Printing system, print control program, and control device

Abstract

Users may perform manual operations on multiple printing devices. If the timing of manual operations on multiple printing devices overlaps, the user's work efficiency decreases. [Solution] The printing system comprises a first printing device having a first automatic processing period and a first manual processing period, a second printing device having a second automatic processing period and a second manual processing period, and a control device that controls the first printing device and the second printing device. The first printing device transmits first processing information to the control device, the second printing device transmits second processing information to the control device, and the control device estimates the first manual processing period and the second manual processing period. If the time interval between the first manual processing period and the second manual processing period is shorter than a predetermined time interval, the control device performs a modification process to change at least one of the first automatic processing period and the second automatic processing period.

Description

Technical Field

[0004] , ,

[0005] , ,

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a printing system, a printing control program, and a control device.

Background Art

[0002] A print job management system, which is an example of a printing system, is known. The print job management system described in Patent Document 1 includes a print job management device, which is an example of a control device, and a plurality of printing devices. The print job management device generates a print job and causes the printing device to execute printing based on the print job. The printing device executes printing based on the print job. The printing device includes, as an example, an inkjet printing unit. A user of the printing device may perform manual operations such as replenishing the printing medium and manually maintaining the printing unit.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] A user may perform manual operations on a plurality of printing devices. If the timings of the manual operations of the plurality of printing devices overlap, the workability of the user decreases.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The printing system of this disclosure includes a first printing apparatus having a first automatic processing period in which a first automatic process is performed in which no first action is performed by the user, and a first manual processing period in which the first action is performed by the user, and including a first printing unit that applies a first colorant to a first medium; a second printing apparatus having a second automatic processing period in which a second automatic process is performed in which no second action is performed by the user, and a second manual processing period in which the second action is performed by the user, and including a second printing unit that applies a second colorant to a second medium; and a control device that controls the first printing apparatus and the second printing apparatus. The first printing device transmits first processing information relating to the first automatic processing to the control device, the second printing device transmits second processing information relating to the second automatic processing to the control device, the control device estimates the first manual processing period based on the first processing information, estimates the second manual processing period based on the second processing information, and if the time interval between the first manual processing period and the second manual processing period is shorter than a predetermined time interval, it performs a modification process to change at least one of the first automatic processing period and the second automatic processing period.

[0006] The print control program of this disclosure is a print control program executed by a control device connected to a first printing device having a first automatic processing period in which a first automatic processing is performed in which no first work is performed by the user, and a first manual processing period in which the first work is performed by the user, and a second printing device having a second automatic processing period in which a second automatic processing is performed in which no second work is performed by the user, and a second manual processing period in which the second work is performed by the user, wherein the control device is caused to receive first processing information relating to the first automatic processing transmitted from the first printing device, receive second processing information relating to the second automatic processing transmitted from the second printing device, estimate the first manual processing period based on the first processing information, estimate the second manual processing period based on the second processing information, and, if the time interval between the first manual processing period and the second manual processing period is shorter than a predetermined time interval, execute a modification process to change at least one of the first automatic processing period and the second automatic processing period.

[0007] The control device of this disclosure is connected to a first printing device having a first automatic processing period in which a first automatic processing is performed in which no first work is performed by the user, and a first manual processing period in which the first work is performed by the user, and a second printing device having a second automatic processing period in which a second automatic processing is performed in which no second work is performed by the user, and a second manual processing period in which the second work is performed by the user, and the control device receives first processing information relating to the first automatic processing transmitted from the first printing device, receives second processing information relating to the second automatic processing transmitted from the second printing device, estimates the first manual processing period based on the first processing information, estimates the second manual processing period based on the second processing information, and if the time interval between the first manual processing period and the second manual processing period is shorter than a predetermined time interval, executes a modification process to change at least one of the first automatic processing period and the second automatic processing period. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] A diagram showing the schematic configuration of the print control system. [Figure 2] A diagram showing the general configuration of the printer. [Figure 3] A diagram showing the schematic configuration of the discharge section. [Figure 4] A diagram showing the block configuration of the print control system. [Figure 5] A schematic diagram showing an example of the control operation period and operator work period for each printer. [Figure 6] A diagram illustrating the control flow performed by the print control system. [Figure 7] A diagram showing an example of a display image shown on the display unit. [Figure 8] A diagram showing an example of the operating schedule for each printer. [Figure 9] A diagram showing an example of the operating schedule for each printer. [Figure 10] A diagram showing an example of the operating schedule for each printer. [Figure 11]A diagram showing an example of the operating schedule for each printer. [Figure 12] A diagram showing an example of the operating schedule for each printer. [Figure 13] A diagram showing an example of the operating schedule for each printer. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] Figure 1 shows a schematic configuration of the print control system 1. The print control system 1 corresponds to an example of a printing system. The print control system 1 comprises multiple printers 10 and a print control device 100. The print control system 1 shown in Figure 1 comprises four printers 10. The four printers 10 are the first printer 10A, the second printer 10B, the third printer 10C, and the fourth printer 10D. The number of printers 10 in the print control system 1 is not limited to four. The print control system 1 comprises two or more printers 10.

[0010] The printer 10 prints images and other data onto the printing medium M by applying ink ejected from the liquid ejection head 43 (described later) to the printing medium M. The printing medium M corresponds to an example of a medium. The printer 10 prints images and other data onto the printing medium M which is wound in a roll. The configuration of the printer 10 will be described later. As an example, the printer 10 communicates with the print control device 100 via a communication network.

[0011] The printer 10 has a control operation period 200 and an operator work period 210. The control operation period 200 is the period during which control operation processing is performed based on the control by the printer control unit 70, which will be described later, and during which no operator work is performed by an operator. An operator corresponds to an example of a user. The control operation processing includes printing operations, maintenance operations, etc., which are performed by the control of the printer control unit 70. Printing operations are operations that print images, etc., based on print jobs PJ. Maintenance operations are operations that clean the liquid ejection head 43. The control operation period 200 corresponds to an example of an automatic processing period. The operator work period 210 is the period during which an operator performs predetermined tasks on the printer while the printer 10 is stopped. Predetermined tasks include replacing the supply roll body R1 for printing, removing the winding roll body R2 on which the printed printing medium M is wound, and manual cleaning of the liquid ejection head 43. The operator work period 210 corresponds to an example of a manual processing period.

[0012] The multiple printers 10 may each have the same device configuration or different device configurations. The device configuration of the multiple printers 10 is not limited as long as they are configured to print images on a printing medium M wound in a roll.

[0013] The print control device 100 controls each of the multiple printers 10. The print control device 100 corresponds to an example of a control device. The print control device 100 is composed of a desktop PC, a notebook PC, a server device, etc. The print control device 100 communicates with each of the multiple printers 10. The print control device 100 receives various information from each printer 10 and controls each printer 10 based on the information. The print control device 100 shown in Figure 1 is configured separately from the printers 10, but is not limited to this. The print control device 100 may be configured as an integral part of one of the multiple printers 10.

[0014] Figure 2 shows the schematic configuration of the printer 10. Figure 2 is an example of the device configuration of the first printer 10A and the second printer 10B. The third printer 10C and the fourth printer 10D may be configured with the device configuration shown in Figure 2. The printer 10 is a roll-to-roll inkjet printer. The printer 10 prints an image on a printing medium M wound in a roll shape. The printer 10 shown in Figure 2 is a serial printing type inkjet printer, but is not limited thereto. The printer 10 may be a line printing type inkjet printer. The printer 10 includes a feeding unit 11, a conveying unit 12, a support unit 13, a discharging unit 14, a drying unit 15, and a winding unit 16.

[0015] A plurality of figures including Figure 2 show the XYZ coordinate system. The Z-axis is an axis orthogonal to the installation surface of the printer 10. The +Z direction is the direction from the installation surface upward. The −Z direction is the direction from above toward the installation surface. The X-axis is an axis orthogonal to the Z-axis. The +X direction is the direction from the back to the front of the printer 10 shown in Figure 2. The −X direction is the direction from the front to the back of the printer 10 shown in Figure 2. The Y-axis is an axis orthogonal to the X-axis and the Z-axis. The +Y direction is the direction in which the printing medium M is conveyed in the printing area PA shown in Figure 2. The printing area PA will be described later. The −Y direction is the direction opposite to the direction in which the printing medium M is conveyed in the printing area PA.

[0016] The feeding unit 11 supports a supply roll body R1. The supply roll body R1 is a roll body around which the printing medium M to be printed by the printer 10 is wound. The supply roll body R1 is attached to the feeding unit 11 by an operator. The feeding unit 11 feeds out the printing medium M wound around the supply roll body R1. The feeding unit 11 has a support shaft 11a and a feeding motor 11b.

[0017] The support shaft 11a rotatably supports the supply roll body R1. The supply roll body R1 is attached to the feeding unit 11 via the support shaft 11a by an attachment operation by an operator. The attachment operation is included in operator work.

[0018] The feed motor 11b is the drive source that rotates the support shaft 11a. The support shaft 11a rotates due to the drive of the feed motor 11b. The support shaft 11a feeds the printing medium M from the supply roll body R1 by rotating.

[0019] The transport unit 12 transports the printing medium M along the transport path TR. The transport path TR is the path along which the printing medium M, fed from the feeding unit 11, is transported until it reaches the winding unit 16. The transport unit 12 transports the printing medium M fed from the feeding unit 11 in the transport direction D on the support unit 13. The transport unit 12 has a transport roller pair 20, a transport motor 21, and a plurality of transport rollers. The plurality of transport rollers will be described later.

[0020] The transport roller pair 20 is positioned between the feeding unit 11 and the support unit 13 along the transport path TR. The transport roller pair 20 has a transport drive roller 20a and a transport driven roller 20b. The transport drive roller 20a is rotationally driven by the transport motor 21. The transport driven roller 20b rotates in response to the rotation of the transport drive roller 20a. The transport motor 21 is the power source that rotates the transport drive roller 20a. The transport roller pair 20 grips the printing medium M and transports it in the transport direction D.

[0021] The support section 13 supports the printing medium M being transported by the transport section 12 in the area including the printing area PA. The support section 13 constitutes part of the transport path TR. The printing area PA is the area where ink is applied to the printing medium M by the ejection section 14. In the printing area PA, the support section 13 and the ejection section 14 face each other via the printing medium M.

