Recording device, control method thereof, and program

Abstract

To provide a recording device which can execute processing along the intention of a user while suppressing an operation input of the user.SOLUTION: A recording device comprises: a first discharge part from which a recording medium after recording is discharged; and a second discharge part from which the recording medium after recording is discharged. Determination means determines whether or not the recording medium is discharged from the first discharge part on the basis of a prescribed condition when the first discharge part is indicated as the discharge destination of the recording medium. Specification means specifies alternative processing indicated by the user in the past when the determination means determines that the recording medium is not discharged from the first discharge part. Execution means executes the alternative processing specified by the specification means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a recording apparatus, a control method thereof, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 proposes the following as a way to deal with errors that occur in a recording device. That is, before printing each page included in a job, the data for one page is interpreted to determine whether an error can be foreseen. If it is determined that an error can be foreseen, printing of subsequent pages is canceled, the job data is stored in a storage area, and the job is terminated. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2012-187745 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, with the above-mentioned conventional technology, if an error is predicted to occur on some pages of a multi-page recording, the recording process for the following pages may also be canceled. However, if the user is not given a choice and the process is canceled, the result may not be what the user intended. On the other hand, if an error or other event that prevents recording as configured occurs multiple times within the same recording job, it may be possible to have the user select a response method each time, but this may be troublesome for the user.

[0005] The present invention provides a recording device that can execute processing in accordance with the user's intention while suppressing user operation input. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, a first discharge unit to which the recording medium is discharged after recording; a second discharge unit to which the recording medium is discharged after recording; A recording device comprising: a determination means for determining whether to discharge the recording medium from the first discharge unit based on a predetermined condition when the first discharge unit is specified as the discharge destination of the recording medium; a specifying unit that specifies an alternative process previously instructed by a user when the determining unit determines that the recording medium should not be discharged from the first discharge unit; an execution unit that executes the alternative process identified by the identification unit, A recording device is provided. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a recording device that can execute processing in accordance with the user's intention while suppressing operation input by the user. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a recording apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a recording apparatus. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the recording apparatus. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by a CPU. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a condition for determining whether or not a page is to be discharged from the top discharge port. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a selection screen for alternative processing. [Figure 7] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by a CPU. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a method for specifying a user in a recording job. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of information related to alternative processing stored in a storage unit. [Figure 10]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for setting the initialization timing of information on alternative processing. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for setting an operation to be performed when it is determined that top-side discharge is not to be performed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention claimed. Although multiple features are described in the embodiments, not all of these multiple features are necessarily essential to the invention, and multiple features may be combined arbitrarily. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used to designate the same or similar components, and redundant explanations will be omitted.

[0010] First Embodiment <Outline of the recording device> 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a recording apparatus 100 according to one embodiment. The recording apparatus 100 of this embodiment is a so-called inkjet recording apparatus that performs recording by ejecting ink droplets onto a recording medium to form dots. The recording apparatus 100 includes a roll paper supply device 200, which is an example of a supply unit that supplies the recording medium onto a transport path before recording, an inkjet head 151 that ejects ink onto the recording medium, and a front discharge port 1 and a top discharge port 2, which are examples of discharge units that eject the recording medium after recording.

[0011] The roll paper supply device 200 can store roll paper as a recording medium and can feed the stored roll paper onto the transport path of the recording device 100. The inkjet head 151 performs recording on the roll paper fed onto the transport path at a recording position on the transport path. After recording by the inkjet head 151, the roll paper is discharged from the recording device 100 via the front exit 1 or the top exit 2. In this embodiment, the front exit 1 discharges the recording medium from the front of the recording device 100, and the top exit 2 discharges the recording medium from the top of the recording device 100. In this embodiment, the roll paper discharged from the front exit 1 is stored in a basket (not shown) installed on the front side of the recording device 100. The roll paper discharged from the top exit 2 is stacked in a stacker (a loading unit) of the recording device 100. In this embodiment, the main body cover 160 (see FIG. 3) functions as the loading unit (a loading unit). In the following description, discharge from the front discharge port 1 may be referred to as "front discharge" or "discharge to the front," and discharge from the top discharge port 2 may be referred to as "top discharge" or "discharge to the top."

[0012] Although FIG. 1 shows a recording device 100 having only a recording function, the recording device 100 may also be a device that further includes a reading device that reads images on a document and functions as a copier, or a multi-function device that adds other functions.

[0013] Also, while the roll paper supply device 200 that stores roll sheets (roll paper) is exemplified here as a supply unit that supplies recording media before recording, a supply unit that stores and stacks cut sheets (cut paper) and supplies the cut sheets to the transport path may also be provided. For example, in the recording device 100 of FIG. 1, the roll paper supply device 200 may be removed and a supply unit that supplies cut sheets may be installed. Alternatively, some of the multiple supply units provided in the recording device 100 may supply roll sheets to the transport path, and the rest may supply cut sheets to the transport path. In other words, the recording device 100 may be able to selectively supply roll sheets and cut sheets to the transport path.

[0014] <Configuration of recording device> 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the recording device 100. The recording device 100 has a printer controller 120, a printer engine 150, a hard disk drive (HDD) 165, and an input / output device 166. The recording device 100 can also be connected to a host computer 190 via a network 191. First, the printer controller 120, HDD 165, and input / output device 166, which are involved in the control of the recording device 100, and the host computer 190, which can communicate with the recording device 100, will be described.

[0015] The printer controller 120 has an HDD interface (HDD I / F) 121, an input / output device interface (input / output device I / F) 122, a ROM (Read Only Memory) interface (ROM I / F) 125, and a memory controller 126. The printer controller 120 also has a host interface (host I / F) 127, a CPU 128, an image processing unit 129, and a controller engine interface (controller engine I / F) 130, which are connected via a printer controller system bus 132. The printer controller 120 also has a flash ROM 123 and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 124, which are connected to the printer controller system bus 132 via the ROM I / F 125 and the memory controller 126, respectively.

[0016] The CPU 128 is a central processing unit in the form of a microprocessor (microcomputer) that controls the overall operation of the recording device 100 by executing programs and activating hardware. The flash ROM 123 stores programs executed by the CPU 128 and fixed data required for various operations of the recording device 100. The RAM 124 is used as a work area for the CPU 128, as a temporary storage area for various received data, and stores various setting data.

