen 15, which is a member that supports the recording medium 12, and the recording head 11 mounted on the carriage 13. When the first unit area of the recording medium 12 is conveyed to the recording unit, the recording operation and a predetermined amount of conveyance operation are alternately repeated based on the recording signal. As a result, the ink and the reaction liquid discharged with the scanning are applied to the recording medium 12 for each unit area, and an image based on the recording signal is recorded (formed) on the recording medium 12. Further, the recording medium 12 to which the ink and the reaction liquid are applied in the recording unit is conveyed in the -Y direction. A heating device 16 is arranged in the path of the conveyed recording medium 12. The heating device 16 is located downstream of the recording unit (recording head 11) in the conveyance direction of the recording medium 12. By this heating device 16, the ink and the reaction liquid applied to the recording medium 12 are heated. By this heating, the coloring material in the ink is fixed to the recording medium 12. Note that a target temperature is set to heat and fix the liquid applied to the recording medium 12.

[0014] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the inkjet recording apparatus 10. The inkjet recording apparatus 10 includes a control unit 20. The control unit 20 controls the inkjet recording apparatus 10.

[0015] The heating device 16 is connected to the control unit 20. The heating device 16 is a heating device that generates heat for fixing the ink and the reaction liquid applied to the recording medium 12 to the recording medium 12. The heating device 16 is a fan capable of blowing warm air in this embodiment, but is not limited thereto. The heating device 16 heats the recording medium 12 at the set temperature. The temperature setting for the heating device 16 is performed by the control unit 20. The control unit 20 can adjust the amount of heat (heating amount) of the heating device 16 by controlling the temperature setting of the heating device 16.

[0016] A display operation unit 21 is connected to the control unit 20. The display operation unit 21 can display information. The display operation unit 21 can also input information based on user operations. For example, the display operation unit 21 inputs information indicating recording conditions, such as setting the level of the reaction solution recording volume specified by the user. The display operation unit 21 includes a display. The display operation unit 21 may also include a touch panel.

[0017] An interface 22 is connected to the control unit 20. The interface 22 receives data such as image data from an external device 200. The main scan encoder 23 outputs a signal to the control unit 20 indicating the position of the main scan motor 250. The sub-scan encoder 24 outputs a signal to the control unit 20 indicating the position of the sub-scan motor 260.

[0018] The control unit 20 is connected to a main scanning motor driver 25 and a sub-scanning motor driver 26. The main scanning motor driver 25 controls the main scanning motor 250 based on signals supplied from the control unit 20 to scan the recording head 11 mounted on the carriage 13. The sub-scanning motor driver 26 controls the sub-scanning motor 260 based on signals supplied from the control unit 20 to transport the recording medium 12. The recording head driver 27 controls the recording head 11 based on signals supplied from the control unit 20 to eject ink and reaction liquid.

[0019] A temperature sensor 28 is connected to the control unit 20. The temperature sensor 28 is a sensor that measures the temperature of the heating device 16. The temperature of the heating device 16 detected by the temperature sensor 28 may be the temperature of the heat path inside the heating device 16. Alternatively, it may be the temperature of the heat source of the heating device 16. Alternatively, it may be the temperature of the air heated by the heating device 16.

[0020] An ambient temperature sensor 29 is connected to the control unit 20. The ambient temperature sensor 29 is a sensor that measures the temperature (ambient temperature) of the environment in which the inkjet recording device 10 operates. The ambient temperature sensor 29 is installed, for example, on the outside of the inkjet recording device 10 (on the surface of the housing). Except for the fourth embodiment described later, the ambient temperature sensor 29 does not need to be provided. In this case, the ambient temperature sensor 29 is not connected to the control unit 20.

[0021] The control unit 20 is equipped with a CPU 201, a ROM 202, and a RAM 203. The CPU 201 is a processor (arithmetic unit) that controls the operation of the inkjet recording device 10. The CPU 201 performs various processes by executing programs or starting hardware. The ROM 202 stores various types of data. For example, the ROM 202 stores programs for execution by the CPU 201 and data necessary for the operation of the inkjet recording device 10. The RAM 203 is used as the work area for the CPU 201. The RAM 203 can also be used as a temporary data storage area. For example, the RAM 203 temporarily stores image data used to control the inkjet recording device 10 and recording signals supplied to the recording head 11.

[0022] The control unit 20 is equipped with a gate array 204. The gate array 204 supplies control signals to the main scanning motor driver 25, the sub-scanning motor driver 26, and the recording head driver 27. The gate array 204 also transfers various signals to the CPU 201, the RAM 203, and the interface 22. The gate array 204 also performs processing together with the CPU 201. For example, the gate array 204 converts image data supplied from the external device 200 via the interface 22 into recording signals that the inkjet recording device 10 can handle. The recording signals are signals for forming (recording) an image on the recording medium 12.

[0023] The CPU 201 executes recording control processing based on the recording signal. This recording control processing is a control process for recording an image based on the recording signal onto the recording medium 12. This recording control processing includes controlling the main scan motor driver 25 to scan the recording head 11 (main scan). This recording control processing also includes controlling the sub-scan motor driver 26 to transport the recording medium 12. This recording control processing also includes controlling the recording head driver 27 to eject ink and reaction liquid from the recording head 11. This recording control processing also includes synchronizing the driving of the main scan motor driver 25, the sub-scan motor driver 26, and the recording head driver 27. This recording control processing also includes controlling the heating device 16 to adjust its temperature. By the CPU 201 executing the recording control processing based on the recording signal, an image is recorded (formed) onto the recording medium 12.

[0024] <Head configuration> Figure 3 shows an example of the configuration of the ejection port forming substrate 30 provided on the recording head 11, viewed from the ejection port side. The recording head 11 has an array of ejection ports for one color. For example, the array of ejection ports consists of 1024 ports 31 arranged in the Y direction at a density of 1200 ports per inch. The direction in which the ejection ports 31 are arranged is along the sub-scanning direction. In this embodiment, the recording head 11 can eject droplets at a maximum drive frequency of 21 kHz. The droplet ejected from each ejection port 31 is approximately 4 ng.

[0025] In this embodiment, the inkjet recording device 10 ejects ink and reaction liquid from the recording head 11. Specifically, black ink, cyan ink, magenta ink, yellow ink, and reaction liquid are ejected from the recording head 11. Here, the reaction liquid, upon contact with the ink, reacts with solid components such as colorants and resin particles contained in the ink, promoting their aggregation and acting as an auxiliary agent for image recording. The specific contents of the ink and reaction liquid will be described later.

[0026] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the discharge port rows 41. Five discharge port rows 41 are formed on the discharge port forming substrate 30. In the example in Figure 4, a black discharge port row 41K is formed for black ink. A cyan discharge port row 41C is formed for cyan ink. A magenta discharge port row 41M is formed for magenta ink. A yellow discharge port row 41Y is formed for yellow ink. A reaction solution discharge port row 41R is formed for the reaction solution.

[0027] <Ink composition> Next, the composition of the ink used in this embodiment will be described. Hereinafter, "parts" and "%" refer to mass unless otherwise specified. The ink used in this embodiment contains pigment, resin particles, and a water-soluble organic solvent. As mentioned above, the inks in this embodiment are black ink, cyan ink, magenta ink, and yellow ink. Black, cyan, magenta, and yellow pigments are used as the colorants for each ink. Hereafter, these inks may be collectively referred to as color inks.

