Printer, printer control method, and program

Abstract

To enable proper adjustment of the predetermined communication radio waves output from the antenna of the communications unit. [Solution] The printer controller performs radio wave adjustment processing to make at least one of the output of a predetermined communication radio wave and the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave greater than that of the radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag did not activate.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present invention relates to a printer, a method for controlling the printer, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a printing device with an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) recording function as a device having a function of recording on a wireless tag and a function of printing. This printing device includes a conveyance unit that conveys a continuous label paper having a plurality of labels with RFID tags, a printing unit that prints an image on the label, and a communication unit that communicates with the RFID tag.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] An RFID tag (wireless tag) operates with electric power generated by communication radio waves, and the individual power generation performances vary and are not constant. Therefore, it is required to appropriately adjust the communication radio waves output from the antenna of the communication unit so that communication can be achieved even with a wireless tag having low power generation performance. However, the above printing device does not consider anything about the adjustment of communication radio waves.

[0005] <000002⑧>The present invention has been made in view of such technical problems, and an object thereof is to be able to appropriately adjust the communication radio waves output from the antenna of the communication unit.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, a printer is provided comprising: a transport path on which a continuum is transported, on which a plurality of wireless tags are provided at predetermined intervals, each wireless tag being activated when the power generated by a predetermined communication radio wave exceeds a predetermined power; a communication unit that uses an antenna that generates the predetermined communication radio wave to wirelessly communicate with one of the wireless tags in the continuum, which is the wireless tag to be communicated, at a position opposite the antenna; and a controller that controls the operation of the communication unit to repeatedly output the predetermined communication radio wave from the antenna at a predetermined cycle time, wherein the controller performs radio wave adjustment processing to make the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave in a subsequent radio wave output cycle following a radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag was not activated greater than that of the radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag was not activated. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the above embodiment, the controller increases at least one of the output of a predetermined communication radio wave and the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave in the subsequent radio wave output cycle following the radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag did not activate. Therefore, the predetermined communication radio wave output from the antenna of the communication unit can be appropriately adjusted so that even wireless tags with low electromotive force performance can be activated quickly. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of a printer according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a side view showing a portion of the printer's opening / closing cover in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 1 is a side view showing the printer with its entire opening / closing cover open. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram showing a continuum of reversed helix. [Figure 5] This diagram illustrates the communication characteristics of wireless tags when viewed from the width direction of a continuum. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the contents of the first communication process performed by the control unit. [Figure 7]FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the content of the second communication process executed by the control unit. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the content of the continuous communication process executed by the control unit. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the periphery of the antenna of the printer. [Figure 10] FIG. is for explaining the antenna unit radio wave absorber. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of a side view of the partition member of the printer. [Figure 12] FIG. is a side view showing the inside of the printer according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. is a side view showing the inside of the printer according to the third embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. is a schematic diagram showing a continuous body of winding. [Figure 15] ]>FIG. is a side view showing a state in which the opening / closing cover of the printer according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention is opened 180°. [Figure 16] FIG. is a side view showing a state in which the opening / closing cover of the printer of FIG. 15 is opened 90°. [Figure 17] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the printer. [Figure 18] FIG. is a side view showing a state in which the opening / closing cover of the printer according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention is opened 90°. [Figure 19] FIG. is a side view showing the inside of the printer of FIG. 18. [Figure 20] FIG. is a side view showing the inside of the printer according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 21] FIG. is a schematic diagram showing the follower member of the first modification. [Figure 22] FIG. is a schematic diagram showing the follower member of the second modification. [Figure 23] FIG. is a diagram showing a modification example of the partition member. [Figure 24] FIG. is a diagram showing a modification example in which the partition member is fixed to the opening / closing cover. [Figure 25] FIG. is a diagram showing another modification example in which the partition member is fixed to the opening / closing cover. [Figure 26] It is a perspective view showing a modified example of the printing medium supply unit. [Figure 27] It is a view showing a state where no roll is mounted on the printing medium supply unit of FIG. 26. [Figure 28] It is a view showing a state where a roll is mounted on the printing medium supply unit of FIG. 26. [Figure 29] It is a side view showing a modified example provided with a front - side radio wave absorption plate. [Figure 30] It is a side view showing a modified example provided with an upstream - side radio wave absorption plate. [Figure 31] It is a side view showing a modified example provided with a radio wave absorber above the discharge port. [Figure 32] It is a side view showing a modified example provided with a radio wave absorber below the discharge port. [Figure 33] It is a view showing how the cutter mechanism operates in a modified example provided with a radio wave absorber below the discharge port.

Embodiments for Carrying out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, each embodiment and each modified example of the present invention will be described while referring to the accompanying drawings. In each embodiment and each modified example, the same or equivalent components and members are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted as appropriate. Also, the dimensions of the members in each drawing are appropriately enlarged or reduced for easy understanding. Further, some members that are not important for explaining the embodiments are omitted in each drawing.

[0010] For separate components having common points, they are distinguished by attaching "first, second", etc. at the beginning of the name, and these are omitted when collectively referred to. Also, terms including ordinals such as first and second are used to describe various components, but this term is used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another, and the components are not limited by this term.

[0011] [First Embodiment] The printer 100 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 11. Figure 1 is a perspective view of the printer 100. Figure 2 is a side view showing a part of the opening / closing cover 11 of the printer 100 in an open state. Figure 3 is a side view showing the entire opening / closing cover 11 of the printer 100 in an open state. The opening / closing cover 11 can be opened 180° in its entirety. The opening / closing cover 11 can also have its second side portion 1122 opened 180°. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing a reverse-wound continuum M. In Figure 4, the thickness of the wireless tag 6, etc., is shown as thicker than it actually is for ease of understanding. Figure 5 is a diagram for explaining the communication characteristics of the wireless tag 6 when the continuum M is viewed from the width direction. Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the contents of the first communication process executed by the control unit 2. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the contents of the second communication process executed by the control unit 2. Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the contents of the continuous communication process executed by the control unit 2. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing the area around the antenna 42 of the printer 100. Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the antenna section radio wave absorber 45. Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing a side view cross-section of the partition member 51 of the printer 100.

[0012] For the sake of explanation, as shown in the diagram, a horizontal direction is defined as the X direction, a horizontal direction perpendicular to the X direction is defined as the Y direction, and a vertical direction perpendicular to both is defined as the Z direction. The X direction is sometimes referred to as the left-right direction, the Y direction as the front-back direction, and the Z direction as the up-down direction. When viewed from the front, the left side is called "left" and the right side as "right," and when viewed from the side, the left side is called "front" and the right side as "rear." The front-back dimension is sometimes referred to as "length," and the left-right dimension as "width." Such notation does not restrict the orientation in which the printer 100 is used, and the printer 100 can be used in any orientation.

[0013] As shown in Figure 3, the printer 100 of this embodiment is a printer that prints on wireless tags 6 in a continuum M (see Figure 4) in which a plurality of wireless tags 6 are provided at predetermined intervals, and comprises a printing unit 20 for printing on the wireless tags 6, a transport path P for transporting the continuum M in the direction toward the printing unit 20 (hereinafter referred to as the transport direction), a transport unit 7 for transporting the continuum M in the transport direction, a communication unit 40 for wireless communication with the wireless tags 6, a housing 10 covering the internal space, and a functional member 50 provided on at least one of a predetermined inner surface of the housing 10 and the internal space, which has the function of reducing the influence of radio waves on the wireless tags 6.

[0014] The functional member 50 may have a metal body or a radio wave absorber. The functional member 50 of this embodiment includes a partition member 51, an upstream metal body 53, an upstream radio wave absorber 54, a first cover portion radio wave absorber 56, a second cover portion radio wave absorber 65, a bottom portion radio wave absorber 59, a downstream radio wave absorber 62, a bottom portion metal body 58, a downstream metal body 61, and an extended metal body 67.

[0015] The communication unit 40 has an antenna 42 and is located upstream of the printing unit 20. The communication unit 40 communicates wirelessly with the wireless tag 6 using the antenna 42.

[0016] The printing unit 20 has a platen roller 24 and a print head unit 22, and prints on the wireless tag 6.

[0017] The functional component 50 will now be described. When the communication unit 40 of the printer 100 communicates with the wireless tag 6 to be communicated, radio waves from the antenna 42 (predetermined communication radio waves) may reach wireless tags 6 other than the wireless tag 6 to be communicated. In this case, the radio waves from the communication unit 40 may affect the other wireless tag 6, potentially causing the printer 100 or the other wireless tag 6 to malfunction. From the viewpoint of preventing such malfunctions, it is desirable to reduce the influence of radio waves on the other wireless tag 6. Therefore, the printer 100 of this embodiment is equipped with a functional component 50 that has the function of reducing the influence of radio waves on the wireless tag 6. The functional component 50 can be provided on at least one of a predetermined inner surface and an internal space of the housing 10.

[0018] The internal space includes a first space 14 that houses the printing unit 20 and the communication unit 40, and a second space 16 separate from the first space 14. The functional member 50 includes a partition member 51 that separates the first space 14 and the second space 16.

[0019] In particular, the internal space includes a first space 14 that houses the printing unit 20 and the communication unit 40, and a second space 16 that separates the wireless tags 6 housed in the first space 14 from the wireless tags 6 upstream of the wireless tags 6 housed in the first space 14.

[0020] As an example, the functional member 50 may include a partition member 51 that separates the first space 14 and the second space 16, and an upstream metal body 53 that is positioned upstream of the communication unit 40.

[0021] The upstream metal body 53 is a metal plate positioned upstream of the communication unit 40, and its proximity to the communication unit 40 suppresses the influence of strong radio waves. By providing the upstream metal body 53, the wireless tags 6 upstream of the communication unit 40 are prevented from being energized. The upstream metal body 53 may also be positioned immediately upstream of the communication unit 40.

[0022] On the other hand, the wireless tags 6 dispensed from the printing medium supply unit 30 are susceptible to radio waves, so there is a partition member 51 to prevent them from being affected by radio waves.

[0023] The overall configuration of printer 100 will be described. As shown in Figure 1, printer 100 has a printing unit 1 on the right side when viewed from the front, and a control unit (controller, computer) 2 on the left side.

[0024] The printing unit 1 implements a tag printing function and a tag communication function based on the control of the control unit 2. The tag printing function is a function that prints information such as characters, symbols, graphics, or barcodes on the top sheet 6B (see Figure 4) of a wireless tag 6 temporarily attached to a continuum M. The tag communication function is a function that communicates with the wireless tag 6.

[0025] The housing 10 functions as the outer shell of the printing unit 1. The housing 10 includes an openable / closable cover 11 and a housing body 12 that supports the openable / closable cover 11 in an openable / closable manner.

[0026] The main body of the enclosure 12 includes a front section 121, a bottom section 123, an inner side section 124, and a rear section 125.

[0027] The bottom portion 123 is a plate-like part that extends front to back along the bottom surface of the printing unit 1.

[0028] The front portion 121 is a plate-like part that extends upward from the front end of the bottom portion 123 along the front surface of the printing unit 1. The front portion 121 covers the lower side of the front surface of the printing unit 1, and an outlet 106 for discharging the printed continuous body M is provided at the top.

[0029] The rear portion 125 is a plate-like part that extends upward from the rear end of the bottom portion 123 along the back of the printing unit 1.

[0030] The inner side portion 124 is a plate-like portion that extends upward from the left end of the bottom portion 123 along the left side of the printing unit 1. As shown in Figure 3, the inner side portion 124 is fixed to the printing portion 20, the printing medium supply portion 30, the communication portion 40, the ink ribbon portion 34, and the functional members 50, and functions as a base to support them. The inner side portion 124 is exposed when the opening / closing cover 11 is open. In this example, the front portion 121, the rear portion 125, and the inner side portion 124 are fixed to the bottom portion 123.

[0031] As shown in Figure 1, the opening / closing cover 11 includes a front portion 111, a side portion 112, and a top portion 113.

[0032] The front portion 111 is a plate-like part that extends mainly vertically along the front surface of the printing unit 1, and covers the upper side of the front surface of the printing unit 1.

[0033] The upper portion 113 is a plate-like part that extends from the upper end of the front portion 111 toward the rear along the upper surface of the printing unit 1.

[0034] The side portion 112 is a plate-like portion that extends downward from the right end of the top portion 113 along the right side of the printing unit 1.

[0035] The opening / closing cover 11 is provided to open and close by a hinge 107 located at the left end of the top surface portion 113. One side of the hinge 107 is fixed to the left end of the top surface portion 113, and the other side is fixed to the upper end of the inner side portion 124. As shown in Figure 3, the front portion 111 and the side portion 112 are fixed to the top surface portion 113.

[0036] In this embodiment, the side portion 112 has a first side portion 1121 and a second side portion 1122 that is connected to the lower side of the first side portion 1121 when the opening / closing cover 11 is closed. In this example, the side portion 112 has a first side portion 1121 and a second side portion 1122 that are roughly divided into two equal parts vertically.

[0037] The first side portion 1121 and the second side portion 1122 are connected by a plurality (for example, five) of hinges 1123. The second side portion 1122 is supported so as to be rotatable relative to the first side portion 1121 around the hinges 1123. As shown in Figure 2, the opening / closing cover 11 is partially openable (the second side portion 1122). Also, as shown in Figure 3, the entire opening / closing cover 11 can be opened and closed as a single unit.

[0038] As shown in Figure 3, the side of the housing 10 is open when the opening / closing cover 11 is open. Specifically, when the opening / closing cover 11 is open, one side of the internal space of the housing 10 is open. As shown in Figure 3, the internal space has a first space 14 that houses the printing unit 20 and the communication unit 40, and a second space 16 separate from the first space 14. In other words, the housing 10 is configured so that the first space 14 and the second space 16 are exposed when the opening / closing cover 11 is open.

[0039] This configuration opens the front side of the first space 14 and the second space 16 from the operator's perspective. Opening the opening / closing cover 11 opens the open end side (opposite side from the inner side portion 124) of the support shaft 301 that supports the roll T (roll-shaped continuous body M), allowing for replacement of the ink ribbon R and the continuous body M, as well as maintenance of the inside of the unit. The opening direction of the opening / closing cover 11 is the direction in which the front space is opened when the opening / closing cover 11 is opened.