[0017] The image processing unit 129 performs various image processing. For example, the image processing unit 129 converts (expands) print data (e.g., data expressed in a page description language) handled by the printing device 100 into image data (bitmap image data) and performs other image processing. For example, the image processing unit 129 converts image data in a color space (e.g., YCbCr) of image data included in input print data into image data in a standard RGB color space (e.g., sRGB). For example, the image processing unit 129 converts image data in the sRGB color space into image data in an ink color space (CMYK color space). The image processing unit 129 also performs various image processing on the image data as needed, such as resolution conversion to an effective number of pixels (capable of being printed by the printing device 100), image analysis, and image correction. The image data obtained by these image processing operations is stored in the RAM 124 or the HDD 165.

[0018] The HDD 165 stores programs executed by the CPU 128, recording data, setting information required for various operations of the recording device 100, and the like. The CPU 128 can read out information stored in the HDD 165 and execute various processes. Note that instead of the HDD 165, other large-capacity storage devices such as an SSD (Solid State Drive) may be used.

[0019] The input / output device 166 receives operational inputs from the user and displays various information to the user. For example, the input / output device 166 may have, as an input device, hard keys or a touch panel that can be operated by the user. The input / output device 166 also includes, as an output device, a display unit such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display for presenting (notifying) various information to the user. The input / output device 166 can also present information to the user by outputting sound (buzzer, voice, etc.) based on acoustic information from a sound generator.

[0020] In this embodiment, the recording device 100 is assumed to have an input / output device 166, but the user may issue instructions to the recording device 100 or receive notifications from the recording device 100 via an external device. For example, the user may operate the recording device 100 or check various information about the recording device 100 via an input / output device of a host computer 190 that can communicate with the recording device 100 via a network 191. Furthermore, multiple input / output devices may be connectable to the recording device 100 via the network 191, etc.

[0021] The host computer 190 is, for example, an external device that serves as a source of recording data, and is capable of communicating with the recording device 100 via a network 191. The host computer 190 is, for example, an information processing device such as a general PC (personal computer). Note that instead of the host computer 190, the recording device 100 may be connected to another device that serves as a source of recording data, such as an image reader, a digital camera, or a smartphone.

[0022] Next, the internal structure of the recording device 100 will be described with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the recording device 100. Figure 3 shows the state in which roll paper 164 is installed in the roll paper supply device 200.

[0023] The printer engine 150 has an inkjet head 151, a cutter unit 152, and a controller engine interface (controller engine I / F) 153. The printer engine 150 also has a conveyance roller 154, a switching mechanism 155, a U-turn nip 156, a U-turn cover 157, a U-turn conveyance roller 158, a tray cover 159, a main body cover 160, and a loading sensor 161. These components are connected to one another via a printer engine system bus 162.

[0024] The inkjet head 151 is a recording unit that records an image on paper based on image data. The inkjet head 151 is composed of, for example, recording heads for multiple colors, and forms an image on the paper by ejecting ink from the recording heads in synchronization with the paper transport. The recording device 100 of this embodiment uses a serial recording method. That is, the recording device 100 records on the roll paper by transporting the roll paper a predetermined amount in the Y direction of FIG. 1 and repeatedly driving the inkjet head 151 filled with ink in the X direction of FIG. 1 to eject ink. However, a line-head type recording head can also be used.

[0025] Cutter unit 152 is a mechanism for cutting paper. Cutter unit 152 cuts the recording medium (e.g., a roll sheet) to a predetermined length after recording. Conveyor rollers 154 are rollers for conveying the recording medium, and are controlled by CPU 128.

[0026] The switching mechanism 155 is a mechanism that switches the transport path of the recording medium. The switching mechanism 155 is located on the transport path downstream of the recording position by the inkjet head 151, and is displaceable between position E2 where the roll paper 164 is guided to the front discharge outlet 1 and position E1 (the position shown in FIG. 3) where the roll paper 164 is guided to the top discharge outlet 2. The switching mechanism 155 is controlled by the CPU 128.

[0027] The U-turn nip 156 is a mechanism for holding down the recording medium when it is discharged from the top-surface discharge port 2. The U-turn cover 157 is a member that forms a transport path when the recording medium is discharged from the top-surface discharge port 2. The U-turn transport roller 158 is a roller for transporting the recording medium when it is discharged from the top-surface discharge port 2, and is controlled by the CPU 128.

[0028] The main body cover 160 is a mechanism on which recording media are stacked when they are discharged onto the top surface of the recording device 100 from the top discharge port 2. The recording media stacked on the main body cover 160 are held down from above by the tray cover 159. In other words, the main body cover 160 is an example of a stacking section on which recording media discharged from the top discharge port 2 are stacked.

[0029] The loading sensor 161 detects the loading state of recording media on the main body cover 160. For example, the loading sensor 161 detects whether or not there are recording media on the main body cover 160, and whether the amount of recording media on the main body cover 160 exceeds a predetermined amount (whether the main body cover 160 is fully loaded). The loading sensor 161 can use any known technology, such as an optical sensor. In this case, the CPU 128 can determine whether recording media have been loaded on the top surface of the main body cover 160 or whether the loading amount exceeds a predetermined amount based on changes in the light blocking or transmission of the loading sensor 161. Furthermore, for example, the loading sensor 161 may be capable of detecting the weight of recording media loaded on the loading section (main body cover 160). In this case, the CPU 128 can determine whether the weight of the loaded recording media is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, or further, whether the loading section (main body cover 160) is fully loaded, based on the detection result of the loading sensor 161.

[0030] <Outline of recording device operation> An overview of the recording operation by the recording device 100 will be explained with reference to Figure 3. When roll paper 164 is fed from the roll paper supply device 200 into the transport path of the recording device 100, the transport rollers 154 transport it to a position where the leading edge of the roll paper 164 in the transport direction faces the inkjet head 151, i.e., to the recording position by the inkjet head 151. In this state, ink is ejected from the inkjet head 151, and an image is recorded on the roll paper at the recording position. After recording by the inkjet head 151, the transport rollers 154 transport the roll paper 164 a further predetermined distance. From then on, the ink ejection operation from the inkjet head 151 and the transport operation of the transport rollers 154 are repeated until the end of the image is recorded on the roll paper 164.

