Inkjet system

Abstract

To optimize the number of times of scanning or a scanning direction of a head unit, while reducing burdens on a maker of a printer.SOLUTION: An inkjet system comprises: a head unit which has a nozzle that discharges ink, a pressure chamber communicating with the nozzle, a driving element that gives pressure fluctuation to ink in the pressure chamber by supplying a driving pulse; an obtaining part that obtains output information including either or both of first output information concerning the head unit and second output information concerning ink that is used in the head unit; a first connection part that is connected to a network to be communicatable with a server; a first output part that outputs the output information towards the server through the first connection part; a first input part to which input information is inputted from the server through the first connection part; and a determining part that determines the number of times of scanning or a scanning direction of the head unit with respect to a unit region on media on the basis of the input information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an inkjet system.

Background Art

[0002] In an inkjet printer, generally, ink is ejected from a head onto a medium by driving a driving element such as a piezoelectric element. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses varying the number of scans for a unit area on a medium according to the amount of ink applied per unit area on the medium (1 pass / multiple passes).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In recent years, there is a business model in which a head manufacturer manufactures and sells heads to a printer manufacturer. Printers have various applications and demands. In the above business model, the head manufacturer partners with a printer manufacturer having expertise in each application and each demand, and the head manufacturer provides the head to the printer manufacturer. Then, the printer manufacturer makes use of its own expertise and manufactures a printer incorporating the head of the head manufacturer. This is because, from the perspective of comprehensively satisfying various applications and demands, there are cases where the above business model is more efficient than the head manufacturer manufacturing printers that satisfy various applications and demands one by one.

[0005] However, in the above business model, printer manufacturers had to explore and determine the optimal scanning conditions, such as the number of scans and scanning direction. Some printer manufacturers have specialized knowledge for various applications and demands, but not so much knowledge about the printers themselves. In such cases, this exploration and determination process can be extremely time-consuming and costly.

[0006] On the other hand, if the head manufacturer has expertise in printers, it is conceivable that the head manufacturer could provide appropriate scanning condition information to the printer manufacturer. However, due to the nature of the business model described above, where the head manufacturer and the printer manufacturer are different entities, the head manufacturer is unaware of how the printer manufacturer uses ink, media, heads, etc. Since the optimal scanning conditions vary depending on these usage conditions, it has been difficult for the head manufacturer to provide appropriate scanning condition information. As a result, printer manufacturers have had to search for scanning condition information themselves according to their respective usage conditions, which sometimes increased the burden on the printer manufacturer. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To solve the above problems, one aspect of the inkjet system of the present disclosure includes: a head unit having a nozzle for ejecting ink, a pressure chamber communicating with the nozzle, and a drive element that causes pressure fluctuations in the ink in the pressure chamber by supplying drive pulses; an acquisition unit that acquires output information including one or both of first output information relating to the head unit and second output information relating to the ink used in the head unit; a first connection unit that is network-connected to a server in a manner that enables communication with a server; a first output unit that outputs the output information to the server via the first connection unit; a first input unit that receives input information from the server via the first connection unit; and a determination unit that determines the number of scans or scanning direction of the head unit for a unit area on a media based on the input information. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram showing an example configuration of an inkjet system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ink ejection device used in an inkjet system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the head chip configuration. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of the first processing unit used in the inkjet system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of the server configuration used in the inkjet system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a flowchart showing the processing of the inkjet system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of correspondence information. [Figure 8] This diagram illustrates the printing process when the head unit scans a unit area once and the head unit scans in both directions. [Figure 9] This diagram illustrates the printing process when the head unit scans a unit area twice and the head unit scans in both directions. [Figure 10] This diagram illustrates the printing process when the head unit scans a unit area four times and the head unit scans in both directions. [Figure 11] This diagram illustrates the printing process when the head unit scans a unit area once and the head unit scans in one direction. [Figure 12] This diagram illustrates the printing process when the head unit scans a unit area twice and the head unit scans in one direction only. [Figure 13] This is a schematic diagram showing an example configuration of an inkjet system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14]It is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of an ink ejection device used in an inkjet system according to a second embodiment. [Figure 15] It is a flowchart showing the processing of an inkjet system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 16] It is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of an inkjet system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 17] It is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of a second processing device used in an inkjet system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 18] It is a flowchart showing the processing of an inkjet system according to a third embodiment. [Figure 19] It is a diagram for explaining the transition of the display of the second processing device. [Figure 20] It is a diagram for explaining the transition of the display of the second processing device. [Figure 21] It is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of an inkjet system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 22] It is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of an ink ejection device used in an inkjet system according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 23] It is a flowchart showing the processing of an inkjet system according to a fourth embodiment.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the dimensions and scales of each part in the drawings are appropriately different from the actual ones, and there are also some parts shown schematically for easy understanding. Also, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments unless there is a description specifically limiting the present disclosure in the following description.

[0010] 1. First Embodiment 1-1. Outline of Inkjet System Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example configuration of the inkjet system 10 according to the first embodiment. The inkjet system 10 is a system that performs printing using an inkjet method. In particular, the inkjet system 10 has a function to determine the number of scans or scanning direction of the head unit 110 for a unit area on the media, as will be described in detail later. In the following, the content of said scan count or said scanning direction may be referred to as "scanning conditions".

[0011] In the example shown in Figure 1, the inkjet system 10 includes ink ejection devices 100_1 to 100_3, first processing devices 200_1 to 200_3, a server 300, and a third processing device 400.

[0012] Here, the ink ejectors 100_1 to 100_3 are provided by the printer manufacturer, as described later. The ink ejectors 100_1 to 100_3 may be provided by the same manufacturer or by different manufacturers. Each of the first processing units 200_1 to 200_3 may be owned by the user or provided by the printer manufacturer. On the other hand, the head unit 110 incorporated into each of the ink ejectors 100_1 to 100_3 is provided by the head manufacturer, as described later. The server 300 and the third processing unit 400 are each owned by the head manufacturer. Maintenance and management of the server 300 are performed by the head manufacturer.

[0013] When a user uses the printer, the user owns the ink ejector 100_1, the first processing unit 200_1, and the head unit 110. On the other hand, the user does not own the server 300, but the first processing unit 200_1 is connected to the server 300 via a communication network NW so that it can communicate with it.

[0014] The term "user" refers to the person who uses the ink ejection device 100_1. For example, if the printer manufacturer purchases the print head from the print head manufacturer and manufactures the printer body, and then uses the printer body itself, the printer body manufacturer is the user. Also, for example, if the printer body manufacturer purchases the print head from the print head manufacturer, manufactures the printer body, and a third party purchases and uses the printer body from the printer body manufacturer, that third party is the user.

[0015] Ink ejector 100_1 is connected to the first processing unit 200_1 in a communicative manner. Ink ejector 100_2 is connected to the first processing unit 200_2 in a communicative manner. Ink ejector 100_3 is connected to the first processing unit 200_3 in a communicative manner. Thus, ink ejector 100_1 to 100_3 correspond to the first processing units 200_1 to 200_3 respectively and are connected to the first processing units 200_1 to 200_3 in a communicative manner. In the following, ink ejector 100_1 to 100_3 may be referred to simply as ink ejector 100 without distinction. First processing units 200_1 to 200_3 may be referred to simply as first processing unit 200 without distinction.

[0016] In the example shown in Figure 1, the inkjet system 10 has three ink ejectors 100 and three first processing units 200, but this number is not limited to these three, and may be one, two, or four or more. In other words, the number of sets of ink ejectors 100 and first processing units 200 is not limited to three, but may be one, two, or four or more.

[0017] The ink ejection unit 100 is a serial printer that prints an image based on the recorded data DP from the first processing unit 200 onto a medium using an inkjet method. The recorded data DP is image data in a format that can be processed by the ink ejection unit 100. The medium can be any medium that the ink ejection unit 100 can print on, and is not particularly limited; for example, various types of paper, various types of cloth, or various types of film.

[0018] The ink ejection unit 100 has a head unit 110. The head unit 110 is a module that includes an inkjet head. Hereafter, the elements of the ink ejection unit 100 excluding the head unit 110 may be referred to as the "printer body". Also, the head unit 110 or the ink ejection head 110a described later may be simply referred to as the "head". The configuration of the ink ejection unit 100 will be described in detail later with reference to Figures 2 and 3.

[0019] The first processing unit 200 is a desktop or notebook computer and has the functions of generating recording data DP, controlling printing by the ink ejection device 100, and determining the scanning conditions used for the printing. The configuration of the first processing unit 200 will be described in detail later with reference to Figure 4.

[0020] The first processing unit 200 is connected to the server 300 via a communication network NW, including the Internet. The first processing unit 200 outputs output information D1 to the server 300 and receives input information D2 from the server 300. The output information D1 includes information about the head unit 110 (described later) and / or information about the ink used in the head unit 110. The input information D2 is information about the scanning conditions for the printing process. The first processing unit 200 determines the scanning conditions for the printing process based on the input information D2. The first processing unit 200 also generates recorded data DP by image processing image data DI, for example, in a bitmap format such as JPEG, or a vector format such as PostScript, PDF (Portable Document Format), or XPS (XML Paper Specification). This image processing includes, for example, color conversion processing, density correction processing, quantization processing, and distribution processing. In addition to the above processing, this image processing may also include, if necessary, RIP (Raster image processor) processing, etc.

[0021] Server 300 is a computer that functions as a cloud server and has the functions of receiving output information D1 from the first processing unit 200, generating input information D2 based on the output information D1, and outputting the generated input information D2 to the first processing unit 200. The configuration of Server 300 will be described in detail later with reference to Figure 5.

[0022] Furthermore, the server 300 is communicatively connected to the third processing unit 400 and appropriately sends and receives information necessary for generating input information D2. The third processing unit 400 is a computer that, as needed, receives output information D1 from the server 300 and outputs information necessary for generating input information D2 to the server 300.

[0023] In the inkjet system 10 outlined above, the first processing unit 200 outputs output information D1 to the server 300, so that output information D1 can be provided to the print head manufacturer. Therefore, by utilizing the expertise of the print head manufacturer in addition to output information D1, input information D2, which is necessary for determining the scanning conditions of the printing process, can be efficiently obtained. Then, since the first processing unit 200 determines the scanning conditions of the printing process based on the input information D2 input from the server 300, the burden on the printer manufacturer can be reduced while determining the scanning conditions of the printing process. The inkjet system 10 will be described in detail below.

[0024] 1-2. Configuration of the ink ejection device Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ink ejection device 100 used in an inkjet system 10 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 2, the ink ejection device 100 includes a head unit 110, a moving mechanism 120, a communication device 130, a storage circuit 140, and a processing circuit 150.

[0025] The head unit 110 is an assembly having a head chip 111, a drive circuit 112, a power supply circuit 113, and a drive signal generation circuit 114.

[0026] In the example shown in Figure 2, the head unit 110 is divided into an ink ejection head 110a including a head chip 111 and a drive circuit 112, and a control module 110b including a power supply circuit 113 and a drive signal generation circuit 114. Note that the head unit 110 is not limited to being divided into an ink ejection head 110a and a control module 110b; for example, part or all of the control module 110b may be incorporated into the ink ejection head 110a.

[0027] The print head 111 ejects ink toward the media. Figure 2 shows representative examples of the multiple drive elements 111f that make up the print head 111. A detailed example of the print head 111 will be explained later based on Figure 3.

[0028] In the example shown in Figure 2, the head unit 110 has one head chip 111, but this number may be two or more. Here, since the ink ejection device 100 is of the serial type, one or more head chips 111 are arranged so that multiple nozzles are distributed across a portion of the media's width.

[0029] The drive circuit 112, under the control of the processing circuit 150, switches whether or not to supply the drive signal Com output from the drive signal generation circuit 114 as a drive pulse PD to each of the multiple drive elements 111f of the head chip 111. The drive circuit 112 includes, for example, a group of switches such as a transmission gate for this switching.