[0028] The water-soluble organic solvent of this embodiment will now be described. For reasons of wetting and moisturizing properties of the discharge port surface of the print head, the water-soluble organic solvent is preferably one with a boiling point of 150°C to 300°C. Furthermore, from the viewpoint of its function as a film-forming aid for resin particles and its swelling solubility in the recording medium on which the resin layer is formed, the following water-soluble organic solvents are particularly preferred: ketone compounds such as acetone and cyclohexanone; propylene glycol derivatives such as tetraethylene glycol dimethyl ether; or heterocyclic compounds having a lactam structure, such as N-methylpyrrolidone and 2-pyrrolidone. From the viewpoint of discharge performance, the content of the water-soluble organic solvent is preferably 3% to 30% by mass, based on the total mass of the ink. The water-soluble organic solvent is an alkyl alcohol having 1 to 4 carbon atoms. Specifically, examples include methyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol, n-propyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, n-butyl alcohol, sec-butyl alcohol, and tert-butyl alcohol. Alternatively, the water-soluble organic solvent is an amide such as dimethylformamide and dimethylacetamide. Alternatively, water-soluble organic solvents include ketones or keto alcohols such as acetone and diacetone alcohol. Alternatively, water-soluble organic solvents include ethers such as tetrahydrofuran and dioxane. Alternatively, water-soluble organic solvents include polyalkylene glycols such as polyethylene glycol and polypropylene glycol. Alternatively, water-soluble organic solvents include ethylene glycol. Alternatively, water-soluble organic solvents include alkylene glycols in which the alkylene group contains 2 to 6 carbon atoms. Specifically, these include, for example, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, triethylene glycol, 1,2,6-hexanetriol, thiodiglycol, hexylene glycol, and diethylene glycol. Alternatively, water-soluble organic solvents include lower alkyl ether acetates such as polyethylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate. Alternatively, water-soluble organic solvents include glycerin. Alternatively, water-soluble organic solvents include lower alkyl ethers of polyhydric alcohols.Specifically, examples include ethylene glycol monomethyl (or ethyl) ether, diethylene glycol methyl (or ethyl) ether, and triethylene glycol monomethyl (or ethyl) ether. Alternatively, water-soluble organic solvents include polyhydric alcohols such as trimethylolpropane and trimethylolethane. Alternatively, water-soluble organic solvents include N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, 2-pyrrolidone, and 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone. The above water-soluble organic solvents can be used individually or in mixtures. It is also desirable to use pure water (ion-exchanged water) as the water. Furthermore, in order to achieve the desired physical properties, surfactants, defoamers, preservatives, and fungicides can be added as appropriate to the above components.

[0029] The resin particles of this embodiment will now be described. The ink of this embodiment contains resin particles to improve the scratch resistance (fixability) of the recorded image by ensuring close adhesion between the recording medium and the colorant. The resin particles are melted by heat, and a heating device (heater) is used to form a film of the resin particles and dry the solvent contained in the ink. In this embodiment, "resin particles" refers to resin dispersed in an aqueous medium, and any resin that can dissolve in an aqueous medium is a water-soluble resin. Specifically, examples include acrylic resin particles synthesized by emulsion polymerization of monomers such as alkyl (meth)acrylate or alkyl (meth)acrylate amide. Alternatively, examples include styrene-acrylic resin particles synthesized by emulsion polymerization of monomers such as alkyl (meth)acrylate or alkyl (meth)acrylate amide and styrene. Alternatively, examples include polyethylene resin particles, polypropylene resin particles, polyurethane resin particles, and styrene-butadiene resin particles. Furthermore, the resin particles may be core-shell type resin particles in which the resin composition differs between the core and shell portions. Alternatively, the resin particles may be obtained by emulsion polymerization around pre-synthesized acrylic fine particles used as seed particles to control particle size. Alternatively, the resin particles may be hybrid resin particles obtained by chemically bonding different resin particles, such as acrylic resin particles and urethane resin particles. Furthermore, the resin particles may be obtained by homopolymerizing or copolymerizing multiple monomers having dissociable groups, so-called self-dispersing resin particles. Examples of dissociable groups include carboxyl groups, sulfonic acid groups, and phosphate groups. Examples of monomers having these dissociable groups include acrylic acid and methacrylic acid. Moreover, the resin particles may be dispersed with an emulsifier, so-called emulsion-dispersed resin particles. As the emulsifier, any material having an anionic charge, regardless of its low molecular weight or high molecular weight, can be used.

[0030] <Composition of reaction solution> Next, the reaction solution of this embodiment will be described. The reaction solution reacts with the ink upon contact, causing the components in the ink (components having anionic groups, such as resins, surfactants, and self-dispersing pigments) to aggregate, and contains a reactant. Here, the reactant is a component that, when mixed with the ink on a recording medium or the like, reduces the dispersion stability of the ink, that is, destabilizes the state of the components having anionic groups, and can promote the aggregation of the ink. Examples of reactants include polyvalent metal ions, cationic components such as cationic resins, and organic acids.

[0031] <Adjustment method> Next, the preparation methods for each ink and reaction solution will be described. Note that when component amounts are indicated in "parts" or "%", these are based on mass unless otherwise specified. Preparation of resin particles The aqueous dispersion of resin particles used in this embodiment was prepared as follows. First, under a nitrogen atmosphere, the emulsion was heated to 70°C and gradually added dropwise while stirring, and polymerization was carried out for 5 hours. After cooling to 25°C, appropriate amounts of deionized water and potassium hydroxide aqueous solution were added to prepare an aqueous dispersion of resin particles with a resin particle content of 20.0%. The emulsion used was a mixture of 28.5 parts methyl methacrylate, 4.3 parts sodium p-styrene sulfonate, and 0.05 parts potassium persulfate in 30.0 parts water.

[0032] Black Ink (1) Preparation of dispersion First, a styrene / butyl acrylate / acrylic acid copolymer (polymerization ratio (by weight) = 30 / 40 / 30, acid value 202, weight-average molecular weight 6500) was prepared as the resin (resin dispersant). 10.0 parts of the resin was neutralized with potassium hydroxide equimolar to its acid value, and an appropriate amount of water was added to prepare an aqueous solution of resin 1 with a resin content of 10.0%. 60.0 parts of the aqueous solution of resin 1, 10.0 parts of carbon black, and 30.0 parts of pure water were mixed to obtain a mixture. The obtained mixture was mechanically stirred for a predetermined time, and then non-dispersed material containing coarse particles was removed by centrifugation. The mixture was then pressure filtered through a cellulose acetate filter (manufactured by Advantec) with a pore size of 3.0 μm to prepare a black pigment dispersion with a pigment content of 10.0%. (2) Preparation of ink The following components were mixed and thoroughly stirred, then pressure filtered through a 2.5 μm pore size microfilter (manufactured by Fujifilm Corporation) to prepare a pigment ink with a pigment concentration of 2.0%. Deionized water was added to bring the total volume of the ink components to 100.0 parts. 20.0 parts of black pigment dispersion 40.0 parts of aqueous dispersion of resin particles Zonyl FSO-100 (DuPont fluorine-based surfactant) 0.05 parts 2-methyl-1,3-propanediol 15.0 parts 2-Pyrrolidone 5.0 parts Acetyleneol E100 (manufactured by Kawaken Fine Chemicals) 0.5 parts Deionized water remaining

[0033] Cyan Ink (1) Preparation of dispersion First, an AB-type block polymer with an acid value of 250 and a number-average molecular weight of 3000 was prepared using benzyl acrylate and methacrylic acid as raw materials by a conventional method. Then, 50.0 parts of the resin was neutralized with potassium hydroxide equimolar to the same amount as its acid value, and an appropriate amount of water was added to prepare an aqueous solution of resin 2 with a resin content of 50.0%. 20.0 parts of the aqueous solution of resin 2, 10.0 parts of CI pigment blue 15:3, and 70.0 parts of pure water were mixed to obtain a mixture. The obtained mixture was mechanically stirred for a predetermined time, and then non-dispersed material containing coarse particles was removed by centrifugation. Finally, a cyanide pigment dispersion with a pigment content of 10.0% was prepared by pressure filtration through a cellulose acetate filter (manufactured by Advantec) with a pore size of 3.0 μm. (2) Preparation of ink The following components were mixed and thoroughly stirred, then pressure filtered through a 2.5 μm pore size microfilter (manufactured by Fujifilm Corporation) to prepare a pigment ink with a pigment concentration of 2.0%. Deionized water was added to bring the total volume of the ink components to 100.0 parts. 20.0 parts of cyanide pigment dispersion 40.0 parts of aqueous dispersion of resin particles Zonyl FSO-100 (DuPont fluorine-based surfactant) 0.05 parts 2-methyl-1,3-propanediol 15.0 parts 2-Pyrrolidone 5.0 parts Acetyleneol E100 (manufactured by Kawaken Fine Chemicals) 0.5 parts Deionized water remaining