[0031] When discharging the roll paper 164 from the front discharge port 1 after recording, the switching mechanism 155 is moved to position E2 before the inkjet head 151 starts discharging ink. This causes the leading edge of the roll paper 164 to be discharged from the front discharge port 1 of the recording device 100.

[0032] On the other hand, when the roll paper 164 is to be discharged from the top discharge outlet 2 after recording, the switching mechanism 155 is moved to position E1 before the inkjet head 151 starts ejecting ink. This blocks the transport path to the front discharge outlet 1, and the leading edge of the roll paper 164 is transported along the switching mechanism 155 toward the top discharge outlet 2.

[0033] When the image recording is completed up to the end of the image, if cutting is necessary, cutter unit 152 cuts the end of the image on roll paper 164, depending on the cutting mode setting in the recording settings. The recording medium from which the trailing end of the image has been cut is sandwiched between U-turn conveying roller 158 and U-turn nip 156, conveyed inside U-turn cover 157, and discharged between tray cover 159 and main body cover 160 through top discharge port 2.

[0034] When the recording medium is discharged from the top discharge port 2, the stacking sensor 161 detects that the recording medium is stacked on the stacking section of the recording device 100.

[0035] As described above, in the case of top-side ejection, the recording medium after recording passes through the U-turn cover 157 and is ejected to the top surface of the recording device 100. However, in the case of a recording medium with a relatively high rigidity, such as cardboard, it may be difficult to transport the U-turn cover 157, and top-side ejection may not be possible. On the other hand, in the case of front-side ejection, the recording medium can be ejected without passing through the U-turn cover 157, so it is basically possible to eject a recording medium with a relatively high rigidity, such as cardboard. In other words, even if multiple ejection sections for recording media are provided, it may be difficult to eject a recording medium from a specific ejection section depending on the properties of the recording medium (e.g., high rigidity), the shape of the transport path leading to the ejection section, and other conditions.

[0036] Furthermore, if the cutting mode is set to "do not cut," ejecting the recording medium after recording to the top surface of the recording device 100 without cutting it can make subsequent handling difficult and place a heavy burden on the user. Therefore, in the recording device 100 of this embodiment, the cutting mode must be set to "cut" when ejecting from the top surface. On the other hand, when ejecting from the front surface, even if the recording medium is ejected without cutting, subsequent handling is easier than when ejecting from the top surface, so the recording medium can be ejected even when the cutting mode is set to "do not cut."

[0037] In addition, the recording media discharged from the top discharge port 2 are loaded onto the main body cover 160, which is an example of a loading section, but if the amount of recording media loaded onto the main body cover 160 exceeds the loading capacity of the main body cover 160, it may be difficult to discharge any more recording media from the top discharge port 2.

[0038] As described above, in the recording device 100 of this embodiment, a situation may arise in which it is not possible (or it is better not to) discharge a recording medium from the top discharge port 2, depending on various conditions such as the type of recording medium, various settings such as the cutting mode setting, and the load capacity of the stacking section. However, if the recording job being executed is simply canceled when such a situation occurs, it may not be possible to execute processing in accordance with the user's intention. Furthermore, if a response is required from the user every time such a situation occurs, the user may find it annoying. Therefore, in this embodiment, the following processing is executed to execute processing in accordance with the user's intention while suppressing user operation input.

[0039] <Processing example> 4 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by the CPU 128. For example, the program of this flowchart is stored in the Flash ROM 123 and executed by the CPU 128. Alternatively, a program similar to that of this flowchart may be installed in the RAM 124 and executed by the CPU 128.

[0040] Hereinafter, a recording command issued by a user to the recording device 100 will be referred to as a recording job. A recording job may include multiple pages. Each page may be, for example, a section from when a determination is made as to whether or not to cut by the cutter unit 152 in accordance with the cutting mode setting to when a determination is made as to whether or not to cut next. A recording job includes image data for each page to be recorded, as well as setting information related to recording, such as the destination of the recording medium and the cutting mode.

[0041] The CPU 128 starts this flowchart when it receives a print job from the host computer 190 via the network 191 (S400).

[0042] In S401, the CPU 128 checks the setting of the discharge destination for the page, and if the discharge destination is set to the front, proceeds to S402, and if not, proceeds to S403. For example, the CPU 128 determines the setting of the discharge destination based on the setting information for this recording process included in the recording job accepted in S400 or the setting information for the recording device 100 stored in the HDD 165 of the recording device 100, etc. The CPU 128 proceeds to S402 if the discharge destination is set to the front discharge outlet 1, and proceeds to S403 if it is set to the top discharge outlet 2.

[0043] In S402, the CPU 128 executes printing of the page and proceeds to S414. On the other hand, if the process proceeds to S403, the CPU 128 determines whether or not to eject the page top-side. If it is to be ejected top-side, the process proceeds to S402 and executes printing of the target page; if not, the process proceeds to S404. In the recording device 100 of this embodiment, pages can basically be ejected from the front ejection slot 1 regardless of conditions such as the type of recording medium, various settings, and the state of the stacking unit. Therefore, if the ejection destination is set to the front ejection slot 1, the CPU 128 proceeds directly to printing of the page (S401 → S402). On the other hand, in the recording device 100 of this embodiment, depending on the above conditions, it may not be possible to eject a page from the top ejection slot 2 (or it may be better not to eject a page). Therefore, if the top ejection slot 2 is specified as the ejection destination, the CPU 128 proceeds to printing of the page if it determines based on predetermined conditions that the page should be ejected top-side (S401 → S403 → S402). After processing S402, the CPU 128 proceeds to S414.

[0044] 5 is a diagram showing an example of the conditions for determining whether or not to discharge a page from the top discharge opening 2. In this embodiment, CPU 128 determines whether or not to discharge a page from the top discharge opening 2 based on the type of recording medium, the cutting mode, the recording medium supply form, and the loading state of main body cover 160 (loading section) (S403).