[0040] The inside of the printer 100 will now be described. As shown in Figure 3, the inside of the printer 100 is provided with a printing medium supply unit 30 located at the rear, a printing unit 20 and a communication unit 40 located at the front, an ink ribbon unit 34 located above them, and a functional member 50.

[0041] The printing unit 20 in this embodiment employs a thermal transfer method to print on the continuous body M by transferring ink from an ink ribbon R coated with printing ink. The printing unit 20 may also use a heat-sensitive color development method.

[0042] The continuous material M is wound to form a roll T, which is held in the printing medium supply unit 30, and is sequentially unwound from the roll T and transported in the transport direction. Along the transport direction of the continuous material M, with the printing unit 20 as the reference, the side of the printing medium supply unit 30 is called the upstream side, and the opposite side is called the downstream side. The printing medium supply unit 30 is located at the uppermost upstream side.

[0043] The printing unit 20 comprises a print head unit 22, a platen roller 24 and a lower guide unit (not shown) located below it, and a damper mechanism 26 located behind them. The damper mechanism 26 is located upstream of the print head unit 22 and the platen roller 24.

[0044] The lower guide section extends in the front-rear direction and is a member that guides the continuous body M being transported.

[0045] The print head unit 22 is supported so that its front portion can swing vertically around a rear rotation axis 225. The print head unit 22 has an open state (shown by a solid line) that is open relative to the platen roller 24 and a closed state (shown by a dashed line) that is closed relative to the platen roller 24. In other words, the print head unit 22 is configured to be switchable between the open state and the closed state by swinging.

[0046] A print head position detection sensor (not shown) is provided near the print head 22 to detect whether the print head 22 is in a closed state.

[0047] In the open position, the front part of the print head 22 is raised and separated from the platen roller 24. In this state, the continuous element M and the ink ribbon R can be set up or replaced.

[0048] In the closed state, the front part of the print head unit 22 lowers, and the thermal head 222, located at the front lower part of the head body 221, faces the platen roller 24 with the continuum M and ink ribbon R in between. In other words, the continuum M is held together with the ink ribbon R between the thermal head 222 and the platen roller 24. In the closed state, a paper transport route P for the continuum M is formed between the print head unit 22, the platen roller 24 and the lower guide unit. An outlet 106 is provided on the downstream side of the paper transport route.

[0049] The platen roller 24 is a conveying means that transports the continuous material M fed from the printing medium supply unit 30 along the paper transport route to the discharge port 106. The surface of the platen roller 24 is covered with an elastic material such as hard rubber. The platen roller 24 is arranged to be rotatable in both forward and reverse directions and to face the closed thermal head 222 from above and below.

[0050] The platen roller 24 is rotationally driven by a drive mechanism (not shown) consisting of a motor and a rotary transmission. When the print head unit 22 is closed, the platen roller 24 rotates in the forward direction, causing the continuous body M to be conveyed toward the discharge port 106. In other words, the print head unit 22 and the platen roller 24 constitute a conveying unit 7 that grips and conveys the continuous body M.

[0051] A print medium position detection sensor (not shown) is provided between the thermal head 222 and the damper mechanism 26 in the paper feeding route of the continuum M. The print medium position detection sensor detects the position of the wireless tag 6 on the continuum M by detecting position detection marks (not shown) provided on the continuum M. The print medium position detection sensor can be configured, for example, by a light-reflecting type or a light-transmitting type sensor.

[0052] The damper mechanism 26 is a mechanism that applies tension to the continuum M. The damper mechanism 26 in this embodiment has a first damper roller 261 and a second damper roller 262 provided upstream of the first damper roller 261. The first damper roller 261 and the second damper roller 262 are supported so as to be able to swing, in order to apply tension to the continuum M when the print head section 22 is in the closed state.

[0053] The ink ribbon unit 34 is a mechanism that supplies and winds up an ink ribbon R coated with printing ink. The ink ribbon unit 34 comprises a ribbon supply unit 341 and a ribbon winding unit 342 located in front of it.

[0054] The ribbon supply unit 341 is a mechanism that rotatably supports the ink ribbon R wound in a roll shape.

[0055] The ribbon winding unit 342 is a mechanism for winding up and recovering the printed ink ribbon R.

[0056] The ink ribbon R is drawn out from the ribbon supply unit 341, passes under the print head unit 22, and is wound up by the ribbon winding unit 342.

[0057] The continuum M will now be described. As shown in Figure 4, the continuum M has a plurality of wireless tags 6 and a strip-shaped base S that supports the plurality of wireless tags 6. The plurality of wireless tags 6 are temporarily attached to the base S at predetermined intervals along its longitudinal direction.

[0058] To facilitate the removal of the wireless tag 6, the surface of the backing sheet S (the surface that comes into contact with the adhesive side of the wireless tag 6) is coated with a release agent such as silicone. The back surface of the backing sheet S (the side on which the wireless tag 6 is not attached) is provided with position detection marks (not shown) indicating the position of the wireless tag 6.

[0059] The wireless tag 6 has an electronic circuit section 6A and a top sheet 6B laminated on the front side of the electronic circuit section 6A, and is attached to the base sheet S by an adhesive 6C. In this example, the top sheet 6B is plain paper. The top sheet 6B may also be thermal paper. If the printer 100 uses a thermal color development method, the top sheet 6B will be thermal paper.

[0060] As shown in Figure 3, the printing medium supply unit 30 holds the roll T of the continuous material M and supplies the continuous material M to the printing unit 20.

[0061] The printing medium supply unit 30 comprises a support shaft 301 and a roll guide unit 302 provided at one end thereof. The support shaft 301 is a component that supports the roll T of the continuous body M in a rotatable state. The roll guide unit 302 is a component that fixes the roll T of the continuous body M. The roll guide unit 302 is provided so as to be movable along the axial direction of the support shaft 301 so that its position can be changed according to the widthwise length of the continuous body M.

[0062] In the example shown in Figure 4, the roll T is reverse-wound. In reverse winding, the wireless tag 6 is wound so that it is located inside the continuum M. Therefore, in reverse winding, the wireless tag 6 is not exposed on the outer surface of the roll T. In reverse winding, the continuum M is unwound downward from a position behind the center of the printing medium supply unit 30.

[0063] Note that the roll T may be wound with the front side facing outwards. In front-side winding, the wireless tag 6 is wound so that it is located on the outside of the continuum M. Therefore, in front-side winding, the wireless tag 6 is exposed on the outer surface of the roll T. In front-side winding, the continuum M is unwound downwards from a position forward of the center of the printing medium supply unit 30 (see Figures 13 and 14).

[0064] Whether the roll T is wound with the front side facing out or with the back side facing out, the paper feeding route of the continuous body M of the printing section 20 is the same. Also, whether the roll T is wound with the front side facing out or with the back side facing out, the continuous body M is transported with the side to which the wireless tag 6 is temporarily attached facing upwards. The side of the continuous body M to which the wireless tag 6 is temporarily attached is sometimes called the printing side.

[0065] In the printer 100, a continuous sheet M fed out from the printing medium supply unit 30 is transported via a damper mechanism 26 to the paper path between the print head unit 22 and the platen roller 24. While the continuous sheet M is being transported, the printer 100 heats up the heating element of the thermal head 222 in a predetermined pattern at timings based on information detected by the printing medium position detection sensor. As a result, characters, symbols, graphics, barcodes, etc., are printed on the wireless tag 6 of the continuous sheet M. After printing, the wireless tag 6 (continuous sheet M) is discharged from the printer 100 through the discharge port 106.

[0066] The electronic circuit section 6A includes an IC chip (not shown) having a CPU (Central Processing Unit), memory, and tag-side communication circuit, and a tag-side antenna (not shown) for communication.

[0067] The wireless tag 6 of this embodiment employs the Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) communication method, which is a low-power communication mode of Bluetooth®. In this case, the communication range is longer than NFC® (Near Field Communication) and the power consumption is lower than Wi-Fi®.

[0068] The wireless tag 6 is configured to activate (the electronic circuit unit 6A operates) when the power generated within the wireless tag 6 by predetermined communication radio waves from the antenna 42 of the communication unit 40 exceeds a predetermined power level, and does not use a battery.

[0069] When the wireless tag 6 is activated, it emits radio waves to communicate with the communication unit 40. In other words, when the wireless tag 6 is activated, it can communicate with the communication unit 40, but when it is not activated, it cannot communicate with the communication unit 40.

[0070] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the communication characteristics of the wireless tag 6 when the continuum M is viewed from the width direction (the X direction in Figure 3). Specifically, Figure 5 shows the RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) for each direction when predetermined communication radio waves are supplied to the wireless tag 6 from each direction perpendicular to the X axis on the YZ plane, while the wireless tag 6 is located on the YZ plane.

[0071] In Figure 5, when a predetermined communication radio wave is supplied to the wireless tag 6 from a specific direction indicated by the arrow, the RSSI is not shown. This means that the power generated within the wireless tag 6 does not exceed the predetermined power when the predetermined communication radio wave is supplied from a specific direction, and therefore the wireless tag 6 does not activate.

[0072] Furthermore, as can be seen from Figure 5, the wireless tag 6 will not activate not only when a predetermined communication radio wave is supplied to the wireless tag 6 from a strictly specific direction, but also when a predetermined communication radio wave is supplied to the wireless tag 6 from a direction along the specific direction. In other words, the wireless tag 6 of this embodiment cannot be activated by a predetermined communication radio wave from a direction along the specific direction, even if it is within the range of the predetermined communication radio wave. Note that the specific direction, as shown in Figure 5, includes the direction from one to the other and the direction from the other to the one, with respect to the wireless tag 6. Also, since the specific direction itself is along the specific direction, the direction along the specific direction also includes the specific direction itself.

[0073] Thus, the wireless tag 6 is configured to be unable to be activated by predetermined communication radio waves coming from a specific direction, even if it is within the range of predetermined communication radio waves.

[0074] The communication unit 40 will now be described. The communication unit 40 includes an antenna 42 that generates predetermined communication radio waves and a communication circuit 44 connected to the antenna 42. The antenna 42 may be enclosed within the lower guide section.

[0075] The communication unit 40 uses the antenna 42 to wirelessly communicate with one of the wireless tags 6 within the continuum M, which is the wireless tag 6 to be communicated, at a position opposite the antenna 42.

[0076] Next, the control unit 2 will be described. The control unit 2 consists of a CPU, memory, input / output interface, etc. The control unit 2 can also be composed of multiple microcomputers. The control unit 2 receives print instruction data (issue instruction data), detection signals from an external computer (not shown), detection signals from a print medium position detection sensor, detection signals from a print head position detection sensor, etc., via the input / output interface. The control unit 2 executes a program stored in memory using the CPU to control the operation of the thermal head 222, the motor that drives the platen roller 24, the communication unit 40, etc. The various programs executed by the control unit 2 may be stored on a non-transient recording medium such as a CD-ROM.

[0077] The control unit 2 communicates with the wireless tag 6 using the communication unit 40. The control unit 2 functions as a reader that reads information written to the wireless tag 6. The control unit 2 also functions as a writer that writes predetermined information to the wireless tag 6. The control unit 2 does not necessarily have to have the function of a writer. For example, if the wireless tag 6 is read-only, the control unit 2 only needs to have the function of a reader.

[0078] When the control unit 2 communicates with the wireless tag 6 using the communication unit 40, it repeatedly outputs a predetermined communication radio wave from the antenna 42 at a predetermined cycle time to activate the wireless tag 6 to be communicated.

[0079] The predetermined cycle time is, for example, about 15 msec. The control unit 2 outputs a predetermined communication radio wave for the first 10 msec of the predetermined cycle time, and for the remaining time waits for the radio waves (first packet and RSSI) to be returned from the wireless tag 6 without outputting the predetermined communication radio wave. The predetermined cycle time is set in advance based on the specifications of the printer 100, the specifications of the wireless tag 6, experimental results, etc. The predetermined cycle time can also be changed as appropriate.

[0080] The reason for including a waiting period to wait for the return radio waves from the wireless tag 6 is that a certain amount of time is needed for the wireless tag 6 to be powered up and activated before it can emit radio waves. If the predetermined communication radio waves were to be continuously emitted, it could result in an excessive emission of those radio waves, potentially affecting other wireless tags 6.

[0081] If a predetermined time elapses without communication being established between the wireless tag 6 and the communication unit 40, the control unit 2 stops outputting a predetermined communication radio wave from the antenna 42. In this case, the control unit 2 determines that the wireless tag 6 that failed to communicate with the communication unit 40 is defective. The predetermined time is, for example, 5 seconds.

[0082] Incidentally, the individual electromotive force performance of the wireless tags 6 is not uniform but varies. Specifically, there are wireless tags 6 with low electromotive force performance that take a relatively long time to start up. Therefore, the control unit 2 has a radio wave adjustment function that adjusts a predetermined communication radio wave output from the antenna 42 of the communication unit 40 so that communication can be established quickly even with wireless tags 6 with low electromotive force performance.

[0083] Furthermore, when the printer 100 issues multiple wireless tags 6 in succession, it can appropriately use its radio wave adjustment function, taking into consideration factors such as issuance speed (throughput), power consumption, and the quality of the wireless tags 6.

[0084] Specifically, the printer 100 of this embodiment has four continuous printing modes (the first to the fourth modes). The control unit 2 performs continuous communication processing to communicate continuously with multiple wireless tags 6 according to the mode set in the printer 100.

[0085] The various processes performed by the control unit 2 will be explained below with reference to Figures 6 to 8.

[0086] Figure 6 is a flowchart showing the contents of the first communication process performed by the control unit 2. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the contents of the second communication process performed by the control unit 2. Figure 8 is a flowchart showing the contents of the continuous communication process performed by the control unit 2. When printing on the wireless tag 6, the control unit 2 performs the printing process in parallel with these processes as appropriate.

[0087] First, the first communication process will be explained with reference to Figure 6. The first communication process is the process for communicating with one wireless tag 6. The first communication process includes radio wave adjustment processing to realize the radio wave adjustment function.