[0034] Magenta Ink (1) Preparation of dispersion First, an AB-type block polymer with an acid value of 300 and a number-average molecular weight of 2500 was prepared using benzyl acrylate and methacrylic acid as raw materials by a conventional method. Then, 50.0 parts of the resin was neutralized with potassium hydroxide equimolar to its acid value, and an appropriate amount of water was added to prepare an aqueous solution of resin 3 with a resin content of 50.0%. 10.0 parts of the aqueous solution of resin 3, 10.0 parts of CI pigment red 122, and 80.0 parts of ion-exchanged water were mixed to obtain a mixture. The obtained mixture was mechanically stirred for a predetermined time, and then non-dispersed material containing coarse particles was removed by centrifugation. Finally, a magenta pigment dispersion with a pigment content of 10.0% was prepared by pressure filtration through a cellulose acetate filter (manufactured by Advantec) with a pore size of 3.0 μm. (2) Preparation of ink The following components were mixed and thoroughly stirred, then pressure filtered through a 2.5 μm pore size microfilter (manufactured by Fujifilm Corporation) to prepare a pigment ink with a pigment concentration of 3.0%. Deionized water was added so that the total volume of the ink components reached 100.0 parts. Magenta pigment dispersion, 30.0 parts 40.0 parts of aqueous dispersion of resin particles Zonyl FSO-100 (DuPont fluorine-based surfactant) 0.05 parts 2-methyl-1,3-propanediol 15.0 parts 2-Pyrrolidone 5.0 parts Acetyleneol E100 (manufactured by Kawaken Fine Chemicals) 0.5 parts Deionized water remaining

[0035] Yellow ink (1) Preparation of dispersion A mixture was obtained by mixing 30.0 parts of an aqueous solution of resin 1, 10.0 parts of CI Pigment Yellow 74, and 60.0 parts of deionized water. The resulting mixture was mechanically stirred for a predetermined time, and then non-dispersed material containing coarse particles was removed by centrifugation. The mixture was then pressure filtered through a cellulose acetate filter (manufactured by Advantec) with a pore size of 3.0 μm to prepare a yellow pigment dispersion with a pigment content of 10.0%. (2) Preparation of ink The following components were mixed and thoroughly stirred, then pressure filtered through a 1.0 μm pore size microfilter (manufactured by Fujifilm Corporation) to prepare a pigment ink with a pigment concentration of 3.0%. Ion-exchanged water was added so that the total volume of the ink components reached 100.0 parts. 30.0 parts of yellow pigment dispersion 40.0 parts of aqueous dispersion of resin particles Zonyl FSO-100 (DuPont fluorine-based surfactant) 0.025 parts 2-methyl-1,3-propanediol 15.0 parts 2-Pyrrolidone 5.0 parts Acetyleneol E100 (manufactured by Kawaken Fine Chemicals) 1.0 part Deionized water remaining

[0036] Reaction solution The following components were mixed to prepare the reaction solution. This reaction solution contains magnesium sulfate as a reactant. Deionized water was added so that the total volume of the reaction solution components was 100.0 parts. Magnesium sulfate heptahydrate 4.1 parts 2-Pyrrolidone 5.0 parts 2-methyl-1,3-propanediol 15.0 parts Acetyleneol E100 (manufactured by Kawaken Fine Chemicals) 0.5 parts Deionized water remaining

[0037] <Multipath Recording> In this embodiment, a multi-pass recording method is employed, in which an image is recorded in a unit area of ​​the recording medium 12 by performing multiple scans. Multi-pass recording is employed for the purpose of suppressing unevenness and streaks, or for the purpose of applying more ink and reaction solution. In each of the multiple scans, color ink and reaction solution are ejected according to a recording signal that specifies whether or not to eject ink and reaction solution for each of the multiple pixels. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of recording an image in 8-pass mode. In 8-pass mode, recording to the unit area 50 of the recording medium 12 is completed by performing 8 scans.

[0038] Figure 5 shows eight nozzle groups A1 to A8. Although not shown, each of the eight nozzle groups A1 to A8 is composed of multiple nozzle rows, each divided in the Y direction. The multiple nozzle rows are the black nozzle row 41K (Figure 4), the cyan nozzle row 41C (Figure 4), the magenta nozzle row 41M (Figure 4), the yellow nozzle row 41Y (Figure 4), and the reaction solution nozzle row 41R (Figure 4). For simplicity of explanation, in Figure 5, the recording head 11 moves in the +Y direction during scanning. However, in reality, the recording medium 12 moves in the -Y direction during scanning.

[0039] First, during the first scan (first pass), the unit area 50 of the recording medium 12 and the ejection port group A1 are in a positional relationship facing each other. In this position, the recording head 11 scans in the X direction and ejects ink and reaction liquid from the ejection port group A1 to the unit area 50 according to the recording signal corresponding to the first scan, performing the first pass of recording. Once the first pass of recording is complete, the recording medium 12 is transported in the -Y direction by a distance corresponding to one ejection port group. Once this transport is complete, the unit area 50 of the recording medium 12 and the ejection port group A2 are in a positional relationship facing each other. In this position, the second scan (second pass) begins. The recording head 11 scans in the X direction and ejects ink and reaction liquid from the ejection port group A2 to the unit area 50 according to the recording signal corresponding to the second scan, performing the second pass of recording. Thereafter, the transport of the recording medium 12 and ejection from the recording head 11 alternate, and the 3rd to 8th passes of recording are performed on the unit area 50. In this way, multi-pass recording on the unit area 50 is completed.

[0040] <Permitted Temperature Table> In this embodiment, in order to shorten the time from receiving a recording instruction to starting recording, an authorized temperature (recording start authorized temperature), which is the temperature at which recording to the recording medium 12 is permitted to begin, is predetermined. The authorized temperature table includes authorized temperatures associated with each of several target temperatures. The target temperature is the target value of the temperature of the heating device 16 that generates heat to fix the ink to the recording medium 12. The authorized temperature table is stored in the ROM 202. In the authorized temperature table, the higher the target temperature, the higher the authorized temperature is set. An example of the authorized temperature table is shown in Table 1 below.

[0041] [Table 1]

[0042] In the example in Table 1 above, when the target temperature is 70°C, the permitted temperature Tp1 is set to 55°C. Furthermore, when the target temperature is higher than 70°C, at 80°C, the permitted temperature Tp1 is set to 65°C, higher than 55°C. And when the target temperature is higher than 80°C, at 90°C, the permitted temperature Tp1 is set to 75°C, higher than 65°C. In other words, for example, when the target temperature is 70°C, recording can be started when the permitted temperature of 55°C is reached, thereby shortening the time between receiving a recording command and starting recording.

[0043] <Control Processing> Next, the flow of the control process in this embodiment will be described. The control process in this embodiment is the process from receiving a record command to starting recording. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a series of processes (control processes) executed in this embodiment. The series of processes (control processes) shown in Figure 6 are realized by the CPU 201 (Figure 2) reading a program stored in ROM 202 (Figure 2) or the like into RAM 203 and executing it. Note that some or all of the functions of the steps in Figure 6 may be realized by hardware such as an ASIC or electronic circuit. The symbol "S" in the description of each process means that it is a step in the flowchart (the same applies to flowcharts in this specification hereafter).