[0045] For example, if the recording medium is plain paper, the CPU 128 determines to eject the recording medium top-side up, but if the recording medium is thick paper, it determines not to eject the recording medium top-side up. As described above, thick paper, which is stiffer than plain paper, may be difficult to pass through the U-turn cover 157. Therefore, by ejecting thick paper front-side up instead of top-side up, paper jams and the like on the transport path can be prevented. That is, the CPU 128 determines the ejection destination based on information about the stiffness of the recording medium. As a result, if it is difficult to eject a relatively stiff recording medium from a specific ejection section due to the structure of the transport path, for example, jams and the like on the transport path can be prevented by restricting ejection from that ejection section. In particular, when ejecting top-side up, it is often necessary to provide a bend on the transport path after passing the printing position, which can cause the recording medium to bend more sharply during transport than when ejecting top-side up, making it more difficult to transport the recording medium. Therefore, when ejecting a stiff recording medium front-side up instead of top-side up, the recording medium can be ejected by avoiding transport paths that are difficult to transport. The information relating to the stiffness of the recording medium includes the material, thickness, basis weight, density, etc. of the recording medium.

[0046] Furthermore, for example, CPU 128 determines that the recording medium is to be ejected top-side if the supply form of the recording medium is roll paper (roll sheet), and determines that the recording medium is not to be ejected top-side if the supply form of the recording medium is cut paper (cut sheet). In other words, CPU 128 determines that the recording medium is not to be ejected from top-side ejection port 2 if cut sheets are fed from the recording medium supply unit to the recording position. In consideration of the difficulty of transporting the recording medium on the transport path leading to top-side ejection, cut paper is set not to be ejected top-side.

[0047] Furthermore, for example, CPU 128 determines to discharge the recording medium top-side if the cutting mode of the recording medium by cutter unit 152 is "cut," and determines not to discharge the recording medium top-side if the cutting mode is "do not cut." In other words, CPU 128 determines whether or not to discharge the recording medium from top-side discharge port 2 based on the method of cutting the roll sheet by cutter unit 152. This is because if the recording medium is discharged top-side without being cut by cutter unit 152, it may be difficult to handle the discharged paper, reducing convenience.

[0048] Furthermore, for example, CPU 128 determines to perform top-side ejection if the stacking section of the recording medium ejected top-side is not full, and determines not to perform top-side ejection if the stacking section is full. This is to prevent paper jams due to an overload of paper in the stacking section. Note that CPU 128 may also determine whether to perform top-side ejection based on whether the stacking amount in the stacking section has reached a predetermined amount, rather than whether the stacking section is full. These determinations may be made based on the detection results of stack sensor 161.

[0049] If the CPU 128 determines in S403 that top-side ejection is not to be performed based on any of these conditions, the process proceeds from S403 to S404. Note that the conditions for whether to perform top-side ejection may include conditions other than those described above, or at least one of the conditions described above may not be included. Furthermore, the conditions for whether to perform top-side ejection may be stored internally in the recording device 100, or conditions may be added or deleted as appropriate from an external device such as the input / output device 166 or the host computer 190.

[0050] Returning to the description of FIG. 4 , when the process proceeds from S403 to S404, the CPU 128 identifies a previously instructed alternative process. If the CPU 128 can identify the alternative process, the process proceeds to S405; if not, the process proceeds to S406. Here, the alternative process is a process performed instead of top-side discharge when the CPU 128 determines not to discharge the recording medium from the top-side discharge outlet 2. In other words, the alternative process can be considered a process for clearing an error when an error occurs that prevents top-side discharge. It is also assumed here that the alternative process can be stored in a storage unit such as the RAM 124 or the HDD 165. If the alternative process is stored in such a storage unit, the CPU 128 determines that the alternative process previously instructed by the user has been identified based on the stored information, and proceeds to S405; if not, the process proceeds to S406. Furthermore, as will be described later, in this embodiment, the previously instructed alternative process is an alternative process previously instructed within the same recording job.

[0051] In S405, the CPU 128 executes the alternative process identified in S404. Examples of alternative processes include switching the discharge destination of the recording medium to the front discharge port 1 and recording the page, or canceling the page to be recorded. In this embodiment, if the CPU 128 can identify an alternative process that the user previously instructed, the CPU 128 executes the identified alternative process. This eliminates the need to request an instruction from the user each time an alternative process needs to be executed, and allows the recording process to be executed efficiently. Furthermore, the user does not need to repeatedly instruct an alternative process, improving the convenience of the recording process. After processing in S405, the CPU 128 proceeds to S414.

[0052] In S406, CPU 128 accepts an instruction for alternative processing from the user. Furthermore, if CPU 128 cannot identify an alternative processing that the user has previously instructed (S404: No), CPU 128 accepts an instruction for alternative processing from the user. For example, CPU 128 accepts an instruction from the user via input / output device 166 by presenting alternative processing options on the display unit of input / output device 166 and allowing the user to select one.

[0053] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a selection screen for alternative processing. This selection screen is displayed, for example, on a display unit included in the input / output device 166. For example, if the recording medium is cardboard and top-side ejection is not possible, a message 600 such as "The selected paper cannot be ejected top-side. Would you like to switch the ejection destination and print?" is displayed on the selection screen. The selection screen also displays alternative processing options 601 to 603. Option 601 is an option for "changing to front ejection and printing." Option 602 is an option for "cancel printing page." Option 603 is an option for "cancel printing job." If the user selects option 601, the CPU 128 switches the printing destination for the page to be printed to the front and continues printing. If the user selects option 602, the CPU 128 cancels only the page. If the user selects option 603, the CPU 128 cancels the entire printing job, including the page. Here, option 602 for canceling only the page currently being printed is provided because printing settings can be set for each page. That is, there is a possibility that CPU 128 will determine that top-side ejection will be performed for the next page and thereafter. Note that options 601 to 603 are merely examples, and at least one of these options may not be included, or other options may be included. For example, the options may be two: "Change to front ejection and perform printing" and "Cancel the printing job." Furthermore, for example, if the selection of an alternative process is required because main body cover 160 is fully loaded, an option for resolving the cause of ejection to top-side ejection port 2 may be included, such as "Remove the recording media stacked on main body cover 160."