[0030] The power supply circuit 113 receives power from a commercial power source (not shown) and generates various predetermined potentials. The generated potentials are supplied to various parts of the ink ejection device 100 as appropriate. In the example shown in Figure 2, the power supply circuit 113 generates a power supply potential VHV and an offset potential VBS. The offset potential VBS is supplied to the head chip 111, etc. The power supply potential VHV is supplied to the drive signal generation circuit 114, etc.

[0031] The drive signal generation circuit 114 is a circuit that generates a drive signal Com for driving each drive element 111f of the head chip 111. Specifically, the drive signal generation circuit 114 includes, for example, a DA conversion circuit and an amplification circuit. In the drive signal generation circuit 114, the DA conversion circuit converts the waveform specification signal dCom from the processing circuit 150 (described later) from a digital signal to an analog signal, and the amplification circuit amplifies the analog signal using the power supply potential VHV from the power supply circuit 113 to generate the drive signal Com. Here, among the waveforms included in the drive signal Com, the signal of the waveform actually supplied to the drive element 111f is the drive pulse PD.

[0032] The moving mechanism 120 changes the relative position between the head unit 110 and the media. More specifically, since the ink ejection device 100 is serial, the moving mechanism 120 includes a transport mechanism that transports the media in a predetermined direction, and a moving mechanism that repeatedly moves (scans) the head unit 110 along an axis perpendicular to the transport direction of the media.

[0033] The communication device 130 is a circuit capable of communicating with the first processing unit 200. For example, the communication device 130 is an interface such as a wireless or wired LAN (Local Area Network) or USB (Universal Serial Bus). USB is a registered trademark. The communication device 130 may also be connected to other first processing units 200 via other networks such as the Internet. Furthermore, the communication device 130 may be integrated with the processing circuit 150.

[0034] The memory circuit 140 stores various programs executed by the processing circuit 150 and various data such as recording data DP processed by the processing circuit 150. The memory circuit 140 includes, for example, one or more volatile memories such as RAM (Random Access Memory) and one or more non-volatile memories such as ROM (Read Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), or PROM (Programmable ROM), or both, as semiconductor memory. The recording data DP is supplied, for example, from the first processing unit 200. The memory circuit 140 may be configured as part of the processing circuit 150.

[0035] The processing circuit 150 has the function of controlling the operation of each part of the ink ejection device 100 and the function of processing various data. The processing circuit 150 includes, for example, one or more processors such as CPUs (Central Processing Units). The processing circuit 150 may also include a programmable logic device such as an FPGA (field-programmable gate array) instead of a CPU, or in addition to a CPU.

[0036] The processing circuit 150 controls the operation of each part of the ink ejector 100 by executing a program stored in the memory circuit 140. Here, the processing circuit 150 generates signals such as a control signal Sk, a print data signal SI, and a waveform specification signal dCom as signals to control the operation of each part of the ink ejector 100.

[0037] The control signal Sk is a signal for controlling the drive of the moving mechanism 120. The print data signal SI is a signal for controlling the drive of the drive circuit 112. Specifically, the print data signal SI specifies at predetermined intervals whether or not the drive circuit 112 supplies the drive signal Com from the drive signal generation circuit 114 to the drive element 111f as a drive pulse PD. This specification determines the amount of ink ejected from the head chip 111, etc. The waveform specification signal dCom is a digital signal for defining the waveform of the drive signal Com generated by the drive signal generation circuit 114.

[0038] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of the head tip 111. For convenience, the following explanation will use the X, Y, and Z axes, which intersect with each other, as appropriate. In the following, one direction along the X axis is the X1 direction, and the direction opposite to the X1 direction is the X2 direction. Similarly, opposite directions along the Y axis are the Y1 and Y2 directions. Opposite directions along the Z axis are the Z1 and Z2 directions.

[0039] As shown in Figure 3, the head tip 111 has a plurality of nozzles N arranged in the direction along the Y axis. These plurality of nozzles N are divided into a first row L1 and a second row L2, which are spaced apart from each other in the direction along the X axis. Each of the first row L1 and the second row L2 is a set of plurality of nozzles N arranged linearly in the direction along the Y axis.

[0040] The head tip 111 has a configuration that is approximately symmetrical with respect to the X-axis. However, the positions of the multiple nozzles N in the first row L1 and the multiple nozzles N in the second row L2 along the Y-axis may coincide or differ. Figure 3 illustrates a configuration in which the positions of the multiple nozzles N in the first row L1 and the multiple nozzles N in the second row L2 along the Y-axis coincide.

[0041] As shown in Figure 3, the head chip 111 includes a flow channel substrate 111a, a pressure chamber substrate 111b, a nozzle plate 111c, a vibration absorber 111d, a diaphragm 111e, a plurality of drive elements 111f, a protective plate 111g, a case 111h, and a wiring board 111i.

[0042] The flow channel substrate 111a and the pressure chamber substrate 111b are stacked in this order in the Z1 direction, forming a flow channel for supplying ink to multiple nozzles N. The region located in the Z1 direction from the stack consisting of the flow channel substrate 111a and the pressure chamber substrate 111b is where the diaphragm 111e, multiple drive elements 111f, protective plate 111g, case 111h, and wiring board 111i are installed. On the other hand, the region located in the Z2 direction from the said stack is where the nozzle plate 111c and vibration absorber 111d are installed. Each element of the head chip 111 is generally a plate-shaped member that is elongated in the Y direction, and is joined to each other, for example, by adhesive. The elements of the head chip 111 will be described in order below.

[0043] The nozzle plate 111c is a plate-shaped member provided with a plurality of nozzles N in the first row L1 and the second row L2, respectively. Each of the plurality of nozzles N is a through hole through which ink passes. Here, the surface of the nozzle plate 111c facing in the Z2 direction is the nozzle surface FN. The nozzle plate 111c is manufactured by processing a silicon single crystal substrate using semiconductor manufacturing technology, such as dry etching or wet etching. However, other known methods and materials may be used in the manufacture of the nozzle plate 111c as appropriate. In addition, the cross-sectional shape of the nozzle is typically circular, but is not limited to this, and may be non-circular, such as polygonal or elliptical.

[0044] The flow channel substrate 111a is provided with a space R1, multiple supply channels Ra, and multiple communication channels Na for each of the first row L1 and second row L2. Space R1 is a long opening extending in the direction along the Y axis when viewed in a plan view along the Z axis. Each of the supply channels Ra and communication channels Na is a through hole formed for each nozzle N. Each supply channel Ra communicates with space R1.

[0045] The pressure chamber substrate 111b is a plate-shaped member in which a plurality of pressure chambers C, referred to as cavities, are provided for each of the first row L1 and the second row L2. The plurality of pressure chambers C are arranged in the direction along the Y axis. Each pressure chamber C is formed for each nozzle N and is a long space extending in the direction along the X axis in a plan view. The flow channel substrate 111a and the pressure chamber substrate 111b are manufactured, for example, by processing a silicon single crystal substrate using semiconductor manufacturing technology, similar to the nozzle plate 111c described above. However, other known methods and materials may be used as appropriate for the manufacture of the flow channel substrate 111a and the pressure chamber substrate 111b.

[0046] The pressure chamber C is the space located between the flow channel substrate 111a and the diaphragm 111e. Multiple pressure chambers C are arranged in the direction along the Y axis for each of the first row L1 and the second row L2. The pressure chamber C also communicates with the communication channel Na and the supply channel Ra, respectively. Therefore, the pressure chamber C communicates with the nozzle N via the communication channel Na and with the space R1 via the supply channel Ra.

[0047] A diaphragm 111e is positioned on the surface of the pressure chamber substrate 111b facing the Z1 direction. The diaphragm 111e is an elastically vibrating plate-shaped member. The diaphragm 111e has, for example, a first layer and a second layer, which are stacked in this order in the Z1 direction. The first layer is, for example, an elastic film composed of silicon oxide (SiO2). This elastic film is formed, for example, by thermal oxidation of one surface of a silicon single crystal substrate. The second layer is, for example, an insulating film composed of zirconium oxide (ZrO2). This insulating film is formed, for example, by forming a zirconium layer by sputtering and then thermally oxidizing the layer. Note that the diaphragm 111e is not limited to the stacked configuration of the first and second layers described above, and may be composed of a single layer or three or more layers.

[0048] On the surface of the diaphragm 111e facing the Z1 direction, multiple drive elements 111f corresponding to the nozzles N are arranged for each of the first row L1 and second row L2. Each drive element 111f is a passive element that deforms in response to the supply of a drive signal. Each drive element 111f is elongated in the direction along the X axis in a plan view. The multiple drive elements 111f are arranged in the direction along the Y axis to correspond to the multiple pressure chambers C. The drive elements 111f overlap the pressure chambers C in a plan view.

[0049] Each driving element 111f is a piezoelectric element, and although not shown in the figure, it has a first electrode, a piezoelectric layer, and a second electrode, which are stacked in this order in the Z1 direction. One of the first and second electrodes is an individual electrode that is spaced apart from each other for each driving element 111f, and a driving pulse PD is supplied to this electrode. The other electrode is a common strip-shaped electrode that extends along the Y axis so as to be continuous across multiple driving elements 111f, and an offset potential VBS is supplied to this electrode. Examples of metallic materials for these electrodes include platinum (Pt), aluminum (Al), nickel (Ni), gold (Au), and copper (Cu), and one of these can be used alone or two or more can be used in combination in the form of an alloy or stacking. The piezoelectric layer is made of a piezoelectric material such as lead zirconate titanate (Pb(Zr,Ti)O3) and, for example, is a strip-shaped layer extending along the Y-axis so as to be continuous across multiple drive elements 111f. However, the piezoelectric layer may be a single unit across multiple drive elements 111f. In this case, the piezoelectric layer has through holes extending along the X-axis in regions corresponding to the gaps between adjacent pressure chambers C in a plan view. When the diaphragm 111e vibrates in conjunction with the deformation of the drive elements 111f, the pressure in the pressure chamber C fluctuates, causing ink to be ejected from the nozzle N.

[0050] The protective plate 111g is a plate-shaped member installed on the surface of the diaphragm 111e facing the Z1 direction, protecting the multiple drive elements 111f and reinforcing the mechanical strength of the diaphragm 111e. Here, the multiple drive elements 111f are housed between the protective plate 111g and the diaphragm 111e. The protective plate 111g is made of, for example, a resin material.

[0051] Case 111h is a component for storing ink supplied to multiple pressure chambers C. Case 111h is made of, for example, a resin material. Each of the first row L1 and the second row L2 of Case 111h is provided with a space R2. Space R2 is a space that communicates with the aforementioned space R1 and functions together with space R1 as a reservoir R for storing ink supplied to the multiple pressure chambers C. Case 111h is provided with an inlet IH for supplying ink to each reservoir R. The ink in each reservoir R is supplied to the pressure chamber C via each supply channel Ra.

[0052] The vibration absorber 111d, also called the compliance substrate, is a flexible resin film that forms the wall surface of the reservoir R and absorbs pressure fluctuations of the ink in the reservoir R. The vibration absorber 111d may also be a thin, flexible metal plate. The surface of the vibration absorber 111d facing the Z1 direction is joined to the flow channel substrate 111a by adhesive or the like.

[0053] The wiring board 111i is mounted on the surface of the diaphragm 111e facing the Z1 direction and is a mounting component for electrically connecting the head chip 111, the drive circuit 112, and the control module 110b, etc. The wiring board 111i is a flexible wiring board such as COF (Chip On Film), FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit), or FFC (Flexible Flat Cable). In this embodiment, the aforementioned drive circuit 112 is mounted on the wiring board 111i.

[0054] 1-3. Configuration of the first processing unit Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example configuration of the first processing unit 200 used in the inkjet system 10 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, the first processing unit 200 includes a display device 210, an input device 220, a communication device 230, a storage circuit 240, and a processing circuit 250. These are connected to each other in a way that allows them to communicate with one another.