[0088] In step S101, the control unit 2 outputs a predetermined communication radio wave from the antenna 42 using the communication unit 40, based on a first setting value stored in memory.

[0089] The output (power level) of a predetermined communication radio wave and the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave (the time the predetermined communication radio wave is output / the predetermined cycle time) in the first radio wave output cycle after the start of the first communication processing are stored in the memory of the control unit 2 as initial values ​​for the first set value. The initial value is set in advance based on the specifications of the printer 100, the specifications of the wireless tag 6, experimental results, etc. The initial value can also be changed as needed.

[0090] In step S102, the control unit 2 determines whether the communication unit 40 has received radio waves (first packet and RSSI) from the wireless tag 6 within a predetermined cycle time.

[0091] If the control unit 2 determines that the communication unit 40 has received radio waves from the wireless tag 6 within a predetermined cycle time, it proceeds to step S103. If the control unit 2 determines that the communication unit 40 has not received radio waves from the wireless tag 6 within a predetermined cycle time, it proceeds to step S106.

[0092] In step S103, the control unit 2 determines whether the RSSI received by the communication unit 40 from the wireless tag 6 is lower than a predetermined lower limit.

[0093] If the control unit 2 determines that the RSSI received by the communication unit 40 from the wireless tag 6 is lower than a predetermined lower limit, it proceeds to step S105. If the control unit 2 determines that the RSSI received by the communication unit 40 from the wireless tag 6 is not lower than a predetermined lower limit, it proceeds to step S104.

[0094] In step S105, the control unit 2 determines that the wireless tag 6 is defective.

[0095] In this case, for example, the printing unit 20 may print information indicating that the product is defective onto the wireless tag 6. Alternatively, the printer 100 may be put into an error state and stopped.

[0096] In step S104, the control unit 2 communicates with the wireless tag 6 using the communication unit 40 (reading and / or writing).

[0097] In S104, the control unit 2 does not emit radio waves when only reading information written to the wireless tag 6. Furthermore, when the control unit 2 writes predetermined information to the wireless tag 6, it uses the communication unit 40 to output a communication radio wave for writing from the antenna 42.

[0098] In step S106, the control unit 2 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the first communication process. The predetermined time is, for example, 5 seconds. The predetermined time can be changed as appropriate. The time elapsed since the start of the first communication process is measured, for example, using the timing function of the CPU.

[0099] If the control unit 2 determines that a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the first communication process, it proceeds to step S105. If the control unit 2 determines that a predetermined time has not elapsed since the start of the first communication process, it proceeds to step S107.

[0100] In step S107, the control unit 2 determines whether the output of the predetermined communication radio wave is at a predetermined upper limit. The predetermined upper limit of the output of the predetermined communication radio wave is set in advance based on the specifications of the printer 100, the specifications of the wireless tag 6, experimental results, laws and regulations, etc. Furthermore, the predetermined upper limit of the output of the predetermined communication radio wave can be changed as appropriate.

[0101] If the control unit 2 determines that the output of a predetermined communication radio wave is at a predetermined upper limit, it proceeds to step S108. If the control unit 2 determines that the output of a predetermined communication radio wave is not at a predetermined upper limit, it proceeds to step S110.

[0102] In step S110, the control unit 2 changes the first setting value so that the output of the predetermined communication radio wave increases, and proceeds to step S101. The amount by which the output of the predetermined communication radio wave is increased in step S110 is predetermined by experimentation or the like. For example, the first setting value may be changed so that the output increases by 1 dBm, or it may be changed so that it increases by several dBm. Furthermore, the amount by which the output of the predetermined communication radio wave is increased can be changed as appropriate.

[0103] In step S108, the control unit 2 determines whether the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave is within a predetermined upper limit. The predetermined upper limit of the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave is set in advance based on the specifications of the printer 100, the specifications of the wireless tag 6, experimental results, etc. Furthermore, the predetermined upper limit of the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave can be changed as appropriate.

[0104] If the control unit 2 determines that the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave is at a predetermined upper limit, it proceeds to step S101. If the control unit 2 determines that the output of the predetermined communication radio wave is not at a predetermined upper limit, it proceeds to step S109.

[0105] In step S109, the control unit 2 changes the first setting value so that the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave increases, and proceeds to step S101. The amount by which the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave is increased in step S109 is predetermined through experiments or other means. Furthermore, the amount by which the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave is increased can be changed as appropriate.

[0106] In the example shown in Figure 6, if there is room to increase the output of a predetermined communication radio wave, the output of the predetermined communication radio wave is prioritized and increased. If the output of the predetermined communication radio wave is at a predetermined upper limit, the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave is increased.

[0107] However, both the output power and the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave may be increased simultaneously, or the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave may be prioritized for increasing. If there is room to increase the output power of the predetermined communication radio wave, the issuance speed of the wireless tag 6 can be efficiently increased by prioritizing the increase in the output power of the predetermined communication radio wave over the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave.

[0108] Thus, in the first communication process, the control unit 2 increases at least one of the output of a predetermined communication radio wave and the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave in the radio wave output cycle following the radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag 6 did not start up (the subsequent radio wave output cycle). This allows the predetermined communication radio wave output from the antenna 42 of the communication unit 40 to be appropriately adjusted so that even wireless tags 6 with low electromotive force performance can start up quickly.

[0109] Next, the second communication process will be explained with reference to Figure 7. The second communication process is the process for communicating with one wireless tag 6. The second communication process differs from the first communication process in that it does not include the radio wave adjustment process for realizing the radio wave adjustment function.

[0110] In step S201, the control unit 2 outputs a predetermined communication radio wave from the antenna 42 using the communication unit 40, based on a second setting value stored in memory. The second setting value is a fixed value.

[0111] The output of a predetermined communication radio wave and the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave in the second communication process are stored in the memory of the control unit 2 as second setting values. The second setting values ​​are pre-set based on the specifications of the printer 100, the specifications of the wireless tag 6, experimental results, etc. The second setting values ​​can also be changed as needed.

[0112] Furthermore, in the continuous communication process shown in Figure 8, the control unit 2 automatically sets a second setting value while issuing multiple wireless tags 6 in succession. This will be explained in more detail later.

[0113] In step S202, the control unit 2 determines whether the communication unit 40 has received radio waves (first packet and RSSI) from the wireless tag 6 within a predetermined cycle time.

[0114] If the control unit 2 determines that the communication unit 40 has received radio waves from the wireless tag 6 within a predetermined cycle time, it proceeds to step S203. If the control unit 2 determines that the communication unit 40 has not received radio waves from the wireless tag 6 within a predetermined cycle time, it proceeds to step S206.

[0115] In step S203, the control unit 2 determines whether the RSSI received by the communication unit 40 from the wireless tag 6 is lower than a predetermined lower limit.

[0116] If the control unit 2 determines that the RSSI received by the communication unit 40 from the wireless tag 6 is lower than a predetermined lower limit, it proceeds to step S205. If the control unit 2 determines that the RSSI received by the communication unit 40 from the wireless tag 6 is not lower than a predetermined lower limit, it proceeds to step S204.

[0117] In step S205, the control unit 2 determines that the wireless tag 6 is defective.

[0118] In this case, for example, the printing unit 20 may print information indicating that the product is defective onto the wireless tag 6. Alternatively, the printer 100 may be put into an error state and stopped.

[0119] In step S204, the control unit 2 communicates with the wireless tag 6 using the communication unit 40 (reading and / or writing).

[0120] In S204, the control unit 2 does not emit radio waves when only reading information written to the wireless tag 6. Furthermore, when the control unit 2 writes predetermined information to the wireless tag 6, it uses the communication unit 40 to output a communication radio wave for writing from the antenna 42.

[0121] In step S206, the control unit 2 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the second communication process. The predetermined time is, for example, 5 seconds. The predetermined time can be changed as appropriate. The time elapsed since the start of the second communication process is measured, for example, using the timing function of the CPU.

[0122] If the control unit 2 determines that a predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the second communication process, it proceeds to step S205. If the control unit 2 determines that a predetermined time has not elapsed since the start of the second communication process, it proceeds to step S201.

[0123] Thus, in the second communication process, the control unit 2 outputs a predetermined communication radio wave from the antenna 42 using the communication unit 40 based on a fixed second setting value. This reduces the CPU processing cost compared to the first communication process.

[0124] Next, the continuous communication process will be explained with reference to Figure 8. The continuous communication process is initiated when the printer 100 is set to continuous printing mode, and the printer 100 is powered on and / or when a continuous body M is loaded into the printer 100.

[0125] The control unit 2 determines, for example, that a continuum M has been loaded into the printer 100 when the print head unit 22 changes from an open state to a closed state. Loading a continuum M into the printer 100 can involve either replacing the existing continuum M with a new one, or reloading the existing continuum M without replacing it.

[0126] The continuous issuance mode is a mode for continuously communicating with multiple wireless tags 6. In other words, continuous communication processing is used when issuing messages to multiple wireless tags 6 in succession. The printer 100 has four continuous issuance modes, from the first mode to the fourth mode.

[0127] In step S301, the control unit 2 determines whether the mode set for the printer 100 (the current mode of the printer 100) is the first mode.

[0128] If the control unit 2 determines that the mode set on the printer 100 is the first mode, it proceeds to step S302. If the control unit 2 determines that the mode set on the printer 100 is not the first mode, it proceeds to step S303.

[0129] In step S302, the control unit 2 performs a first communication process for all wireless tags 6 issued according to instruction data from an external computer or the like. In other words, in the first mode, the control unit 2 performs radio wave adjustment processing for each of the multiple wireless tags 6.

[0130] According to this, the predetermined communication radio waves output from the antenna 42 of the communication unit 40 can be appropriately adjusted for all wireless tags 6 to be issued. Therefore, even if there are wireless tags 6 with low electromotive force performance, a decrease in issuance speed can be suppressed. In addition, the yield can be improved.

[0131] In step S303, the control unit 2 determines whether the mode set for the printer 100 is the second mode.

[0132] If the control unit 2 determines that the mode set on the printer 100 is the second mode, it proceeds to step S304. If the control unit 2 determines that the mode set on the printer 100 is not the second mode, it proceeds to step S305.

[0133] In step S304, the control unit 2 performs a second communication process for all wireless tags 6 issued according to instruction data from an external computer or the like. In other words, in the second mode, the control unit 2 outputs a predetermined communication radio wave from the antenna 42 using the communication unit 40 for each of the multiple wireless tags 6, based on a fixed second setting value.

[0134] The second mode is suitable when there is a high probability of obtaining a stable issuance speed and yield without adjusting predetermined communication radio waves, that is, when the quality of the multiple wireless tags 6 in the continuum M is high.

[0135] In step S305, the control unit 2 determines whether the mode set for the printer 100 is the third mode.

[0136] If the control unit 2 determines that the mode set for printer 100 is the third mode, it proceeds to step S306. If the control unit 2 determines that the mode set for printer 100 is not the third mode, it proceeds to step S309. If the mode set for printer 100 is determined not to be the third mode, the mode of printer 100 is the fourth mode.

[0137] In step S306, the control unit 2 performs a first communication process for a predetermined number of wireless tags 6, counting from the first wireless tag 6 in the continuum M, from among the multiple wireless tags 6 issued according to the instruction data issued from an external computer or the like. The predetermined number is any number that is set in advance. The predetermined number can also be changed as appropriate.

[0138] When continuous communication processing is initiated by loading the continuum M into the printer 100, the leading wireless tag 6 in the continuum M is the wireless tag 6 that the communication unit 40 first wirelessly communicates with after loading the continuum M into the printer 100. In this case, the wireless tag 6 located at the leading end (downstream side) of the continuum M is usually the leading wireless tag 6.

[0139] If continuous communication processing is initiated when the printer 100 is powered on, the first wireless tag 6 in the continuum M is the wireless tag 6 that the communication unit 40 first wirelessly communicates with after the printer 100 is powered on.

[0140] In step S307, the control unit 2 adopts the first setting value (hereinafter referred to as the final setting value) in the radio output cycle in which the radio tag 6 with the longest activation time among a predetermined number of radio tags 6 was activated as the second setting value in the second communication process. Note that "longest activation time" means the longest time until radio waves (first packet and RSSI) are received.

[0141] In step S308, the control unit 2 performs a second communication process for the remaining wireless tags 6.

[0142] Thus, in the third mode, the final setting value, which is the result of adjusting a predetermined communication radio wave to the radio tag 6 with the lowest electromotive performance among a predetermined number of radio tags 6 counted from the first radio tag 6 in the continuum M, is used as the second setting value for the second communication process executed for the remaining radio tags 6.

[0143] According to this, the likelihood of obtaining a stable issuance speed and yield for the remaining wireless tags 6 increases without having to adjust the predetermined communication radio waves.

[0144] In step S309, the control unit 2 performs a first communication process on the first wireless tag 6 in the continuum M, out of a plurality of wireless tags 6 issued according to the instruction data issued from an external computer or the like.

[0145] In step S310, the control unit 2 adopts the final setting value of the leading wireless tag 6 as the second setting value in the second communication process.

[0146] In step S311, the control unit 2 performs a second communication process for the remaining wireless tags 6.

[0147] Thus, in the fourth mode, the final setting value, which is the result of adjusting a predetermined communication radio wave for the first wireless tag 6 in the continuum M, is used as the second setting value for the second communication process executed for the remaining wireless tags 6.

[0148] According to this, the likelihood of obtaining a stable issuance speed and yield for the remaining wireless tags 6 increases without having to adjust the predetermined communication radio waves.

[0149] Comparing the third and fourth modes, the third mode is more likely to yield a stable issuance speed and yield for the remaining wireless tags 6. Therefore, it is conceivable that the third and fourth modes should be used interchangeably depending on the quality of the multiple wireless tags 6 present in the continuum M.

[0150] In the example shown in Figure 8, in step S307 of the third mode, the final setting value of the wireless tag 6 that took the longest time to activate out of a predetermined number of wireless tags 6 is adopted as the second setting value in the second communication process. However, for example, the average value of the final setting values ​​of each of the predetermined number of wireless tags 6 may be adopted as the second setting value in the second communication process.