[0054] Here, it is assumed that alternative process options are displayed on the input / output device 166 of the recording device 100 and that user instructions can be accepted. However, the CPU 128 may accept user instructions regarding alternative processes via an external device such as the host computer 190. For example, the CPU 128 transmits an alternative process selection command to the host computer 190 via the host I / F 127. Upon receiving the command, the host computer 190 displays a selection screen such as that shown in FIG. 6 on its own display unit or a connected display unit and accepts user instructions. The host computer 190 then transmits information regarding the accepted user instructions to the recording device 100. The CPU 128 accepts the instructions transmitted from the host computer 190 via the host I / F 127. In other words, it is also possible to employ a configuration in which the specific process for accepting options from the user is performed on the host computer 190 side, and the recording device 100 receives information regarding the selected option from the host computer 190 side.

[0055] Returning to the description of FIG. 4 , in S407, if the alternative process selected by the user is “change to front discharge and perform recording,” the CPU 128 proceeds to S408; otherwise, the CPU 128 proceeds to S410. If the process proceeds to S408, the CPU 128 stores information about the alternative process selected by the user in a storage unit such as the RAM 124 or the HDD 165. The stored information about the alternative process can be used when recording the next page or later. That is, the CPU 128 performs storage control to store the received information about the alternative process in the storage unit as information about the alternative process previously instructed by the user. This allows the CPU 128 to proceed from S404 to S405 when processing the next page or later, and perform the alternative process based on the user's previous instructions. This eliminates the need to interrupt the process for each page and present the alternative process to the user, thereby enabling efficient recording. Then, in S409, the CPU 128 changes the discharge destination to the front discharge slot 1 and records the page. After processing S409, the CPU 128 proceeds to S414.

[0056] On the other hand, when the process proceeds from S407 to S410, the CPU 128 proceeds to S411 if the alternative process selected by the user is "cancel the recorded page," and proceeds to S413 if not.

[0057] If the process proceeds to S411, the CPU 128 stores information about the alternative process selected by the user in a storage unit such as the RAM 124 or HDD 165, as in the case of S408. Then, in S412, the CPU 128 cancels the current page. After the process of S412, the CPU 128 proceeds to S414. On the other hand, if the process proceeds from S410 to S413, the CPU 128 cancels the recording job itself and proceeds to S415.

[0058] After the processing in S402, S405, S409, or S412 is performed, in S414, the CPU 128 checks whether recording has finished. If recording has finished, the process proceeds to S415. If not, the process returns to S401 and repeats. For example, the CPU 128 determines that recording has not finished if the recording job includes image data for the page following the page that was just recorded or for which recording was canceled. After recording has finished, in S415, the CPU 128 initializes the information on alternative processing stored in a storage unit such as the RAM 124 or HDD 165. Thereafter, the CPU 128 finishes recording (S416).

[0059] As described above, according to this embodiment, if an alternative process previously instructed by the user can be identified, the identified alternative process is executed, thereby enabling efficient execution of recording processing while reflecting the user's intentions. Furthermore, if the CPU 128 cannot identify an alternative process previously instructed by the user, it executes the alternative process accepted from the user (S404 → S406 → S409), and information about the alternative process at this time is stored in a storage unit such as the RAM 124 or the HDD 165. Therefore, the user does not need to instruct an alternative process for the next page or later, and recording processing that reflects the user's intentions can be performed with minimal user operation.

[0060] Although the example described above stores information about alternative processing within the same print job in the storage unit and determines whether to perform top-side ejection on a page-by-page basis, the information about alternative processing does not necessarily have to be initialized on a print job-by-print job basis. Furthermore, the determination of whether to perform top-side ejection may be performed at other frequencies, such as on a print job-by-print job basis, rather than on a page-by-page basis.

[0061] Second Embodiment In the second embodiment, the CPU 128 stores information on alternative processes previously instructed by a user in the storage unit even after the end of a recording job, and executes the alternative processes based on the information stored in the storage unit when the same user subsequently instructs the execution of a recording job. Hereinafter, a description of the same configurations or processes as those in the first embodiment will be omitted.

[0062] 7 is a flowchart showing an example of processing by the CPU 128. This flowchart starts when the power of the recording device 100 is turned on (S700).

[0063] In S701, the CPU 128 checks whether the power to the recording device 100 has been turned off, and if it has been turned off, the process proceeds to S718, and if it has not been turned off, the process proceeds to S702.

[0064] In S702, the CPU 128 checks whether a recording job has been received, and if so, proceeds to S703, and if not, returns to S701. S703 to S705 are the same processes as S401 to S403, respectively, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0065] If the process proceeds from S705 to S706, the CPU 128 identifies an alternative process previously instructed by the same user as the user who instructed the current recording job. If the CPU 128 can identify an alternative process, the process proceeds to S707; if not, the process proceeds to S708. The CPU 128 identifies an alternative process previously instructed by the same user based on information specifying the user included in the received current recording job and information related to the alternative process stored in a storage unit such as the RAM 124 or HDD 165.

[0066] Here, FIG. 8 shows an example of a method for specifying a user in a recording job. In this embodiment, the recording settings of the recording job are specified in XML format. FIG. 8 shows an example when a job name (jobname), a user name (username), and the number of copies (copies) are specified, and the recording job is identified as belonging to a user named "User1." Note that, in this embodiment, the recording settings of the recording job are specified in XML format, but this is not limited to this, and other formats may also be used for specification.

[0067] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of information related to alternative processing stored in a storage unit such as RAM 124 or HDD 165. In this embodiment, an identification number, a user name as identification information for identifying a user, an alternative processing, and a save date and time are stored in association with each other. In addition, this associated information can be stored for 10 users. FIG. 9 shows a state in which information for 6 users is stored. For example, if the number of users exceeds 10, the area with the identification number with the oldest save date and time is overwritten and used. Note that the storage location is not limited to RAM 124 or HDD 165, and other storage media may be used. In addition, the number of users that can be saved is not limited to 10.

[0068] 8 and 9, the CPU 128 identifies from the information included in the recording job that the user who instructed the recording job is "User 1." Then, from the information shown in Fig. 9, the CPU 128 identifies that the alternative process previously instructed by "User 1" was "change to front discharge and record."

[0069] Returning to the explanation of FIG. 7, the process when proceeding from S706 to S707 is the same as S405. However, in this embodiment, the CPU 128 executes the alternative process previously performed by the user who issued the recording instruction for the currently executing recording job. Therefore, there is no need to prompt the user who issued the alternative process instruction when the previous recording job was executed to issue an alternative process instruction again during the execution of the current recording job. This allows the CPU 128 to execute the recording job more efficiently and to execute the alternative process in line with the user's intention. Furthermore, the processes of S708, S709, and S712 are the same as S406, S407, and S410, respectively.