[0022] The dispensing unit 14 prints an image onto the printing medium M supported by the support unit 13. The dispensing unit 14 includes a guide shaft 40, a carriage 41, a carriage motor 42, and a liquid dispensing head 43.

[0023] The guide shaft 40 is positioned along the X-axis. The guide shaft 40 provides movable support for the carriage 41.

[0024] The carriage 41 supports the liquid ejection head 43. The carriage 41 is supported by a guide shaft 40. The carriage 41 moves along the guide shaft 40 in the +X and -X directions. By moving along the guide shaft 40, the carriage 41 changes the relative position between the printing medium M and the liquid ejection head 43. The carriage 41 corresponds to an example of a moving part.

[0025] The carriage motor 42 generates a driving force to move the carriage 41. The driving force from the carriage motor 42 causes the carriage 41 to move along the guide shaft 40 in the +X and -X directions.

[0026] The liquid ejection head 43 is positioned in the -Z direction of the carriage 41. The liquid ejection head 43 has a plurality of nozzles 44 for ejecting ink. The plurality of nozzles 44 are openings provided on the surface facing the support 13. The liquid ejection head 43 ejects ink onto the printing medium M supported by the support 13. The printing operation is performed by the liquid ejection head 43 ejecting ink onto the printing medium M during the period when the carriage 41 is changing its relative position between the printing medium M and the liquid ejection head 43, thereby applying ink to the printing medium M and printing an image, etc. The printing operation is performed by the carriage 41 repeatedly moving alternately in the +X direction and the -X direction, but there is a period of time when the carriage 41 stops when the direction of movement of the carriage 41 is switched. During such carriage stop times between passes, the liquid ejection head 43 does not eject ink onto the printing medium M, but in the following, carriage stop times between passes will also be included in the printing operation. Furthermore, the liquid ejection head 43 corresponds to an example of a printing unit.

[0027] The drying unit 15 supports the printing medium M, to which ink has been applied by the ejection unit 14, in its internal space and heats it. The drying unit 15 dries the printing medium M by heating it. The drying unit 15 shown in Figure 2 is located in the -Z direction of the ejection unit 14. The drying unit 15 may also be located in the +Y direction of the ejection unit 14. The printing medium M to which ink has been applied by the ejection unit 14 is transported to the drying unit 15 by the transport unit 12. The drying unit 15 has a drying unit housing 50.

[0028] The drying unit enclosure 50 encloses an internal space for drying the printing medium M. The drying unit enclosure 50 prevents heat generated inside from escaping to the outside. The drying unit enclosure 50, as an example, has an opening and closing door 50a.

[0029] The opening / closing door 50a opens or closes the internal space of the drying unit housing 50. The opening / closing door 50a is provided on the surface of the drying unit housing 50 in the +X direction. When the opening / closing door 50a is closed, the drying unit 15 dries the printing medium M that is transported into the internal space of the drying unit housing 50. When the opening / closing door 50a is open, the operator places the printing medium M into the internal space or removes the printing medium M from the internal space. Placing the printing medium M into the internal space and removing the printing medium M from the internal space are included in the operator's work.

[0030] When the printer 10 finishes printing, a portion of the printing medium M stops within the internal space of the drying unit 15. After the printing operation is complete, drying by the drying unit 15 may continue for the portion of the printing medium M that has stopped within the internal space. If the drying of the printing medium M continues for longer than a predetermined time, the image printed on the printing medium M may deteriorate, such as discoloration. After the printing operation is complete, it is preferable that the printing medium M that has stopped within the internal space be removed from the drying unit 15 by an operator within a predetermined time.

[0031] The winding unit 16 supports the winding roll R2. The winding unit 16 winds the printing medium M, which has been dried in the drying unit 15, onto the winding roll R2. The winding roll R2 is a roll on which the printing medium M with the printed image has been wound. The winding roll R2 is removed from the winding unit 16 by an operator. The winding unit 16 has a winding shaft 16a and a winding motor 16b. The winding unit 16 may have a tensioning unit (not shown). The tensioning unit applies tension to the printing medium M.

[0032] The winding shaft 16a rotatably supports the winding roll body R2. The winding roll body R2 is removed from the winding unit 16 by an operator's removal operation. The removal operation is included in the operator's work.

[0033] The winding motor 16b is the drive source that rotates the winding shaft 16a. The winding shaft 16a rotates due to the drive of the winding motor 16b. As the winding shaft 16a rotates, it winds the printing medium M onto the winding roll body R2.

[0034] Figure 3 shows the schematic configuration of the dispensing unit 14. Figure 3 shows the dispensing unit 14 in a plan view from the +Z direction. Figure 3 shows the support unit 13 and the maintenance unit 60, which are positioned opposite the dispensing unit 14. Figure 3 virtually shows the nozzle 44 and the printing medium M. The dispensing unit 14 has a liquid supply unit 45.

[0035] The liquid supply unit 45 supplies ink to the ejection unit 14. The liquid supply unit 45 supplies one or more inks contained in a liquid storage unit (not shown) to the ejection unit 14. The liquid supply unit 45 has a liquid supply passage 46.

[0036] The liquid supply passage 46 is an ink flow path connecting the liquid storage section and the discharge section 14. The liquid supply passage 46 causes the ink to flow. The liquid supply section 45 has one or more liquid supply passages 46. When the liquid supply section 45 has multiple liquid supply passages 46, each of the multiple liquid supply passages 46 causes ink of a different color to flow.

[0037] The maintenance unit 60 performs maintenance on the liquid discharge head 43. The maintenance unit 60 is located at the +X and -X directions of the printing area PA. The maintenance unit 60 comprises a suction cap unit 61, a wiping unit 62, a first flushing receiving unit 63, a standby cap unit 64, and a second flushing receiving unit 65. The suction cap unit 61, the wiping unit 62, the first flushing receiving unit 63, and the standby cap unit 64 are located at the -X direction of the printing area PA. The second flushing receiving unit 65 is located at the +X direction of the printing area PA.

[0038] The suction cap 61 performs a suction cleaning operation on the liquid discharge head 43. The suction cleaning operation is an example of a maintenance operation. The suction cap 61 is configured to be movable relative to the liquid discharge head 43. When the suction cap 61 is positioned to contact the liquid discharge head 43, it performs capping to cover the nozzle 44. The suction cleaning operation is performed after capping has been completed.

[0039] The wiping unit 62 performs a wiping operation to wipe the liquid discharge head 43. The wiping operation is an example of a maintenance operation. The wiping unit 62 is positioned in the -X direction of the suction cap unit 61. The wiping unit 62 has a wiper (not shown). As the wiper moves, the wiping unit 62 wipes the liquid discharge head 43.

[0040] The first flushing receiving section 63 receives the ink ejected by flushing. Flushing is an example of a maintenance operation in which ink unrelated to printing is ejected from the nozzles 44 of the liquid ejection head 43. Flushing prevents or resolves clogging of the nozzles 44. The liquid ejection head 43 performs flushing by ejecting ink at a position opposite the first flushing receiving section 63. The first flushing receiving section 63 is located in the -X direction of the wiping section 62. The first flushing receiving section 63 includes a first receiving section 63a.

[0041] The first receiving section 63a receives the ink ejected by the liquid ejection head 43. The first receiving section 63a is configured as a bottomed box with an opening. The first receiving section 63a is provided with a lid member (not shown) that covers the opening. The provision of the lid member suppresses the drying and solidification of the ink ejected into the first receiving section 63a.

[0042] The standby cap portion 64 performs capping on the liquid ejection head 43. The standby cap portion 64 is configured to be movable relative to the liquid ejection head 43. When the standby cap portion 64 is positioned in contact with the liquid ejection head 43, it performs capping to cover the nozzle 44. By performing capping, the drying of the ink inside the nozzle 44 is suppressed. The standby cap portion 64 is positioned in the -X direction of the first flushing receiving portion 63.

[0043] The second flushing receiving section 65 receives the ink ejected by the flushing. The liquid ejection head 43 performs flushing by ejecting ink at a position opposite the second flushing receiving section 65. The second flushing receiving section 65 includes a second receiving section 65a.

[0044] The second receiving section 65a receives the ink ejected by the liquid ejection head 43. The second receiving section 65a is configured as a bottomed box with an opening. The second receiving section 65a is provided with a lid member (not shown) that covers the opening. The provision of the lid member suppresses the drying and solidification of the ink ejected into the second receiving section 65a.

[0045] The maintenance unit 60 performs maintenance operations including various cleaning methods such as flushing, suction cleaning, and wiping. The printer 10 can change the maintenance execution time by changing the combination of various cleaning methods and the execution time of each cleaning method. The change in maintenance execution time is performed by the control of the print control device 100.

[0046] Figure 4 shows the block configuration of the print control system 1. Figure 4 shows the first printer 10A and the second printer 10B, which are among the multiple printers 10 provided by the print control system 1. Figure 4 shows the print control system 1 with the third printer 10C and the fourth printer 10D omitted. The block configuration of the third printer 10C and the fourth printer 10D is the same as that of the first printer 10A or the second printer 10B. The third printer 10C and the fourth printer 10D are controlled by the print control device 100, just like the first printer 10A and the second printer 10B.

[0047] The first printer 10A prints an image on the printing medium M by applying one or more inks, including the first ink, to the printing medium M. The first printer 10A corresponds to an example of a first printing device. The first ink corresponds to an example of a first colorant. The first printer 10A prints an image on the first printing medium M1 attached to the first printer 10A. The first printing medium M1 is an example of the printing medium M and corresponds to an example of the first medium. The first printer 10A includes a first printer ejection unit 14a, a first drying unit 15a, a first maintenance unit 60a, a first printer control unit 70a, a first printer storage unit 80a, and a first printer communication unit 90a.

[0048] The first printer ejection unit 14a is an example of an ejection unit 14. The first printer ejection unit 14a has a first liquid ejection head 43a. The first liquid ejection head 43a is an example of a liquid ejection head 43. The first liquid ejection head 43a applies one or more inks, including a first ink, to a first printing medium M1 attached to the first printer 10A. The first liquid ejection head 43a corresponds to an example of a first printing unit.