[0151] The antenna 42 will be explained with reference to Figures 9 and 10. Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing the area around the antenna 42. In Figure 9, the wireless tag 6 to be communicated is marked with "(1)", and other wireless tags 6 that are not to be communicated are marked with "(2)" to distinguish them. Figure 10 is a diagram for explaining the antenna section radio wave absorber 45.

[0152] As described above, when the communication unit 40 of the printer 100 communicates with the wireless tag 6(1) to be communicated, the radio waves from the antenna 42 (predetermined communication radio waves) may reach another wireless tag 6(2) located upstream or downstream of the wireless tag 6(1) to be communicated. In this case, the radio waves from the antenna 42 may affect the other wireless tag 6(2), potentially causing the printer 100 or the other wireless tag 6(2) to malfunction. From the standpoint of preventing such malfunctions, it is desirable to reduce the influence of radio waves on the other wireless tag 6(2).

[0153] Therefore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 9, the antenna 42 is positioned in a direction along a specific direction with respect to the wireless tag 6(2) adjacent to the wireless tag 6(1) to be communicated with on the upstream side in the transport direction in the transport path P, and to the wireless tag 6(2) adjacent to the wireless tag 6(1) to be communicated with on the downstream side in the transport direction.

[0154] To explain in more detail, in this embodiment, the printer 100 has a transport path P formed such that, for multiple wireless tags 6 around the wireless tag 6(1) to be communicated, the direction connecting the wireless tag 6(2) adjacent to the wireless tag 6(1) on the upstream side in the transport direction and the wireless tag 6(2) adjacent to the wireless tag 6(1) on the downstream side in the transport direction is a specific direction.

[0155] The antenna 42 is located on the side of the continuum M opposite to the side on which the wireless tag 6 is attached.

[0156] The antenna 42 is formed in a planar shape and is positioned in close proximity to the continuum M and parallel to the wireless tag 6(1) at a location facing the wireless tag 6(1) to be communicated. The reason for positioning the antenna 42 parallel to the wireless tag 6(1) is that the direction perpendicular to the plane of the antenna 42 is the direction in which the radio waves from the antenna 42 are most strongly emitted.

[0157] In other words, the antenna 42 is positioned (directly below the radio tag 6 in Figure 5) and orientation relative to the radio tag 6(1) to be communicated with, so that the radio tag 6(1) shows a high RSSI.

[0158] The antenna 42 is positioned in a direction that prevents the wireless tag 6(2) from activating, i.e., along a specific direction, relative to the wireless tag 6(2) adjacent to the wireless tag 6(1) that is being communicated with, on the upstream side in the transport direction.

[0159] Furthermore, the antenna 42 is positioned in a direction that prevents the wireless tag 6(2) from activating, i.e., in a specific direction, relative to the wireless tag 6(2) adjacent to the wireless tag 6(1) that is being communicated with, on the downstream side in the transport direction.

[0160] In other words, the antenna 42 is positioned in a direction along a specific direction with respect to the wireless tag 6(2) adjacent to the wireless tag 6(1) to be communicated with on the upstream side in the transport direction, and to the wireless tag 6(2) adjacent to the wireless tag 6(1) to be communicated with on the downstream side in the transport direction, in the transport path P.

[0161] Therefore, in this embodiment, the two wireless tags 6(2) adjacent to the wireless tag 6(1) to be communicated with are unable to be activated and will not communicate with the communication unit 40. Thus, the possibility of the communication unit 40 communicating with wireless tags 6(2) other than the wireless tag 6(1) to be communicated with is reduced.

[0162] In this embodiment, the antenna 42 is positioned in a direction along a specific direction for at least one wireless tag 6(2) located further upstream than the wireless tag 6(2) adjacent to the wireless tag 6(1) to be communicated with in the upstream direction of transport.

[0163] Furthermore, the antenna 42 is positioned in a direction along a specific direction for at least one wireless tag 6(2) located further downstream than the wireless tag 6(2) adjacent to the wireless tag 6(1) being communicated with in the downstream direction of transport.

[0164] In other words, the antenna 42 is positioned in a direction along a specific direction with respect to multiple wireless tags 6(2) located upstream of the wireless tag 6(1) to be communicated in the transport direction in the transport path P, and multiple wireless tags 6(2) located downstream of the wireless tag 6(1) to be communicated in the transport direction.

[0165] Therefore, in this embodiment, there are other wireless tags 6(2) that do not activate in addition to the two wireless tags 6(2) adjacent to the wireless tag 6(1) that is the target of communication. Thus, the possibility that the communication unit 40 will communicate with wireless tags 6(2) other than the wireless tag 6(1) that is the target of communication can be further reduced.

[0166] Furthermore, if the antenna 42 is positioned in a direction aligned with a specific direction relative to at least one wireless tag 6(2), the possibility of the communication unit 40 communicating with a wireless tag 6(2) other than the wireless tag 6(1) to be communicated can be reduced.

[0167] Therefore, for example, the antenna 42 may be positioned in a direction along a specific direction relative to either the wireless tag 6(2) adjacent to the wireless tag 6(1) to be communicated with on the upstream side in the transport direction, or the wireless tag 6(2) adjacent to the wireless tag 6(1) to be communicated with on the downstream side in the transport direction.

[0168] Furthermore, the antenna 42 may be positioned in a direction aligned with a specific direction relative to either a plurality of wireless tags 6(2) located upstream of the wireless tag 6(1) to be communicated in the transport direction, or a plurality of wireless tags 6(2) located downstream of the wireless tag 6(1) to be communicated in the transport direction.

[0169] On the side opposite the continuum M, with the antenna 42 in between, an antenna section radio wave absorber 45 is provided.

[0170] The antenna section radio wave absorber 45 and other radio wave absorbers described herein are formed from, for example, conductive radio wave absorbing materials such as conductive fiber fabrics, dielectric radio wave absorbing materials obtained by mixing carbon powder etc. with a dielectric material such as rubber, foamed urethane, or foamed polystyrene, and magnetic radio wave absorbing materials made of magnetic materials such as iron, nickel, or ferrite.

[0171] The antenna section's radio wave absorber 45 absorbs radio waves emitted from the side of the antenna 42 opposite to the continuum M (hereinafter referred to as the bottom surface), thereby reducing the influence of such radio waves on the wireless tag 6(2).

[0172] Specifically, the antenna section radio wave absorber 45 is formed on the surface of a spacer 46 attached to the lower surface of the antenna 42, thereby being positioned away from the antenna 42. The spacer 46 is made of a material that has little effect on radio waves, such as resin.

[0173] The reason for positioning the antenna section radio wave absorber 45 at a distance from the antenna 42 is that if the antenna section radio wave absorber 45 and the antenna 42 are close together, radio waves emitted from the continuum M-side surface of the antenna 42 (hereinafter referred to as the top surface) may be absorbed by the antenna section radio wave absorber 45, potentially causing instability. Therefore, it is preferable that the antenna section radio wave absorber 45 be positioned about 5 mm away from the antenna 42. Note that it is sufficient to position the antenna section radio wave absorber 45 at a distance from the antenna 42; the spacer 46 is not necessarily required.

[0174] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the antenna section radio wave absorber 45 has a flat section 45a and a side wall section 45b provided around the flat section 45a and protruding towards the antenna 42, and is formed in a container shape.

[0175] As shown in Figure 9, the antenna section radio wave absorber 45 is positioned so that its planar portion 45a is parallel to the continuum M. In other words, the antenna section radio wave absorber 45 is also positioned parallel to the antenna 42. This allows for efficient absorption of radio waves emitted from the lower surface of the antenna 42, thereby reducing the impact of radio waves emitted from the lower surface of the antenna 42 on the wireless tag 6(2).

[0176] Furthermore, the antenna section radio wave absorber 45 has a side wall portion 45b, which allows it to absorb radio waves that have spread diagonally from the lower surface of the antenna 42. In other words, the antenna section radio wave absorber 45 of this embodiment has a structure that makes it difficult for radio waves emitted from the lower surface of the antenna 42 to leak. This further reduces the impact of radio waves emitted from the lower surface of the antenna 42 on the wireless tag 6(2).

[0177] Furthermore, since the directivity of the antenna 42 is configured to be strongest in the direction of the wireless tag 6(1) to be communicated, the influence of radio waves on other wireless tags 6(2) can be further reduced.

[0178] The partition member 51 will now be described. The partition member 51 is a member that partitions the internal space so that the communication unit 40 can communicate with only one of the multiple wireless tags 6 that is facing the communication unit 40 (wireless tag 6(1) shown in Figure 9).

[0179] It is desirable that the partition member 51 can efficiently shield radio waves. In this embodiment, the second space 16 is a space that surrounds the wireless tags 6 upstream of the wireless tags 6 housed in the first space 14. In this case, the partition member 51 can efficiently reduce the influence of radio waves on the second space 16, which is the space surrounding the upstream wireless tags 6. The second space 16 is a space that separates the wireless tags 6 housed in the first space 14 from the wireless tags 6 upstream of the wireless tags 6 housed in the first space 14.

[0180] As shown in Figure 3, the partition member 51 in this embodiment is divided into two parts, one of which is fixed to the opening / closing cover 11 and the other being fixed to the housing body portion 12 of the housing 10. In this example, the partition member 51 includes a housing-side partition member 51A fixed to the housing body portion 12 of the housing 10 and an opening / closing cover-side partition member 51B fixed to the opening / closing cover 11.

[0181] With the opening / closing cover 11 closed, the opening / closing cover side partition member 51B is partially adjacent to the housing side partition member 51A. Specifically, the housing side partition member 51A is fixed to the inner side portion 124. The housing body portion 12 supports the opening / closing cover 11.

[0182] In Figure 3, the partition member 51B on the opening / closing cover side is shown by a dashed line when the opening / closing cover 11 is closed. The partition member 51A on the housing side and the partition member 51B on the opening / closing cover side may be in contact with each other, or they may face each other with a gap smaller than their thickness between them. The partition member 51A on the housing side and the partition member 51B on the opening / closing cover side may be functionally integrated.

[0183] The partition member 51 may be divided into three or more parts. In particular, when the opening / closing cover 11 is closed, the opening / closing cover side partition member 51B is combined with the housing side partition member 51A to partition the first space 14 and the second space 16.

[0184] As shown in Figure 3, the ends of the housing-side partition member 51A and the opening / closing cover-side partition member 51B (the ends opposite to the side that is fixed) may be inclined with respect to the width direction (not shown). In this case, because of the inclined shape, the housing-side partition member 51A and the opening / closing cover-side partition member 51B do not interfere with each other when closing the opening / closing cover 11, and the opening / closing cover 11 can be closed.

[0185] Furthermore, the ends of the housing-side partition member 51A and the opening / closing cover-side partition member 51B may be rounded rather than sharp (not shown). A rounded shape prevents the continuum M and ink ribbon R from getting caught and damaged when replacing them.

[0186] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing a cross-sectional view of the partition member 51 in a side view. As shown in Figure 11, the partition member 51 of this embodiment has a partition metal body 52. ​​In this case, the influence of radio waves on the wireless tag 6 in the second space 16 can be reduced by shielding the radio waves.

[0187] The partition metal body 52 and other metal bodies described herein are formed from ferrous metals, aluminum, or the like.

[0188] The partition metal body 52 is a strip-shaped member having a predetermined length in the width direction and generally extending vertically. A predetermined portion of the partition metal body 52 may be fixed to the inner side surface 124 with screws or the like.

[0189] As shown in Figure 11, the partition member 51 of this embodiment has a partition radio wave absorber 55. In this case, the influence of radio waves on the wireless tag 6 in the second space 16 can be reduced by absorbing radio waves. The partition metal body 52 and the partition radio wave absorber 55 are laminated and integrated.

[0190] The partition radio wave absorber 55 and other radio wave absorbers described herein are formed from, for example, conductive radio wave absorbing materials such as conductive fiber fabrics, dielectric radio wave absorbing materials obtained by mixing carbon powder etc. with a dielectric such as rubber, foamed urethane, or foamed polystyrene, and magnetic radio wave absorbing materials made of magnetic materials such as iron, nickel, or ferrite.

[0191] The partition radio wave absorber 55 may be provided along the entire length and width of the partition metal body 52, or it may be provided only in part. Figure 11 shows an example in which the partition metal body 52 is stacked in front of the partition radio wave absorber 55. However, the partition radio wave absorber 55 may also be stacked in front of the partition metal body 52. ​​For stacks of other metal bodies and radio wave absorbers, the front / back or top / bottom orientation of the stacking can be arbitrarily configured.

[0192] As shown in Figure 3, in this embodiment, the first space 14 is provided with an upstream metal body 53 positioned upstream of the communication unit 40. In this case, the upstream metal body 53 can further reduce the influence of radio waves on the upstream wireless tag 6.

[0193] The upstream metal body 53 is provided on the side of the continuous body M on the transport path P that is opposite to the printed surface. The upstream metal body 53 is provided downstream of the partition member 51 and adjacent to the upstream side of the communication unit 40. In this case, the influence of radio waves on the wireless tag 6 upstream of the communication unit 40 can be reduced.

[0194] The upstream metal body 53 in this embodiment has a predetermined length in the width direction and is a strip-shaped member that extends diagonally downward toward the rear along the transport path P of the continuum M, starting immediately behind (upstream of) the communication unit 40.

[0195] The upstream metal body 53 and other metal bodies described herein are formed from, for example, iron-based metals or aluminum.

[0196] In this embodiment, the upstream radio wave absorber 54 is provided along the surface of the upstream metal body 53. In this case, the influence of radio waves on the upstream wireless tag 6 can be further reduced.

[0197] The upstream radio wave absorber 54 may be laminated and integrated with the upstream metal body 53 over its entire length and width, or it may be laminated and integrated with only a portion of it. In the laminate of the metal body and the radio wave absorber, including the upstream metal body 53, the front-to-back or top-to-bottom arrangement of the lamination can be arbitrarily configured.

[0198] If the widthwise length of the upstream metal body 53 is smaller than the widthwise length of the continuum M, the shielding effect may be insufficient. Therefore, in this embodiment, the widthwise length of the upstream metal body 53 corresponds to the widthwise length of the continuum M. In other words, the widthwise length of the upstream metal body 53 and the widthwise length of the continuum M have a predetermined correspondence.