[0070] When the process proceeds from S709 to S710, the CPU 128 stores information on the alternative process selected by the user in a storage unit such as the RAM 124 or the HDD 165 for each user. Specifically, the CPU 128 stores in the storage unit the user name, the alternative process, and the save date and time shown in Fig. 9 in association with each other. The process of S711 is the same as the process of S409.

[0071] The process when proceeding from S709 to S712 is the same as S410. When proceeding from S712 to S713, the CPU 128 stores information on the alternative process selected by the user in a storage unit such as the RAM 124 or the HDD 165 for each user, as in S710. The process of S714 is the same as S412.

[0072] If the process proceeds from S712 to S715, the CPU 128 stores, for each user, information on the alternative process selected by the user in a storage unit such as the RAM 124 or the HDD 165, as in S710 and S713. In S716, the CPU 128 cancels the recording job being executed.

[0073] The process of S717 after the processes of S704, S707, S711, S714, or S716 are performed is the same as S414. However, if the CPU 128 determines in S717 that recording has ended, the process returns to S701. That is, the processes of S703 to S717 are performed every time a recording job is received unless the recording device 100 is powered off.

[0074] When the process proceeds from S701 to S718, the CPU 128 initializes the information on the alternative process stored in a storage unit such as the RAM 124 or the HDD 165. After that, the CPU 128 ends the flowchart (S719), and the recording device 100 is shut down.

[0075] As described above, according to this embodiment, if the CPU 128 can identify an alternative process previously instructed by the same user, it executes the identified alternative process. Information about alternative processes previously instructed by the same user is stored in a storage unit such as the RAM 124 or HDD 165 while the recording device 100 is powered on. This means that, for a recording job by the same user, the destination of the recording medium needs to be selected only once between power-on and power-off. This allows the user to continue recording processing while reducing the effort required for selection and reflecting the user's intentions. While this embodiment is configured to determine the recording settings for each page of recording, it may also be performed on a job-by-job basis.

[0076] Third Embodiment In the third embodiment, the CPU 128 can change the timing at which it initializes the information about the alternative process stored in a storage unit such as the RAM 124 or the HDD 165. FIG. 10 shows an example of a screen for setting the timing at which the information about the alternative process is initialized. This screen can be displayed, for example, from a settings menu of the recording device 100. For example, in this example screen, a message 1000 reading "Setting the timing at which the alternative process is initialized" is displayed along with three options 1001 to 1003 regarding the timing of initialization. These options 1001 to 1003 can be selected by the user.

[0077] Option 1001 is an option for initializing the information on alternative processes when the recording device 100 is shut down. In other words, this is an option for performing initialization at the same timing as in the second embodiment. Option 1002 is an option for initializing the information on alternative processes when a recording job ends. In this case, the information on alternative processes for all users stored when the recording job ends is initialized. Option 1003 is an option for not performing initialization. In this case, the information on alternative processes is retained even when the power to the recording device 100 is turned off. In this case, the HDD 165 can be used as the storage unit.

[0078] In this embodiment, the timing for initializing the alternative process can be set, allowing the recording process to be executed in line with the user's intentions. For example, if the user wants to perform different alternative processes depending on the recording job, the initialization timing can be set to when the recording job ends, allowing the user to instruct the alternative process again for each recording job. On the other hand, if the user wants to perform the same alternative process for every recording job, the initialization timing can be set to when the device is shut down or to not be initialized, reducing the frequency with which the user instructs the alternative process, thereby improving user convenience.

[0079] The timing of initialization may be set by the input / output device 166 of the recording device 100, or may be set by an external device such as the host computer 190. For example, options similar to the screen example of Fig. 10 may be presented on the display screen of the host computer 190, and the recording device 100 may accept the settings selected by the user via the host interface (host I / F) 127. Also, in this embodiment, options 1001 to 1003 are exemplified, but options other than options 1001 to 1003 may be provided, or there may be only two options.

[0080] <Fourth embodiment> In the fourth embodiment, the CPU 128 can set whether to execute a past alternative process. In particular, when the CPU 128 can identify an alternative process that the user has previously instructed, the CPU 128 can select whether to execute the identified alternative process or to accept an instruction for an alternative process from the user each time.

[0081] 11 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for setting the operation to be performed when the CPU 128 determines that top-side ejection is not possible. This screen can be displayed, for example, from the setting menu of the recording device 100. Here, options 1101 to 1102 are presented together with a message 1100 saying "Operation settings when top-side ejection is not possible."

[0082] Option 1101 is an option for performing the same processing as the alternative processing specified by information stored in a storage unit such as RAM 124 or HDD 165. When option 1101 is selected, similarly to the first and second embodiments, if the CPU 128 can specify the alternative processing that was previously instructed when it has determined that top-side discharge will not be performed, it executes the specified alternative processing.

[0083] Option 1102 is an option to pause and present an option. That is, whenever the CPU 128 determines not to perform top-side ejection, it causes the input / output device 166 to display a screen such as that shown in FIG. 6 to prompt the user to instruct alternative processing.

[0084] For example, by selecting option 1101, the user can generally save the trouble of instructing alternative processing and have the recording device 100 perform the recording processing efficiently. On the other hand, if the user wants to instruct the alternative processing in detail, the user can select option 1102 before executing a recording job, thereby instructing the alternative processing each time for that recording job.

[0085] The operation when top-side ejection is not performed may be set by the input / output device 166 of the recording apparatus 100, or may be set by an external device such as the host computer 190. For example, options similar to the screen example of Fig. 11 may be presented on the display screen of the host computer 190, and the recording apparatus 100 may accept the setting selected by the user via the host interface (host I / F) 127. Also, in this embodiment, options 1101 and 1102 are exemplified, but other options may be provided.

[0086] <Other embodiments> The recording device 100 in the above embodiment is a so-called serial type recording device that records an image by alternately scanning the inkjet head in the X direction and transporting paper in the Y direction. However, it may also be a full multi-type recording device in which the inkjet head has a fixed recording position and records an image on transported paper. The configuration of the above embodiment can also be applied to recording devices other than inkjet head type recording devices. For example, an electrophotographic type recording device that applies toner to paper to record an image can also be used.