[0044] In this embodiment, it is assumed that the recording medium 12 is a vinyl chloride sheet (product name "Scotchcal Graphic Film IJ1220-10", 3M Japan Ltd., thickness 130 μm). The series of processes (control processes) shown in Figure 6 are started when the CPU 201 receives a recording command (recording job).

[0045] In S601, the CPU 201 acquires image data for recording (forming) an image on the recording medium 12, recording mode information indicating the recording mode, and target temperature information indicating the target temperature of the heating device 16. The recording mode information includes the number of passes (scans) for recording an image in a unit area of ​​the recording medium 12.

[0046] In this embodiment, image data, recording mode information, and target temperature information are supplied from an external device 200 (Figure 2) along with the recording command, but are not limited to this. For example, at least one of the recording mode information and target temperature information may be specified (selected) by the user using the display operation unit 21 and supplied from the display operation unit 21 according to that specification (selection). The target temperature may also be obtained from a table. For example, if the target temperature differs depending on the number of passes in the recording mode, the target temperature corresponding to the number of passes in the recording mode indicated by the recording mode information can be obtained from the table. When the image data, recording mode information, and target temperature information are obtained in S601, the process proceeds to S602.

[0047] In S602, the CPU 201 determines the permitted temperature Tp1 based on the target temperature information obtained in S601 and the permitted temperature table stored in the ROM 202. For example, assuming that the target temperature is set to 70°C regardless of the recording mode, and the permitted temperature table is as shown in Table 1, the CPU 201 determines the permitted temperature Tp1 to be 55°C. Once the permitted temperature Tp1 is determined in S602, the process proceeds to S603.

[0048] In S603, the CPU 201 uses the temperature sensor 28 to obtain the temperature T1 of the heating device 16. Once the temperature of the heating device 16 is obtained in S603, the process proceeds to S604.

[0049] In S604, the CPU 201 compares the temperature T1 of the heating device 16, obtained in S603, with the permitted temperature Tp1 determined in S602. If the comparison result shows that the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 is greater than or equal to the permitted temperature Tp1, the process proceeds to S609. On the other hand, if the comparison result shows that the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 is less than the permitted temperature Tp1, the process proceeds to S605.

[0050] In S605, the CPU 201 starts the heating device 16 and begins warming it up. Once the heating device 16 is started in S605, the process proceeds to S606.

[0051] In S606, the CPU 201 starts temperature control of the heating device 16. For example, the CPU 201 reduces the power supplied to the heating device 16 as the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 increases. Once temperature control of the heating device 16 is started in S606, the process proceeds to S607.

[0052] In S607, the CPU 201 determines whether the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 has reached the permitted temperature Tp1. If the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 has not reached the permitted temperature Tp1, the process returns to S606. If the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 has reached the permitted temperature Tp1, the process proceeds to S608.

[0053] In S608, the CPU 201 starts executing recording control processing based on the recording signal obtained from the image data acquired in S601, causing the inkjet recording device 10 to start recording and transport operations. This starts the recording of ink and reaction liquid onto the recording medium 12 placed in the recording section (ejection section), and also starts the transport of the recording medium 12 to which the ink and reaction liquid have been applied. If the process proceeds from S607 to S608, the recording control processing controls the temperature of the heating device 16 from the permitted temperature Tp1. On the other hand, if the process proceeds from S604 to S608, the heating device 16 is already started and warmed up. Therefore, the recording control processing controls the temperature of the heating device 16 from the warmed-up state.

[0054] <Temperature transition> Figure 7 is a graph showing an example of the temperature progression of the heating device 16 when heating is started from a relatively low temperature. Specifically, it shows an example of the temperature progression of the heating device 16 when the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 obtained in S603 above is less than the permitted temperature Tp1.

[0055] The solid line in the graph represents the temperature change of the heating device 16. Tt in the graph is the target temperature of the heating device 16. ta in the graph is the time when the heating device 16 reaches the target temperature Tt (target temperature arrival time). ts in the graph is the recording start time when the recording mode is 8-pass mode. This recording start time ts is set according to the target temperature arrival time ta and the transport time dt1 of the recording medium 12 from the recording unit (discharge part) to the heating device 16 in 8-pass mode. The transport time dt1 is calculated according to the transport speed of the recording medium 12 in 8-pass mode and the distance from the recording unit (discharge part) to the heating device 16. The permitted temperature Tp1 is the temperature of the heating device 16 at the recording start time ts. For example, if the permitted temperature table is as shown in Table 1, and the target temperature Tt is 70°C and the recording mode is 8-pass mode, the permitted temperature Tp1 is set to 55°C. The permitted temperature Tp1 is preset based on information obtained from the transport time dt1, etc., according to the combination of target temperature and recording mode, as shown in Table 1.

[0056] If the temperature T1 obtained as the heating start temperature for the heating device 16 is less than the preset allow temperature Tp1 from the allow temperature table (S604: NO), the heating device 16 is started (S605). Therefore, the temperature of the heating device 16 starts to rise from time t1 and approaches the allow temperature Tp1. When the temperature of the heating device 16 reaches the allow temperature Tp1 (S607: YES), the control process ends and recording to the recording medium 12 begins. This recording to the recording medium 12 includes temperature adjustment to maintain normal discharge conditions, cleaning operations such as wiping the head face surface, detection of the discharge condition, and the operation of the carriage 13 (Figure 1(b)).

[0057] When recording to the recording medium 12 begins, ink and reaction solution are ejected into the first unit area 50 (Figure 5) of the recording medium 12 located in the recording section (ejection area). Furthermore, heating of the heating device 16 continues even after recording to the recording medium 12 has begun. Consequently, the temperature of the heating device 16 rises from the permitted temperature Tp1 toward the target temperature Tt.

[0058] The first unit area 50 (Figure 5) of the recording medium 12, after recording is completed in the recording unit (discharge section), reaches the heating device 16 after a transport time dt1 has elapsed from the recording start time ts. At this time, the temperature of the heating device 16 reaches the target temperature Tt. This is because the recording start time ts at the permitted temperature Tp1 is set according to the time ta when the target temperature is reached and the transport time dt1 of the recording medium 12 from the recording unit to the heating device 16.

[0059] In this way, by starting recording at the recording start time ts when the permitted temperature Tp1 is reached, the unit area 50 of the recording medium 12 reaches the target temperature Tt by the time (ts + dt1) it reaches the heating device 16. Therefore, the occurrence of image drying defects can be suppressed. In addition, it is possible to start recording earlier compared to when recording starts after the heating device 16 reaches the target temperature Tt. Note that the recording start timing does not necessarily have to be simultaneous with the recording start time ts when the permitted temperature Tp1 is reached. Recording to the recording medium 12 may start between the time the permitted temperature Tp1 is reached and the time the target temperature Tt is reached. By delaying the recording start timing slightly from the recording start time ts, it is possible to more reliably ensure that the unit area 50 of the recording medium 12 reaches the target temperature Tt before it reaches the heating device 16.

[0060] Figure 8 is a graph showing an example of the temperature progression of the heating device 16 when heating is started from a relatively high temperature. Specifically, it shows an example of the temperature progression of the heating device 16 when the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 obtained in S603 above is equal to or greater than the permitted temperature Tp1.

[0061] If the temperature T1 obtained as the heating start temperature of the heating device 16 is equal to or greater than the preset allowable temperature Tp1 from the allowable temperature table (S604: YES), the control process ends and recording to the recording medium 12 begins. In this case, for example, the inkjet recording device 10 is in standby mode, which is entered during the recording operation, and the heating device 16 has already started up and warmed up. Therefore, by the time t1+dt1 when the unit area 50 of the recording medium 12 reaches the heating device 16, the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 has already reached the target temperature Tt. Thus, the occurrence of image drying defects can be suppressed. Furthermore, it is possible to start recording even earlier than when the obtained temperature T1 is less than the allowable temperature Tp1 (Figure 7). This is because the allowable temperature Tp1 and the recording start timing can be determined without heating the heating device 16 and waiting for the temperature to rise, and without obtaining the temperature rise rate, etc.