[0199] For example, the widthwise length of the upstream metal body 53 may be greater than or equal to the widthwise length of the wireless tag 6, or greater than or equal to the widthwise length of the continuum M. For example, this relationship may also be such that the widthwise range of the upstream metal body 53 encompasses the entire widthwise range of the continuum M. In this case, the shielding effect deficiency can be reduced.

[0200] As shown in Figure 3, in this embodiment, the first space 14 is provided with an elongated metal body 67 positioned upstream of the upstream metal body 53. In this case, the elongated metal body 67 can further reduce the influence of radio waves on the wireless tag 6 upstream of the upstream metal body 53.

[0201] The stretched metal body 67 is positioned adjacent to the upstream side of the upstream metal body 53 on the transport path P. The stretched metal body 67 may be continuous with the upstream metal body 53, or it may be separated by a gap. The stretched metal body 67 is provided on the side of the continuous body M on the transport path P that is opposite to the printing surface.

[0202] The stretched metal body 67 in this embodiment has a predetermined length in the width direction and is a strip-shaped member that extends diagonally downward toward the rear along the transport path P of the continuous body M, immediately behind (upstream of) the upstream metal body 53.

[0203] The widthwise length of the stretched metal body 67 may differ from the widthwise length of the upstream metal body 53. The widthwise length of the stretched metal body 67 should at least be the same as the widthwise length of the electronic circuit section 6A of the wireless tag 6, and preferably the same as the widthwise length of the print head section 22.

[0204] The upstream end of the stretched metal body 67 may extend to the bottom surface 123 of the housing 10, may be in contact with the bottom surface 123, or may be separated from the bottom surface 123 by a gap. The upstream end of the stretched metal body 67 may also extend to the upstream side of the second damper roller 262.

[0205] Furthermore, if either the bottom metal body 58 or the bottom radio wave absorber 59 is provided on the bottom surface 123 of the housing 10, the upstream end of the stretched metal body 67 may extend to the bottom member, be in contact with the bottom member, or be separated from the bottom member by a gap.

[0206] In this embodiment, the stretched metal body 67 is provided with a stretched radio wave absorber along its surface. In this case, the influence of radio waves on the wireless tag 6 near the stretched metal body 67 can be further reduced. The stretched radio wave absorber provided on the stretched metal body 67 may be laminated and integrated over the entire length and width of the stretched metal body 67, or it may be laminated and integrated over only a part of it.

[0207] By providing the stretched metal body 67, the wireless tags 6 located upstream of the upstream metal body 53 on the transport path P can be made less susceptible to unwanted radio wave interference. In particular, when the arrangement pitch of the wireless tags 6 is small, multiple wireless tags 6 may be located on the transport path P upstream of the upstream metal body 53. By providing the stretched metal body 67, in such cases, radio waves can be absorbed so as not to affect the wireless tags 6.

[0208] In this embodiment, a downstream metal body 61 is provided downstream of the communication unit 40. In this case, the downstream metal body 61 can further reduce the influence of radio waves on the downstream wireless tag 6. The downstream metal body 61 in this embodiment has a predetermined length in the width direction and is a strip-shaped member that extends forward along the transport path P of the continuum M from immediately in front of the communication unit 40 (downstream side).

[0209] In this embodiment, the downstream radio wave absorber 62 is provided along the surface of the downstream metal body 61. In this case, the influence of radio waves on the downstream wireless tag 6 can be further reduced. The downstream radio wave absorber 62 may be laminated and integrated over the entire length and width of the downstream metal body 61, or it may be laminated and integrated over a part of it.

[0210] It is conceivable that radio waves radiated onto the inner surface of the housing 10 may be reflected and affect the wireless tag 6. Therefore, in this embodiment, the housing 10 has an opening / closing cover 11 that covers the first space 14 when closed, and the opening / closing cover 11 is provided with a cover portion radio wave absorber including a first cover portion radio wave absorber 56 and a second cover portion radio wave absorber 65. In this case, the first cover portion radio wave absorber 56 and the second cover portion radio wave absorber 65 absorb radio waves and reduce the effect of reflected radio waves. The first cover portion radio wave absorber 56 and the second cover portion radio wave absorber 65 are strip-shaped members having a predetermined length in the width direction.

[0211] The opening and closing direction of the opening / closing cover 11 is perpendicular to the transport direction of the continuum M. In this example, the opening and closing direction of the opening / closing cover 11 is vertical, and the transport direction of the continuum M is horizontal.

[0212] The first cover portion radio wave absorber 56 and the second cover portion radio wave absorber 65 of the opening / closing cover 11 are provided on the inner surface of the opening / closing cover 11.

[0213] The first cover section radio wave absorber 56 extends in a plane perpendicular to the transport direction when the opening / closing cover 11 is closed.

[0214] The second cover section radio wave absorber 65 extends parallel to the width direction of the continuum M when the opening / closing cover 11 is closed.

[0215] In this embodiment, the first cover portion radio wave absorber 56 is a front portion radio wave absorber that is attached to the inner surface of the front portion 111. For example, the first cover portion radio wave absorber 56 is provided in a vertical range from near the upper end of the front portion 111 to near the upper part of the outlet 106.

[0216] In this embodiment, the second cover portion radio wave absorber 65 is a side portion radio wave absorber provided on the side portion 112 of the opening / closing cover 11. In Figure 3, the second cover portion radio wave absorber 65 in the closed state of the opening / closing cover 11 is shown by a dashed line.

[0217] In this embodiment, the second cover portion radio wave absorber 65 is attached to the front portion when the second side portion 1122 is divided into two equal parts front to back. The second cover portion radio wave absorber 65 is a strip-shaped member that runs along the second side portion 1122, has a predetermined length in the width direction, and extends in the front to back direction.

[0218] The second cover section radio wave absorber 65, as shown in Figure 2, has a horizontally elongated rectangular shape with a rectangular cutout at the rear lower side (rear upper side in the figure).

[0219] The second cover portion's radio wave absorber 65 may be laminated and integrated with the second cover portion's metal body over its entire length and width, or it may be laminated and integrated with only a portion of the second cover portion's metal body. This embodiment reduces the influence of radio waves radiated to the side portion 112 by providing the second cover portion's radio wave absorber 65.

[0220] The second cover section radio wave absorber 65 is positioned on the side of the partition member 51 and is partially adjacent to the partition member 51 when the opening / closing cover 11 is closed. The second cover section radio wave absorber 65 and the partition member 51 may be in contact with each other or slightly separated. This configuration can reduce radio wave leakage.

[0221] In this embodiment, the side of the housing 10 is open when the opening / closing cover 11 is open. With the opening / closing cover 11 open, the first space 14 and the second space 16 of the housing 10 are exposed. In this case, the continuum M can be easily attached and detached, and the ink ribbon R can be easily replaced. This makes it possible to replace the ink ribbon R and the continuum M, and to perform maintenance inside the unit.

[0222] In this embodiment, at least one of a bottom metal body 58 and a bottom radio wave absorber 59 is provided along the bottom surface (bottom portion 123) of the housing 10. In this case, the influence of radio waves radiated to the bottom portion 123 can be reduced.

[0223] The bottom metal body 58 is a strip-shaped member that has a predetermined widthwise length and extends in the front-to-back direction. The front end of the bottom metal body 58 is located in front of the rear end of the upstream metal body 53, and the rear end of the bottom metal body 58 is located behind the front end of the partition member 51. The bottom radio wave absorber 59 may be laminated and integrated over the entire length and width of the bottom metal body 58, or it may be laminated and integrated over a part of it.

[0224] The main configuration and effects of the printer 100 according to this embodiment, which is configured as described above, will now be explained.

[0225] The printer 100 includes a transport path P on which a continuum M is transported, in which multiple wireless tags 6 are provided at predetermined intervals, and which are activated when the power generated by predetermined communication radio waves exceeds a predetermined power; a communication unit 40 that uses an antenna 42 that generates predetermined communication radio waves to wirelessly communicate with one wireless tag 6 in the continuum M, which is the wireless tag 6(1) to be communicated, at a position facing the antenna 42; and a control unit 2 that controls the operation of the communication unit 40 to repeatedly output predetermined communication radio waves from the antenna 42 at a predetermined cycle time. The control unit 2 performs radio wave adjustment processing to make at least one of the output of the predetermined communication radio wave and the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave in a subsequent radio wave output cycle following a radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag 6 was not activated greater than in the radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag 6 was not activated.

[0226] According to this, the control unit 2 increases at least one of the output of a predetermined communication radio wave and the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave in the subsequent radio wave output cycle following the radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag 6 did not start up. Therefore, the predetermined communication radio wave output from the antenna 42 of the communication unit 40 can be appropriately adjusted so that even wireless tags 6 with low electromotive force performance start up quickly.

[0227] If the output of a predetermined communication radio wave in a radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag 6 did not activate is not at a predetermined upper limit, the control unit 2 increases the output of the predetermined communication radio wave in the subsequent radio wave output cycle.

[0228] According to this, the issuance speed of wireless tags 6 can be efficiently increased.

[0229] If the output of a predetermined communication radio wave in a radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag 6 did not activate is not at a predetermined upper limit, the control unit 2 will not increase the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave in the subsequent radio wave output cycle.

[0230] If there is room to increase the output of the specified communication radio wave, the issuance speed of the wireless tag 6 can be efficiently increased by prioritizing the increase in the output of the specified communication radio wave over the duty cycle of the specified communication radio wave.

[0231] If the output of a predetermined communication radio wave in a radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag 6 did not activate is at a predetermined upper limit, the control unit 2 increases the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave in the subsequent radio wave output cycle.

[0232] According to this, even when it is not possible to increase the output power of a predetermined communication radio wave, the issuance speed of the wireless tag 6 can be efficiently increased.

[0233] The control unit 2 performs radio wave adjustment processing for each of the multiple wireless tags 6 (first mode).

[0234] According to this, the predetermined communication radio waves output from the antenna 42 of the communication unit 40 can be appropriately adjusted for all wireless tags 6 to be issued. Therefore, even if there are wireless tags 6 with low electromotive force performance, a decrease in issuance speed can be suppressed. In addition, the yield can be improved.

[0235] The control unit 2 performs radio wave adjustment processing on the leading wireless tag 6 in the continuum M, and uses the final set values ​​of the predetermined communication radio wave output and the predetermined communication radio wave duty cycle in the radio wave output cycle in which the leading wireless tag 6 was activated as the second set values ​​of the predetermined communication radio wave to be output to each of the subsequent wireless tags 6 (fourth mode).

[0236] According to this, for the multiple wireless tags 6 that follow the leading wireless tag 6, i.e., the remaining wireless tags 6, there is a higher possibility of obtaining a stable issuance speed and yield without having to adjust the predetermined communication radio waves.

[0237] The control unit 2 performs radio wave adjustment processing on a predetermined number of radio tags 6, starting from the first radio tag 6 in the continuum M. The final set values ​​of the predetermined communication radio wave output and the predetermined communication radio wave duty cycle in the radio wave output cycle in which the radio tag 6 with the longest activation time among the predetermined number of radio tags 6 is activated are used as the second set values ​​of the predetermined communication radio waves to be output to each of the subsequent multiple radio tags 6 (third mode).

[0238] According to this, for multiple wireless tags 6 that follow a predetermined number of wireless tags 6 in the continuum M, i.e., the remaining wireless tags 6, the likelihood of obtaining a stable issuance speed and yield increases without having to adjust the predetermined communication radio waves. Furthermore, compared to the case where the final setting value of the leading wireless tag 6 is used as the second setting value (fourth mode), there is a higher likelihood of obtaining a stable issuance speed and yield.

[0239] The leading wireless tag 6 is the first wireless tag 6(1) that the communication unit 40 will wirelessly communicate with after loading the continuum M into the printer 100.

[0240] According to this, when a continuum M is loaded into the printer 100, the predetermined communication radio waves output from the antenna 42 of the communication unit 40 can be appropriately adjusted to match the electromotive force performance of the multiple wireless tags 6 that the loaded continuum M possesses.

[0241] The leading wireless tag 6 is the first wireless tag 6(1) that the communication unit 40 communicates wirelessly with after the printer 100 is powered on.

[0242] According to this, if a continuum M is loaded into the printer 100 while the printer 100 is powered off, or if maintenance is performed on the printer 100 while the printer 100 is powered off, the predetermined communication radio waves output from the antenna 42 of the communication unit 40 can be appropriately adjusted to match the electromotive force performance of the multiple wireless tags 6 that the loaded continuum M has.

[0243] The communication unit 40 reads information from the wireless tag 6 but does not write any information to the wireless tag 6.

[0244] In this case, the printer 100 does not need to have the function of a writing device that writes information to the wireless tag 6. Therefore, the cost of the printer 100 can be reduced.

[0245] The printer 100 has a printing unit 20 that prints on the wireless tag 6.

[0246] According to this, information such as characters, symbols, figures, or barcodes can be printed on the wireless tag 6.

[0247] The printer 100 comprises a housing 10 that covers the internal space, and a functional member 50 provided on at least one of a predetermined inner surface of the housing 10 and the internal space, which reduces the influence of radio waves on the wireless tag 6.

[0248] According to this, having the functional component 50 reduces the impact of radio waves on the wireless tag 6.

[0249] Wireless tag 6 uses Bluetooth® Low Energy as its communication method.

[0250] In this case, the communication range is longer than NFC (Near Field Communication), and the power consumption is lower than Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0251] [Second Embodiment] Hereinafter, a printer 100 according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 12. In the drawings and description of the second embodiment, the same or equivalent components and parts as in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals. Descriptions that overlap with the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate, and the differences from the first embodiment will be described in detail.

[0252] Figure 12 is a side view showing the interior of the printer 100 according to the second embodiment, and corresponds to Figure 3.

[0253] The printer 100 of the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the configuration of the functional components 50 is different, but the other configurations are the same.

[0254] The printer 100 of the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the partition member 51 is integrally formed and has a different shape.

[0255] As shown in Figure 12, the partition metal body 52 is a strip-shaped member having a predetermined widthwise length and generally extending vertically. The partition metal body 52 includes a forward-facing portion 521, a downward-facing portion 522, a curved portion 523, and an inclined portion 524.