[0087] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example has been described in which an image is recorded on paper as a recording medium, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the configuration of the above embodiment can also be applied to a recording device that records an image on a recording medium other than paper, such as film or cloth.

[0088] Furthermore, in the recording device 100 of the above embodiment, a front discharge port 1 is provided at the front portion thereof and a top discharge port 2 is provided at the top thereof. However, the arrangement and number of discharge ports can be changed as appropriate. For example, two discharge ports may be provided at the front portion of the recording device 100, spaced apart from each other above and below. Furthermore, stacking ports for stacking discharged recording media may be provided corresponding to each of the upper and lower discharge ports. The alternative process may include changing the discharge destination to another discharge port when the stacking port corresponding to the discharge port designated as the discharge destination is fully loaded. Furthermore, discharge ports may be provided on multiple side surfaces of the recording device 100, or three or more discharge ports may be provided.

[0089] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, when it was determined that top-face ejection would not be performed (S403), if an alternative process previously instructed by the user could be identified, that alternative process was executed (S404 → S405). In this process, the CPU 128 may execute the alternative process if it can identify an alternative process previously instructed by the user and if the factor that determined that top-face ejection would not be performed this time is the same as the factor that determined that top-face ejection would not be performed when the alternative process was instructed. In other words, the CPU 128 may execute the alternative process when the same error or the like occurs. This allows an appropriate alternative process to be executed for each factor that determined that top-face ejection would not be performed. However, by executing the alternative process previously instructed by the user regardless of the factor that determined that top-face ejection would not be performed, as in the above embodiment, the number of user input operations can be further reduced.

[0090] In the above embodiment, CPU 128 determines not to perform top-side ejection when main body cover 160, which is an example of a stacking unit, is fully loaded (the load amount reaches a predetermined amount). However, even when CPU 128 determines not to perform top-side ejection because main body cover 160 is fully loaded, CPU 128 may perform top-side ejection if the number of pages remaining until the completion of the recording job is equal to or less than a predetermined value. The predetermined value may be, for example, 1 to 10 pages, 3 to 7 pages, 4 to 6 pages, etc. Furthermore, CPU 128 may temporarily suspend the transport of recording media before ejecting them onto main body cover 160 as an alternative process when main body cover 160 is fully loaded. CPU 128 may then notify the user via input / output device 166 to remove the recording media loaded on main body cover 160.

[0091] Furthermore, CPU 128 may compare the remaining number of pages that can be loaded on main body cover 160, which is an example of a stacking unit, with the number of pages of the input job, and may prompt the user to change the discharge destination in advance if there is a possibility that the discharge destination will become full during execution of the recording job. For example, when CPU 128 confirms in S401 that the discharge destination is top-side discharge outlet 2, it identifies the number of pages to be top-side discharged from the contents of the recording job and identifies the remaining number of pages that can be stacked on main body cover 160 from the detection result of stacking sensor 161. Then, when the number of pages to be top-side discharged is greater than the remaining number that can be stacked, CPU 128 may accept a selection of whether or not to perform front-side discharge via input / output device 166. This makes it possible to prevent the discharge destination from being switched during execution of the recording job.

[0092] Furthermore, CPU 128 may change the order of pages so that pages with the same print settings can be processed consecutively within the same recording job. For example, when a discharge destination is set for each page within the same recording job, CPU 128 may change the recording order of pages so that pages set to the same discharge destination can be processed consecutively.

[0093] 4 and 7 are executed by the CPU 128, but at least a part of the processing of these flowcharts may be executed by an external device (e.g., the host computer 190) that can communicate with the recording device 100. In other words, at least a part of the control method for the recording device 100 of the above embodiment may be executed by an external device such as the host computer 190.

[0094] <Additional Notes> The disclosure of this specification includes the following printing device, printing method, information processing device, and program. (Item 1) a first discharge unit to which the recording medium is discharged after recording; a second discharge unit to which the recording medium is discharged after recording; A recording device comprising: a determination means for determining whether to discharge the recording medium from the first discharge unit based on a predetermined condition when the first discharge unit is specified as the discharge destination of the recording medium; a specifying unit that specifies an alternative process previously instructed by a user when the determining unit determines that the recording medium should not be discharged from the first discharge unit; an execution unit that executes the alternative process identified by the identification unit, A recording device characterized by: (Item 2) Item 1. The recording device according to item 1, The method further comprises receiving means for receiving an instruction for an alternative process from a user when the specifying means cannot specify an alternative process previously specified by the user, When the specifying means cannot specify an alternative process previously instructed by the user, the executing means executes the alternative process accepted by the accepting means. A recording device characterized by: (Item 3) Item 2. The recording device according to item 2, The information on the alternative process received by the reception means is stored in a storage unit as information on an alternative process previously instructed by a user. A recording device characterized by: (Item 4) Item 3. The recording device according to item 3, the storage control means initializes the information on the alternative process stored in the storage unit at a predetermined timing; A recording device characterized by: (Item 5) Item 4. The recording device according to item 4, the predetermined timing is a timing when the recording job being executed when the accepting unit accepts the alternative process is completed. A recording device characterized by: (Item 6) Item 4. The recording device according to item 4, the predetermined timing is a timing at which the recording device is shut down; A recording device characterized by: (Item 7) Item 3. The recording device according to item 3, the execution unit executes an alternative process previously instructed by a user who has issued a recording instruction for the recording job currently being executed; A recording device characterized by: (Item 8) 8. The recording device according to any one of items 1 to 7, The execution means is capable of executing, as an alternative process, changing the discharge destination from the first discharge unit to the second discharge unit. A recording device characterized by: (Item 9) 9. The recording device according to any one of items 1 to 8, further comprising a stacking unit for stacking the recording medium discharged from the first discharge unit; The determining unit determines whether or not to discharge the recording medium from the first discharge unit based on the stacking state of the recording medium on the stacking unit. A recording device characterized by: (Item 10) 10. The recording device according to any one of items 1 to 9, the first ejection unit ejects the recording medium from a top portion of the recording device; the second ejection unit ejects the recording medium from the front of the recording device; A recording device characterized by: (Item 11) The recording device according to any one of items 1 to 10, the determining means determines whether or not to discharge the recording medium from the first discharge unit based on information regarding the rigidity of the recording medium. A recording device characterized by: (Item 12) 12. The recording device according to any one of items 1 to 11, the recording device includes a supply unit that supplies a recording medium onto a transport path before recording; the supply unit is capable of supplying a roll sheet and a cut sheet as the recording medium; the determining unit determines that the recording medium should not be discharged from the first discharge unit when a cut sheet is supplied from the supply unit to the conveyance path; A recording device characterized by: (Item 13) Item 13. The recording device according to item 12, It also has a cutter to cut the roll sheet, the determining unit determines whether or not to discharge the recording medium from the first discharge unit based on the cutting method of the roll sheet by the cutter. A recording device characterized by: (Item 14) 14. The recording device according to any one of items 1 to 13, The method further includes a setting unit for setting whether or not the past alternative process is to be executed. A recording device characterized by: (Item 15) 15. The recording device according to any one of items 1 to 14, Further, a recording means for recording on a recording medium is provided. A recording device characterized by: (Item 16) a first discharge unit to which the recording medium is discharged after recording; a second discharge unit to which the recording medium is discharged after recording; A control method for a recording device comprising: a determination step of determining whether or not to discharge the recording medium from the first discharge unit based on a predetermined condition when the first discharge unit is instructed as a discharge destination of the recording medium; a specifying step of specifying an alternative process previously instructed by a user when it is determined in the determining step that the recording medium should not be discharged from the first discharge unit; an execution step of executing the alternative process identified by the identification step. A control method comprising: (Item 17) Item 17. The control method according to item 16, the first ejection unit ejects the recording medium from a top portion of the recording device; the second ejection unit ejects the recording medium from the front of the recording device; A control method comprising: (Item 18) A program for causing a computer to execute each step of the control method described in any one of items 16 to 17.