[0062] As described above, this embodiment makes it possible to shorten the time from receiving a recording instruction to starting recording. For example, the inkjet recording device 10 obtains the permitted temperature Tp1 from a ROM 202 in which information indicating the permitted temperature Tp1 is pre-stored. When the temperature of the heating device 16 reaches this permitted temperature Tp1, the inkjet recording device 10 starts transporting the recording medium 12 on which the ink and reaction liquid have been ejected. This makes it possible to appropriately advance the recording start timing without requiring complex calculations to predict the temperature rise of the heating device 16, nor requiring waiting time for data acquisition for calculations.

[0063] [Second Embodiment] The second embodiment will mainly describe the differences from the first embodiment. The device configuration and ink configuration of the inkjet recording device 10 are the same as those of the first embodiment, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0064] <Multipath Recording> In the first embodiment, an image was recorded on the recording medium 12 using an 8-pass mode. In this embodiment, an image is recorded on the recording medium 12 using either an 8-pass mode or a 16-pass mode. In 16-pass mode, the amount of recording medium 12 transported per scan by the recording head 11 is half the amount in 8-pass mode. At this time, the transport speed of the recording medium 12 decreases, and the time it takes for a unit area 50 (Figure 5) to be transported to the heating device 16 increases. Therefore, in 16-pass mode, it is possible to start recording at an earlier timing compared to 8-pass mode.

[0065] <Permitted Temperature Table> In this embodiment, the permitted temperature table stores the permitted temperature associated with each of the multiple target temperatures for each pass count. The pass count is the number of times the recording head 11 scans the unit area 50. An example of the permitted temperature table in this embodiment is shown in Table 2 below.

[0066] [Table 2]

[0067] In the example shown in Table 2, the permitted temperature Tp1 is pre-set for recording an image on the recording medium 12 in 8-pass mode at an ambient temperature of 25°C. Similarly, the permitted temperature Tp2 is pre-set for recording an image on the recording medium 12 in 16-pass mode at an ambient temperature of 25°C. In this embodiment as well, the same polyvinyl chloride sheet used for the recording medium 12 as in the first embodiment is employed.

[0068] Specifically, the permitted temperature Tp1 for 8 passes (8-pass mode) is set the same as in Table 1. The permitted temperature Tp2 for 16 passes (16-pass mode) is set as follows: If the target temperature is 70°C, the permitted temperature Tp2 is set to 50°C. If the target temperature is higher than 70°C (80°C), the permitted temperature Tp2 is higher than 50°C (60°C). If the target temperature is higher than 80°C (90°C), the permitted temperature Tp2 is higher than 60°C (70°C). Furthermore, regardless of whether the target temperature is 70°C, 80°C, or 90°C, the permitted temperature Tp2 for 16 passes is lower than the permitted temperature Tp1 for 8 passes (less than 16 passes).

[0069] <Control Processing> Next, the flow of the control process in this embodiment will be described. Figure 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a series of processes (control processes) executed in this embodiment. The series of processes (control processes) shown in Figure 9 are realized by the CPU 201 (Figure 2) reading a program stored in the ROM 202 (Figure 2) or the like into the RAM 203 and executing it.

[0070] In this embodiment, the processes S901 to S907 are newly added to the control process of the first embodiment shown in Figure 6. Also, in this embodiment, the process of S608 is replaced by the process of S908. In this embodiment, the process proceeds from S601 to S901.

[0071] In S901, CPU201 determines whether the recording mode is 8-pass mode or 16-pass mode based on the recording mode information obtained in S601. If it is determined that the recording mode is 8-pass mode, the process proceeds to S602. On the other hand, if it is determined that the recording mode is 16-pass mode, the process proceeds to S902.

[0072] In S902, the CPU201 determines the permitted temperature Tp2 based on the target temperature information obtained in S601 and the permitted temperature table stored in ROM202. Once the permitted temperature Tp2 is determined, the process proceeds to S903.

[0073] In S903, the CPU 201 uses the temperature sensor 28 to obtain the temperature T1 of the heating device 16. Once the temperature of the heating device 16 is obtained in S903, the process proceeds to S904.

[0074] In S904, the CPU 201 compares the temperature T1 of the heating device 16, obtained in S903, with the permitted temperature Tp2 determined in S902. If the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 is greater than or equal to the permitted temperature Tp2, the process proceeds to S908. On the other hand, if the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 is less than the permitted temperature Tp2, the process proceeds to S905.

[0075] In S905, the CPU 201 starts the heating device 16 and begins warming it up. Once the heating device 16 is started in S905, the process proceeds to S906. In S906, the CPU 201 starts temperature control of the heating device 16. Once temperature control of the heating device 16 has started, the process proceeds to S907.

[0076] In S907, the CPU 201 determines whether the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 has reached the permitted temperature Tp2. If the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 has not reached the permitted temperature Tp2, the process returns to S906. If the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 has reached the permitted temperature Tp2, the process proceeds to S908.

[0077] In S908, the CPU 201 starts executing recording control processing based on the recording signal obtained from the image data acquired in S601, causing the inkjet recording device 10 to start recording and transport operations. This starts the recording of ink and reaction liquid onto the recording medium 12 placed in the recording section (ejection section), and also starts the transport of the recording medium 12 to which the ink and reaction liquid have been applied. If the process proceeds from S607 to S908, the recording control processing controls the temperature of the heating device 16 from the permitted temperature Tp1. If the process proceeds from S907 to S908, the recording control processing controls the temperature of the heating device 16 from the permitted temperature Tp2. On the other hand, if the process proceeds from S604 or S904 to S908, the heating device 16 is already started and warmed up. Therefore, the recording control processing controls the temperature of the heating device 16 from the warmed-up state.

[0078] <Temperature transition> Figure 10 is a graph showing an example of the temperature transition of the heating device 16 in this embodiment. The solid line in the graph represents the temperature transition of the heating device 16 from time t0. T0 in the graph is the temperature of the heating device 16 at time t0. ts1 in the graph is the recording start time when the recording mode is 8-pass mode, and corresponds to ts in Figure 7. ts2 in the graph is the recording start time when the recording mode is 16-pass mode. This recording start time ts2 is set according to the target temperature arrival time ta and the transport time dt2 from the recording unit (discharge part) to the heating device 16 in 16-pass mode. The transport time dt2 is calculated according to the transport speed of the recording medium 12 in 16-pass mode and the distance from the recording unit (discharge part) to the heating device 16. The permitted temperature Tp2 is the temperature of the heating device 16 at the recording start time ts2. The permitted temperature Tp2 is preset according to the combination of target temperature and recording mode, as shown in Table 2, based on information obtained from the transport time dt2, etc.

[0079] As described above, the transport volume and transport speed of the recording medium 12 in 16-pass mode are smaller than those in 8-pass mode. Therefore, the permitted temperature Tp2 in 16-pass mode is lower than the permitted temperature Tp1 in 8-pass mode. Consequently, if the temperature of the heating device 16 at the start of heating is the same in both 16-pass and 8-pass modes, the timing for starting recording (transport) of the recording medium 12 will be earlier in 16-pass mode than in 8-pass mode. In other words, if the temperature of the heating device 16 at the start of heating is the same, the recording start timing can be advanced further as the number of passes increases.

[0080] In this embodiment, an example has been described in which the permissible temperature is varied according to the transport speed of the recording medium 12 due to the number of passes in the recording mode, but this is not the only example. The permissible temperature may vary according to the transport speed of the recording medium 12 due to other factors. For example, when the scan speed of the recording head 11 is different, when a waiting time is set between scans, or when a recovery operation is performed before printing, a permissible temperature table like the one shown in Table 2 can be set. By varying the permissible temperature according to the scan speed, waiting time, and recovery operation time, it is possible to appropriately advance the recording start timing.