[0256] The forward-facing portion 521 extends forward at a position close to the upper surface portion 113.

[0257] The downward-facing portion 522 bends at the front end of the forward-facing portion 521 and extends downward.

[0258] The curved portion 523 extends downward from the lower end of the downward portion 522, curving in accordance with the outer circumference of the printing medium supply unit 30.

[0259] The inclined portion 524 bends forward at the lower end of the curved portion 523 and extends diagonally downward.

[0260] The partition metal body 52 may be fixed to the inner side surface 124 with screws or the like, with the forward-facing portion 521 and the inclined portion 524.

[0261] The printer 100 of this embodiment can achieve the same functions and effects as the first embodiment. In addition, because the partition metal body 52 of the printer 100 of this embodiment is integrated, the number of parts is reduced, assembly is easier, and it is cost-effective.

[0262] [Third Embodiment] Hereinafter, the printer 100 according to the third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 13 and 14. In the drawings and description of the third embodiment, the same or equivalent components and parts as in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals. Descriptions that overlap with those of the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate, and the description will focus on the configurations that differ from those of the first embodiment.

[0263] Figure 13 is a side view showing the interior of the printer 100 according to the third embodiment, and corresponds to Figure 3.

[0264] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram showing a front-winding continuum M. In Figure 13, a front-winding roll T is used in which the wireless tag 6 is wound with the continuum M positioned on the outside. In this example, the continuum M is unwound downwards from a position forward of the center of the printing medium supply unit 30.

[0265] The printer 100 of the third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the configuration of the functional components 50 is different, but the other configurations are the same.

[0266] As shown in Figure 13, the printer 100 of this embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it includes a tracking member 64.

[0267] The follower member 64 contacts the upstream portion M2 of the continuum M that is upstream of the communication unit 40 in the continuum M. In particular, the follower member 64 contacts the continuum M following the movement of the continuum M.

[0268] When the communication unit 40 of the printer 100 communicates with the wireless tag 6 to be communicated with, the radio wave from the antenna 42 may reach another wireless tag 6 following the wireless tag 6 to be communicated with. In this case, the radio wave from the antenna 42 may affect another wireless tag 6, and there is a possibility that the printer 100 or another wireless tag 6 may malfunction. From the viewpoint of preventing such malfunction, it is desirable to reduce the influence of the radio wave on another wireless tag 6. Therefore, the printer 100 of the present embodiment includes a follower member 64 that contacts and follows the upstream portion M2 of the continuum M that is upstream of the communication unit 40 of the continuum M.

[0269] The follower member 64 contacts the continuum M upstream of the wireless tag 6 communicating at the communication unit 40, and continuously follows in accordance with the movement of the continuum M while remaining in contact. In particular, the follower member 64 contacts the surface of the continuum M along the stretching direction of the continuum M, and continuously follows along a plurality of wireless tags 6.

[0270] The follower member 64 may be a radio wave absorber. The follower member 64 is provided so as to contact the wireless tag 6 upstream of the wireless tag 6 facing the antenna 42. In particular, it is preferable that the follower member 64 follows the wireless tag 6 upstream of and adjacent to the wireless tag 6 facing the antenna 42 and further upstream of that wireless tag 6.

[0271] It is preferable that the follower member 64 follows the wireless tag 6 attached to the portion of the continuum M separated from the roll T set in the print medium supply unit 30. This is because the roll T itself set in the print medium supply unit 30 does not substantially react to radio waves since the wireless tags 6 overlap each other.

[0272] The follower member 64 of the present embodiment is a strip-shaped member having a length in a predetermined width direction and extending generally vertically from the swing fulcrum 642 toward the swing end (the other end on the side opposite to the swing fulcrum 642) 643. The follower member 64 contacts the upstream side portion M2. In this case, since the distance to the upstream side portion M2 can be minimized, the effect of reducing the influence can be improved.

[0273] The length of the follower member 64 in the width direction may be equal to or greater than the length of the wireless tag 6 in the width direction.

[0274] The follower member 64 has a follower part metal body or a follower part radio wave absorber. The follower member 64 and other radio wave absorbers described in this specification are formed of, for example, a conductive radio wave absorbing material such as a fabric of conductive fibers, a dielectric radio wave absorbing material in which carbon powder or the like is mixed with a dielectric such as rubber, urethane foam, or styrene foam, or a magnetic radio wave absorbing material made of a magnetic material such as iron, nickel, or ferrite.

[0275] There is no limitation on the following mechanism of the follower member 64. In FIG. 13, the follower member 64 follows the upstream side portion M2 by the swing end 643 swinging around the swing fulcrum 642. In particular, the follower member 64 in this example follows the upstream side portion M2 by the action of gravity. In this case, since it follows by its own weight, the following mechanism can be simply configured. The follower member 64 may be configured to follow the upstream side portion M2 by being biased by a biasing member such as a spring. In this case, the following operation can be stabilized with respect to a change in posture.

[0276] As shown in FIG. 13, the swing end 643 of the follower member 64 is bent in the direction away from the roll T (forward in this example). In this case, damage to the roll T by the swing end 643 can be suppressed.

[0277] As shown in FIG. 13, the follower member 64 of the present embodiment has a shape that covers a part of the continuous body M pulled out from the roll T of the printing medium supply unit 30 and a part of the roll T set in the printing medium supply unit 30. In this case, the influence of radio waves on the portion covered by the follower member 64 can be effectively reduced.

[0278] In Figure 13, the roll T1 at its maximum outer diameter is shown by a solid line, and the roll T2 at its minimum outer diameter is shown by a dashed line. As shown in Figure 13, the tracking member 64 oscillates in response to changes in the outer diameter of the roll T set in the printing medium supply unit 30 or changes in the position of the continuum M drawn out from the roll T. In this case, the effect of reducing the influence of radio waves with respect to changes in the outer diameter of the roll T can be stabilized. The tracking member 64 may also be able to respond to changes in position in the front-rear and up-down directions.

[0279] As shown in Figure 13, the tracking member 64 contacts the printing surface of the continuum M. The tracking member 64 contacts the printing surface of the continuum M facing the print head 22, upstream of the platen roller 24 and the print head 22 in the transport path P of the continuum M. In this case, the distance from the tracking member 64 to the wireless tag 6 can be minimized, thereby improving the effect of reducing interference.

[0280] The tracking member 64 may be configured to contact the surface of the continuum M opposite to the printing surface. In particular, the tracking member 64 may be configured to contact the surface of the continuum M opposite to the printing surface upstream of the platen roller 24 and the print head 22 in the transport path P of the continuum M. In this case, the influence of the tracking member 64 on the printing surface can be reduced.

[0281] The following member 64 may be configured to apply tension to the continuum M. In this case, slack in the continuum M can be reduced, and the transport operation can be stabilized.

[0282] As shown in Figure 13, the pivot point 642 of the follower member 64 is located upstream of the communication unit 40. In this case, compared to the case where the pivot point 642 is located downstream of the communication unit 40, the degree of freedom in the placement of the follower member 64 is increased, and the follower member 64 can be placed closer to the upstream part M2. The pivot point 642 of the follower member 64 may also be located downstream of the communication unit 40.

[0283] As shown in Figure 13, the pivot end 643 of the follow member 64 is located upstream of the pivot point 642. In this case, the follow member 64 can be made to follow the upstream portion M2 by its own weight.

[0284] As shown in Figure 13, the pivot point 642 of the tracking member 64 is positioned above the damper mechanism 26 for applying tension to the continuum M. In this case, interference between the pivot point 642 and the damper mechanism 26 can be prevented. The pivot point 642 of the tracking member 64 may also be positioned below the damper mechanism 26. In this case, the tracking member 64 can be made longer to improve the radio wave absorption effect.

[0285] As shown in Figure 13, the pivot point 642 of the tracking member 64 faces the upstream metal body 53, which has a width corresponding to the width direction of the continuum M. In this case, the gap between the pivot point 642 and the upstream metal body 53 can be narrowed, thereby suppressing radio waves leaking from this gap.

[0286] In Figure 13, the pivot point 642 of the tracking member 64 faces the bottom metal body 58. In this case, the gap between the pivot point 642 and the bottom metal body 58 can be narrowed to suppress radio waves leaking from this gap.

[0287] The printer 100 of this embodiment can achieve the same effects as the first embodiment. In addition, the printer 100 of this embodiment can reduce the influence of radio waves on the wireless tag 6 of the upstream side M2 ​​by absorbing radio waves with the tracking member 64. Furthermore, since the tracking member 64 contacts and follows the upstream side M2, it moves in accordance with changes in the position and shape of the upstream side M2, and can stabilize the effect of reducing the influence of radio waves with respect to changes in position and shape.

[0288] [Fourth Embodiment] The printer 100 according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to Figures 15 to 17. In the drawings and description of the fourth embodiment, the same or equivalent components and parts as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals. Descriptions that overlap with those of the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate, and the description will focus on the configurations that differ from those of the first embodiment.

[0289] In the description of each of the above embodiments, an example in which the functional member 50 is not provided on the upper surface portion 113 of the opening / closing cover 11 has been shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the functional member 50 may include a third cover portion radio wave absorber 57 as a cover portion radio wave absorber provided on the upper surface portion 113 of the opening / closing cover 11.

[0290] FIG. 15 is a side view showing a state in which the opening / closing cover 11 of the printer 100 according to the fourth embodiment is opened by 180°. FIG. 16 is a side view showing a state in which the opening / closing cover 11 of the printer 100 in FIG. 15 is opened by 90°. FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the printer 100 in FIG. 15.

[0291] The printer 100 of the present embodiment includes a third cover portion radio wave absorber 57 provided on the upper surface portion 113 of the opening / closing cover 11. [[ID=IO]]

[0292] In the present embodiment, the opening / closing cover 11 includes a front surface portion 111, a side surface portion 112, and an upper surface portion 113.

[0293] The front surface portion 111 is a plate-like portion that mainly extends vertically along the front surface of the printing unit 1 and covers the upper side of the front surface of the printing unit 1.

[0294] The upper surface portion 113 is a plate-like portion that extends along the upper surface of the printing unit 1 from the upper end of the front surface portion 111 toward the rear.

[0295] The side surface portion 112 is a plate-like portion that extends along the right side surface of the printing unit 1 downward from the right end of the upper surface portion 113.

[0296] The opening / closing cover 11 is provided so as to be openable and closable by a hinge l07 provided at the left end of the upper surface portion 113. One side of the hinge 107 is fixed to the left end of the upper surface portion 113, and the other side is fixed to the upper end of the inner side surface portion 124. In this example, the front surface portion 111 and the side surface portion I 12 are fixed to the upper surface portion 113, and the opening / closing cover 11 opens and closes integrally.

[0297] It is conceivable that radio waves radiated onto the inner surface of the housing 10 may be reflected and affect the wireless tag 6. Therefore, in this embodiment, the housing 10 has an opening / closing cover 11 that covers the first space 14 when closed, and the opening / closing cover 11 is provided with a first cover portion radio wave absorber 56 and a third cover portion radio wave absorber 57. In this case, the first cover portion radio wave absorber 56 and the third cover portion radio wave absorber 57 absorb radio waves and reduce the effect of reflected radio waves. The first cover portion radio wave absorber 56 and the third cover portion radio wave absorber 57 are strip-shaped members having a predetermined length in the width direction.

[0298] The first cover section radio wave absorber 56 and the third cover section radio wave absorber 57 are provided on the inner surface of the opening / closing cover 11.

[0299] The first cover section radio wave absorber 56 extends in a plane perpendicular to the transport direction when the opening / closing cover 11 is closed.

[0300] The third cover section radio wave absorber 57 extends parallel to the width direction of the continuum M when the opening / closing cover 11 is closed.

[0301] In this embodiment, the first cover portion radio wave absorber 56 is a front portion radio wave absorber that is attached to the inner surface of the front portion 111. For example, the first cover portion radio wave absorber 56 is provided in a vertical range from near the upper end of the front portion 111 to near the upper part of the outlet 106.

[0302] In this embodiment, the third cover portion radio wave absorber 57 is an upper surface portion radio wave absorber attached to the inner surface of the upper surface portion 113. For example, the third cover portion radio wave absorber 57 extends from near the front end of the upper surface portion 113 toward the rear and is provided substantially within the front-rear range of the first space 14.

[0303] In the fourth embodiment, the printer 100 has a single, integrated (non-divided) side section 112 and does not have a second cover section radio wave absorber 65. The printer 100 according to this embodiment may be provided with the second cover section radio wave absorber 65 shown in Figure 3, or the side section 112 may be divided into multiple sections.

[0304] The third cover portion radio wave absorber 57 is positioned on the upper part of the partition member 51 and is partially adjacent to the partition member 51 when the opening / closing cover 11 is closed. The third cover portion radio wave absorber 57 and the partition member 51 may be in contact with each other or slightly separated. This configuration can reduce radio wave leakage.

[0305] [Fifth Embodiment] The printer 100 according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to Figures 18 and 19. In the drawings and description of the fifth embodiment, the same or equivalent components and parts as those of the fourth embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals. Descriptions that overlap with those of the fourth embodiment will be omitted as appropriate, and the description will focus on the configurations that differ from those of the fourth embodiment.

[0306] Figure 18 is a side view showing the printer 100 according to the fifth embodiment with the opening / closing cover 11 opened to 90°. Figure 19 is a side view showing the inside of the printer 100 in Figure 18.

[0307] In this embodiment, a roll T with the front side facing outwards is used. In this example, the continuous material M is fed out downwards from a position forward of the center of the printing medium supply unit 30.

[0308] The printer 100 of this embodiment differs from the fourth embodiment in that it does not have a partition member 51 and has a follow-up member 64, but the other configurations are the same.

[0309] The functional member 50 of this embodiment includes an upstream metal body 53, an upstream radio wave absorber 54, a first cover portion radio wave absorber 56, a third cover portion radio wave absorber 57, a bottom portion radio wave absorber 59, a downstream radio wave absorber 62, a bottom portion metal body 58, a downstream metal body 61, and an extended metal body 67.