[0049] The first drying section 15a is an example of the drying section 15. The first drying section 15a supports the first printing medium M1 in its internal space. The first drying section 15a heats the first printing medium M1, which has been coated with one or more inks, including the first ink, by the first liquid ejection head 43a. By heating the first printing medium M1, the first drying section 15a dries the first ink and the like applied to the first printing medium M1. The drying section 15 corresponds to an example of a heating section.

[0050] The first maintenance unit 60a is an example of the maintenance unit 60. The first maintenance unit 60a performs maintenance operations on the first liquid ejection head 43a. The first maintenance unit 60a executes maintenance operations under the control of the first printer control unit 70a. The maintenance execution time is changed by the first maintenance unit 60a executing maintenance operations as appropriate.

[0051] The printer control unit 70 is a printer control controller that controls the printer 10. The first printer control unit 70a is an example of the printer control unit 70 and controls the first printer 10A. The first printer control unit 70a is, for example, a processor having a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The first printer control unit 70a is composed of one or more processors. The first printer control unit 70a controls the first printer ejection unit 14a, etc., based on the print job PJ received from the print control device 100, etc. By controlling the first printer ejection unit 14a, etc., the first printer control unit 70a applies one or more inks, including the first ink, to the first printing medium M1 and prints an image on the first printing medium M1.

[0052] The first printer control unit 70a causes the first printer 10A to execute the first printer control operation process. The first printer control operation process is an example of a control operation process and corresponds to an example of a first automatic process. The first printer control operation process includes the first printer printing operation performed by the first liquid ejection head 43a, the first printer maintenance operation for the first liquid ejection head 43a, etc. The first printer maintenance operation is a maintenance operation performed on the first liquid ejection head 43a. The first printer maintenance operation is an example of a maintenance process. The first printer 10A performs the first printer control operation process for a first control operation period 200a under the control of the first printer control unit 70a. The first control operation period 200a is an example of a control operation period 200 and corresponds to an example of a first automatic process period.

[0053] The first printer control unit 70a generates first printer operation information related to the first printer control operation processing. The first printer operation information corresponds to an example of first processing information. The first printer operation information includes the transport speed of the first printing medium M1, the print resolution of the image to be printed on the first printing medium M1, the type of cleaning performed by the first printer 10A, the cleaning time, etc. The first printer control unit 70a transmits the first printer operation information to the print control device 100 via the first printer communication unit 90a at a predetermined timing. The predetermined timing is a predetermined time interval, the timing when the print length of the first printing medium M1 reaches a predetermined set length, the timing when a maintenance operation is performed, etc. The predetermined timing is set as appropriate.

[0054] The first printer control unit 70a receives various instruction information transmitted from the print control device 100. Based on the instruction information, the first printer control unit 70a modifies the print operation, maintenance operation, etc. The instruction information includes instructions to change the print speed, print resolution, maintenance conditions, and print order.

[0055] A print speed change instruction is an instruction to change the print speed of a print operation performed by printer 10. A print operation corresponds to an example of a print process. A print speed corresponds to an example of a processing speed. When printer 10, including the first printer 10A, receives a print speed change instruction, it changes the print speed of the print operation. The printer control unit 70 controls the transport unit 12, ejection unit 14, etc., to change the print speed. A print speed change instruction corresponds to an example of a speed change instruction.

[0056] The printer control unit 70, including the first printer control unit 70a, controls the movement of the carriage 41 to change the printing speed. The printer control unit 70 changes the movement speed of the carriage 41 as it moves along the guide axis 40. The movement speed corresponds to an example of the operating speed. The printer control unit 70 may also change the carriage stop time. The carriage stop time is the time during which the carriage 41 stops at the end positions in the -X direction and the +X direction. The carriage stop time between such paths corresponds to an example of the stop time. When the first printer control unit 70a changes the movement speed or carriage stop time of the carriage 41, the first control operation period 200a is changed.

[0057] A print resolution change instruction is an instruction to change the print resolution of the image printed by printer 10. When printer 10, including the first printer 10A, receives a print resolution change instruction, it changes the print resolution of the image printed during the printing operation. Printer 10 changes the print resolution by changing the number of passes when printing the image. The number of passes is the number of times the liquid ejection head 43 moves along the X axis per unit length. As the number of passes increases, the print resolution increases and the printing speed decreases. A print resolution change instruction corresponds to an example of a speed change instruction.

[0058] The printer control unit 70, including the first printer control unit 70a, controls the operation of the carriage 41 and the liquid ejection head 43 to change the print resolution. The printer control unit 70 changes the print resolution by changing the number of passes. The print speed is changed as a result of changing the print resolution. As an example, the printer control unit 70 sets the print resolution for each print job PJ. The printer control unit 70 changes the number of passes according to the set print resolution. When the first printer control unit 70a changes the number of passes, the first control operation period 200a is changed.

[0059] A maintenance condition change instruction is an instruction to change the cleaning execution time, execution method, etc., of various cleanings included in the maintenance operation performed by the printer 10. The maintenance execution time is changed by changing the cleaning execution time, execution method, etc. A maintenance operation corresponds to an example of maintenance processing. Maintenance execution time is the time required for the maintenance operation and corresponds to an example of maintenance time. When the printer 10, including the first printer 10A, receives a maintenance condition change instruction, it changes the maintenance execution time of the maintenance operation. The printer control unit 70 controls the maintenance unit 60, etc., to change the maintenance execution time. A maintenance condition change instruction corresponds to an example of a maintenance change instruction.

[0060] The printer control unit 70, including the first printer control unit 70a, controls the operation of the maintenance unit 60 to change the cleaning execution time. For example, the printer control unit 70 changes the execution time of suction cleaning. The printer control unit 70 may also change the execution time of flushing. When the first printer control unit 70a changes the execution time of suction cleaning, etc., the first control operation period 200a is changed.

[0061] A print order change instruction is an instruction to change the execution order of print jobs PJs that cause the printer 10 to perform printing operations. Printers 10, including the first printer 10A, for example, receive print jobs PJs sequentially from the print control device 100 and store the print jobs PJs. Multiple print jobs PJs each have different printing conditions set and are executed. Printing conditions include the print length of the printing medium M, the print resolution, etc. The printer 10 executes the printing operations based on the print jobs PJs in the order they are received. When the printer 10 receives a print order change instruction, it changes the execution order of the multiple print jobs PJs it has received. The printer control unit 70 then executes the printing operations based on the print jobs PJs in the changed execution order.

[0062] The printer control unit 70, including the first printer control unit 70a, causes the printer control unit 70 to execute printing operations based on the print job PJ in the execution order based on the print order change instruction. The printer control unit 70 changes the timing of the operator work period 210 by changing the execution order of multiple print job PJs.

[0063] The first printer storage unit 80a stores various information, programs, etc. The first printer storage unit 80a is an example of the printer storage unit 80. The printer storage unit 80, including the first printer storage unit 80a, stores firmware that causes the printer control unit 70 to operate as various functional units. The printer storage unit 80 stores various instruction information, print jobs PJ, etc., transmitted from the print control device 100. The printer storage unit 80 is composed of semiconductor memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) or RAM (Random Access Memory). The printer storage unit 80 may also be composed of a magnetic recording medium such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive).

[0064] The first printer communication unit 90a is an interface circuit that communicates with the print control device 100, etc. The first printer communication unit 90a is an example of the printer communication unit 90. The printer communication unit 90, including the first printer communication unit 90a, connects to the print control device 100 by wire or wireless connection according to a predetermined communication protocol. The first printer communication unit 90a includes wired connectors, wireless communication ports, etc. Wired connectors include USB (Universal Serial Bus) connectors, LAN (Local Area Network) connectors, etc. Wireless communication ports include wireless LAN ports, Bluetooth communication ports, etc. Bluetooth is a registered trademark. The first printer communication unit 90a transmits first printer operation information to the print control device 100. The first printer communication unit 90a receives print jobs PJ, various instruction information, etc. from the print control device 100.

[0065] The second printer 10B prints an image onto the printing medium M by applying one or more inks, including a second ink, to the printing medium M. The second ink may be the same color as the first ink or a different color. The second printer 10B corresponds to an example of a second printing device. The second ink corresponds to an example of a second colorant. The second printer 10B prints an image onto the second printing medium M2 attached to the second printer 10B. The second printing medium M2 is an example of the printing medium M and corresponds to an example of the second medium. The second printing medium M2 may be the same printing medium M as the first printing medium M1 or a printing medium M made of a different material. The second printer 10B includes a second printer ejection unit 14b, a second drying unit 15b, a second maintenance unit 60b, a second printer control unit 70b, a second printer storage unit 80b, and a second printer communication unit 90b.

[0066] The second printer ejection unit 14b is an example of the ejection unit 14. The second printer ejection unit 14b has a second liquid ejection head 43b. The second liquid ejection head 43b is an example of the liquid ejection head 43. The second liquid ejection head 43b applies one or more inks, including the second ink, to the second printing medium M2 attached to the second printer 10B. The second liquid ejection head 43b corresponds to an example of the second printing unit.

[0067] The second drying section 15b is an example of the drying section 15. The second drying section 15b supports the second printing medium M2 in its internal space. The second drying section 15b heats the second printing medium M2, which has been coated with one or more inks, including the second ink, by the second liquid ejection head 43b. By heating the second printing medium M2, the second drying section 15b dries the second ink and the like applied to the second printing medium M2.

[0068] The second maintenance unit 60b is an example of the maintenance unit 60. The second maintenance unit 60b performs maintenance operations on the second liquid ejection head 43b. The second maintenance unit 60b executes the maintenance operations under the control of the second printer control unit 70b. The maintenance execution time is changed by the second maintenance unit 60b appropriately performing various cleaning operations included in the maintenance operation.

[0069] The second printer control unit 70b is an example of the printer control unit 70 and controls the second printer 10B. The second printer control unit 70b is, for example, a processor having a CPU. The second printer control unit 70b is composed of one or more processors. The second printer control unit 70b controls the second printer ejection unit 14b, etc., based on the print job PJ received from the print control device 100, etc. By controlling the second printer ejection unit 14b, etc., the second printer control unit 70b applies one or more inks, including the second ink, to the second printing medium M2 and prints an image on the second printing medium M2.