[0081] [Third Embodiment] The third embodiment will be described mainly in terms of its differences from the first embodiment, similar to the second embodiment. The device configuration and ink configuration of the recording device will be described as being the same as in the first embodiment, so the description will be omitted. In this embodiment, the recording medium 12 may be a PET film with a lower heat capacity than the polyvinyl chloride sheet of the first and second embodiments. This PET film is "Graphical Indoor Ultra-Transparent PET Adhesive Gloss GIY-0305", manufactured by Lintec Sign System, with a thickness of 75 μm. Hereinafter, the above polyvinyl chloride sheet will also be referred to as the PVC sheet.

[0082] <Permitted Temperature Table> In this embodiment, the permitted temperature is predetermined according to the thermal capacity of the recording medium 12. The permitted temperature table stores the permitted temperature associated with each of the multiple thermal capacities. In the permitted temperature table, the permitted temperature is set higher as the thermal capacity increases. An example of the permitted temperature table is shown in Table 3 below.

[0083] [Table 3]

[0084] In the example shown in Table 3 above, the permitted temperature Tp1 is pre-set when recording an image in 8-pass mode on a PVC sheet, which is a recording medium 12 with a large heat capacity, at an ambient temperature of 25°C. Additionally, the permitted temperature Tp3 is pre-set when recording an image in 8-pass mode on a PET film, which is a recording medium 12 with a small heat capacity, at an ambient temperature of 25°C.

[0085] In the example in Table 3 above, the permitted temperature Tp1 corresponding to the recording medium 12 with a large heat capacity ("large") is set the same as in Table 1 above. The permitted temperature Tp3 corresponding to the recording medium 12 with a small heat capacity ("small") is set as follows: That is, when the target temperature is 70°C, the permitted temperature Tp3 is set to 52°C. Also, when the target temperature is higher than 70°C, at 80°C, the permitted temperature Tp3 is set to 61°C, which is higher than 52°C. Also, when the target temperature is higher than 80°C, at 90°C, the permitted temperature Tp3 is set to 70°C, which is higher than 61°C. Furthermore, regardless of whether the target temperature is 70°C, 80°C, or 90°C, the permitted temperature Tp1 for the recording medium 12 with a large heat capacity is higher than the permitted temperature Tp3 for the recording medium 12 with a small heat capacity.

[0086] <Control Processing> Next, the flow of the control process in this embodiment will be described. Figure 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a series of processes (control processes) executed in this embodiment. The series of processes (control processes) shown in Figure 11 are realized when the CPU 201 (Figure 2) reads a program stored in the ROM 202 (Figure 2) or the like into the RAM 203 and executes it.

[0087] In this embodiment, the processes S1101 to S1107 are newly added to the control process of the first embodiment shown in Figure 6. Also, in this embodiment, the process of S601 is replaced by the process of S1100, and the process of S608 is replaced by the process of S1108.

[0088] In S1100, the CPU 201 acquires image data, recording mode information, and target temperature information, similar to S601, as well as recording medium information such as the thickness and type of the recording medium 12. The recording medium information is supplied from the display operation unit 21, for example, when the user specifies (selects) it using the display operation unit 21. Once all of the image data, recording mode information, target temperature information, and recording medium information have been acquired, the process proceeds to S1101.

[0089] In S1101, the CPU 201 classifies the thermal capacity of the recording media 12 based on the recording media information acquired in S601. For example, the CPU 201 classifies recording media 12 with a thickness of 100 μm or more as high thermal capacity recording media. The CPU 201 also classifies recording media 12 with a thickness of less than 100 μm as low thermal capacity recording media 12. If a recording media 12 is classified as high thermal capacity recording media 12, the process proceeds to S602. On the other hand, if a recording media 12 is classified as low thermal capacity recording media 12, the process proceeds to S1102.

[0090] In S1102, the CPU 201 determines the permitted temperature Tp3 based on the target temperature information obtained in S1101 and the permitted temperature table stored in the ROM 202. Once the permitted temperature Tp3 is determined, the process proceeds to S1103.

[0091] In S1103, the CPU 201 uses the temperature sensor 28 to obtain the temperature T1 of the heating device 16. Once the temperature of the heating device 16 is obtained in S1103, the process proceeds to S1104.

[0092] In S1104, the CPU 201 compares the temperature T1 of the heating device 16, obtained in S1103, with the permitted temperature Tp3 determined in S1102. If the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 is greater than or equal to the permitted temperature Tp3, the process proceeds to S1108. On the other hand, if the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 is less than the permitted temperature Tp3, the process proceeds to S1105.

[0093] In S1105, the CPU 201 starts the heating device 16 and begins warming it up. Once the heating device 16 is started in S1105, the process proceeds to S1106. In S1106, the CPU 201 starts temperature control of the heating device 16. Once temperature control of the heating device 16 has started, the process proceeds to S1107.

[0094] In S1107, the CPU 201 determines whether the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 has reached the permitted temperature Tp3. If the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 has not reached the permitted temperature Tp3, the process returns to S1106. If the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 has reached the permitted temperature Tp3, the process proceeds to S1108.

[0095] In S1108, the CPU 201 starts executing recording control processing based on the recording signal obtained from the image data acquired in S1100, causing the inkjet recording device 10 to start recording and transport operations. This starts the recording of ink and reaction liquid onto the recording medium 12 placed in the recording section (ejection section), and also starts the transport of the recording medium 12 to which the ink and reaction liquid have been applied. If the process proceeds from S607 to S1108, the recording control processing controls the temperature of the heating device 16 from the permitted temperature Tp1. If the process proceeds from S1107 to S1108, the recording control processing controls the temperature of the heating device 16 from the permitted temperature Tp3. On the other hand, if the process proceeds from S604 or S1104 to S1108, the heating device 16 is already started and warmed up. Therefore, the recording control processing controls the temperature of the heating device 16 from the warmed-up state.

[0096] <Temperature transition> Figure 12 is a graph showing an example of the temperature transition of the heating device 16 in this embodiment. The solid line in the graph represents the temperature transition of the heating device 16 when recording on a recording medium 12 with a small heat capacity. The dotted line in the graph represents the temperature transition of the heating device 16 when recording on a recording medium 12 with a large heat capacity.

[0097] A recording medium 12 with low heat capacity has a temperature characteristic that allows it to heat up faster than a recording medium 12 with high heat capacity. In this embodiment, the allowable temperature Tp3 for a recording medium 12 with low heat capacity is lower than the allowable temperature Tp1 for a recording medium 12 with high heat capacity. Therefore, the smaller the heat capacity, the earlier the recording start timing can be.

[0098] In this embodiment, the CPU 201 classifies the thermal capacity of the recording medium 12 based on its thickness, but is not limited to this. For example, the CPU 201 may classify the thermal capacity of the recording medium 12 based on its material. Alternatively, the CPU 201 may classify the thermal capacity of the recording medium 12 based on its layer structure. Alternatively, the CPU 201 may classify the thermal capacity of the recording medium 12 based on at least two combinations of its thickness, material, and layer structure. Alternatively, the CPU 201 may classify the thermal capacity of the recording medium 12 according to content specified in response to user operations on the display operation unit 21. Alternatively, the CPU 201 may classify the thermal capacity of the recording medium 12 by comparing the recording medium information with a pre-prepared database.

[0099] [Fourth Embodiment] The fourth embodiment, like the second embodiment, will mainly be described in terms of its differences from the first embodiment. In this embodiment, an ambient temperature sensor 29 connected to the control unit 20 is used. The other device configurations and ink configurations of the recording device are the same as those of the first embodiment, so their description will be omitted.