[0055] The display device 210 displays various images under the control of the processing circuit 250. Here, the display device 210 has various display panels, such as a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL (electro-luminescence) display panel. Note that the display device 210 may be provided outside the first processing device 200. Also, the display device 210 may be a component of the ink ejection device 100.

[0056] The input device 220 is a device that accepts operations from the user. For example, the input device 220 has a pointing device such as a touchpad, touch panel, or mouse. If the input device 220 has a touch panel, it may also function as the display device 210. The input device 220 may be located outside the first processing unit 200. The input device 220 may also be a component of the ink ejection unit 100. Furthermore, the input device 220 may include an imaging device having a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor or a CMOS (Complementary MOS) image sensor.

[0057] The communication device 230 is a circuit capable of communicating with both the ink ejector 100 and the server 300. For example, the communication device 230 is a wireless or wired interface such as LAN or USB. The communication device 230 transmits recorded data DP to the ink ejector 100 through communication with the ink ejector 100. The communication device 230 also transmits output information D1 and receives input information D2 through communication with the server 300. In other words, the communication device 230 functions as a first connection unit 231 that is connected to the server 300 in a communicative manner. The communication device 230 may also be integrated with the processing circuit 250.

[0058] The memory circuit 240 is a device that stores various programs executed by the processing circuit 250 and various data processed by the processing circuit 250. The memory circuit 240 may be, for example, a hard disk drive or a semiconductor memory. Note that part or all of the memory circuit 240 may be provided in an external storage device or server, etc., of the first processing unit 200.

[0059] The memory circuit 240 of this embodiment stores program PG1, output information D1, input information D2, image data DI, and recorded data DP. Note that some or all of the output information D1, input information D2, image data DI, and recorded data DP may be stored in an external storage device or server of the first processing unit 200. Furthermore, in the following, program PG1, output information D1, and input information D2 may be collectively referred to as information DG.

[0060] Program PG1 is a program that enables the computer to implement various functions necessary for determining the scanning conditions for the printing process based on the input information D2.

[0061] Output information D1 includes first output information D1a, second output information D1b, and third output information D1c. Depending on the determination target in the determination unit 254 described later, either the first output information D1a or the second output information D1b may be omitted, or the third output information D1c may be omitted.

[0062] The first output information D1a is information relating to the head unit 110, and in particular, information relating to the ejection characteristics of the head unit 110. The first output information D1a can be any information that can identify the ejection characteristics of the head unit 110, for example, identification information such as a serial number or product name unique to the head unit 110. Here, "ejection characteristics" refers to the property that indicates how easily ink is ejected in a single ejection; for example, the higher the maximum amount that can be ejected in a single ejection, the higher the ejection characteristics. Note that the first output information D1a is not limited to the identification information, and may also be measurement information that measures the ejection characteristics of the head unit 110, for example.

[0063] The second output information D1b is information about the ink used in the head unit 110, and in particular, information about the color development of the ink. The second output information D1b may be any information that can identify the color development of the ink, for example, identification information such as the ink's part number or product name. However, the second output information D1b is not limited to such identification information, and may also be measurement information obtained by measuring the color of an image such as a color patch formed by ejecting ink onto a predetermined medium.

[0064] The third output information D1c is information relating to the color development of the media printed with ink ejected from the head unit 110. The third output information D1c may be any information that can identify the color development of the media, for example, identification information such as the part number or product name of the media. However, the third output information D1c is not limited to the identification information, and may also be measurement information obtained by measuring the color of the media. Here, the aforementioned color patches may be formed on the media, in which case the measurement information may also serve as the second output information D1b.

[0065] In addition to the information described above, output information D1 may also include information regarding other operating conditions of the head unit 110. Examples of such information regarding other operating conditions include information regarding the temperature of the head unit 110. Examples of information regarding the temperature of the head unit 110 include information regarding the temperature detected by a temperature sensor provided around the head unit 110. Alternatively, the temperature of the ink near the pressure chamber C may be detected using a part of the drive element 111f, and the information regarding that detected temperature may be used as information regarding the temperature of the head unit 110.

[0066] Input information D2 is information regarding the scanning conditions for the printing process. As described above, input information D2 is provided from server 300 to first processing unit 200. In the example shown in Figure 4, input information D2 includes first input information D2a and second input information D2b.

[0067] The first input information D2a is information regarding the number of scans performed by the head unit 110 over a unit area on the media. The second input information D2b is information regarding the scanning direction of the head unit 110 over a unit area on the media. Details of this information will be explained later with reference to Figures 7 to 12.

[0068] The processing circuit 250 is a device that has the function of controlling each part of the first processing unit 200 and the function of processing various data. The processing circuit 250 has a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processing circuit 250 may consist of a single processor or multiple processors. Furthermore, some or all of the functions of the processing circuit 250 may be implemented by hardware such as a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), PLD (Programmable Logic Device), or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

[0069] The processing circuit 250 functions as an acquisition unit 251, a first output unit 252, a first input unit 253, a determination unit 254, and a reception unit 255 by reading and executing the program PG1 from the memory circuit 240.

[0070] The acquisition unit 251 acquires output information D1. In this embodiment, the acquisition unit 251 acquires first output information D1a, second output information D1b, and third output information D1c. For example, the acquisition unit 251 has a function to receive output information D1 via the input device 220, and uses this function to acquire output information D1. The acquired output information D1 is stored in the memory circuit 240 as described above. The acquisition unit 251 may also acquire first output information D1a from the ink ejection device 100.

[0071] The first output unit 252 outputs output information D1 via the first connection unit 231. For example, the first output unit 252 outputs output information D1 to the server 300 via the first connection unit 231, triggered by user instructions using the input device 220.

[0072] Input information D2 is input to the first input unit 253 via the first connection unit 231. For example, input information D2 is input to the first input unit 253 via the first connection unit 231 from the server 300, triggered by instructions from the user using the input device 220.

[0073] The determination unit 254 determines the scanning conditions for the printing process based on the input information D2. Furthermore, the determination unit 254 decides whether or not to execute the printing process based on the scanning conditions determined by the input information D2, based on the reception result from the reception unit 255. Details of this decision will be explained later with reference to Figure 6.

[0074] The reception unit 255 receives instructions from the user regarding whether or not to perform printing under the scanning conditions indicated by the input information D2. For example, the reception unit 255 receives such instructions via the input device 220.

[0075] 1-3. Server Configuration Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example configuration of a server 300 used in an inkjet system 10 according to the first embodiment. As shown in Figure 5, the server 300 includes a display device 310, an input device 320, a communication device 330, a storage circuit 340, and a processing circuit 350. These are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate. Note that the storage circuit 340 is an example of a "storage unit".

[0076] The display device 310 is a device that displays various images under the control of the processing circuit 350, and is configured in the same way as the display device 210 described above. The input device 320 is a device that accepts operations from the user, and is configured in the same way as the input device 220 described above. The communication device 330 is a circuit that can communicate with each of the first processing units 200, and is configured in the same way as the communication device 230 described above. Note that the communication device 330 may be integrated with the processing circuit 350.

[0077] Here, the communication device 330 receives output information D1 and transmits input information D2 through communication with the first processing unit 200. In other words, the communication device 330 functions as a second connection unit 331 that is communicatively connected to the first connection unit 231. The communication device 330 also transmits output information D1 and receives corresponding information D4 through communication with the third processing unit 400 as needed.

[0078] The memory circuit 340 is a device that stores various programs executed by the processing circuit 350 and various data processed by the processing circuit 350, and is configured in the same way as the memory circuit 240 described above. The memory circuit 340 stores the program PG2, output information D1, input information D2, and corresponding information D4.

[0079] Program PG2 is a program that enables the computer to implement various functions necessary for generating input information D2 based on output information D1. Correspondence information D4 is information regarding the correspondence between output information D1 and the scanning conditions of the printing process to be executed. Details of correspondence information D4 will be explained later with reference to Figures 7 to 12.

[0080] The processing circuit 350 is a device that has the function of controlling various parts of the server 300 and processing various data, and is configured in the same way as the processing circuit 250 described above. The processing circuit 350 functions as a second output unit 351, a second input unit 352, and an arithmetic unit 353 by reading and executing the program PG2 from the memory circuit 340.

[0081] The second output unit 351 outputs the input information D2 via the second connection unit 331. For example, the second output unit 351 outputs the input information D2 to the first processing unit 200 via the second connection unit 331, triggered by user instructions using the input device 220.

[0082] Output information D1 is input to the second input unit 352 via the second connection unit 331. For example, output information D1 is input to the second input unit 352 via the second connection unit 331 from the first processing unit 200, triggered by user instructions using the input device 220.

[0083] The arithmetic unit 353 performs calculations to generate input information D2 based on output information D1 and corresponding information D4. Here, depending on the result of comparing output information D1 and corresponding information D4, the arithmetic unit 353 receives new corresponding information D4 from the third processing unit 400 and generates input information D2 using the new corresponding information D4 from the third processing unit 400.

[0084] More specifically, if the corresponding information D4 contains information that corresponds to the output information D1 from the second input unit 352, the calculation unit 353 generates input information D2 based on the output information D1 and the corresponding information D4. On the other hand, even if the corresponding information D4 does not contain information that corresponds to a part of the output information D1 from the second input unit 352, if the corresponding information D4 contains information that corresponds to the second output information D1b, which has a greater impact on image quality than the third output information D1c, the calculation unit 353 generates input information D2 that corresponds to the scanning conditions of the output information D1 indicated by the corresponding information D4 that is closest to the output information D1 from the second input unit 352. Furthermore, if either or both of the first output information D1a and the second output information D1b from the second input unit 352 are not included in the corresponding information D4, the calculation unit 353 receives new corresponding information D4 from the third processing unit 400 and generates input information D2 using the new corresponding information D4 from the third processing unit 400. Furthermore, the correspondence information D4 stored in the memory circuit 340 is overwritten with the new correspondence information D4.

[0085] Here, the third processing unit 400 generates new correspondence information D4 using the output information D1 from the server 300. That is, the third processing unit 400 has an update unit 410 that updates the correspondence information D4. The update unit 410 updates the correspondence information D4 using the output information D1 and the correspondence information D4, as well as information input from the operator of the third processing unit 400 or the administrator of the inkjet system 10 as appropriate. The update unit 410 also causes the updated correspondence information D4 to be sent to the server 300. If the third processing unit 400 does not have the original correspondence information D4, it may update the correspondence information D4 after receiving input of the correspondence information D4 in addition to the output information D1 from the server 300.

[0086] 1-4. Processing of the inkjet system Figure 6 is a flowchart of the processing of the inkjet system 10 according to the first embodiment. In the inkjet system 10, first, as shown in Figure 6, in step S101, the first processing device 200 acquires output information D1.

[0087] Specifically, in step S101, for example, the acquisition unit 251 acquires output information D1 by receiving output information D1 via the input device 220. In step S101, the order in which the first output information D1a, second output information D1b, and third output information D1c are acquired is not particularly limited and is arbitrary. Furthermore, the acquisition unit 251 may, for example, display an image for a GUI (Graphical User Interface) for inputting information necessary for acquiring output information D1 on the display device 210, and use this image to appropriately receive the information necessary for acquiring output information D1 from the user.

[0088] Then, in step S102, the first processing unit 200 outputs output information D1 to the server 300.

[0089] Specifically, in step S102, the first output unit 252 outputs output information D1 via the first connection unit 231, triggered by the acquisition of output information D1. Note that the timing of outputting output information D1 to the first connection unit 231 is not limited to the time of acquisition of output information D1. For example, if the first output unit 252 receives input using the aforementioned GUI image, it may send authentication information such as user account information and password to the server 300. If the server 300 successfully authenticates using this authentication information, the server 300 may send output permission information to the first processing unit 200. Once the first processing unit 200 receives the output permission information, it may output output information D1 to the server 300.