[0070] The second printer control unit 70b causes the second printer 10B to execute a second printer control operation process. The second printer control operation process is an example of a control operation process and corresponds to an example of a second automatic process. The second printer control operation process includes a second printer printing operation performed by the second liquid ejection head 43b, a second printer maintenance operation for the second liquid ejection head 43b, etc. The second printer 10B performs the second printer control operation process during the second control operation period 200b under the control of the second printer control unit 70b. The second control operation period 200b corresponds to an example of a second automatic process period.

[0071] The second printer control unit 70b generates second printer operation information related to the second printer control operation processing. The second printer operation information corresponds to an example of the second processing information. The second printer operation information includes the transport speed of the second printing medium M2, the print resolution of the image printed on the second printing medium M2, the type of cleaning performed by the second printer 10B, the cleaning time, etc. The second printer control unit 70b transmits the second printer operation information to the print control device 100 via the second printer communication unit 90b at a predetermined timing. The predetermined timing is a predetermined time interval, the timing when the print length of the second printing medium M2 reaches a predetermined set length, the timing when a maintenance operation is performed, etc. The predetermined timing is set as appropriate.

[0072] The second printer control unit 70b receives various instruction information transmitted from the print control device 100. Based on the instruction information, the second printer control unit 70b modifies the print operation, maintenance operation, etc. The instruction information includes instructions to change the print speed, print resolution, maintenance conditions, and print order. The various instruction information transmitted to the second printer 10B is the same as the various instruction information transmitted to the first printer 10A.

[0073] The second printer storage unit 80b stores various information, programs, etc. The second printer storage unit 80b is an example of the printer storage unit 80. The second printer storage unit 80b stores firmware that causes the second printer control unit 70b to operate as various functional units. The second printer storage unit 80b stores various instruction information, print jobs PJ, etc. transmitted from the print control device 100. The second printer storage unit 80b is composed of semiconductor memory such as ROM or RAM. The second printer storage unit 80b may also be composed of a magnetic recording medium such as an HDD.

[0074] The second printer communication unit 90b is an interface circuit that communicates with the print control device 100 and the like. The second printer communication unit 90b is an example of the printer communication unit 90. The second printer communication unit 90b connects to the print control device 100 by wire or wireless connection according to a predetermined communication protocol. The second printer communication unit 90b includes a wired connector, a wireless communication port, etc. The second printer communication unit 90b transmits second printer operation information to the print control device 100. The second printer communication unit 90b receives print jobs PJ, various instruction information, etc. from the print control device 100.

[0075] The print control device 100 controls a plurality of printers 10, including a first printer 10A and a second printer 10B. The print control device 100 controls a first control operation period 200a related to the first printer control operation processing performed on the first printer 10A. The print control device 100 controls a second control operation period 200b related to the second printer control operation processing performed on the second printer 10B. By controlling the first control operation period 200a and the second control operation period 200b, the print control device 100 adjusts the first operator work period 210a and the second operator work period 210b. The first operator work period 210a is an example of a manual processing period and corresponds to an example of a first manual processing period. The second operator work period 210b is an example of a manual processing period and corresponds to an example of a second manual processing period. The first operator work period 210a is the period during which the first operator work is performed by an operator. The first operator work is operator work performed on the first printer 10A and corresponds to an example of the first work. The second operator work period 210b is the period during which the second operator work is performed by the operator. The second operator work is operator work performed on the second printer 10B and corresponds to an example of the second work. The print control device 100 includes a display unit 101, an input unit 103, a control unit 105, a storage unit 107, and a communication unit 109.

[0076] The display unit 101 displays various information to the operator of the print control device 100 based on the control of the control unit 105. The operator of the print control device 100 may be the same as or different from the operator of the printer 10. The display unit 101 is composed of a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (electro-luminescence) display, etc. The display unit 101 may have a touch input function. The display unit 101 may be integrated into the print control device 100 or may be attached as a separate external unit.

[0077] The input unit 103 accepts various input operations from the operator. The input unit 103 generates various input signals corresponding to the input operations and transmits the input signals to the control unit 105. The input unit 103 is composed of input devices such as a keyboard, mouse, or pad. When the display unit 101 has a touch input function, the display unit 101 functions as the input unit 103. The input unit 103 may be integrated into the print control device 100 or may be attached as a separate external unit.

[0078] The control unit 105 is a control controller that controls multiple printers 10, including the first printer 10A and the second printer 10B. The control unit 105 is, for example, a processor having a CPU. The control unit 105 is composed of one or more processors. The control unit 105 functions as a functional unit that controls the multiple printers 10 by executing a control program PG. The control program PG corresponds to an example of a print control program.

[0079] The control unit 105 acquires printer operation information transmitted from the printer 10. Based on the printer operation information and the work time tr, the control unit 105 estimates the control operation period 200 and the operator work period 210. The work time tr is a predetermined time, which is the set value of the time required for operator work. As an example, the control unit 105 acquires first printer operation information from the first printer 10A. Based on the first printer operation information, the control unit 105 estimates the first control operation period 200a and the first operator work period 210a. Similarly, the control unit 105 estimates the second control operation period 200b and the second operator work period 210b, and estimates the third control operation period 200c and the third operator work period 210c.

[0080] The control unit 105 calculates the work interval Δt using the estimated operator work period 210 for each printer 10. The work interval Δt corresponds to an example of a time interval. The work interval Δt is the time difference between the operator work periods 210 of two printers 10 included in the print control system 1. The control unit 105 calculates the work interval Δt for each combination of the multiple printers 10 included in the print control system 1.

[0081] The control unit 105 calculates the work interval Δt and then compares the work interval Δt with a preset time ts. The preset time ts is stored in the storage unit 107 beforehand. The preset time ts is set to a predetermined value that is greater than or equal to the work time tr. The preset time ts corresponds to an example of a predetermined time interval. The control unit 105 compares the work interval Δt and the preset time ts and determines whether the work interval Δt is shorter than the preset time ts.

[0082] When the control unit 105 determines that the work interval Δt is shorter than the set time ts, it performs a change instruction process for at least one of the multiple printers 10 included in the print control system 1. The change instruction process is an instruction operation that changes the control operation period 200 of at least one of the multiple printers 10. The change instruction process corresponds to an example of a change operation. The instruction operation is a speed instruction operation that sends a print speed change instruction, a resolution instruction operation that sends a print resolution change instruction, a maintenance change instruction operation that sends a maintenance condition change instruction, a print order instruction operation that sends a print order change instruction, etc. By executing the instruction operation operation, the control unit 105 changes the control operation period 200. As a result of changing the control operation period 200, the operator work period 210 is changed.

[0083] Figure 5 schematically shows an example of the control operation period 200 and operator work period 210 for each printer 10. Figure 5 schematically shows the control operation period 200 and operator work period 210 for the first printer 10A, the second printer 10B, and the third printer 10C. The operator work period 210 for each printer 10 shown in Figure 5 is, as an example, the period during which the winding roll body R2 is removed and the supply roll body R1 is installed. The operator work period 210 for each printer 10 is performed by one operator.

[0084] Figure 5 shows an example of the operation schedule for each printer 10 estimated by the print control device 100 based on printer operation information transmitted from each printer 10. The horizontal axis in Figure 5 represents elapsed time. The print control device 100 acquires the first printer operation information transmitted from the first printer 10A, the second printer operation information transmitted from the second printer 10B, and the third printer operation information transmitted from the third printer 10C, and creates the operation schedule shown in Figure 5. The operator work period 210 is set in advance as the work time tr. The work time tr for each printer 10 shown in Figure 5 is set to be the same, but is not limited to this. The work time tr for each printer 10 may be set to different times.

[0085] The control unit 105 estimates that the first control operation period 200a will end at the 11th hour t11 based on the first printer operation information. The first control operation period 200a is the period during which the first printer 10A performs printing operations. The control unit 105 estimates that the first operator work period 210a will begin after the 11th hour t11. The 11th hour t11 is the end time of the first control operation period 200a and the start time of the first operator work period 210a. The control unit 105 estimates that the end time of the first operator work period 210a is the 12th hour t12 using the work time tr. The control unit 105 estimates that the next first control operation period 200a will begin after the 12th hour t12.

[0086] The control unit 105 estimates that the second control operation period 200b will end at the 21st hour t21 based on the second printer operation information. The second control operation period 200b is the period during which the second printer 10B performs printing operations. The control unit 105 estimates that the second operator work period 210b will begin after the 21st hour t21. The 21st hour t21 is the end time of the second control operation period 200b and the start time of the second operator work period 210b. Using the work time tr, the control unit 105 estimates that the end time of the second operator work period 210b is the 22nd hour t22. The control unit 105 estimates that the next second control operation period 200b will begin after the 22nd hour t22.

[0087] The control unit 105 estimates that the third control operation period 200c will end at the 31st hour t31 based on the operation information of the third printer. The third control operation period 200c is the period during which the third printer 10C performs printing operations. The control unit 105 estimates that the third operator work period 210c will begin after the 31st hour t31. The 31st hour t31 is the end time of the third control operation period 200c and the start time of the third operator work period 210c. Using the work time tr, the control unit 105 estimates that the end time of the third operator work period 210c is the 32nd hour t32. The control unit 105 estimates that the next third control operation period 200c will begin after the 32nd hour t32.

[0088] The control unit 105 estimates the operator work period 210 for each printer 10, and then calculates the 12th work interval Δt12 and the 13th work interval Δt13 based on the operation schedule. The 12th work interval Δt12 and the 13th work interval Δt13 are examples of work intervals Δt. The 12th work interval Δt12 is the time difference between the first operator work period 210a and the second operator work period 210b. The 13th work interval Δt13 is the time difference between the first operator work period 210a and the third operator work period 210c.

[0089] The control unit 105 calculates the difference between the 11th time t11 and the 21st time t21 as the 12th work interval Δt12. The 11th time t11 is the start time of the first operator work period 210a. The 21st time t21 is the start time of the second operator work period 210b. The control unit 105 calculates the difference between the 11th time t11 and the 31st time t31 as the 13th work interval Δt13. The 31st time t31 is the start time of the third operator work period 210c.

[0090] The control unit 105 compares the 12th work interval Δt12 with the set time ts. The control unit 105 determines that the 12th work interval Δt12 shown in Figure 5 is shorter than the set time ts. The control unit 105 executes a change instruction process to send instruction information. The control unit 105 sends instruction information to at least one of the first printer 10A and the second printer 10B. By sending the instruction information, the control unit 105 changes at least one of the first control operation period 200a and the second control operation period 200b. By changing at least one of the first control operation period 200a and the second control operation period 200b, the control unit 105 makes the 12th work interval Δt12 longer than the set time ts. The time difference between the first operator work period 210a and the second operator work period 210b becomes larger, making it easier for the operator to perform their work.