[0100] <Permitted Temperature Table> In this embodiment, the permitted temperature is predetermined according to the ambient temperature of the recording medium 12. The permitted temperature table stores the permitted temperature associated with each of several ambient temperatures. In the permitted temperature table, the permitted temperature is set lower as the ambient temperature increases. An example of the permitted temperature table is shown in Table 4 below.

[0101] [Table 4]

[0102] In the example shown in Table 4 above, the permitted temperature Tp1 is pre-set for recording an image on the recording medium 12 in 8-pass mode at an ambient temperature of 25°C. Similarly, the permitted temperature Tp4 is pre-set for recording an image on the recording medium 12 in 8-pass mode at an ambient temperature of 30°C. The recording medium 12 used in this embodiment is the same PVC sheet used in the first to third embodiments.

[0103] In the example in Table 4 above, the permitted temperature Tp1 corresponding to an ambient temperature of 25°C is set the same as in Table 1 above. The permitted temperature Tp4 corresponding to an ambient temperature of 30°C is set as follows: That is, if the target temperature is 70°C, the permitted temperature Tp4 is set to 54°C. Also, if the target temperature is higher than 70°C, at 80°C, the permitted temperature Tp4 is set to 63°C, which is higher than 54°C. Also, if the target temperature is higher than 80°C, at 90°C, the permitted temperature Tp4 is set to 72°C, which is higher than 63°C. Furthermore, regardless of whether the target temperature is 70°C, 80°C, or 90°C, the permitted temperature Tp4 corresponding to an ambient temperature of 30°C is lower than the permitted temperature Tp1 corresponding to an ambient temperature of 25°C.

[0104] <Control Processing> Next, the flow of the control process in this embodiment will be described. Figure 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a series of processes (control processes) executed in this embodiment. The series of processes (control processes) shown in Figure 13 are realized by the CPU 201 (Figure 2) reading a program stored in the ROM 202 (Figure 2) or the like into the RAM 203 and executing it.

[0105] In this embodiment, the processes S1301 to S1307 are newly added to the control process of the first embodiment shown in Figure 6. Also, in this embodiment, the process of S608 is replaced by the process of S1308. In this embodiment, the process proceeds from S601 to S1301.

[0106] In S1301, the CPU201 obtains the ambient temperature using an ambient temperature sensor. In S1301, the CPU201 obtains the ambient temperature using an ambient temperature sensor and classifies the obtained ambient temperature as either a "high temperature environment" or a "low temperature environment". For example, if the obtained ambient temperature is higher than 25°C, the CPU201 classifies it as a "high temperature environment". On the other hand, if the obtained ambient temperature is 25°C or lower, the CPU201 classifies it as a "low temperature environment". If the obtained ambient temperature is classified as a "low temperature environment", the process proceeds to S602. On the other hand, if the obtained ambient temperature is classified as a "high temperature environment", the process proceeds to S1302.

[0107] In S1302, the CPU 201 determines the permitted temperature Tp4 based on the target temperature information obtained in S601 and the permitted temperature table stored in the ROM 202. Once the permitted temperature Tp4 is determined, the process proceeds to S1303.

[0108] In S1303, the CPU 201 uses the temperature sensor 28 to obtain the temperature T1 of the heating device 16. Once the temperature of the heating device 16 is obtained in S1303, the process proceeds to S1304.

[0109] In S1304, the CPU 201 compares the temperature T1 of the heating device 16, obtained in S1303, with the permitted temperature Tp4 determined in S1302. If the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 is greater than or equal to the permitted temperature Tp4, the process proceeds to S1308. On the other hand, if the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 is less than the permitted temperature Tp4, the process proceeds to S1305.

[0110] In S1305, the CPU 201 starts the heating device 16 and begins warming it up. Once the heating device 16 is started in S1305, the process proceeds to S1306. In S1306, the CPU 201 starts temperature control of the heating device 16. Once temperature control of the heating device 16 has started, the process proceeds to S1307.

[0111] In S1307, the CPU 201 determines whether the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 has reached the permitted temperature Tp4. If the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 has not reached the permitted temperature Tp4, the process returns to S1306. If the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 has reached the permitted temperature Tp4, the process proceeds to S1308.

[0112] In S1308, the CPU 201 starts executing the recording control process based on the recording signal obtained from the image data acquired in S601, causing the inkjet recording device 10 to start recording and transport operations. This starts the recording of ink and reaction liquid onto the recording medium 12 placed in the recording section (ejection section), and also starts the transport of the recording medium 12 to which the ink and reaction liquid have been applied. If the process proceeds from S607 to S1308, the recording control process controls the temperature of the heating device 16 from the permitted temperature Tp1. If the process proceeds from S1307 to S1308, the recording control process controls the temperature of the heating device 16 from the permitted temperature Tp4. On the other hand, if the process proceeds from S604 or S1304 to S1308, the heating device 16 is already started and warmed up. Therefore, the recording control process controls the temperature of the heating device 16 from the warmed-up state.

[0113] <Temperature transition> Figure 14 is a graph showing an example of the temperature change of the heating device 16 in this embodiment. The solid line in the graph represents the temperature change of the heating device 16 when the ambient temperature is 30°C. The dotted line in the graph represents the temperature change of the heating device 16 when the ambient temperature is 25°C.

[0114] In a "high-temperature environment," heat dissipation from the heating device 16 to the external environment is reduced. Therefore, in a "high-temperature environment," the temperature rise is faster compared to a "low-temperature environment." In this embodiment, the permitted temperature Tp4 in a "high-temperature environment" is lower than the permitted temperature Tp1 in a "low-temperature environment." Consequently, the higher the ambient temperature, the earlier the recording start timing can be.

[0115] [About this invention] In the above embodiment, an example of an inkjet recording apparatus 10 that performs multi-pass recording was described, but the present invention is not particularly limited to any recording apparatus that performs recording while scanning relative to the recording medium 12. For example, the present invention may be a line head type recording apparatus in which the recording head 11 is fixed. In this recording apparatus, for example, a line head with a width the same as or longer than the recording medium 12 is provided. With this line head fixed, the recording medium 12 is transported in a direction intersecting the width direction of the line head.

[0116] Furthermore, although the above embodiment described an example in which the drying strength of the recording medium 12 is changed by changing the temperature of the heating device 16, the present invention is not limited to this. The present invention is applicable to recording devices that have a configuration other than temperature for changing the drying strength of the recording medium 12. For example, a configuration is provided in which elements such as the heat dissipation rate of the heating device 16 can be varied, and the temperature transition characteristics of the heating device 16 change according to the element. In this case, a table to which different permitted temperatures are associated according to the element may be used.

[0117] Furthermore, the temperature transition characteristics may differ depending on the amount of ink and reaction solution recorded. In this case, a table may be used in which different permissible temperatures are associated with the recorded image data or with setting values ​​indicating increases or decreases in ink density, such as "saturation" or "ink density." In addition, considering that the drying rate may differ depending on the ambient humidity, a table may be used in which different permissible temperatures are associated with the ambient humidity.

[0118] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, recording to the recording medium 12 was started when the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 reached the permitted temperature, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a waiting time may be provided after the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 reaches the permitted temperature. This is because there may be cases where the user's desired recorded image cannot be obtained due to factors such as the setting of the recording mode used, the type of recording medium 12, ambient temperature, and ambient humidity. If a waiting time is provided, the recording operation and transport operation are started after the waiting time has elapsed after the temperature T1 of the heating device 16 reaches the permitted temperature. This makes it possible to obtain the user's desired image. This waiting time may be specified by the user, for example. Alternatively, this waiting time may be set automatically according to the recording mode, the type of recording medium 12, ambient temperature, ambient humidity, etc.

[0119] In the above embodiment, the storage device that stores the information indicating the permitted temperature was ROM 202, but it is not limited to this. For example, the storage device that stores the information indicating the permitted temperature may be a memory provided in an external device 200 (Figure 2). Alternatively, if an information processing device such as an information management server is connected to the inkjet recording device 10 via a network such as the Internet, the storage device that stores the information indicating the permitted temperature may be a memory provided in the information processing device.