[0090] Next, in step S103, the server 300 inputs output information D1. Then, in step S104, the server 300 generates input information D2 based on the output information D1. More specifically, in step S104, the calculation unit 353 performs calculations to generate input information D2 based on the output information D1 and the corresponding information D4. The server 300 may query the output information D1 against predetermined query information and cancel the processing from step S104 onward depending on the query result. Alternatively, depending on the query result, the server 300 may have the second output unit 351 output input information D2 indicating that it will not provide scanning condition information for the printing process.

[0091] Subsequently, in step S105, the server 300 outputs the input information D2 to the first processing unit 200.

[0092] Next, in step S106, the first processing unit 200 inputs input information D2. Specifically, in step S106, the first input unit 253 receives input information D2 from the server 300 via the first connection unit 231. The first input unit 253 may notify the user, using a display device 210 or the like, whether or not to input input information D2 from the server 300, and may only input input information D2 from the server 300 if the user gives an instruction to permit input using an input device 220 or the like.

[0093] Then, in step S107, the first processing unit 200 determines whether or not to perform printing under the scanning conditions indicated by the input information D2. Specifically, the receiving unit 255 displays an image on the display device 210 to receive an instruction on whether or not to perform printing under the scanning conditions indicated by the input information D2. The receiving unit 255 then receives the instruction on whether or not to perform printing under the scanning conditions indicated by the input information D2 via the input device 220.

[0094] If an instruction is received to perform a print operation under the scanning conditions indicated by input information D2, in step S108, the first processing unit 200 determines the scanning conditions for the print operation based on the input information D2.

[0095] On the other hand, if an instruction is received not to perform printing under the scanning conditions indicated by input information D2, in step S109 the first processing unit 200 decides to perform printing under different scanning conditions input by the user.

[0096] The determination unit 254 may also determine the actual scanning conditions to be used after fine-tuning the scanning conditions indicated by the input information D2 based on user input using the input device 220.

[0097] Once the determination unit 254 determines the scanning conditions, those scanning conditions are set. Specifically, the number of scans indicated by the first input information D2a and the scanning direction indicated by the second input information D2b are set.

[0098] 1-5. Processing in the arithmetic unit In the calculations performed by the calculation unit 353, one or both of the first input information D2a and the second input information D2b are adjusted based on the corresponding information D4 so that the scanning conditions for the printing process are optimized. Here, in this calculation, from the viewpoint of ease of adjustment, it is preferable that one of the first input information D2a and the second input information D2b is adjusted, and from the viewpoint of suitably improving image quality, it is more preferable that the first input information D2a is adjusted.

[0099] The image quality obtained varies depending on the print head, ink, and media. While low image quality can be compensated for by varying scanning conditions, such as increasing the number of scans or using the same scanning direction, some printer manufacturers or users may set scanning conditions not anticipated by the print head manufacturer, potentially resulting in insufficient image quality compensation. For example, consider a scenario where a print head manufacturer provides scanning conditions designed to optimally compensate for a specific combination of print head, ink, and media. For simplicity, the following explanation assumes the printer manufacturer and user are the same, and that the user who purchased the print head manufactures and uses the printer themselves; however, the principles are essentially the same even if the printer manufacturer and user are different.

[0100] In particular, when the print head manufacturer and printer manufacturer are different, the printer manufacturer will decide which inks and media to recommend. In such cases, printer manufacturers with limited expertise may not be able to determine what scanning conditions are optimal. It would be ideal if the print head manufacturer could provide scanning conditions information in advance, but as mentioned above, the inks and media recommended for use differ from printer manufacturer to printer, and therefore the optimal scanning conditions differ accordingly. Traditionally, even print head manufacturers have been unable to determine what scanning conditions to set.

[0101] For example, depending on the surface tension and viscosity of the ink, and the critical surface tension and permeability of the media, if a large amount of ink is applied to the media per unit time, the inks before fixing may come into contact with each other on the media, wetting and spreading, which can cause blurring of image outlines and smudging of fine lines. Increasing the number of scans per unit area reduces the amount of ink ejected per scan, i.e., per unit time, thus resolving the above problem. Also, if the head is scanned in the same direction, the head is scanned in the opposite direction between scans without ejecting ink, thus reducing the amount of ink ejected per unit time and resolving the above problem. However, unnecessarily increasing the number of scans or scanning in the same direction leads to an extension of the recording time. Therefore, it is preferable to vary the scanning conditions depending on the ink and media. In this case, suppose the printer manufacturer uses ink and media different from those assumed by the head manufacturer. Therefore, even if the head manufacturer sets scanning conditions that compensate for image quality degradation with the ink and media they had anticipated while minimizing the extension of recording time, there is still a risk that image quality and recording time may be negatively affected if the ink or media differs from what was anticipated.

[0102] Another example is when a printer manufacturer owns multiple types of print heads from different print head manufacturers, each with different ejection characteristics (different ejection volumes). Naturally, a higher print head ejection volume results in a higher amount of ink being dispensed onto the media per unit time. Therefore, just as with ink and media, if a printer manufacturer uses a print head that differs from the print head manufacturer's intended design, it may negatively impact image quality and recording time.

[0103] Thus, the optimal scanning conditions vary depending on the combination of print head, ink, and media used by the printer manufacturer. This can be difficult for printer manufacturers to determine. On the other hand, even if print head manufacturers attempt to provide pre-configured scanning conditions based on the print head, ink, and media, these are determined arbitrarily by the printer manufacturer, making it difficult to recognize them at the time of print head manufacturing and sales. Therefore, it has also been difficult for print head manufacturers to provide appropriate scanning conditions.

[0104] In light of this, in this embodiment, as described above, the first processing unit 200_1 located at the printer manufacturer's location and the server 300 provided, maintained, and managed by the head manufacturer are connected via a communication network (NW), allowing the head, ink, and media used by the printer manufacturer to be directly input to the head manufacturer's server 300. This makes it possible for the head manufacturer to easily provide appropriate scanning condition information corresponding to the head, ink, and media to the printer manufacturer, thereby reducing the burden on the printer manufacturer.

[0105] Specifically, in this embodiment, the first processing unit 200 outputs first output information D1a related to the head unit 110, second output information D1b related to the ink, and third output information D1c related to the media to the server 300. The server 300 then uses the corresponding information D4 to calculate input information D2 (including first input information D2a, second input information D2b, third input information D2c, and fourth input information D2d) corresponding to the input first output information D1a, second output information D1b, and third output information D1c, and outputs the result to the first processing unit 200.

[0106] 1-5a. Generation of input information D2 Figure 7 shows an example of correspondence information D4. Correspondence information D4 is used when generating input information D2 based on output information D1 in step S104 described above. Figure 7 illustrates the correspondence between the first output information D1a, the second output information D1b, the third output information D1c, the first input information D2a, and the second input information D2b. Note that in Figure 7, correspondence information D4 is shown in a simplified form for ease of explanation, and in reality, correspondence information D4 will differ from the example shown in Figure 7 depending on the situation of the assumed printer manufacturer, etc.

[0107] In Figure 7, the first column from the left, labeled "Fast" and "Slow," represents settings selected by the user according to their preference during the printing process of the ink ejection unit 100. "Fast" indicates a faster printing speed but lower image quality than "High Quality," while "High Quality" indicates higher image quality but lower printing speed than "Fast."

[0108] In Figure 7, the "High Discharge Performance" and "Low Discharge Performance" in the second column from the left represent the discharge characteristics indicated by the first output information D1a, with "High Discharge Performance" indicating a higher discharge characteristic than "Low Discharge Performance." In other words, if the head unit 110 indicated by the first output information D1a is a head unit with high discharge performance, then in Figure 7, it means that one of the combinations of the first input information D2a and the second input information D2b corresponding to "High Discharge Performance" is used. Conversely, if the head unit 110 indicated by the first output information D1a is a head unit with low discharge performance, then in Figure 7, one of the combinations of the first input information D2a and the second input information D2b corresponding to "Low Discharge Performance" is used. Here, "Low Discharge Performance" is an example of the "First Discharge Characteristic," and "Low Discharge Performance" is an example of the "Second Discharge Characteristic." Of the two different discharge characteristics, the one with a higher maximum discharge amount per pixel from the nozzle has a higher discharge characteristic than the one with a lower maximum discharge amount. Note that the average discharge rate, for example, can be used instead of the maximum discharge rate. Also, whether the discharge performance of the head unit 110 is high or low can be determined by its discharge characteristics, specifically whether the maximum or average discharge rate is above or below a predetermined threshold. Furthermore, it is not necessary to classify it into two stages, "high discharge performance" and "low discharge performance," but rather into three or more stages.

[0109] In Figure 7, the "High Color Reproduction" and "Low Color Reproduction" in the third column from the left represent the color reproduction indicated by the second output information D1b, with "High Color Reproduction" indicating higher color reproduction than "Low Color Reproduction." In other words, if the ink indicated by the second output information D1b is a high-color-reproduction ink, it means that in Figure 7, one of the combinations of the first input information D2a and the second input information D2b corresponding to "High Color Reproduction" in "Second Output Information D1b" is used. Conversely, if the ink indicated by the second output information D1b is a low-color-reproduction ink, it means that one of the combinations of the first input information D2a and the second input information D2b corresponding to "Low Color Reproduction" in Figure 7 is used. Of two different color reproductions, the one that is easier to reproduce color on the media has higher color reproduction than the one that is more difficult to reproduce color. In this embodiment, the "color development" of an ink refers to whether the image quality obtained when the target ink on a predetermined medium is applied and the resulting image is observed satisfies a predetermined image quality standard. The "color development" is pre-tested for each ink by the printhead manufacturer, and the results are stored. Furthermore, the classification does not have to be limited to two stages, "high color development" and "low color development," but may be further subdivided into three or more stages. Note that the color development of dye-based inks is often higher than that of pigment-based inks.

[0110] In Figure 7, the "High Color Reproduction" and "Low Color Reproduction" in the fourth column from the left represent the color reproduction indicated by the third output information D1c, with "High Color Reproduction" indicating higher color reproduction than "Low Color Reproduction." In other words, if the media indicated by the third output information D1c is a media with high color reproduction, it means that in Figure 7, one of the combinations of the first input information D2a and the second input information D2b corresponding to "High Color Reproduction" in "Third Output Information D1c" is used. Conversely, if the media indicated by the third output information D1c is a media with low color reproduction, it means that one of the combinations of the first input information D2a and the second input information D2b corresponding to "Low Color Reproduction" in "Third Output Information D1c" is used. Of two different color reproductions, the one that is easier to reproduce color on the media has higher color reproduction than the one that is more difficult to reproduce color. In this embodiment, the "color reproduction" of a media is defined as whether the image quality obtained when a predetermined ink is applied to the media and the resulting image is observed satisfies a predetermined image quality standard. The "color reproduction" is determined by the print head manufacturer through experiments conducted on each media type, and the results are stored in the system. Furthermore, the classification does not necessarily have to be limited to two stages, "high color reproduction" and "low color reproduction," but may be further subdivided into three or more stages. It should be noted that the color reproduction of glossy inkjet paper is often higher than that of plain paper.

[0111] In Figure 7, the numbers "1" through "14" in the fifth column from the left represent the number of scans [passes] indicated by the first input information D2a.

[0112] Here, in the case of user setting "fast" or "clean," the number of scans is the number of scans when the ejection characteristic indicated by the first output information D1a is "low ejection performance," among two different numerical values ​​selected from "1" to "14," and big The value shown is an example of the "first count," and represents the number of scans when the discharge characteristics indicated by the first output information D1a are "high discharge performance," and, small The number shown is an example of the "second occurrence."

[0113] Furthermore, in the case of user settings "fast" or "high quality," the number of scans is the number of distinct numerical values ​​selected from "1" to "14" when the color development indicated by the second output information D1b is "low color development," and big The value shown is an example of the "third scan count," and represents the number of scans when the color development indicated by the second output information D1b is "high color development," and, small The number shown is an example of the "4th occurrence."

[0114] Furthermore, in the case of user settings "fast" or "high quality," the number of scans is the number of distinct numerical values ​​selected from "1" to "14" when the color development indicated by the third output information D1c is "low color development," and big The value shown is an example of the "5th scan count," and represents the number of scans when the color development indicated by the 3rd output information D1c is "high color development," and, small The number shown is an example of the "6th count".