[0095] The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program.The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0096] The invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the following claims are appended to apprise the public of the scope of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0097] 1: Front outlet, 2: Top outlet, 100: Recording device, 128: CPU

Claims

1. a first discharge unit to which the recording medium is discharged after recording; a second discharge unit to which the recording medium is discharged after recording; A recording device comprising: a determination means for determining whether or not to discharge the recording medium from the first discharge unit based on a predetermined condition when the first discharge unit is specified as the discharge destination of the recording medium; a specifying unit that specifies an alternative process previously instructed by a user when the determining unit determines that the recording medium should not be discharged from the first discharge unit; an execution unit that executes the alternative process identified by the identification unit, A recording device characterized by:

2. 2. The recording device according to claim 1, The method further comprises receiving means for receiving an instruction for an alternative process from a user when the specifying means cannot specify an alternative process previously specified by the user, When the specifying means cannot specify an alternative process previously instructed by the user, the executing means executes the alternative process accepted by the accepting means. A recording device characterized by:

3. 3. The recording device according to claim 2, The information on the alternative process received by the reception means is stored in a storage unit as information on an alternative process previously instructed by a user. A recording device characterized by:

4. 4. The recording device according to claim 3, the storage control means initializes the information on the alternative process stored in the storage unit at a predetermined timing; A recording device characterized by:

5. 5. The recording device according to claim 4, the predetermined timing is a timing when the recording job being executed when the accepting unit accepts the alternative process is completed. A recording device characterized by:

6. 5. The recording device according to claim 4, the predetermined timing is a timing at which the recording device is shut down; A recording device characterized by:

7. 4. The recording device according to claim 3, the execution unit executes an alternative process previously instructed by a user who has issued a recording instruction for the recording job currently being executed; A recording device characterized by:

8. 8. A recording device according to claim 1, the execution means is capable of executing, as the alternative process, a change of the discharge destination from the first discharge unit to the second discharge unit; A recording device characterized by:

9. 8. A recording device according to claim 1, a stacking unit for stacking the recording medium discharged from the first discharge unit; the determining unit determines whether or not to discharge the recording medium from the first discharge unit based on the stacking state of the recording medium on the stacking unit. A recording device characterized by:

10. 2. The recording device according to claim 1, the first ejection unit ejects the recording medium from a top portion of the recording device; the second ejection unit ejects the recording medium from the front of the recording device; A recording device characterized by:

11. 10. The recording device according to claim 9, the first ejection unit ejects the recording medium from a top portion of the recording device; the second ejection unit ejects the recording medium from the front of the recording device; A recording device characterized by:

12. 8. A recording device according to claim 1, the determining means determines whether or not to discharge the recording medium from the first discharge unit based on information regarding the rigidity of the recording medium. A recording device characterized by:

13. 8. A recording device according to claim 1, the recording device includes a supply unit that supplies a recording medium onto a transport path before recording; the supply unit is capable of supplying a roll sheet and a cut sheet as the recording medium; the determining unit determines that the recording medium should not be discharged from the first discharge unit when a cut sheet is supplied from the supply unit to the transport path; A recording device characterized by:

14. 14. The recording device according to claim 13, It also has a cutter to cut the roll sheet, the determining unit determines whether or not to discharge the recording medium from the first discharge unit based on a cutting method of the roll sheet by the cutter. A recording device characterized by:

15. 8. A recording device according to claim 1, The method further includes a setting unit for setting whether or not the past alternative process is to be executed. A recording device characterized by:

16. 8. A recording device according to claim 1, Further, a recording means for recording on a recording medium is provided. A recording device characterized by:

17. a first discharge unit to which the recording medium is discharged after recording; a second discharge unit to which the recording medium is discharged after recording; A control method for a recording device comprising: a determination step of determining whether or not to discharge the recording medium from the first discharge unit based on a predetermined condition when the first discharge unit is specified as the discharge destination of the recording medium; a specifying step of specifying an alternative process previously instructed by a user when it is determined in the determining step that the recording medium should not be discharged from the first discharge unit; an execution step of executing the alternative process identified by the identification step. A control method comprising:

18. 18. The control method of claim 17, the first ejection unit ejects the recording medium from a top portion of the recording device; the second ejection unit ejects the recording medium from the front of the recording device; A control method comprising:

19. A program for causing a computer to execute each step of the control method according to any one of claims 17 to 18.

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