[0120] In the above embodiment, a CPU 201 that executes a program was used as the acquisition means for obtaining the permitted temperature from a storage device, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, hardware such as an ASIC or electronic circuit that implements one or more functions may be used as the acquisition means.

[0121] In the above embodiment, a sub-scanning motor 260 was used as the transport means for transporting the recording medium, but it is not limited to this. For example, the transport means for transporting the recording medium may include hardware such as rollers driven by the sub-scanning motor 260.

[0122] In the above embodiment, a CPU 201 that executes a program was used as the transport control means for controlling the transport means, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, hardware such as an ASIC or electronic circuit that implements one or more functions may be used as the transport control means. Furthermore, a sub-scanning motor driver 26 may be included as the transport control means.

[0123] In the above embodiment, a recording head 11 was used as the recording means for recording on the recording medium 12, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, the recording means may include a motor for scanning the recording head 11.

[0124] In the above embodiment, a CPU 201 that executes a program was used as the recording control means for controlling the recording means, but the embodiment is not limited to this. For example, hardware such as an ASIC or electronic circuit that implements one or more functions may be used as the recording control means. Furthermore, a recording head driver 27 may be included as the recording control means.

[0125] The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that implements one or more of the functions of the above embodiments to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and by having one or more processors in the computer of that system or device execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., an ASIC) that implements one or more functions.

[0126] The present invention includes configurations represented by the following examples of recording devices and recording methods.

[0127] (Composition 1) A transport means for transporting a recording medium, A heating device is arranged in the path of the recording medium being transported by the transport means, and heats the liquid applied to the recording medium. An acquisition means for acquiring the permit temperature from a storage device that stores information indicating the permit temperature, which is the temperature at which recording to the recording medium is permitted to begin; The recording control means controls the recording means that performs recording on the recording medium, The permitted temperature is set lower than the target temperature specified for fixing the liquid applied to the recording medium onto the recording medium. The recording device is characterized in that the recording control means controls the recording means to start recording to the recording medium when the temperature of the heating device reaches the permitted temperature.

[0128] (Configuration 2) The recording apparatus according to Configuration 1, wherein controlling the recording means to start recording to the recording medium includes transporting the recording medium to the recording means by the transport means.

[0129] (Composition 3) The recording apparatus according to configuration 1 or 2, wherein the heating device is located downstream of the recording means in the transport direction of the recording medium.

[0130] (Composition 4) The recording device according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, wherein the permitted temperature is set based on the time it takes for the recording medium to be transported from the recording means to the heating device.

[0131] (Composition 5) If a waiting period is set for waiting after the temperature of the heating equipment reaches the permitted temperature, the recording control means controls the recording means to start recording to the recording medium after the waiting period has elapsed since the temperature of the heating equipment reached the permitted temperature, according to any one of configurations 1 to 4.

[0132] (Composition 6) The aforementioned information includes the permitted temperatures, which vary depending on the target temperature. A recording device according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, wherein the permitted temperature when the target temperature is a first target temperature is higher than the permitted temperature when the target temperature is a second target temperature lower than the first target temperature.

[0133] (Composition 7) The information includes the permitted temperature, which varies depending on the number of scans performed to scan a unit area of ​​the recording medium. A recording device according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, wherein the permitted temperature when the number of scans is the first number of scans is lower than the permitted temperature when the number of scans is the second number of scans, which is smaller than the first number of scans.

[0134] (Composition 8) The information includes the permitted temperature, which varies depending on the thermal capacity of the recording medium. A recording device according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, wherein the permitted temperature when the heat capacity is a first heat capacity is higher than the permitted temperature when the heat capacity is a second heat capacity which is smaller than the first heat capacity.

[0135] (Composition 9) The aforementioned information includes the permitted temperature, which varies depending on the ambient temperature, indicating the temperature of the environment in which the recording device operates. The recording device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the permitted temperature when the ambient temperature is a first ambient temperature is lower than the permitted temperature when the ambient temperature is a second ambient temperature lower than the first ambient temperature.

[0136] (Composition 10) A transport means for transporting a recording medium, A heating device is arranged in the path of the recording medium being transported by the transport means, and heats the liquid applied to the recording medium. A recording method for a recording device comprising recording means for recording on the recording medium, A first step is to obtain the permitted temperature from a storage device that stores information indicating the permitted temperature, which is the temperature at which recording to the recording medium is permitted to begin. The second step includes controlling the recording means to start recording to the recording medium when the acquired temperature of the heating device reaches the permitted temperature, A recording method characterized in that the permitted temperature is set lower than the target temperature specified for fixing the liquid applied to the recording medium to the recording medium. [Explanation of symbols]

[0137] 10. Inkjet recording device 16 Heating device 26 Sub-scanning motor driver 201 CPU 260 Sub-scanning motor

Claims

1. A transport means for transporting a recording medium, A heating device is arranged in the path of the recording medium being transported by the transport means, and heats the liquid applied to the recording medium. An acquisition means for acquiring the permit temperature from a storage device that stores information indicating the permit temperature, which is the temperature at which recording to the recording medium is permitted to begin; The recording control means controls the recording means that performs recording on the recording medium, The permitted temperature is set lower than the target temperature specified for fixing the liquid applied to the recording medium onto the recording medium. The recording device is characterized in that the recording control means controls the recording means to start recording to the recording medium when the temperature of the heating device reaches the permitted temperature.

2. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein controlling the recording means to start recording to the recording medium includes transporting the recording medium to the recording means by the transport means.

3. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the heating device is located downstream of the recording means in the transport direction of the recording medium.

4. The recording device according to claim 1, wherein the permitted temperature is set based on the time it takes for the recording medium to be transported from the recording means to the heating device.

5. If a waiting period is set for waiting after the temperature of the heating device reaches the permitted temperature, the recording control means controls the recording means to start recording to the recording medium after the waiting period has elapsed since the temperature of the heating device reached the permitted temperature, according to claim 1.

6. The aforementioned information includes the permitted temperatures, which vary depending on the target temperature. The recording device according to claim 1, wherein the permitted temperature when the target temperature is a first target temperature is higher than the permitted temperature when the target temperature is a second target temperature lower than the first target temperature.

7. The information includes the permitted temperature, which varies depending on the number of scans performed to scan a unit area of ​​the recording medium. The recording device according to claim 1, wherein the permitted temperature when the number of scans is a first number of scans is lower than the permitted temperature when the number of scans is a second number of scans which is smaller than the first number of scans.

8. The information includes the permitted temperature, which varies depending on the thermal capacity of the recording medium. The recording device according to claim 1, wherein the permitted temperature when the heat capacity is a first heat capacity is higher than the permitted temperature when the heat capacity is a second heat capacity which is smaller than the first heat capacity.

9. The aforementioned information includes the permitted temperature, which varies depending on the ambient temperature, indicating the temperature of the environment in which the recording device operates. The recording device according to claim 1, wherein the permitted temperature when the ambient temperature is a first ambient temperature is lower than the permitted temperature when the ambient temperature is a second ambient temperature lower than the first ambient temperature.

10. A transport means for transporting a recording medium, A heating device is arranged in the path of the recording medium being transported by the transport means, and heats the liquid applied to the recording medium. A recording method for a recording device comprising recording means for recording on the recording medium, A first step is to obtain the permitted temperature from a storage device that stores information indicating the permitted temperature, which is the temperature at which recording to the recording medium is permitted to begin. The second step includes controlling the recording means to start recording to the recording medium when the acquired temperature of the heating device reaches the permitted temperature, A recording method characterized in that the permitted temperature is set lower than the target temperature specified for fixing the liquid applied to the recording medium to the recording medium.

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