[0115] In Figure 7, the "Unidirectional" and "Bidirectional" labels in the sixth column from the left represent the scanning direction indicated by the second input information D2b. "Unidirectional" indicates a one-way scanning direction, while "Bidirectional" indicates a two-way scanning direction.

[0116] In step S104 described above, the arithmetic unit 353 of the server 300 generates first input information D2a and second input information D2b based on the first output information D1a, second output information D1b, and third output information D1c from the second input unit 352, using the correspondence information D4 as shown in Figure 7. Here, the first input information D2a and the second input information D2b each contain information for when the user setting is "fast" and when it is "clean".

[0117] To specifically explain the first input information D2a and second input information D2b when the user setting is "fast," if the ejection characteristics indicated by the first output information D1a are "high ejection performance," the color development indicated by the second output information D1b is "high color development," and the color development indicated by the third output information D1c is "high color development," then the number of scans is 1 and the scanning direction is unidirectional. If the ejection characteristics indicated by the first output information D1a are "high ejection performance," the color development indicated by the second output information D1b is "high color development," and the color development indicated by the third output information D1c is "low color development," then the number of scans is 4 and the scanning direction is bidirectional. If the ejection characteristics indicated by the first output information D1a are "high ejection performance," the color development indicated by the second output information D1b is "low color development," and the color development indicated by the third output information D1c is "high color development," then the number of scans is 6 and the scanning direction is bidirectional. If the ejection characteristics indicated by the first output information D1a are "high ejection performance", the color development indicated by the second output information D1b is "low color development", and the color development indicated by the third output information D1c is "low color development", the number of scans is 8 and the scanning direction is bidirectional. If the ejection characteristics indicated by the first output information D1a are "low ejection performance", the color development indicated by the second output information D1b is "high color development", and the color development indicated by the third output information D1c is "high color development", the number of scans is 2 and the scanning direction is unidirectional. If the ejection characteristics indicated by the first output information D1a are "low ejection performance", the color development indicated by the second output information D1b is "high color development", and the color development indicated by the third output information D1c is "low color development", the number of scans is 6 and the scanning direction is bidirectional. If the ejection characteristics indicated by the first output information D1a are "low ejection performance", the color development indicated by the second output information D1b is "low color development", and the color development indicated by the third output information D1c is "high color development", the number of scans is 8 and the scanning direction is bidirectional. If the ejection characteristics indicated by the first output information D1a are "low ejection performance", the color development indicated by the second output information D1b is "low color development", and the color development indicated by the third output information D1c is "low color development", the number of scans is 10 and the scanning direction is bidirectional.

[0118] To specifically explain the first input information D2a and second input information D2b when the user setting is "clean," if the ejection characteristics indicated by the first output information D1a are "high ejection performance," the color development indicated by the second output information D1b is "high color development," and the color development indicated by the third output information D1c is "high color development," then the number of scans is 4 and the scanning direction is bidirectional. If the ejection characteristics indicated by the first output information D1a are "high ejection performance," the color development indicated by the second output information D1b is "high color development," and the color development indicated by the third output information D1c is "low color development," then the number of scans is 8 and the scanning direction is bidirectional. If the ejection characteristics indicated by the first output information D1a are "high ejection performance," the color development indicated by the second output information D1b is "low color development," and the color development indicated by the third output information D1c is "high color development," then the number of scans is 10 and the scanning direction is bidirectional. If the ejection characteristics indicated by the first output information D1a are "high ejection performance", the color development indicated by the second output information D1b is "low color development", and the color development indicated by the third output information D1c is "low color development", the number of scans is 12 and the scanning direction is bidirectional. If the ejection characteristics indicated by the first output information D1a are "low ejection performance", the color development indicated by the second output information D1b is "high color development", and the color development indicated by the third output information D1c is "high color development", the number of scans is 6 and the scanning direction is bidirectional. If the ejection characteristics indicated by the first output information D1a are "low ejection performance", the color development indicated by the second output information D1b is "high color development", and the color development indicated by the third output information D1c is "low color development", the number of scans is 10 and the scanning direction is bidirectional. If the ejection characteristics indicated by the first output information D1a are "low ejection performance", the color development indicated by the second output information D1b is "low color development", and the color development indicated by the third output information D1c is "high color development", the number of scans is 12 and the scanning direction is bidirectional. If the ejection characteristics indicated by the first output information D1a are "low ejection performance", the color development indicated by the second output information D1b is "low color development", and the color development indicated by the third output information D1c is "low color development", the number of scans is 14 and the scanning direction is bidirectional.

[0119] 1-5b. Number of scans and scanning direction The following describes examples of combinations of scan counts and scan directions for the head unit 110, based on Figures 8 to 12. Figures 8 to 12 show adjacent unit regions RP1 and RP2 on the media M. Unit region RP2 is located downstream (forward) of unit region RP1 in the transport direction of the media M. In these figures, unit regions RP1 and RP2 are shown with hatching in different directions. Also, for the sake of explanation, the head unit 110 is shown schematically in these figures, and the nozzle N that is to be discharged into unit region RP1 or unit region RP2 is shown with hatching in the same direction as the corresponding unit region RP1 or unit region RP2.

[0120] Figure 8 illustrates the printing process when the head unit 110 scans each of the unit areas RP1 and RP2 once, and the scanning direction of the head unit 110 is bidirectional. In the case shown in Figure 8, first, as shown in Pass 1 in Figure 8, the head unit 110 moves in the X1 direction relative to the unit area RP1, and ink is ejected from the nozzle N to be ejected. This performs printing on the unit area RP1. Next, after transporting a predetermined amount of media M, as shown in Pass 2 in Figure 8, the head unit 110 moves in the X2 direction relative to the unit area RP2, and ink is ejected from the nozzle N to be ejected. This performs printing on the unit area RP2.

[0121] Figure 9 illustrates the printing process when the head unit 110 scans the unit area RP1 twice and the scanning direction of the head unit 110 is bidirectional. In the case shown in Figure 9, first, as shown in Pass 1 in Figure 9, ink is ejected from the nozzle N to be ejected while the head unit 110 moves in the X1 direction relative to the unit area RP1. Next, after transporting a predetermined amount of media M, as shown in Pass 2 in Figure 9, ink is ejected from the nozzle N to be ejected while the head unit 110 moves in the X2 direction relative to the unit area RP1. Printing to the unit area RP1 is performed by these Pass 1 and Pass 2.

[0122] After transporting a predetermined amount of media M, as shown in Pass 3 in Figure 9, the head unit 110 moves in the X1 direction relative to the unit area RP2, and ink is ejected from the nozzle N to be ejected. Although not shown in the figure, after transporting a predetermined amount of media M, the head unit 110 moves in the X2 direction relative to the unit area RP2, and ink is ejected from the nozzle N to be ejected, thereby completing printing on the unit area RP2, similar to the unit area RP1.

[0123] By increasing the number of scans for the unit area RP1 in this way, the amount of ink ejected per unit time for the unit area RP1 can be reduced, and the number of nozzles N used for the unit area RP1 can be increased, thus enabling image quality compensation. However, the width of each unit area in the Y1 direction shown in Figure 9 is smaller than the width of each unit area in the Y1 direction shown in Figure 8. For this reason, throughput is lower in the case shown in Figure 9 compared to the case shown in Figure 8. However, in the case shown in Figure 9, since the scanning direction is bidirectional, throughput is lower compared to the case shown in Figure 12, which will be described later.

[0124] Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the printing process when the head unit 110 scans a unit area RP1 four times and the scanning direction of the head unit 110 is bidirectional. In the case shown in Figure 10, first, as shown in Pass 1 in Figure 10, ink is ejected from the nozzle N to be ejected while the head unit 110 moves in the X1 direction relative to the unit area RP1. Next, after a predetermined amount of media M has been transported, as shown in Pass 2 in Figure 10, ink is ejected from the nozzle N to be ejected while the head unit 110 moves in the X2 direction relative to the unit area RP1. Next, after a predetermined amount of media M has been transported, as shown in Pass 3 in Figure 10, ink is ejected from the nozzle N to be ejected while the head unit 110 moves in the X1 direction relative to the unit area RP1. Next, after a predetermined amount of media M has been transported, as shown in Pass 4 in Figure 10, ink is ejected from the nozzle N to be ejected while the head unit 110 moves in the X2 direction relative to the unit area RP1. Printing is performed on the unit area RP1 using these Pass1, Pass2, Pass3, and Pass4.

[0125] After a predetermined amount of media M has been transported, printing is performed on unit area RP2, similar to the process for unit area RP1.

[0126] By increasing the number of scans for each of the unit regions RP1 and RP2, the image quality can be improved compared to the case shown in Figure 9. However, in the case shown in Figure 10, the throughput is reduced compared to the case shown in Figure 9.

[0127] Figure 11 illustrates the printing process when the head unit 110 scans each of the unit areas RP1 and RP2 once, and the scanning direction of the head unit 110 is unidirectional. In the case shown in Figure 11, first, as shown in Pass 1 in Figure 11, the head unit 110 moves in the X1 direction relative to the unit area RP1, and ink is ejected from the nozzle N that is to be ejected. This performs printing on the unit area RP1.

[0128] Next, after transporting a predetermined amount of media M and returning the head unit 110 to its original position where Pass 1 was initiated, as shown in Pass 2 in Figure 11, the head unit 110 moves in the X1 direction relative to the unit area RP2, and ink is ejected from the nozzle N to be ejected. This completes the printing on the unit area RP2.

[0129] By setting the scanning direction for unit areas RP1 and RP2 to the same direction, the amount of ink ejected per unit time for unit areas RP1 and RP2 can be reduced, and the order of ink ejection between unit areas RP1 and RP2 can be made the same, thus enabling image quality compensation. However, as mentioned above, a period of time is required for the head unit 110 to move without ejecting ink, so the throughput is lower in the case shown in Figure 11 compared to the case shown in Figure 8.

[0130] Figure 12 illustrates the printing process when the head unit 110 scans the unit area RP1 twice and the scanning direction of the head unit 110 is unidirectional. In the case shown in Figure 12, first, as shown in Pass 1 in Figure 12, ink is ejected from the nozzle N to be ejected while the head unit 110 moves in the X1 direction relative to the unit area RP1. Next, after transporting a predetermined amount of media M and returning the head unit 110 to its original position where Pass 1 was started, ink is ejected from the nozzle N to be ejected while the head unit 110 moves in the X1 direction relative to the unit area RP1, as shown in Pass 2 in Figure 11. Printing is performed on the unit area RP1 through these Pass 1 and Pass 2.

[0131] Afterward, a predetermined amount of media M is transported, and the head unit 110 is returned to its original position where Pass1 was initiated. Then, printing is performed on unit area RP2 in the same manner as on unit area RP1.

[0132] By setting the scanning direction for the unit region RP1 to the same direction for Pass1 and Pass2, the image quality can be improved compared to the case shown in Figure 9. However, in the case shown in Figure 12, the throughput is reduced compared to the case shown in Figure 9.

[0133] 1-6. Summary of the First Embodiment As described above, the inkjet system 10 includes a head unit 110, an acquisition unit 251, a first connection unit 231, a first output unit 252, a first input unit 253, and a determination unit 254. The head unit 110 includes a nozzle N for ejecting ink, a pressure chamber C communicating with the nozzle N, and a drive element 111f that provides pressure fluctuations to the ink in the pressure chamber C by supplying a drive pulse PD. The acquisition unit 251 acquires output information D1 which includes one or both of the first output information D1a related to the head unit 110 and the second output information D1b related to the ink used in the head unit 110. The first connection unit 231 is network-connected to enable communication with the server 300. The first output unit 252 outputs the output information D1 to the server 300 via the first connection unit 231. Input information D2 is input to the first input unit 253 from the server 300 via the first connection unit 231. The determination unit 254 determines the number of scans or scanning direction of the head unit 110 for a unit area RP1 on the media M based on the input information D2.