[0310] In this embodiment, the upstream metal body 53 is provided downstream of the following member 64 and adjacent to the upstream side of the communication unit 40.

[0311] Furthermore, the front end of the bottom metal body 58 is located in front of the rear end of the upstream metal body 53, and the rear end of the bottom metal body 58 is located behind the front end of the follow member 64.

[0312] As described above, the printer 100 of this embodiment includes a tracking member 64 that contacts the wireless tag 6 upstream of the wireless tag 6 being communicated by the communication unit 40, and continuously follows the movement of the continuum M while remaining in contact with it.

[0313] With this configuration, the influence of radio waves on the wireless tag 6 of the upstream side M2 ​​can be reduced by absorbing radio waves with the tracking member 64. In addition, since the tracking member 64 contacts and follows the upstream side M2, it moves in accordance with changes in the position and shape of the upstream side M2, and the effect of reducing the influence of radio waves can be stabilized in response to changes in position and shape.

[0314] [Sixth Embodiment] Hereinafter, a printer 100 according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figure 20. In the drawings and description of the sixth embodiment, the same or equivalent components and parts as those of the fifth embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals. Descriptions that overlap with those of the fifth embodiment will be omitted as appropriate, and the description will focus on the configurations that differ from those of the fifth embodiment.

[0315] Figure 20 is a side view showing the interior of the printer 100 according to the sixth embodiment.

[0316] In this embodiment, a roll T with the front side facing outwards is used. In this example, the continuous material M is fed out downwards from a position forward of the center of the printing medium supply unit 30.

[0317] The printer 100 of this embodiment differs from the fifth embodiment in that the configuration of the functional components 50 is different, but the other configurations are the same.

[0318] As shown in Figure 20, the printer 100 of this embodiment differs from the fifth embodiment in that it includes a partition member 51 that separates a first space 14 housing the printing unit 20 and the communication unit 40 from a second space 16 separate from the first space 14. In this example, the partition member 51 is fixed to the inner side surface 124 of the housing body 12.

[0319] In this embodiment, the second space 16 is the space surrounding the wireless tags 6 upstream of the wireless tags 6 housed in the first space 14 among the multiple wireless tags 6. In this case, the partition member 51 can efficiently reduce the influence of radio waves on the space surrounding the upstream wireless tags 6.

[0320] The partition member 51 of this embodiment includes a partition metal body 52 and a partition radio wave absorber 55. In this case, the influence of radio waves on the wireless tag 6 in the second space 16 can be reduced by shielding radio waves with the partition metal body 52. ​​The influence of radio waves on the wireless tag 6 in the second space 16 can be reduced by absorbing radio waves with the partition radio wave absorber 55. The partition metal body 52 and the partition radio wave absorber 55 are laminated and integrated.

[0321] As shown in Figure 20, the partition metal body 52 is a strip-shaped member having a predetermined widthwise length and generally extending vertically. The partition metal body 52 includes a forward-facing portion 521, a downward-facing portion 522, a curved portion 523, and an inclined portion 524.

[0322] The forward-facing portion 521 extends forward at a position close to the upper surface portion 113.

[0323] The downward-facing portion 522 bends at the front end of the forward-facing portion 521 and extends downward.

[0324] The curved portion 523 extends downward from the lower end of the downward portion 522, curving in accordance with the outer circumference of the printing medium supply unit 30.

[0325] The inclined portion 524 bends forward at the lower end of the curved portion 523 and extends diagonally downward.

[0326] The partition metal body 52 may be fixed to the inner side surface 124 with screws or the like, with the forward-facing portion 521 and the inclined portion 524.

[0327] The partition section radio wave absorber 55 may be provided along the entire length and width of the partition section metal body 52, or it may be provided only in a part of it.

[0328] The printer 100 of this embodiment can achieve the same functions and effects as the fifth embodiment. In addition, by providing a partition member 51 that separates the first space 14, which houses the printing unit 20 and the communication unit 40, from the second space 16, which is separate from the first space 14, radio waves from the antenna 42 in the first space 14 are less likely to reach the second space 16. Therefore, the influence of the radio waves on the wireless tag 6 in the second space 16 can be reduced.

[0329] The embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above. Each of the embodiments described above is merely a concrete example of how to implement the present invention. The content of each embodiment is not intended to limit the technical scope of the present invention to the specific configuration of each embodiment described above, and many modifications such as changes, additions, and deletions of components are possible.

[0330] The following describes modified examples. In the drawings and descriptions of modified examples, components and parts that are the same or equivalent as those in the embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals. Descriptions that overlap with those in the embodiments will be omitted as appropriate, and the descriptions will focus on the configurations that differ from those in the embodiments.

[0331] [First variation, second variation] The first and second modified examples will be described with reference to Figures 21 and 22. Figure 21 is a schematic diagram showing the follow-up member 64 of the first modified example. Figure 20 is a schematic diagram showing the follow-up member 64 of the second modified example. These figures mainly show the continuum M and the follow-up member 64 for ease of understanding, and omit descriptions of members that are not important to the explanation.

[0332] It has been suggested that placing the tracking member 64 in the range from immediately upstream of the antenna 42 of the communication unit 40 to the downstream side of the roll T is highly effective in reducing the influence of radio waves. From this perspective, the tracking member 64 in Figures 21 and 22 is placed immediately upstream of the antenna 42.

[0333] In the first modified example, the tracking member 64 extends along the upper surface of the continuum M from immediately upstream of the antenna 42 to a position lower than the lower end of the roll T. In this example, the tracking member 64 curves to follow the curvature of the continuum M.

[0334] The tracking member 64 is curved in a downward convex shape, exhibiting a roughly J-shape that is inverted left to right. Since the wireless tag 6 overlaps in the roll T portion, it is less susceptible to radio wave interference. For this reason, the tracking member 64 does not have a portion that covers the roll T.

[0335] In the second modified example, the following member 64 extends along the upper surface of the continuum M from immediately upstream of the antenna 42 to upstream of the upper end of the roll T. In this example, the following member 64 is curved to follow the curvature of the continuum M and has a portion that covers the roll T.

[0336] The following member 64 has a continuous downward convex curve and an upward convex curve, giving it an inclined, roughly S-shape.

[0337] Figures 21 and 22 show an example where the continuum M is front-wound, but the continuum M may also be back-wound.

[0338] [Other variations] The metal body of the following part may be integrally provided on the following member 64. In this case, the metal body of the following part may be laminated over the entire length and width of the following member 64, or it may be laminated over only a part of it. Furthermore, the metal body of the following part may be provided on either the front side or the back side of the following member 64.

[0339] In the description of the embodiment, an example was shown in which the functional member 50 includes the upstream metal body 53, the upstream radio wave absorber 54, the first cover portion radio wave absorber 56, the second cover portion radio wave absorber 65, the bottom portion radio wave absorber 59, the downstream radio wave absorber 62, the bottom portion metal body 58, the downstream metal body 61, and the stretched metal body 67, but it is not limited to this. It is not essential that the functional member 50 includes these. The functional member 50 may not include some or all of these.

[0340] The description of the embodiment shows an example where the entire space is partitioned by the partition member 51, but it is not limited to this. The premise is that the entire space is partitioned by the partition member 51. However, the partition member 51 may be formed in such a way that it can prevent radio waves from leaking out through the gaps on both sides in the width direction of the partition member 51.

[0341] Figure 23 shows a modified example of the partition member 51. As shown in Figure 23, the partition member 51 may be provided with an insertion hole 516 for inserting the continuous body M. Having an insertion hole 516 increases the design flexibility of the partition member 51. It also prevents leakage from both sides.

[0342] In the description of the second embodiment, an example was shown in which the partition member 51 is fixed to the housing body 12, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, the partition member 51 may be fixed to the opening / closing cover 11.

[0343] Figure 24 shows a modified example in which the partition member 51 is fixed to the opening / closing cover 11. Figure 25 shows another modified example in which the partition member 51 is fixed to the opening / closing cover 11. These figures are side views showing the opening / closing cover 11 in a 180° open state. By fixing the partition member 51 to the opening / closing cover 11 in this way, the area around the printing medium supply unit 30 is widened when the opening / closing cover 11 is open, making it easier to replace the roll T.

[0344] In Figure 24, the partition member 51 is divided into a first partition member 51C fixed to the first side portion 1121 and a second partition member 51D fixed to the second side portion 1122. The first partition member 51C and the second partition member 51D combine to form a single partition member 51.

[0345] Figure 24 shows an example in which all of the partition members 51 are fixed to the opening / closing cover 11, but the invention is not limited to this. For example, the partition member 51 may be provided in a divided configuration in which a part is fixed to the housing body 12 and the other part is fixed to the opening / closing cover 11. Alternatively, when the opening / closing cover 11 is closed, both parts may come together to form a single partition member 51.

[0346] In the description of the embodiment, an example was shown in which the printing medium supply unit 30 does not have a function to apply tension to the continuum M, but the embodiment is not limited to this. If the tension of the continuum M is weak, the continuum M may be excessively fed out and become slack in the middle of the transport path P. If the continuum M becomes slack, the positional relationship with the functional member 50 changes, which may reduce the effect of reducing the influence of radio waves on the wireless tag 6. For this reason, a tension-applying mechanism 31 may be provided in the printing medium supply unit 30.

[0347] Figure 26 is a perspective view showing a modified example of the printing medium supply unit 30. Figure 27 shows the printing medium supply unit 30 of Figure 26 with the roll T not yet installed. Figure 28 shows the printing medium supply unit 30 of Figure 26 with the roll T installed.

[0348] The printing medium supply unit 30 in this modified example includes a tension-applying mechanism 31. The tension-applying mechanism 31 is a mechanism for applying tension to the continuous body M drawn from the roll T of the printing medium supply unit 30.

[0349] The tension-applying mechanism 31 includes a support shaft 301, a roll guide portion 302, a tension plate 312, a spring retaining plate 314, and a biasing member 316.

[0350] The tension plate 312 is a hollow disc-shaped member that contacts the center of the mounted roll T. A support shaft 301 is inserted through the hollow portion of the tension plate 312.

[0351] The spring retaining plate 314 is a hollow disc-shaped member positioned adjacent to the tension plate 312 on the opposite side of the roll T. A support shaft 301 is inserted through the hollow portion of the spring retaining plate 314, and it is in contact with the tension plate 312 so as to be able to rotate relative to it.

[0352] The biasing member 316 is positioned on the opposite side of the spring retaining plate 314 from the tension plate 312. The biasing member 316 applies a biasing force toward the roll T to the tension plate 312 via the spring retaining plate 314. In this modified example, the biasing member 316 is a coil spring through which a support shaft 301 is inserted.

[0353] As shown in Figure 27, when the roll T is not attached to the printing medium supply unit 30, there is almost no biasing force applied to the tension plate 312, and the tension plate 312 can rotate freely.

[0354] As shown in Figure 28, when the roll T is mounted on the printing medium supply unit 30, the roll guide unit 302 presses the roll T toward the tension plate 312 along the support shaft 301, so the biasing member 316 is strongly compressed via the spring retaining plate 314. Therefore, the biasing member 316 applies a large biasing force to the tension plate 312 via the spring retaining plate 314. In this case, the spring retaining plate 314 is strongly pressed against the tension plate 312, and the frictional force between them increases.

[0355] In this state, when the continuum M is unwound and the roll T rotates, the frictional force between the tension plate 312 and the spring retaining plate 314 brakes the rotation of the tension plate 312 and the roll T. In this way, the tension-applying mechanism 31 can brake the rotation of the roll T by having the tension plate 312 come into contact with the end of the roll T. As a result, tension is applied to the continuum M, and the possibility of the continuum M being unwound excessively and causing slack is reduced.

[0356] The method for controlling the output of a predetermined communication radio wave for energizing the wireless tag 6 (hereinafter referred to as "energize output" or "energize output") is not limited to the examples of the above embodiment.

[0357] For example, during the first period when data is read from the wireless tag 6 to be communicated, the energized output (electromotive force output) may be increased, and during the second period when data is not being read, the energized output (electromotive force output) may be lower than during the first period. During the second period, the energized output (electromotive force output) may be set to the minimum, or the energized output (electromotive force output) may be stopped.

[0358] In this way, by controlling the energized output (voltage output), false detection of wireless tags 6 upstream of the wireless tag 6 being communicated with can be suppressed during the second period.

[0359] The second period includes the standby period. Standby means that the module's power is ON (i.e., the printer 100 is ON), but the communication unit 40 is not emitting radio waves, including electromotive force output, in effect. The communication unit 40 may be configured to emit radio waves only when printing.

[0360] Individual differences in the housing 10 can cause variations in the degree of influence of radio waves on the wireless tag 6, resulting in errors. Therefore, to reduce the impact of individual differences in the housing 10, the radio wave output may be adjusted according to the individual differences in the housing 10.

[0361] For example, the radio wave output can be adjusted by incorporating an adjustment step into the manufacturing process of the printer 100. Alternatively, the system may include a detection unit that detects information corresponding to individual differences in the housing 10, and an output adjustment unit that increases or decreases the radio wave output according to the detection result of the detection unit, thereby automatically adjusting the output.

[0362] A modified example comprising a front-side radio wave absorbing plate 69 will be described with reference to Figure 29. Figure 29 is a side view showing a modified example comprising a front-side radio wave absorbing plate 69.

[0363] The description of the embodiment shows an example in which no radio wave absorbing plate is provided on the front portion 121 of the housing body 12, but it is not limited to this. As shown in Figure 29, the printer 100 may be provided with a front-side radio wave absorbing plate 69 on the front portion 121 of the housing body 12. In this case, the front-side radio wave absorbing plate 69 can reduce the effect of radio wave leakage to the front side of the housing 10. The front-side radio wave absorbing plate 69 may include either or both a radio wave absorber and a metal body.

[0364] In Figure 29, the front-side radio wave absorbing plate 69 is attached to the inner surface of the front portion 121. In this modified example, the front-side radio wave absorbing plate 69 has a first portion 692 and a second portion 694.

[0365] The first part 692 is the vertical range from near the upper end of the front part 121 to near the upper part of the discharge port 106. The second part 694 is the vertical range from near the lower part of the discharge port 106 to near the lower end of the front part 121.