[0091] The control unit 105 compares the 13th work interval Δt13 with the set time ts. The control unit 105 determines that the 13th work interval Δt13 shown in Figure 5 is longer than the set time ts. The control unit 105 does not execute the change instruction process. The control unit 105 estimates that the time difference between the first operator work period 210a and the third operator work period 210c is sufficiently maintained, and that the workers are in a state where they can work easily.

[0092] The storage unit 107 shown in Figure 4 stores various programs and information. The storage unit 107 stores the control program PG. The storage unit 107 stores the setting time ts, work time tr, etc., used by the control unit 105. The storage unit 107 may also store the print job PJ to be sent to the printer 10. The storage unit 107 is composed of semiconductor memory such as ROM or RAM. The storage unit 107 may also include a magnetic recording medium such as an HDD.

[0093] The control program PG is executed in the control unit 105. The control program PG causes the control unit 105 to function as a functional unit that controls multiple printers 10. The control program PG causes the communication unit 109 to receive printer operation information from each printer 10. The control program PG causes the control unit 105 to generate an operation schedule. The control program PG causes the control unit 105 to execute a change instruction process.

[0094] The communication unit 109 is an interface circuit that communicates with the printer 10 and other devices. The communication unit 109 connects to the printer 10 by wire or wireless connection according to a predetermined communication protocol. The communication unit 109 includes a wired connector, a wireless communication port, etc. The communication unit 109 receives printer operation information from the printer 10. The communication unit 109 transmits print jobs (PJ), various instruction information, etc. to the printer 10.

[0095] Figure 6 shows the control flow performed by the print control system 1. Figure 6 shows the control flow performed by the print control device 100, the first printer 10A, and the second printer 10B. Figure 6 omits the control flow for printers 10 other than the first printer 10A and the second printer 10B. Printers 10 other than the first printer 10A and the second printer 10B perform the control flow performed by the first printer 10A or the second printer 10B. The control flow of the print control device 100 shown in Figure 6 is performed by the print control device 100 executing the control program PG.

[0096] Figure 6 shows, but is not limited to, a control flow for changing the first control operation period 200a of the first printer 10A based on a change instruction process of the print control device 100.

[0097] In step S101, the print control device 100 sends a print start instruction to the first printer 10A and the second printer 10B. The control unit 105 of the print control device 100 sends the print job PJ and the print start instruction to the first printer 10A and the second printer 10B. The control unit 105 may send the print job PJ before sending the print start instruction. The control unit 105 may send the print start instruction to the first printer 10A and the second printer 10B simultaneously, or it may send the print start instruction with a time difference.

[0098] After sending a print start instruction, the print control device 100 estimates the operator work period 210 for each printer 10 in step S103. The control unit 105 obtains the length of the printing medium M of the supply roll R1 attached to each printer 10. The length of the printing medium M of the supply roll R1 attached to each printer 10 is stored in the storage unit 107 in advance. Based on the printing conditions included in the print job PJ sent to each printer 10, the control unit 105 obtains the print length and print resolution of the printing medium M. The control unit 105 obtains maintenance information for each printer 10. The maintenance information includes the timing and duration of maintenance performed by the printer 10. Based on the print length, print resolution, and maintenance information of the printing medium M, the control unit 105 estimates the control operation period 200 and the operator work period 210 for each printer 10 and stores them in the storage unit 107.

[0099] When the print control device 100 transmits a print start instruction, the first printer 10A receives the print start instruction in step S131. The first printer communication unit 90a of the first printer 10A receives the print start instruction and the print job PJ from the communication unit 109 of the print control device 100. The first printer communication unit 90a transmits the print start instruction and the print job PJ to the first printer control unit 70a. The first printer control unit 70a acquires the print start instruction and the print job PJ.

[0100] When the first printer 10A receives a print start instruction, it starts the printing operation in step S133. The first printer control unit 70a generates print data based on the print job PJ. The first printer control unit 70a operates the first liquid ejection head 43a according to the printing conditions included in the print job PJ. The first liquid ejection head 43a applies ink, including the first ink, to the first printing medium M1 attached to the first printer 10A.

[0101] When the first printer 10A starts printing, in step S135, it stores the first printer operation information. The first printer control unit 70a stores the transport speed of the first printing medium M1, the print resolution of the image to be printed on the first printing medium M1, and the maintenance operations performed by the first printer 10A as first printer operation information in the first printer storage unit 80a.

[0102] After the first printer 10A starts printing, it determines in step S137 whether a predetermined timing has been reached. The predetermined timing is set in advance. The predetermined timing is a predetermined time interval, the timing when the print length of the first printing medium M1 reaches a predetermined set length, the timing when a maintenance operation is performed, etc. If the first printer 10A determines that the predetermined timing has been reached, it proceeds to step S139 (step S137: YES). If the first printer 10A determines that the predetermined timing has not been reached, it returns to step S135 (step S137: NO).

[0103] In step S139, the first printer 10A transmits the first printer operation information to the print control device 100. The first printer control unit 70a transmits the first printer operation information to the communication unit 109 of the print control device 100 via the first printer communication unit 90a.

[0104] When the print control device 100 sends a print start instruction, the second printer 10B receives the print start instruction in step S161. As shown in Figure 6, steps S161 to S169 of the second printer 10B are the same as steps S131 to S139 of the first printer 10A, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0105] The timing at which the second printer 10B transmits the second printer operation information to the print control device 100 in step S169 may be the same as or different from the timing at which the first printer 10A transmits the first printer operation information to the print control device 100. The second printer control unit 70b transmits the second printer operation information to the communication unit 109 of the print control device 100 via the second printer communication unit 90b.

[0106] After transmitting second printer operation information, the second printer 10B determines in step S171 whether printing has finished. The second printer control unit 70b determines whether printing has finished by determining whether processing of the print job PJ transmitted from the print control device 100 has finished. If the second printer 10B determines that printing has finished, it sends an end signal indicating the end of printing to the print control device 100 and terminates its operation (step S171: YES). If the second printer 10B determines that printing has not finished, it returns to step S165 (step S171: NO).

[0107] When the print control device 100 receives the first printer operation information and the second printer operation information, it receives the first printer operation information and the second printer operation information in step S105. The communication unit 109 receives the first printer operation information and the second printer operation information and transmits it to the control unit 105. The control unit 105 acquires the first printer operation information and the second printer operation information.

[0108] When the print control device 100 receives the first printer operation information and the second printer operation information, in step S107 it estimates the operator work period 210 for each printer 10. Based on the first printer operation information, the control unit 105 estimates the first control operation period 200a and the first operator work period 210a for the first printer 10A. Based on the second printer operation information, the control unit 105 estimates the second control operation period 200b and the second operator work period 210b for the second printer 10B.

[0109] The print control device 100 estimates the operator work period 210 for each printer 10, and then in step S109 determines whether the work interval Δt is shorter than the set time ts. The control unit 105 obtains the set time ts from the storage unit 107. The control unit 105 obtains the start time of the first operator work period 210a and the start time of the second operator work period 210b. The control unit 105 calculates the 12th work interval Δt12, which is the difference between the start time of the first operator work period 210a and the start time of the second operator work period 210b. The control unit 105 compares the set time ts with the 12th work interval Δt12. If the control unit 105 determines that the 12th work interval Δt12 is shorter than the set time ts, the print control device 100 proceeds to step S111 (step S109: YES). If the control unit 105 determines that the 12th work interval Δt12 is not shorter than the set time ts, the print control device 100 returns to step S105 (step S109: NO).

[0110] In step S111, the print control device 100 executes a change instruction process. The print control device 100 executes a change instruction process that changes at least one of the first control operation period 200a and the second control operation period 200b. The control unit 105 executes at least one of the following as the change instruction process: a speed instruction operation, a resolution instruction operation, a maintenance change instruction operation, and a print order instruction operation. In the control flow shown in Figure 6, the print control device 100 performs a change instruction process that changes the first control operation period 200a. The speed instruction operation corresponds to an example of a speed instruction process. The maintenance change instruction operation corresponds to an example of a maintenance instruction process. The control unit 105 transmits instruction information to change the first control operation period 200a to the first printer 10A. The instruction information includes at least one of the following: a print speed change instruction, a print resolution change instruction, a maintenance condition change instruction, and a print order change instruction.

[0111] The print control device 100 makes the 12th work interval Δt12 longer than the set time ts by executing a change instruction process. When the 12th work interval Δt12 is longer than the set time ts, it becomes easier for the operator to perform predetermined tasks on the first printer 10A and the second printer 10B. This reduces the possibility that either the first printer 10A or the second printer 10B will be down for a period longer than the predetermined operator work period 210. If the first printer 10A is equipped with a drying unit 15, it is possible to prevent the printing medium M from being heated for a predetermined time or longer.

[0112] When the print control device 100 performs a change instruction process, it may display display data on the display unit 101 based on the estimated operation schedule. The control unit 105 generates display data based on the operation schedule and displays it on the display unit 101. The display unit 101 displays various information according to the display data.

[0113] Figure 7 shows an example of a display image shown on the display unit 101. Figure 7 is an example of a display image generated based on printer operation information transmitted from each printer 10. Figure 7 shows a display image generated based on printer operation information transmitted from four printers 10.

[0114] The display unit 101 shows, for example, the printer name 301 and the scheduled substrate replacement time 303. The display unit 101 shown in Figure 7 shows the printer name 301 and the scheduled substrate replacement time 303 for each of the four printers 10.

[0115] The four printer names 301 are the names of the first printer 10A, the second printer 10B, the third printer 10C, and the fourth printer 10D, respectively. Each printer name 301 is set as appropriate by the operator or other personnel.

[0116] The scheduled substrate replacement time 303 indicates the start time of the operator work period 210 for each printer 10. The substrates refer to the supply roll R1 and the winding roll R2. The scheduled substrate replacement time 303 is a time calculated using the operator work period 210 estimated by the control unit 105. The display of the scheduled substrate replacement time 303 is set as appropriate. By checking the scheduled substrate replacement time 303, the operator can identify the printer 10, etc., on which they will perform the next operator work.