[0134] In the inkjet system 10 described above, the first output unit 252 outputs output information D1 to the server 300 via the first connection unit 231, so that the output information D1 can be provided to the head manufacturer. Therefore, by utilizing the head manufacturer's expertise in addition to the output information D1, input information D2 can be efficiently obtained as information necessary to determine the scanning conditions for the printing process. Then, the determination unit 254 determines the scanning conditions for the printing process based on the input information D2 input from the server 300 to the first input unit 253 via the first connection unit 231, so that the scanning conditions for the printing process can be determined while reducing the burden on the printer manufacturer.

[0135] In this embodiment, output information D1 includes first output information D1a, which is information relating to the ejection characteristics of the head unit 110; second output information D1b, which is information relating to the color development of the ink; and third output information D1c, which is information relating to the color development of the media M. Note that output information D1 may include one or both of the first output information D1a and the second output information D1b, and may not include the third output information D1c.

[0136] As described above, the determination unit 254 determines the number of scans based on the input information D2. Therefore, the number of scans can be optimized as a scanning condition for the printing process.

[0137] Here, as mentioned above, when the ejection characteristic indicated by the first output information D1a is the first ejection characteristic "low ejection performance", the number of scans is defined as the first scan count. When the ejection characteristic indicated by the first output information D1a is the second ejection characteristic "high ejection performance", which is higher than the first ejection characteristic, the number of scans is the second scan count, which is less than the first scan count. Therefore, the difference in image quality in these cases where the ejection characteristics are different can be reduced.

[0138] Furthermore, as mentioned above, when the number of scans in the case where the color development indicated by the second output information D1b is the first color development "low color development" is defined as the third scan count, when the number of scans in the case where the color development indicated by the second output information D1b is higher than the first color development, which is the second color development "high color development", the number of scans in the case is the fourth scan count, which is less than the third scan count. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the difference in image quality in these cases where the ink color development is different from each other.

[0139] Furthermore, when the color reproduction indicated by the third output information D1c is the third color reproduction "low color reproduction," the number of scans is the fifth scan. When the color reproduction indicated by the third output information D1c is the fourth color reproduction "high color reproduction," which is higher than the third color reproduction, the number of scans is the sixth scan, which is less than the fifth scan. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the difference in image quality in these cases where the color reproduction of the media differs.

[0140] In this embodiment, as described above, the determination unit 254 determines the scanning direction based on the input information D2. Therefore, the scanning direction can be optimized as a scanning condition for the printing process.

[0141] As mentioned above, when the ejection characteristic indicated by the first output information D1a is the first ejection characteristic "low ejection performance", the scanning direction is unidirectional. However, when the ejection characteristic indicated by the first output information D1a is the second ejection characteristic "high ejection performance", which is higher than the first ejection characteristic, the scanning direction may be bidirectional. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the difference in image quality in these cases where the ejection characteristics are different.

[0142] Furthermore, as mentioned above, when the scanning direction is unidirectional when the color development indicated by the second output information D1b is the first color development, the scanning direction may be bidirectional when the color development indicated by the second output information D1b is the second color development, which is higher than the first color development. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the difference in image quality in these cases where the ink color developments are different.

[0143] Furthermore, as mentioned above, when the scanning direction is unidirectional when the color rendering indicated by the third output information D1c is the third color rendering, the scanning direction may be bidirectional when the color rendering indicated by the third output information D1c is the fourth color rendering, which is higher than the third color rendering. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the difference in image quality in these cases where the color rendering of the media differs.

[0144] As described above, the inkjet system 10 further includes a receiving unit 255 that receives instructions from the user regarding whether or not to perform printing in the number of scans or scanning direction indicated by input information D2. If the receiving unit 255 receives an instruction to perform printing in the number of scans or scanning direction indicated by input information D2, the decision unit 254 decides to perform printing in the number of scans or scanning direction indicated by input information D2. On the other hand, if the receiving unit 255 receives an instruction not to perform printing in the number of scans or scanning direction indicated by input information D2, the decision unit 254 decides to perform printing in a different number of scans or scanning direction input by the user. In this way, by having the decision unit 254 make a decision based on the instructions received by the receiving unit 255, the convenience of the printer manufacturer can be enhanced.

[0145] As mentioned above, the inkjet system 10 includes an ink ejector 100, a first processing unit 200, and a server 300. The ink ejector 100 includes a head unit 110. The first processing unit 200 is connected to the ink ejector 100 and includes a display device 210, which is an example of a "display unit" that displays information related to the ink ejector 100. Therefore, the ink ejector 100 can perform printing based on recorded data DP from the first processing unit 200. In addition, various types of information can be communicated between the ink ejector 100 and the first processing unit 200. Furthermore, various types of information necessary for the user of the ink ejector 100 can be notified via the display device 210.

[0146] As mentioned above, the server 300 includes a memory circuit 340, which is an example of a "storage unit," and an arithmetic unit 353. The memory circuit 340 stores in advance correspondence information D4, which relates to the correspondence between output information D1 and the number of scans or scanning direction of the printing process to be executed. The arithmetic unit 353 performs calculations to generate input information D2 based on the output information D1 and the correspondence information D4. In this configuration, where input information D2 is generated using the correspondence information D4, input information D2 can be generated quickly.

[0147] 2. Second Embodiment The following describes a second embodiment of this disclosure. For elements whose operation or function is the same as in the first embodiment in the embodiments described below, the reference numerals used in the description of the first embodiment will be reused, and detailed descriptions of each will be omitted as appropriate.

[0148] Figure 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example configuration of the inkjet system 10A according to the second embodiment. The inkjet system 10A is configured in the same way as the first embodiment described above, except that it has ink ejectors 100A_1 to 100A_3 and first processing units 200A_1 to 200A_3 instead of ink ejectors 100_1 to 100_3 and first processing units 200_1 to 200_3.

[0149] Ink ejector 100A_1 is communicatively connected to the first processing unit 200A_1 and also communicatively connected to the server 300 via the communication network NW. Ink ejector 100A_2 is communicatively connected to the first processing unit 200A_2 and also communicatively connected to the server 300 via the communication network NW. Ink ejector 100A_3 is communicatively connected to the first processing unit 200A_3 and also communicatively connected to the server 300 via the communication network NW. Thus, ink ejector 100A_1 to 100A_3 correspond to the first processing units 200A_1 to 200A_3 respectively, and are communicatively connected to the first processing units 200A_1 to 200A_3 and also communicatively connected to the server 300 via the communication network NW. Hereafter, ink ejector 100A_1 to 100A_3 may be referred to simply as ink ejector 100A without distinction. Sometimes, the first processing units 200A_1 to 200A_3 are referred to simply as the first processing unit 200A without distinction.

[0150] In the example shown in Figure 13, the inkjet system 10A has three ink ejectors 100A and three first processing units 200A, but this number is not limited to these three and may be one, two, or four or more. In other words, the number of sets of ink ejectors 100A and first processing units 200A is not limited to three sets, but may be one, two, or four or more sets.

[0151] The ink ejection unit 100A is configured similarly to the ink ejection unit 100 of the first embodiment described above, except that it has a head unit 110A instead of the head unit 110. The head unit 110 is the same as the head unit 110 except that it has an added function for determining the scanning conditions of the printing process. Details of the ink ejection unit 100A will be described later with reference to Figure 14.

[0152] The ink ejector 100A outputs output information D1 to the server 300 and receives input information D2 from the server 300. Based on the input information D2, the ink ejector 100A determines the scanning conditions for the printing process.

[0153] The first processing unit 200A is configured in the same manner as the first processing unit 200 of the first embodiment described above, except that the function for determining the scanning conditions for the printing process is omitted.

[0154] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ink ejection device 100A used in an inkjet system 10A according to the second embodiment. As shown in Figure 14, the head unit 110A of the ink ejection device 100A is configured in the same way as the head unit 110 of the first embodiment, except that it has a control module 110c instead of a control module 110b. The control module 110c is configured in the same way as the control module 110b, except that it has a communication device 115, a memory circuit 116, and a processing circuit 117 added to it.

[0155] The communication device 115 is a circuit capable of communicating with the server 300. For example, the communication device 115 is a wireless or wired LAN, USB, or other interface. The communication device 115 transmits output information D1 and receives input information D2 through communication with the server 300. That is, the communication device 115 functions as a first connection part 115a that is connected to the server 300 in a manner that enables communication, similar to the first connection part 231 in the first embodiment.

[0156] The memory circuit 116 is a device that stores various programs executed by the processing circuit 117 and various data processed by the processing circuit 117. The memory circuit 116 has, for example, a semiconductor memory.

[0157] The memory circuit 116 stores the same information DG as shown in Figure 4 above. Specifically, the memory circuit 116 stores the program PG1, output information D1, and input information D2.

[0158] The processing circuit 117 is a device that has the function of controlling each part of the control module 110c and processing various data. The processing circuit 117 has one or more processors, such as a CPU. The processing circuit 117 may be configured together with the memory circuit 116, or it may be composed of hardware such as a DSP, ASIC, PLD, FPGA, etc.

[0159] The processing circuit 117 functions as an acquisition unit 117a, a first output unit 117b, a first input unit 117c, and a determination unit 117d by reading and executing the program PG1 from the memory circuit 116.

[0160] The acquisition unit 117a acquires output information D1, similar to the acquisition unit 251 in the first embodiment. The first output unit 117b outputs output information D1 via the first connection unit 115a, similar to the first output unit 252 in the first embodiment. Input information D2 is input to the first input unit 117c via the first connection unit 115a, similar to the first input unit 253 in the first embodiment. The determination unit 117d determines the scanning conditions for the printing process based on the input information D2, similar to the determination unit 254 in the first embodiment.

[0161] Figure 15 is a flowchart showing the processing of the inkjet system 10A according to the second embodiment. In the inkjet system 10A, first, as shown in Figure 15, in step S201, the ink ejector 100A acquires output information D1. Then, in step S202, the ink ejector 100A outputs the output information D1 to the server 300.

[0162] Next, in step S203, the server 300 receives output information D1. Then, in step S204, the server 300 generates input information D2 based on the output information D1. After that, in step S205, the server 300 outputs the input information D2 to the ink ejector 100A.

[0163] Next, in step S206, the ink ejector 100A inputs the input information D2. Then, in step S207, the ink ejector 100A determines the scanning conditions for the printing process based on the input information D2.

[0164] Similar to the first embodiment, the second embodiment also allows for the determination of scanning conditions for printing while reducing the burden on the printer manufacturer. In this embodiment, as described above, the first input unit 117c and the first connection unit 115a are provided in the ink ejector 100A. Therefore, input information D2 from the server 300 can be input to the ink ejector 100A. Accordingly, by providing a determination unit 117d in the ink ejector 100A, the information regarding the scanning conditions for printing determined by the determination unit 117d can be used in the ink ejector 100A. Furthermore, since it is not necessary to incorporate a program for determining the scanning conditions for printing into the first processing unit 200A, the burden on the printer manufacturer or user can also be reduced in this respect.

[0165] 3. Third Embodiment A third embodiment of this disclosure will be described below. For elements whose operation or function is the same as in the first embodiment in the embodiments described below, the reference numerals used in the description of the first embodiment will be reused, and detailed descriptions of each will be omitted as appropriate.

[0166] Figure 16 is a schematic diagram showing an example configuration of the inkjet system 10B according to the third embodiment. The inkjet system 10B is configured in the same way as the first embodiment described above, except that it has first processing units 200B_1 to 200B_3 instead of first processing units 200_1 to 200_3, and second processing units 500_1 to 500_3 are added.