[0366] It is not essential that the front-side radio wave absorbing plate 69 has a first portion 692 and a second portion 694; one of them may be omitted. The upper and lower end positions of each portion of the front-side radio wave absorbing plate 69 can be set experimentally according to the desired reduction level of radio wave influence.

[0367] A modified example comprising an upstream radio wave absorbing plate 68 positioned upstream of the stretched metal body 67 will be described with reference to Figure 30. Figure 30 is a side view showing a modified example comprising an upstream radio wave absorbing plate 68.

[0368] In the description of the embodiment, an example was shown in which no radio wave absorber or metal body is provided upstream of the stretched metal body 67, but the invention is not limited to this. If the sensitivity of the wireless tag 6 is high, it may be affected even by weak radio waves. Therefore, as shown in Figure 30, the printer 100 may be provided with an upstream radio wave absorbing plate 68 upstream of the stretched metal body 67 on the transport path P. In this case, the upstream radio wave absorbing plate 68 can reduce the influence of radio waves on the wireless tag 6 upstream of the stretched metal body 67.

[0369] The upstream radio wave absorbing plate 68 may include either a radio wave absorber or a metal body, or both. By aligning the upstream radio wave absorbing plate 68 with the continuum M, the influence of radio waves on the wireless tag 6, which should not be exposed to radio waves, can be reduced. The upstream radio wave absorbing plate 68 may or may not be in contact with the continuum M.

[0370] From the perspective of reducing the effects of radio waves, the upstream radio wave absorbing plate 68 may be provided on the printing surface side of the continuum M, or on the side opposite to the printing surface of the continuum M. In Figure 30, the upstream radio wave absorbing plate 68 is provided on the side opposite to the printing surface of the continuum M. In this case, damage to the printing surface can be reduced.

[0371] The upstream radio wave absorbing plate 68 may be formed as a separate component from the stretched metal body 67, or as a component integrated with the stretched metal body 67.

[0372] In the example shown in Figure 30, the upstream radio wave absorbing plate 68 extends from the upstream end of the stretched metal body 67 toward the rear of the printer 100. Specifically, the upstream radio wave absorbing plate 68 extends forward and backward beyond the damper mechanism 26 to the vicinity of the printing medium supply unit 30.

[0373] The position of the upstream end of the upstream radio wave absorbing plate 68 can be determined experimentally according to the desired reduction level of radio wave influence. The widthwise length of the upstream radio wave absorbing plate 68 may be the same as the widthwise length of the stretched metal body 67.

[0374] A modified example comprising an upper radio wave absorber 70 positioned outside the outlet 106 will be described with reference to Figure 31. Figure 31 is a side view showing a modified example comprising an upper radio wave absorber 70.

[0375] As shown in Figure 31, the printer 100 may be provided with an upper radio wave absorber 70 for the output port 106 so as to cover the output port 106 from the outside.

[0376] The upper end of the upper radio wave absorber 70 is attached to the upper side of the outlet 106 on the front part 121 of the housing body 12. The lower end of the upper radio wave absorber 70 is a free end. Therefore, the continuous body M discharged from the outlet 106 is discharged downwards while pushing aside the upper radio wave absorber 70. In this case, the upper radio wave absorber 70 can reduce the influence of radio waves on the wireless tag 6 discharged from the outlet 106.

[0377] The lower end position and width of the upper radio wave absorber 70 at the outlet can be set experimentally according to the desired reduction level for the effects of radio waves.

[0378] A modified example comprising an outlet-lower radio wave absorber 71 positioned outside the outlet 106 will be described with reference to Figures 32 and 33. Figure 32 is a side view showing a modified example comprising an outlet-lower radio wave absorber 71. Figure 33 shows how the cutter mechanism 80 operates in the modified example comprising an outlet-lower radio wave absorber 71.

[0379] As shown in Figure 32, the printer 100 may be provided with an output port lower radio wave absorber 71 to support the continuous body M discharged from the output port 106 from below.

[0380] The lower radio wave absorber 71 of the discharge port is supported by a swing mechanism 72 attached to the lower side of the discharge port 106 on the front part 121 of the housing body 12. The continuous body M discharged from the discharge port 106 comes into contact with the lower radio wave absorber 71 due to its own weight. In this case, the lower radio wave absorber 71 can reduce the influence of radio waves on the wireless tag 6 discharged from the discharge port 106.

[0381] The lower discharge port radio wave absorber 71 extends to the vicinity of the platen roller 24 at one end. Therefore, when operating the cutter mechanism 80, as shown in Figure 33, the oscillating mechanism 72 oscillates the lower discharge port radio wave absorber 71 so that the other end is lowered. This prevents one end of the lower discharge port radio wave absorber 71 from interfering with the movable blade 81 of the cutter mechanism 80.

[0382] A metal body may be provided below the outlet instead of the radio wave absorber 71 below the outlet. In this case as well, the influence of radio waves on the wireless tag 6 discharged from the outlet 106 can be reduced.

[0383] Both an upper radio wave absorber 70 and a lower radio wave absorber 71 may be provided. In this case, the wireless tag 6 discharged from the outlet 106 will be sandwiched between the upper radio wave absorber 70 and the lower radio wave absorber 71, thereby further reducing the influence of radio waves on the wireless tag 6.

[0384] In the description of the embodiment, an example was shown in which the printing unit 20 uses heat to perform printing, but it is not limited to this. The printing unit 20 can employ a known printing method such as an inkjet method.

[0385] The printer 100 does not need to be equipped with the functional component 50.

[0386] Each of the above-described modifications produces the same functions and effects as the embodiments.

[0387] Any combination of the components and modifications of the embodiments described above is also useful as an embodiment of the present invention. The new embodiments resulting from these combinations possess the combined effects of both the combined embodiments and the modifications. [Explanation of symbols]

[0388] 1 Printing unit 2. Control unit (controller, computer) 6 Wireless Tags 6A electronic circuit section 6B Top page Wire C Adhesive 7. Conveying section 10 cabinets 11 Opening and closing cover 12. Main body of the enclosure 14 1st space 16 Second space 20 Printing section 22 Print head section 24 Platen Roller 26 Damper mechanism 30 Print media supply section 31. Tension-applying mechanism 34. Ink ribbon section 40 Communications Department 42 Antennas 44 Communication Circuits 45. Antenna section radio wave absorber 45a Flat part 45b Side wall part 46 Spacers 50 Functional Components 51 Partition Member 51A Enclosure-side partition member 51B Opening / Closing Cover Side Partition Member 51C First partition member 51D Second partition member 52 Partition metal body 53 Upstream metal body 54 Upstream radio wave absorber 55 Partition section radio wave absorber 56 First cover section radio wave absorber 57 Third cover section radio wave absorber 58 Bottom metal body 59. Bottom surface radio wave absorber 61 Downstream metal body 62 Downstream radio wave absorber 64 Following member 65. Second cover section radio wave absorber (side section radio wave absorber) 67 Stretched metal body 68 Upstream radio wave absorbing plate 69 Front side radio wave absorbing plate 70 Radio wave absorber on the upper side of the exhaust port 71 Radio wave absorber on the lower side of the exhaust port 72. Oscillating mechanism 80 Cutter Mechanism 81 Movable blade 100 printers 106 Outlet 107 Hinge 111 Front part 112 Side part 113 Top part 121 Front part 123 Bottom section (bottom surface) 124 Inner side part 125 Back section 221 Head body 222 Thermal Head 225 Rotation axis 261 First Dump Roller 262 Second Dump Roller 301 Support shaft 302 Roll guide section 312 Tension Plate 314 Spring retaining plate 316 Biasing member 341 Ribbon supply unit 342 Ribbon winding section 516 Insertion hole 521 Forward facing part 522 Downward part 523 Curved section 524 Slope section 642 Pivot 643 The pivot end (the other end opposite to the pivot point) 692 Part 1 694 Part 2 1121 First side part 1122 Second side part 1123 Hinge M continuum M2 Upstream side P transport path R Ink Ribbon S Mount T-roll T1 Roll T2 Roll

Claims

1. A transport path through which a continuous body is transported, each containing multiple wireless tags at predetermined intervals, which are activated when the power generated by a predetermined communication radio wave exceeds a predetermined level. A communication unit that uses an antenna that generates predetermined communication radio waves to wirelessly communicate with one of the wireless tags in the continuum, which is the wireless tag to be communicated, at a position facing the antenna. A controller that controls the operation of the communication unit to repeatedly output the predetermined communication radio waves from the antenna at a predetermined cycle time, Equipped with, The controller performs radio wave adjustment processing to make the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave in a subsequent radio wave output cycle following a radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag did not activate greater than that of the radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag did not activate. Printer.

2. A transport path through which a continuous body is transported, each containing multiple wireless tags at predetermined intervals, which are activated when the power generated by a predetermined communication radio wave exceeds a predetermined level. A communication unit that uses an antenna that generates predetermined communication radio waves to wirelessly communicate with one of the wireless tags in the continuum, which is the wireless tag to be communicated, at a position facing the antenna. A controller that controls the operation of the communication unit to repeatedly output the predetermined communication radio waves from the antenna at a predetermined cycle time, Equipped with, The aforementioned controller, In a subsequent radio wave output cycle following a radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag did not activate, a radio wave adjustment process is performed to make at least one of the output of the predetermined communication radio wave and the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave greater than that of the radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag did not activate. If the output of the predetermined communication radio wave in the radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag did not activate is not at a predetermined upper limit, the output of the predetermined communication radio wave in the subsequent radio wave output cycle is increased. If the output of the predetermined communication radio wave in the radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag did not activate is not the predetermined upper limit, the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave in the subsequent radio wave output cycle will not be increased. Printer.

3. The printer according to claim 2, If the output of the predetermined communication radio wave in the radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag did not activate is at the predetermined upper limit, the controller increases the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave in the subsequent radio wave output cycle. Printer.

4. A printer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The controller performs the radio wave adjustment process for each of the multiple wireless tags. Printer.

5. A printer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The controller performs the radio wave adjustment process on the first wireless tag in the continuum, and uses the output value of the predetermined communication radio wave and the duty cycle setting value of the predetermined communication radio wave in the radio wave output cycle in which the first wireless tag was activated as the setting value of the predetermined communication radio wave to be output to each of the subsequent plurality of wireless tags. Printer.

6. A printer according to any one of claims 1 to 3, The controller performs the radio wave adjustment process on a predetermined number of wireless tags, counting from the first wireless tag in the continuum, and uses the output value of the predetermined communication radio wave and the duty cycle setting value of the predetermined communication radio wave in the radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag with the longest activation time among the predetermined number of wireless tags is activated as the setting value of the predetermined communication radio wave to be output to each of the subsequent multiple wireless tags. Printer.

7. A transport path through which a continuous body is transported, each containing multiple wireless tags at predetermined intervals, which are activated when the power generated by a predetermined communication radio wave exceeds a predetermined level. A communication unit that uses an antenna that generates predetermined communication radio waves to wirelessly communicate with one of the wireless tags in the continuum, which is the wireless tag to be communicated, at a position facing the antenna. A controller that controls the operation of the communication unit to repeatedly output the predetermined communication radio waves from the antenna at a predetermined cycle time, Equipped with, The aforementioned controller, In a subsequent radio wave output cycle following a radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag did not activate, a radio wave adjustment process is performed to make at least one of the output of the predetermined communication radio wave and the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave greater than that of the radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag did not activate. The radio wave adjustment process is performed on a predetermined number of wireless tags, counting from the first wireless tag in the continuum, and the output value of the predetermined communication radio wave and the duty cycle setting value of the predetermined communication radio wave in the radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag with the longest activation time among the predetermined number of wireless tags is activated are used as the setting values ​​of the predetermined communication radio wave to be output to each of the subsequent multiple wireless tags. Printer.

8. A printer according to any one of claims 5 to 7, The aforementioned leading wireless tag is the wireless tag to be communicated by the communication unit first after the continuous body is loaded into the printer. Printer.

9. A printer according to any one of claims 5 to 7, The aforementioned leading wireless tag is the wireless tag that the communication unit first wirelessly communicates with after the printer is powered on. Printer.

10. A printer according to any one of claims 1 to 9, The communication unit reads information from the wireless tag and does not write information to the wireless tag. Printer.

11. A printer according to any one of claims 1 to 10, Having a printing unit for printing on the wireless tag, Printer.

12. A printer according to any one of claims 1 to 11, The enclosure that covers the internal space, A functional member provided on at least one of the predetermined inner surface of the housing and the internal space, which reduces the influence of radio waves on the wireless tag, Equipped with, Printer.

13. A printer according to any one of claims 1 to 12, The aforementioned wireless tag uses Bluetooth® Low Energy as its communication method. Printer.

14. A transport path through which a continuous body is transported, each containing multiple wireless tags at predetermined intervals, which are activated when the power generated by a predetermined communication radio wave exceeds a predetermined level. A communication unit that uses an antenna that generates predetermined communication radio waves to wirelessly communicate with one of the wireless tags in the continuum, which is the wireless tag to be communicated, at a position facing the antenna. A controller that controls the operation of the communication unit to repeatedly output the predetermined communication radio waves from the antenna at a predetermined cycle time, A method for controlling a printer, The duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave in a subsequent radio wave output cycle following the radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag did not activate is made greater than that of the radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag did not activate. How to control the printer.

15. A transport path through which a continuous body is transported, each containing multiple wireless tags at predetermined intervals, which are activated when the power generated by a predetermined communication radio wave exceeds a predetermined level. A communication unit that uses an antenna that generates predetermined communication radio waves to wirelessly communicate with one of the wireless tags in the continuum, which is the wireless tag to be communicated, at a position facing the antenna. A computer program that can be executed by a printer equipped with the following features: A procedure for controlling the operation of the communication unit to repeatedly output the predetermined communication radio waves from the antenna at a predetermined cycle time, A procedure to make the duty cycle of the predetermined communication radio wave in a subsequent radio wave output cycle following a radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag did not activate greater than that of the radio wave output cycle in which the wireless tag did not activate, A program that causes the aforementioned computer to execute.

Images