[0117] As shown in Figure 6, when the print control device 100 transmits instruction information, the first printer 10A receives the instruction information in step S141. The first printer communication unit 90a receives the instruction information transmitted from the communication unit 109 of the print control device 100. The first printer communication unit 90a transmits the instruction information to the first printer control unit 70a. The first printer control unit 70a acquires the instruction information.

[0118] When the first printer 10A receives instruction information, in step S143, it changes the first control operation period 200a. The first printer control unit 70a changes the first printer control operation process based on the instruction information. The first printer control unit 70a changes the first control operation period 200a by changing the first printer control operation process. In accordance with the change in the first control operation period 200a, the first operator work period 210a is changed.

[0119] When the first printer control unit 70a receives instruction information, for example, including a print speed change instruction, it changes the print speed of the print operation performed by the first printer 10A. The first printer control unit 70a may also change the print speed by changing the movement speed of the carriage 41 moving along the guide axis 40 or the carriage stop time. By changing the print speed of the print operation, the first printer control unit 70a changes the first control operation period 200a.

[0120] When the first printer control unit 70a receives instruction information including a print resolution change instruction, it changes the print resolution of the image to be printed by the first printer 10A. The first printer control unit 70a changes the print resolution by changing the number of passes when printing the image. The printing speed of the printing operation is changed in accordance with the change in print resolution. The first printer control unit 70a changes the first control operation period 200a by changing the print resolution of the printing operation.

[0121] When the first printer control unit 70a receives instruction information including an instruction to change maintenance conditions, it changes the cleaning execution time, execution method, etc., of the cleaning operation performed by the first printer 10A. By changing the cleaning execution time, execution method, etc., the first printer control unit 70a changes the first control operation period 200a.

[0122] When the first printer control unit 70a receives instruction information including an instruction to change the print order, it changes the execution order of the print jobs PJ that cause the first printer 10A to perform the print operation. The first printer control unit 70a changes the first control operation period 200a by changing the execution order of multiple print jobs PJ.

[0123] After changing the first control operation period 200a, the first printer 10A determines in step S145 whether or not printing has finished. The first printer control unit 70a determines whether or not printing has finished by determining whether or not the processing of the print job PJ sent from the print control device 100 has finished. If the first printer 10A determines that printing has finished, it sends an end signal indicating the end of printing to the print control device 100 and terminates its operation (step S145: YES). If the first printer 10A determines that printing has not finished, it returns to step S135 (step S145: NO).

[0124] After executing the change instruction process, the print control device 100 determines in step S113 whether all printers 10 have finished printing. The control unit 105 determines whether all printers 10 have finished printing based on the completion signals transmitted from each printer 10. If the print control device 100 determines that all printers 10 have finished printing, it terminates the process (step S113: YES). If the print control device 100 determines that all printers 10 have not finished printing, it returns to step S105 (step S113: NO).

[0125] The print control system 1 includes a first printer 10A which has a first control operation period 200a for executing a first printer control operation process in which no first operator work is performed by an operator, and a first operator work period 210a in which the operator performs the first operator work, and includes a first liquid ejection head 43a for applying first ink to a first printing medium M1; a second printer 10B which has a second control operation period 200b for executing a second printer control operation process in which no second operator work is performed by an operator, and a second operator work period 210b in which the operator performs the second operator work, and includes a second liquid ejection head 43b for applying second ink to a second printing medium M2; and a print control device 100 which controls the first printer 10A and the second printer 10B. The first printer 10A transmits first printer operation information related to the first printer control operation process to the print control device 100. The second printer 10B transmits second printer operation information related to the second printer control operation process to the print control device 100. The print control device 100 estimates the first operator work period 210a based on the first printer operation information and the second operator work period 210b based on the second printer operation information. If the 12th work interval Δt12 between the first operator work period 210a and the second operator work period 210b is shorter than a predetermined set time ts, the device executes a change instruction process to change at least one of the first control operation period 200a and the second control operation period 200b. The print control device 100 can change at least one of the first operator work period 210a and the second operator work period 210b by executing a change instruction process. When at least one of the first operator work period 210a and the second operator work period 210b is changed, the worker's work efficiency is improved.

[0126] The print control device 100 preferably lengthens the 12th work interval Δt12 by executing a change instruction process. As the 12th work interval Δt12 lengthens, the time difference between the first operator's work period 210a and the second operator's work period 210b increases, improving the workers' work efficiency.

[0127] The first printer control operation process includes a printing operation in which the first liquid ejection head 43a applies the first ink to the first printing medium M1. The change instruction process is preferably a speed instruction operation in which a print speed change instruction is sent to the first printer 10A to change the print speed of the printing operation. The print control device 100 can change the first control operation period 200a by changing the print speed.

[0128] The first printer 10A includes a carriage 41 that changes the relative position between the first printing medium M1 and the first liquid ejection head 43a. When the first printer 10A receives a print speed change instruction, it is preferable to change the print speed by changing the movement speed of the carriage 41 or the carriage stop time while the print operation is being performed. The print control device 100 can change the first control operation period 200a while suppressing the degradation of image quality of the image printed by the first printer 10A.

[0129] The first printer control operation process includes a first printer maintenance operation that performs maintenance on the first liquid ejection head 43a. Preferably, the change instruction process is a maintenance change instruction operation that sends a maintenance condition change instruction to the first printer 10A to change the maintenance execution time required for the first printer maintenance operation. The print control device 100 can change the first control operation period 200a without changing the printing operation of the first printer 10A.

[0130] The first printer 10A includes a drying section 15 that heats the first printing medium M1 to which the first ink has been applied by the first liquid ejection head 43a. Preferably, the first printing medium M1 is supported by the drying section 15. The printing control device 100 can suppress heating for a predetermined time or longer during the first operator work period 210a.

[0131] The control program PG is executed in a print control device 100 connected to a first printer 10A, which has a first control operation period 200a for executing a first printer control operation process in which no first operator work is performed by an operator, and a first operator work period 210a for executing a first operator work process in which an operator performs a first operator work; and a second printer 10B, which has a second control operation period 200b for executing a second printer control operation process in which no second operator work is performed by an operator, and a second operator work period 210b for executing a second operator work process in which an operator performs a second operator work. The control program PG causes the print control device 100 to receive first printer operation information related to the first printer control operation process transmitted from the first printer 10A, and second printer operation information related to the second printer control operation process transmitted from the second printer 10B. The control program PG causes the print control device 100 to estimate the first operator work period 210a based on the first printer operation information, and to estimate the second operator work period 210b based on the second printer operation information. The control program PG instructs the print control device 100 to execute a change instruction process to change at least one of the first operator work period 210a and the second operator work period 210b if the 12th work interval Δt12 between the first operator work period 210a and the second operator work period 210b is shorter than a predetermined set time ts. The print control device 100 can change at least one of the first operator work period 210a and the second operator work period 210b by executing a change instruction process. When at least one of the first operator work period 210a and the second operator work period 210b is changed, the worker's work efficiency is improved.

[0132] The print control device 100 is connected to a first printer 10A, which has a first control operation period 200a for executing a first printer control operation process in which no first operator work is performed by an operator, and a first operator work period 210a for which the operator performs a first operator work; and a second printer 10B, which has a second control operation period 200b for executing a second printer control operation process in which no second operator work is performed by an operator, and a second operator work period 210b for which the operator performs a second operator work. The print control device 100 receives first printer operation information related to the first printer control operation process transmitted from the first printer 10A and second printer operation information related to the second printer control operation process transmitted from the second printer 10B. Based on the first printer operation information, the print control device 100 estimates the first operator work period 210a and based on the second printer operation information estimates the second operator work period 210b. If the 12th work interval Δt12 between the first operator work period 210a and the second operator work period 210b is shorter than a predetermined set time ts, the print control device 100 executes a change instruction process to change at least one of the first control operation period 200a and the second control operation period 200b. The print control device 100 can change at least one of the first operator work period 210a and the second operator work period 210b by executing a change instruction process. When at least one of the first operator work period 210a and the second operator work period 210b is changed, the worker's work efficiency is improved.

[0133] Figures 8 and 9 show examples of operation schedules for each printer 10. Figure 8 shows the operation schedule before the print control device 100 executes a change instruction process. Figure 9 shows the operation schedule after the print control device 100 executes a change instruction process for the operation schedule shown in Figure 8. Figures 8 and 9 show the operation schedules for the first printer 10A, the second printer 10B, the third printer 10C, and the fourth printer 10D included in the print control system 1.

[0134] Figures 8 and 9 show the control operation period 200 and operator work period 210 for each printer 10. The control operation period 200 includes the print operation period 220 and the maintenance operation period 230. The print operation period 220 is the period during which the printer 10 is performing a print operation. The maintenance operation period 230 is the period during which the printer 10 is performing a maintenance operation.

[0135] Figure 8 shows an example of an operation schedule in which each printer 10 has a standard printing operation period 221 and a standard maintenance operation period 231. The standard printing operation period 221 is the period during which printing is performed at the first printing speed, and is an example of the printing operation period 220. The standard maintenance operation period 231 is the period during which maintenance is performed for the first maintenance execution time, and is an example of the maintenance operation period 230.

[0136] The first printer 10A has a first control operation period 200a and a first operator work period 210a. The first control operation period 200a includes a first standard print operation period 221a and a first standard maintenance operation period 231a. The first standard print operation period 221a is the period during which the first printer 10A performs a print operation and is an example of a standard print operation period 221. The first standard maintenance operation period 231a is the period during which the first printer 10A performs a maintenance operation and is an example of a standard maintenance operation period 231.

[0137] The second printer 10B has a second control operation period 200b and a second operator work period 210b. The second control operation period 200b includes a second standard print operation period 221b and a second standard maintenance operation period 231b. The second standard print operation period 221b is the period during which the second printer 10B performs a print operation and is an example of a standard print operation period 221. The second standard maintenance operation period 231b is the period during which the second printer 10B performs a maintenance operation and is an example of a standard maintenance operation period 231.

[0138] The third printer 10C has a third control operation period 200c and a third operator work period 210c. The third control operation period 200c includes a third standard print operation period 221c and a third standard maintenance operation period 231c. The third standard print operation period 221c is the period during which the third printer 10C performs a print operation and is an example of a standard print operation period 221. The third standard maintenance operation period 231c is the period during which the third printer 10C performs a maintenance operation and is an example of a standard maintenance operation period 231.