[0167] The second processing unit 500_1 is connected to the first processing unit 200B_1 in a communicative manner, and is also connected to the server 300 in a communicative manner via the communication network NW. The second processing unit 500_2 is connected to the first processing unit 200B_2 in a communicative manner, and is also connected to the server 300 in a communicative manner via the communication network NW. The second processing unit 500_3 is connected to the first processing unit 200B_3 in a communicative manner, and is also connected to the server 300 in a communicative manner via the communication network NW. Thus, the second processing units 500_1 to 500_3 correspond to the first processing units 200B_1 to 200B_3 respectively, and are connected to the first processing units 200B_1 to 200B_3 in a communicative manner, and are also connected to the server 300 in a communicative manner via the communication network NW. Hereafter, the second processing units 500_1 to 500_3 may be referred to simply as the second processing unit 500 without distinction. Sometimes, the first processing units 200B_1 to 200B_3 are referred to simply as the first processing unit 200B without distinction.

[0168] In the example shown in Figure 16, the inkjet system 10B has three second processing units 500, three ink ejectors 100, and three first processing units 200B. However, the number is not limited to these three units; it may be one, two, or four or more. In other words, the number of sets of the second processing unit 500, the ink ejectors 100, and the first processing unit 200B is not limited to three sets; it may be one, two, or four or more sets.

[0169] The first processing unit 200B is configured similarly to the first processing unit 200 of the first embodiment, except that it is connected to the second processing unit 500 and the ink ejection unit 100 in a communicative manner.

[0170] The second processing unit 500 is a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet, and is configured to communicate with both the server 300 and the first processing unit 200B. The second processing unit 500 acquires output information D1, outputs output information D1 to the server 300, and receives input information D2 from the server 300.

[0171] The first processing unit 200B is configured in the same way as the first processing unit 200 of the first embodiment. However, the first processing unit 200B uses the determination unit 254 instead of the acquisition unit 251, the first output unit 252, the first input unit 253, and the determination unit 254. Therefore, in the first processing unit 200B, at least one of the acquisition unit 251, the first output unit 252, and the first input unit 253 may be omitted.

[0172] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram showing an example configuration of a second processing unit 500 used in the inkjet system 10B according to the third embodiment. The second processing unit 500 includes a display device 510, an input device 520, a communication device 530, a storage circuit 540, and a processing circuit 550. These are connected to each other in a way that allows them to communicate with one another.

[0173] The display device 510 displays various images under the control of the processing circuit 550. Here, the display device 510 has various display panels, such as a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL (electro-luminescence) display panel.

[0174] The input device 520 is a device that accepts operations from the user. For example, the input device 520 has a pointing device such as a touch panel. In this case, if the input device 520 has a touch panel, it is configured integrally with the display device 510.

[0175] The communication device 530 is a circuit capable of communicating with both the first processing unit 200B and the server 300. The communication device 530 is an interface such as NFC (Near Field Communication), BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, wireless or wired LAN, or USB. Note that NFC, BLE, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth are registered trademarks.

[0176] The communication device 530 transmits output information D1 and receives input information D2 through communication with the server 300. In other words, the communication device 530 functions as a first connection unit 531 that is communicatively connected to the server 300. The communication device 530 also functions as a short-range connection unit 532 that is communicatively connected to the first processing unit 200B via short-range wireless communication, and transmits input information D2 to the first processing unit 200B through this function. The communication device 530 may be integrated with the processing circuit 550.

[0177] The memory circuit 540 is a device that stores various programs executed by the processing circuit 550 and various data processed by the processing circuit 550. The memory circuit 540 has, for example, a semiconductor memory.

[0178] The memory circuit 540 of this embodiment stores the program PG1, output information D1, and input information D2.

[0179] The processing circuit 550 is a device that has the function of controlling each part of the second processing unit 500 and the function of processing various data. The processing circuit 550 has one or more processors, such as a CPU. Some or all of the functions of the processing circuit 550 may be implemented by hardware such as a DSP, ASIC, PLD, FPGA, etc.

[0180] The processing circuit 550 functions as an acquisition unit 551, a first output unit 552, and a first input unit 553 by reading and executing the program PG1 from the storage circuit 540. In this embodiment, the program PG1 stored in the storage circuit 540 does not implement the function equivalent to the determination unit 254 of the first embodiment in the processing circuit 550, but the processing circuit 550 may implement the function equivalent to the determination unit 254. If the processing circuit 550 implements the function equivalent to the determination unit 254, the determination of the scanning conditions for the printing process may be performed by the second processing unit 500 instead of the first processing unit 200B.

[0181] The acquisition unit 551 acquires output information D1, similar to the acquisition unit 251 in the first embodiment. In this embodiment, as will be explained later with reference to Figures 19 and 20, an image for the GUI for acquiring output information D1 is displayed on the display device 510, and based on the input result to the input device 520, the acquisition unit 251 acquires the first output information D1a, the second output information D1b, and the third output information D1c.

[0182] The first output unit 552 outputs output information D1 via the first connection unit 531. For example, the first output unit 552 triggers an instruction from a user using the input device 520 to output output information D1 to the first connection unit 531 toward the server 300.

[0183] Input information D2 is input to the first input unit 553 via the first connection unit 531. For example, input information D2 is input to the first input unit 553 via the first connection unit 531 from the server 300, triggered by user instructions using the input device 520.

[0184] Figure 18 is a flowchart showing the processing of the inkjet system 10B according to the third embodiment. In the inkjet system 10B, first, as shown in Figure 19, in step S301, the second processing unit 500 acquires output information D1. Then, in step S302, the second processing unit 500 outputs the output information D1 to the server 300.

[0185] Next, in step S303, the server 300 receives output information D1. Then, in step S304, the server 300 generates input information D2 based on the output information D1. After that, in step S305, the server 300 outputs the input information D2 to the second processing unit 500.

[0186] Next, in step S306, the second processing unit 500 receives input information D2. Then, in step S307, the second processing unit 500 outputs input information D2 to the first processing unit 200B.

[0187] Next, in step S308, the first processing unit 200B receives input information D2. Then, in step S309, the first processing unit 200B determines the scanning conditions for the printing process based on the input information D2.

[0188] The following describes the display transitions of the second processing unit 500 in the process shown in Figure 18, based on Figures 19 and 20. Figures 19 and 20 are diagrams illustrating the display transitions of the second processing unit 500. In the example shown in Figures 19 and 20, the input device 520 has a touch panel 521, a selection button 522, and a confirmation button 523. The touch panel 521 is stacked on the display device 510 and accepts input from, for example, the user's finger or a stylus. The selection button 522 is, for example, a directional pad and accepts the operation of selecting an item displayed on the display device 510. The confirmation button 523 accepts the operation of confirming the input content.

[0189] In step S301 described above, first, as shown in the upper left of Figure 19, images G1 to G3 are displayed on the display device 510. Image G1 displays a message asking whether or not to execute the process for determining the scanning conditions of the printing process. Image G2 is an image to accept that the process for determining the scanning conditions of the printing process will not be executed. Image G3 is an image to accept that the process for determining the scanning conditions of the printing process will be executed.

[0190] After image G2 is selected by operating the selection button 522, if the confirm button 523 is pressed while image G2 is selected, images G4 to G6 will be displayed on the display device 510, as shown in the upper right of Figure 19. Image G4 displays information that prompts the operator of the second processing unit 500 to input data, etc., as necessary for determining the scanning conditions of the printing process. Image G5 is an image for receiving input of a data file used to determine the number of scans of the head unit 110. Image G6 is an image for receiving input of a data file used to determine the scanning direction of the head unit 110. By operating on images G5 to G6, the data file necessary for determining the scanning conditions of the printing process is input. This makes it possible to determine the scanning conditions of the printing process using data, etc., held by the operator of the second processing unit 500.

[0191] On the other hand, after image G3 is selected by operating the selection button 522, if the confirm button 523 is pressed while image G3 is selected, images G9 to G11 are displayed on the display device 510, as shown in the lower left of Figure 19. Image G9 displays content prompting the input of identification information for the head unit 110. In the example shown in Figure 19, the user is prompted to input the product name as the identification information. Image G10 is an image for accepting the selection of one of several pieces of identification information. In the example shown in Figure 19, the product names, which are the multiple pieces of identification information, are displayed as "A head", "B head", "C head", and "other". Image G11 is an image for accepting the operation to confirm the input of the identification information selected in image G10.

[0192] After selecting one of the multiple identification information shown in image G10 and image G11 by operating the selection button 522, if the confirm button 523 is pressed while the selection is made, the selected identification information is acquired by the second processing unit 500 as the first output information D1a. If "Other" shown in image G10 is selected and the operation on image G11 is performed, the process of changing the multiple product names shown in image G10 to multiple product names other than "A head", "B head", and "C head" may be performed. In this case, it becomes possible to select one of the multiple product names.

[0193] Next, as shown in the lower center of Figure 19, images G12 to G14 are displayed on the display device 510. Image G12 displays a prompt to enter the name of the ink manufacturer. Image G13 is an image for accepting the selection of one of several ink manufacturers. In the example shown in Figure 19, the several ink manufacturers displayed are "Company A," "Company B," "Company C," and "Other." Here, one of "Company A," "Company B," and "Company C," for example, "Company A," is the manufacturer of the head unit 110. Image G14 is an image for accepting the operation to confirm the input of the manufacturer name selected in image G13.

[0194] After selecting one of the multiple manufacturers shown in image G13 and image G14 by operating the selection button 522, and then pressing the confirm button 523 while in that selected state, images G15 to G17 will be displayed on the display device 510, as shown in the lower right of Figure 19. If the operation of image G14 is performed while "Other" shown in image G13 is selected, the process of changing the multiple manufacturer names shown in image G13 to multiple manufacturer names other than "Company A", "Company B", and "Company C" may be performed. In this case, it becomes possible to select one of the multiple manufacturer names.

[0195] Image G15 displays a prompt to enter the ink product name. Image G16 is an image for accepting the selection of one of several product names from a manufacturer selected from the multiple manufacturers shown in Image G13. In the example shown in Figure 19, the multiple product names displayed are "Ink A," "Ink B," "Ink C," and "Other." Image G17 is an image for accepting the operation to confirm the input of the product name selected in Image G16.

[0196] After selecting one of the multiple product names shown in image G16 and image G17 by operating the selection button 522, if the OK button 523 is pressed while the selection is made, the information of the selected product name is acquired by the second processing unit 500 as second output information D1b. If the operation of image G17 is performed while "Other" shown in image G16 is selected, the process of changing the multiple product names shown in image G16 to multiple product names other than "A Ink", "B Ink", and "C Ink" may be performed. In this case, it becomes possible to select one of the multiple product names.

[0197] Next, as shown in the upper left of Figure 20, images G18 to G20 are displayed on the display device 510. Image G18 displays a prompt to enter the name of the media manufacturer. Image G19 is an image for accepting the selection of one of several media manufacturers. In the example shown in Figure 20, the several media manufacturers displayed are "Company A," "Company B," "Company C," and "Other." Image G20 is an image for accepting the operation to confirm the input of the manufacturer name selected in image G19.

[0198] After selecting one of the multiple manufacturers shown in image G19 and image G20 by operating the selection button 522, and then pressing the confirm button 523 while in that selected state, images G21 to G23 will be displayed on the display device 510, as shown in the upper center of Figure 20. If "Other" shown in image G19 is selected and the operation of image G20 is performed, the process of changing the multiple manufacturer names shown in image G19 to multiple manufacturer names other than "Company A", "Company B", and "Company C" may be performed. In this case, it becomes possible to select one of the multiple manufacturer names.

[0199] Image G21 displays content prompting the user to enter the media product name. Image G22 is an image for accepting the selection of one of several product names from a manufacturer selected from the multiple manufacturers shown in Image G13. In the example shown in Figure 23, the multiple product names displayed are "A Media," "B Media," "C Media," and "Other." Image G23 is an image for accepting the operation to confirm the input of the product name selected in Image G22.

[0200] After selecting one of the multiple product names shown in image G22 and image G23 by operating the selection button 522, if the OK button 523 is pressed while the selection is made, the information of the selected product name is acquired by the second processing unit 500 as third output information D1c. If "Other" shown in image G22 is selected and the operation of image G23 is performed, the process of changing the multiple product names shown in image G22 to multiple product names other than "A media", "B media", and "C media" may be performed. In this case, it becomes possible to select one of the multiple product names.