[0139] The fourth printer 10D has a fourth control operation period 200d and a fourth operator work period 210d. The fourth control operation period 200d is an example of the control operation period 200. The fourth operator work period 210d is an example of the operator work period 210. The fourth control operation period 200d includes a fourth standard print operation period 221d and a fourth standard maintenance operation period 231d. The fourth standard print operation period 221d is the period during which the fourth printer 10D performs a print operation and is an example of the standard print operation period 221. The fourth standard maintenance operation period 231d is the period during which the fourth printer 10D performs a maintenance operation and is an example of the standard maintenance operation period 231.

[0140] As shown in Figure 8, the first printer 10A has a first operator work period 210a between the first time t1 and the second time t2. The second printer 10B has a second operator work period 210b between the first time t1 and the second time t2. The first operator work period 210a overlaps with the second operator work period 210b. The print control device 100 determines that the 12th work interval Δt12 between the start time of the first operator work period 210a and the start time of the second operator work period 210b is shorter than the set time ts. The print control device 100 executes a change instruction process to change the operation schedule shown in Figure 8.

[0141] Figure 9 shows the operation schedule of each printer 10 when a change instruction process is performed to send instruction information to the first printer 10A. The print control device 100 changes the first operator work period 210a by changing the first control operation period 200a. As an example, the print control device 100 executes a maintenance change instruction operation as a change instruction process, which involves sending a maintenance condition change instruction to the first printer 10A. When the first printer 10A receives the maintenance condition change instruction, it changes its maintenance operation. By changing the maintenance operation, the first standard maintenance operation period 231a included in the first control operation period 200a is changed to the first shortened maintenance operation period 233a.

[0142] The first shortened maintenance operation period 233a is an example of the shortened maintenance operation period 233. The shortened maintenance operation period 233 is a period during which a second maintenance execution time maintenance operation is performed, which is shorter than the first maintenance execution time. The first printer 10A changes the type of cleaning included in the maintenance operation, the cleaning execution time, etc., based on the maintenance condition change instruction. As a result of the change in the maintenance operation, the first standard maintenance operation period 231a is changed to the first shortened maintenance operation period 233a.

[0143] The first control operation period 200a is changed when the first standard maintenance operation period 231a is changed to the first shortened maintenance operation period 233a. When the first control operation period 200a is changed, the start time of the first operator work period 210a is changed from the first hour t1 to the third hour t3. The third hour t3 is at least a set time ts before the first hour t1. When the start time of the first operator work period 210a is changed to the third hour t3, the first operator work period 210a is before the second operator work period 210b and does not overlap with the second operator work period 210b. The worker's work efficiency is improved.

[0144] When the print control device 100 executes a change instruction process for the first printer 10A, it checks the operation schedules of the third printer 10C and the fourth printer 10D. The print control device 100 determines whether the work interval Δt13 with the third operator work period 210c and the work interval Δt14 with the fourth operator work period 210d are shorter than the set time ts. If the print control device 100 determines that the 13th work interval Δt13 and the 14th work interval Δt14 are not shorter than the set time ts, it executes a change instruction process for the first printer 10A. The operator work periods 210 for each printer 10 are set to periods that do not overlap with each other.

[0145] Figure 10 shows an example of the operation schedule for each printer 10. Figure 10 shows the operation schedule when the print control device 100 executes the change instruction process shown in Figure 9 for the first printer 10A. Figure 10 shows the operation schedule from the third time t3 onwards. Figure 10 shows an operation schedule different from that of Figure 9. In Figure 10, the operation schedules for the third printer 10C and the fourth printer 10D are omitted.

[0146] The maintenance capacity of the maintenance operations performed during the shortened maintenance period 233 is lower than that of the maintenance operations performed during the standard maintenance period 231. As an example, the print control device 100 causes the printer 10, which has performed the maintenance operations during the shortened maintenance period 233, to perform the maintenance operations during the intensive maintenance period 235. The intensive maintenance period 235 is a period during which a third maintenance execution time maintenance operation, which is longer than the first maintenance execution time, is performed. The maintenance capacity of the maintenance operations performed during the intensive maintenance period 235 is higher than that of the maintenance operations performed during the standard maintenance period 231. By providing the intensive maintenance period 235, the reduction in the ejection capacity of the liquid ejection head 43 caused by the provision of the shortened maintenance period 233 is recovered.

[0147] The print control device 100 changes the maintenance operation period 230 included in the first control operation period 200a from the third time t3 onwards to the first powerful maintenance operation period 235a. The first powerful maintenance operation period 235a is an example of the powerful maintenance operation period 235a. The first powerful maintenance operation period 235a is longer than the first standard maintenance operation period 231a. The first control operation period 200a from the third time t3 onwards varies depending on the first powerful maintenance operation period 235a.

[0148] The print control device 100 calculates the work interval Δt12 between the first operator work period 210a from the first time t1 onwards and the second operator work period 210b from the second time t2 onwards, and compares it with the set time ts. Depending on the comparison result between the work interval Δt12 and the set time ts, the print control device 100 executes a change instruction process on at least one of the first printer 10A and the second printer 10B. Figure 10 shows the case when the print control device 100 executes a change instruction process on both the first printer 10A and the second printer 10B.

[0149] In the operation schedule shown in Figure 10, the print control device 100 executes a speed instruction operation as a change instruction process, which involves sending a print speed change instruction to the first printer 10A. The print control device 100 also executes a maintenance change instruction operation as a change instruction process, which involves sending a maintenance condition change instruction to the second printer 10B.

[0150] The print control device 100 changes the first standard print operation period 221a included in the first control operation period 200a to the first low-speed print operation period 223a by executing a speed instruction operation. The first low-speed print operation period 223a is the period during which the first printer 10A performs printing operations at a second print speed that is slower than the first print speed, and is an example of the print operation period 220 and the low-speed print operation period 223.

[0151] The print control device 100 changes the start time of the first operator work period 210a from the first time t1 onwards to the fifth time t5 by executing a speed instruction operation on the first printer 10A.

[0152] The print control device 100 changes the second standard maintenance operation period 231b included in the second control operation period 200b to the second shortened maintenance operation period 233b by executing a maintenance change instruction operation. The second shortened maintenance operation period 233b is an example of a shortened maintenance operation period 233.

[0153] The print control device 100 executes a maintenance change instruction operation for the second printer 10B, thereby changing the start time of the second operator work period 210b from the second time t2 onwards to the fourth time t4.

[0154] The time difference between the fourth time t4 and the fifth time t5 is longer than the set time ts. The first operator work period 210a from the first time t1 onwards and the second operator work period 210b from the second time t2 onwards do not overlap. The worker's work efficiency is improved when the print control device 100 executes a change instruction process that modifies the first control operation period 200a from the first time t1 onwards and the second control operation period 200b from the second time t2 onwards.

[0155] Figures 11 and 12 show examples of operation schedules for each printer 10. Figure 11 shows the operation schedule before the print control device 100 executes a change instruction process. Figure 12 shows the operation schedule after the print control device 100 executes a change instruction process for the operation schedule shown in Figure 11. Figures 11 and 12 show the operation schedules for the first printer 10A and the second printer 10B included in the print control system 1.

[0156] Figures 11 and 12 schematically show multiple print jobs (PJ) that cause each printer 10 to perform a printing operation. Figures 11 and 12 schematically show the printing time when a printing operation is performed based on each print job (PJ). The printing time varies depending on the printing conditions set in the print job (PJ). The printing conditions set in the print job (PJ) include the printing speed, printing resolution, printing length, etc. Multiple print jobs (PJ) executed by the first printer 10A include the m-th print job (PJm) and the n-th print job (PJn), which is different from the m-th print job (PJm). m and n are any positive numbers that are different from each other.

[0157] The mth print job PJm causes the first printer 10A to perform the mth print operation. The mth print operation is an example of a print operation and corresponds to an example of the first print process. The mth print operation is set by the mth print conditions included in the mth print job PJm. The mth print conditions correspond to an example of the first print conditions. The mth print conditions include at least one of the print resolution and the print length. Based on the mth print job PJm, the first printer 10A performs the mth print operation for m hours tm. The mth print job PJm corresponds to an example of the first print job.

[0158] The nth print job PJn causes the first printer 10A to perform the nth print operation. The nth print operation is an example of a print operation and corresponds to an example of the second print process. The nth print operation is set by the nth print conditions included in the nth print job PJn. The nth print conditions are different from the mth print conditions. The nth print conditions correspond to an example of the second print conditions. The nth print conditions include at least one of the print resolution and print length. Based on the nth print job PJn, the first printer 10A performs the nth print operation for n hours tn. The n hours tn shown in Figure 11 is, as an example, a time interval shorter than m hours tm. The nth print job PJn corresponds to an example of the second print job.

[0159] As shown in Figure 11, before the print control device 100 executes the change instruction process, the execution timing of the mth print job PJm is set before the 56th hour t56, which is the start time of the first operator work period 210a. The execution timing of the nth print job PJn is set after the 56th hour t56, which is the start time of the first operator work period 210a.

[0160] Before executing the change instruction process, the print control device 100 estimates the start time of the second operator work period 210b of the second printer 10B as the 55th hour t55. The print control device 100 calculates the time difference between the 55th hour t55 and the 56th hour t56 as the 12th work interval Δt12. The print control device 100 determines that the 12th work interval Δt12 is shorter than the set time ts. The print control device 100 executes the print order change operation, which sends a print order change instruction, as a change instruction process. The print order change instruction corresponds to an example of a job change instruction. The print order change operation corresponds to an example of a job change operation.

[0161] Figure 12 shows the operation schedule when the print control device 100 executes a print order change operation as a change instruction process. In the operation schedule shown in Figure 12, the execution order of the mth print job PJm and the nth print job PJn is changed.

[0162] The execution timing of the m-th print job PJm will be changed to after the first operator work period 210a. The execution timing of the n-th print job PJn will be changed to before the start time of the first operator work period 210a.

[0163] By changing the execution order of the mth print job PJm and the nth print job PJn, the start time of the first operator's work period 210a is changed to the 54th hour t54. The time difference between the 54th hour t54 and the 55th hour t55 becomes the 12th work interval Δt12 after the change instruction processing is executed. As shown in Figure 12, the 12th work interval Δt12 is longer than the set time ts. The first operator's work period 210a and the second operator's work period 210b do not overlap. By the print control device 100 changing the execution order of the print jobs PJ, the worker's work efficiency is improved.

[0164] Figures 11 and 12 show, but are not limited to, a change in the execution order of the mth print job PJm and the nth print job PJn. The print control device 100 may change the execution order of multiple print jobs PJ as appropriate.

[0165] The printing operation is performed based on the mth print job PJm, which executes the mth print operation, and the nth print job PJn, which executes a different nth print operation from the mth print job PJm. The change instruction processing is preferably a print order change operation that sends a print order change instruction to the first printer 10A to change the execution order of the mth print job PJm and the nth print job PJn. The print control device 100 can improve the worker's work efficiency by changing the execution order of print jobs PJ.

[0166] It is preferable that the printing conditions for the mth print job PJm are different from the printing conditions for the nth print job PJn. The print control device 100 can change the first operator work period 210a without changing the maintenance operation.

[0167] The m-th and n-th printing conditions preferably include at least one of the print resolution and print length. The print control device 100 makes it easier to change the first operator's work period 210a.

[0168] Figure 13 shows an example of the operation schedule for each printer 10. Figure 13 shows the operation schedule after the print control device 100 has executed a change instruction process. Figure 13 shows the operation schedule when the time instruction operation, which sends a print time instruction to the printer 10, is executed as a change instruction process. The print time instruction is an instruction to change the print length of the print medium M to be printed by the printer 10. The print length corresponds to the print time. The print time instruction specifies at least one of the type of supply roll R1 attached to the printer 10 and the print job PJ.

[0169] Each printer 10 can be fitted with, for example, several types of supply rolls R1. The types of supply rolls R1 are distinguished, for example, by the length of the printing medium M wound around the supply roll R1. The print control device 100 stores the types of supply rolls R1 in the storage unit 107 in advance. Based on the printer operation information transmitted from each printer 10, the print control device 100 transmits the type of supply roll R1 to be fitted during the operator work period 210 as a print time instruction to the printer 10. The type of supply roll R1 corresponds to the print length.

[0170] The print control device 100 may combine multiple print jobs PJ and send the print length of the print medium M to be printed during the control operation period 200 as a print time instruction to the printer 10.

[0171] Figure 13 shows multiple print lengths printed during each control operation period 200, denoted as the first print length L1, second print length L2, third print length L3, fourth print length L4, and fifth print length L5. The first print length L1 represents, as an example, the media length of the printing medium M wound around a standard supply roll R1. The second print length L2, third print length L3, fourth print length L4, and fifth print length L5 are shorter than the first print length L1.

[0172] In Figure 13, the second printer 10B performs a printing operation on the printing medium M wound around a standard supply roll R1. The print control device 100 estimates that the second operator work period 210b will be between the 61st time t61 and the 62nd time t62. Based on the printer operation information, the print control device 100 changes the control operation period 200 for each printer 10. As shown in Figure 13, by using supply rolls R1 of multiple print lengths, the respective operator work periods 210 are adjusted so as not to overlap. This improves the worker's work efficiency. [Explanation of symbols]

[0173] 1…Print control system, 10…Printer, 10A…First printer, 10B…Second printer, 10C…Third printer, 10D…Fourth printer, 11…Feeding unit, 11a…Support shaft, 11b…Feeding motor, 12…Transport unit, 13…Support unit, 14…Discharge unit, 14a…First printer discharge unit, 14b…Second printer discharge unit, 15…Drying unit, 15a…First drying unit, 15b…Second drying unit, 16…Winding unit, 16a…Winding shaft, 16b…Winding motor, 20…Transport roller pair, 20a…Transport drive roller, 20b…Transport driven roller, 21…Transport motor, 4 0...Guide shaft, 41...Carriage, 42...Carriage motor, 43...Liquid ejection head, 43a...First liquid ejection head, 43b...Second liquid ejection head, 44...Nozzle, 45...Liquid supply unit, 46...Liquid supply path, 50...Drying unit housing, 50a...Opening / closing door, 60...Maintenance unit, 60a...First maintenance unit, 60b...Second maintenance unit, 61...Suction cap unit, 62...Wiping unit, 63...First flushing receiving unit, 63a...First receiving unit, 64...Standby cap unit, 65...Second flushing receiving unit, 65a...Second receiving unit, 70...Printer control unit, 70a ...First printer control unit, 70b...Second printer control unit, 80...Printer memory unit, 80a...First printer memory unit, 80b...Second printer memory unit, 90...Printer communication unit, 90a...First printer communication unit, 90b...Second printer communication unit, 100...Print control device, 101...Display unit, 103...Input unit, 105...Control unit, 107...Memory unit, 109...Communication unit, 200...Control operation period, 200a...First control operation period, 200b...Second control operation period, 200c...Third control operation period, 210...Operator work period, 210a...First operator work period Interval, 210b...Second operator work period, 210c...Third operator work period, 220...Print operation period, 221...Standard print operation period, 221a...First standard print operation period, 221b...Second standard print operation period, 221c...Third standard print operation period, 221d...Fourth standard print operation period, 223...Slow print operation period, 223a...First slow print operation period, 230...Maintenance operation period, 231...Standard maintenance operation period, 231a...First standard maintenance operation period, 231b...Second standard maintenance operation period, 231c...Third standard maintenance operation period,231d...4th standard maintenance period, 233...Shortened maintenance period, 233a...1st shortened maintenance period, 233b...2nd shortened maintenance period, 235...Intensive maintenance period, 235a...1st intensive maintenance period, 301...Printer name, 303...Scheduled substrate replacement time, D...Conveyor direction, L1...1st print length, L2...2nd print length, L3...3rd print length, L4...4th print length, L5...5th print length, M...Printing medium, PA...Print area, PG...Control program, PJ...Print job, PJm...mth print Printing job, PJn...nth printing job, R1...supply roll, R2...winding roll, t1...1st hour, t2...2nd hour, t3...3rd hour, t11...11th hour, t12...12th hour, t21...21st hour, t22...22nd hour, t31...31st hour, t32...32nd hour, t55...55th hour, t56...56th hour, t61...61st hour, t62...62nd hour, tm...m hours, tn...n hours, tr...working time, TR...transport path, ts...set time, Δt12...12th work interval, Δt13...13th work interval, Δt14...14th work interval.

Claims

1. A first printing apparatus having a first automatic processing period in which a first automatic processing is performed in which no first operation is performed by the user, and a first manual processing period in which the first operation is performed by the user, and including a first printing unit that applies a first colorant to a first medium, A second printing apparatus having a second automatic processing period in which the second automatic processing is performed without the user performing the second operation, and a second manual processing period in which the user performs the second operation, and including a second printing section that applies a second colorant to a second medium, The system comprises a control device for controlling the first printing apparatus and the second printing apparatus, The first printing apparatus transmits the first processing information relating to the first automatic processing to the control device. The second printing apparatus transmits the second processing information relating to the second automatic processing to the control device. The control device is Based on the first processing information, the first manual processing period is estimated. Based on the second processing information, the second manual processing period is estimated. If the time interval between the first manual processing period and the second manual processing period is shorter than a predetermined time interval, a modification process is executed to change at least one of the first automatic processing period and the second automatic processing period. Printing system.

2. The control device increases the time interval by executing the change process. The printing system according to claim 1.

3. The first automated process includes a printing process in which the first printing unit applies the first colorant to the first medium, The aforementioned modification process is a speed instruction process that transmits a speed change instruction to the first printing device to change the processing speed of the printing process. The printing system according to claim 1.

4. The first printing apparatus includes a moving part that changes the relative position between the first medium and the first printing unit, When the first printing device receives the speed change instruction, it changes the processing speed by changing the operating speed or stopping time of the moving part while the printing process is being performed. The printing system according to claim 3.

5. The printing process is performed based on a first print job that executes a first printing process and a second print job that executes a second printing process different from the first print job. The aforementioned modification process is a job modification process that sends a job modification instruction to the first printing device to change the execution order of the first print job and the second print job. The printing system according to claim 1.

6. The first printing conditions included in the first print job are different from the second printing conditions included in the second print job. The printing system according to claim 5.

7. The first printing conditions and the second printing conditions include at least one of the print resolution and the print length. The printing system according to claim 6.

8. The first automated process includes a maintenance process that performs maintenance on the first printing unit. The aforementioned modification process is a maintenance instruction process that sends a maintenance modification instruction to the first printing device to change the maintenance time required for the maintenance process. The printing system according to claim 1.

9. The first printing apparatus includes a heating unit that heats the first medium to which the first colorant has been applied in the first printing unit, The first medium is supported by the heating section, The printing system according to claim 1.

10. A print control program executed by a control device connected to a first printing device having a first automatic processing period in which a first automatic processing is performed in which no first operation is performed by the user, and a first manual processing period in which the first operation is performed by the user, and a second printing device having a second automatic processing period in which a second automatic processing is performed in which no second operation is performed by the user, and a second manual processing period in which the second operation is performed by the user, The control device, The first processing information relating to the first automatic processing transmitted from the first printing device is received. The second processing information relating to the second automatic processing transmitted from the second printing device is received. Based on the first processing information, estimate the first manual processing period. Based on the second processing information, estimate the second manual processing period. If the time interval between the first manual processing period and the second manual processing period is shorter than a predetermined time interval, a change process is executed to modify at least one of the first automatic processing period and the second automatic processing period. Print control program.

11. A control device connected to a first printing device having a first automatic processing period in which a first automatic processing is performed in which no first operation is performed by the user, and a first manual processing period in which the first operation is performed by the user, and a second printing device having a second automatic processing period in which a second automatic processing is performed in which no second operation is performed by the user, and a second manual processing period in which the second operation is performed by the user, The first processing information relating to the first automatic processing transmitted from the first printing device is received. The second processing information relating to the second automatic processing transmitted from the second printing device is received. Based on the first processing information, the first manual processing period is estimated. Based on the second processing information, the second manual processing period is estimated. If the time interval between the first manual processing period and the second manual processing period is shorter than a predetermined time interval, a modification process is executed to change at least one of the first automatic processing period and the second automatic processing period. Control device.

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