[0201] As described above, in step S301, output information D1, including the first output information D1a, the second output information D1b, and the third output information D1c, is acquired. Note that the order in which the first output information D1a, the second output information D1b, and the third output information D1c are acquired is not limited to the examples shown in Figures 19 and 20, but is arbitrary.

[0202] After obtaining output information D1, images G24 to G26 are displayed on the display device 510, as shown in the upper right of Figure 20. Image G24 displays a message asking whether or not to allow the transmission of output information D1 to the server 300. Image G25 is an image to accept that the transmission of output information D1 to the server 300 is not permitted. Image G26 is an image to accept that the transmission of output information D1 to the server 300 is permitted.

[0203] After image G25 is selected by operating the selection button 522, if the confirm button 523 is pressed while the image is selected, the display device 510 returns to the display state shown in the upper left of Figure 19 above.

[0204] On the other hand, after image G26 is selected by operating the selection button 522, if the confirm button 523 is pressed while the image is selected, output information D1 is sent to the server 300. This executes step S302 described above. Subsequently, as shown in the middle of Figure 20, image G27 is displayed on the display device 510. Image G27 indicates that the server 300 is currently processing input information D2.

[0205] If the server 300 is able to generate input information D2, images G28 to G32 will be displayed on the display device 510, as shown in the lower left of Figure 20. Image G28 is an image indicating that input information D2 has been input to the second processing unit 500. Image G29 is an image showing an overview of the contents of input information D2 input to the second processing unit 500. Image G30 is an image for receiving instructions to display details (preview, predicted evaluation value, etc.) of the contents of input information D2 input to the second processing unit 500. Image G31 is an image for receiving instructions to change the contents of image G29 to the contents of other input information D2. Image G32 is an image for receiving instructions to adopt the input information D2 input to the second processing unit 500 as information to be used to determine the scanning conditions for the printing process.

[0206] After image G32 is selected by operating the selection button 522, if the confirm button 523 is pressed while image G32 is selected, the input information D2 displayed on image G29 is transmitted to the first processing unit 200B. This triggers the execution of step S307 described above.

[0207] On the other hand, if the server 300 is unable to generate input information D2, images G33 to G36 will be displayed on the display device 510, as shown in the lower right of Figure 20. Image G33 indicates that input information D2 cannot be input to the second processing device 500. Image G34 is a display asking whether or not to request the owner of the server 300 to generate input information D2. Image G35 is an image to accept the request from the owner of the server 300 to generate input information D2. Image G36 is an image to accept the decision not to request the owner of the server 300 to generate input information D2 again.

[0208] After image G35 is selected by operating the selection button 522, if the confirm button 523 is pressed while image G35 is selected, the display on the display device 510 transitions to a display for entering various information (email address, name, etc.) necessary for requesting the generation of input information D2 from the owner of the server 300. On the other hand, after image G36 is selected by operating the selection button 522, if the confirm button 523 is pressed while image G36 is selected, the display device 510 returns to the display state shown in the upper left of Figure 19 above.

[0209] The third embodiment described above, like the first or second embodiment, can determine the scanning conditions for the printing process while reducing the burden on the printer manufacturer. In this embodiment, as described above, the inkjet system 10B has a second processing unit 500. The second processing unit 500 is communicably connected to the first processing unit 200. The first input unit 553 and the first connection unit 531 are provided in the second processing unit 500. Therefore, input information D2 from the server 300 can be input to the second processing unit 500. A determination unit 254 can also be provided in the first processing unit 200B. The scanning conditions for the printing process determined by the determination unit 254 can then be set in the first processing unit 200B. Note that a functional unit equivalent to the determination unit 254 may be provided in the second processing unit 500, in which case information regarding the scanning conditions for the printing process determined by the functional unit can be input from the second processing unit 500 to the first processing unit 200.

[0210] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the first processing unit 200 and the second processing unit 500 are connected to each other via short-range wireless communication. Therefore, input information D2 can be input from the second processing unit 500 to the first processing unit 200B in a simple communication environment. If the second processing unit 500 is provided with a functional unit corresponding to the determination unit 254, information regarding the scanning conditions for the printing process determined by that functional unit can also be input from the second processing unit 500 to the first processing unit 200B.

[0211] 4. Fourth Embodiment A fourth embodiment of this disclosure will now be described. For elements whose operation or function is the same as in the first embodiment in the embodiments described below, the reference numerals used in the description of the first embodiment will be reused, and detailed descriptions of each will be omitted as appropriate.

[0212] Figure 21 is a schematic diagram showing an example configuration of the inkjet system 10C according to the fourth embodiment. The inkjet system 10C is configured similarly to the first embodiment described above, except that it has ink ejectors 100C_1 to 100C_3 and first processing units 200A_1 to 200A_3 instead of ink ejectors 100_1 to 100_3 and first processing units 200_1 to 200_3, and also has second processing units 500_1 to 500_3 added. That is, the inkjet system 10C is configured similarly to the third embodiment described above, except that it has ink ejectors 100C_1 to 100C_3 and first processing units 200A_1 to 200A_3 instead of ink ejectors 100_1 to 100_3 and first processing units 200B_1 to 200B_3. The first processing unit 200A is configured similarly to the first processing unit 200A of the second embodiment.

[0213] In this embodiment, the second processing unit 500_1 is communicatively connected to the ink ejector 100C_1 and is also communicatively connected to the server 300 via the communication network NW. The second processing unit 500_2 is communicatively connected to the ink ejector 100C_2 and is also communicatively connected to the server 300 via the communication network NW. The second processing unit 500_3 is communicatively connected to the ink ejector 100C_3 and is also communicatively connected to the server 300 via the communication network NW. Thus, the second processing units 500_1 to 500_3 correspond to the ink ejector 100C_1 to 100C_3, respectively, and are communicatively connected to the ink ejector 100C_1 to 100C_3 and are also communicatively connected to the server 300 via the communication network NW. Hereinafter, the ink ejector 100C_1 to 100C_3 may be referred to simply as the ink ejector 100C without distinction.

[0214] In the example shown in Figure 21, the inkjet system 10C has three second processing units 500, three ink ejectors 100C, and three first processing units 200A. However, the number is not limited to these three units; it may be one, two, or four or more. In other words, the number of sets of the second processing unit 500, the ink ejectors 100C, and the first processing unit 200A is not limited to three sets; it may be one, two, or four or more sets.

[0215] The ink ejection device 100C is configured similarly to the ink ejection device 100A of the second embodiment, except that it is capable of communicating with the server 300 and the first processing unit 200A, respectively.

[0216] Figure 22 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an ink ejection device 100C used in the inkjet system 10C according to the fourth embodiment. As shown in Figure 22, the ink ejection device 100C is configured similarly to the ink ejection device 100A of the second embodiment, except that it has a head unit 110C instead of a head unit 110A. The head unit 110C is configured similarly to the head unit 110A, except that it has a control module 110d instead of a control module 110c. The control module 110d is the same as the control module 110c, except that the communication device 115 functions as a short-range connection unit 115b and the processing circuit 117 functions as an acquisition unit 117a and a determination unit 117d.

[0217] In this embodiment, the communication device 115 is a circuit capable of communicating with the second processing unit 500. For example, the communication device 115 is an interface such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for short-range wireless communication. That is, the communication device 115 functions as a short-range connection unit 115b that is capable of communicating with the short-range connection unit 532 of the second processing unit 500 via short-range wireless communication, and through this function, outputs output information D1 to the second processing unit 500 and receives input information D2 from the second processing unit 500.

[0218] Figure 23 is a flowchart showing the processing of the inkjet system 10C according to the fourth embodiment. In the inkjet system 10C, first, as shown in Figure 23, in step S401, the ink ejector 100C acquires output information D1. Then, in step S402, the ink ejector 100C outputs the output information D1 to the second processing device 500.

[0219] Next, in step S403, the second processing unit 500 receives output information D1. Then, in step S404, the second processing unit 500 outputs output information D1 to the server 300.

[0220] Next, in step S405, the server 300 receives output information D1. Then, in step S406, the server 300 generates input information D2 based on the output information D1. After that, in step S407, the server 300 outputs the input information D2 to the second processing unit 500.

[0221] Next, in step S408, the second processing unit 500 receives input information D2. Then, in step S409, the second processing unit 500 outputs the input information D2 to the ink ejection device 100C.

[0222] Next, in step S410, the ink ejector 100C receives input information D2. Then, in step S411, the ink ejector 100C determines the scanning conditions for the printing process based on the input information D2.

[0223] The fourth embodiment described above, like the first to third embodiments, can determine the scanning conditions for the printing process while reducing the burden on the printer manufacturer. In this embodiment, as described above, the inkjet system 10C has a second processing unit 500. The second processing unit 500 is communicably connected to the ink ejector 100. The first input unit 553 and the first connection unit 531 are provided in the second processing unit 500. Therefore, input information D2 from the server 300 can be input to the second processing unit 500. In addition, a determination unit 117d can be provided in the ink ejector 100C. The ink ejector 100 can then use the information regarding the scanning conditions for the printing process determined by the determination unit 117d. Note that the second processing unit 500 may also be provided with a functional unit equivalent to the determination unit 117d, in which case the information regarding the scanning conditions for the printing process determined by the functional unit can be input from the second processing unit 500 to the ink ejector 100.

[0224] Furthermore, as mentioned above, the ink ejection device 100 and the second processing device 500 are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate via short-range wireless communication. Therefore, output information D1 can be output from the ink ejection device 100C to the second processing device 500, and input information D2 from the second processing device 500 can be input to the ink ejection device 100C in a simple communication environment. If the second processing device 500 is provided with a functional unit corresponding to the determination unit 254, information regarding the scanning conditions of the printing process determined by that functional unit can also be input from the second processing device 500 to the ink ejection device 100C.

[0225] 5. Variations Although the inkjet system of this disclosure has been described above based on the illustrated embodiments, this disclosure is not limited thereto. Furthermore, the configuration of each part of this disclosure can be replaced with any configuration that performs a similar function to the embodiments described above, and any configuration can also be added.

[0226] 5-1. Variation 1 The above-described configuration exemplifies a case where output information D1 includes both first output information D1a and second output information D1b, but is not limited thereto. For example, one of the first output information D1a and second output information D1b may be omitted. Also, if the type of ink ejection head 110a or head unit 110 is known on the server side, first output information D1a may not be included in output information D1. Furthermore, output information D1 may not include third output information D1c. In this case, for example, server 300 may provide input information D2 for each recommended media.

[0227] 5-2. Variation 2 In the above-described configuration, an example is given in which input information D2 includes first input information D2a and second input information D2b, but the configuration is not limited to this. For example, one of the first input information D2a and the second input information D2b may be omitted.

[0228] 5-3. Modification Example 3 In the aforementioned configuration, a configuration in which server 300 is a cloud server is given as an example, but the configuration is not limited to this. For example, server 300 may be a server other than a cloud server, a virtual server, or an on-premises server.

[0229] 5-4. Modification 4 In the above-described embodiment, a configuration in which the driving element 111f is a piezoelectric element is exemplified, but the invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, the driving element 111f may be a heater that heats the ink in the pressure chamber C. In other words, the driving method for the head chip 111 is not limited to the piezoelectric method, but may be a thermal method, for example. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0230] 10...Inkjet system, 10A...Inkjet system, 10B...Inkjet system, 10C...Inkjet system, 100...Ink ejector, 100A...Ink ejector, 100A_1...Ink ejector, 100A_2...Ink ejector, 100A_3...Ink ejector, 100C...Ink ejector, 100C_1...Ink ejector, 100C_2...Ink ejector, 100C_3...Ink ejector, 100_1...Ink ejector, 100_2...Ink ejector, 100_3...Ink ejector, 110...Head unit, 110A ...Head unit, 110C...Head unit, 110a...Ink ejection head, 110b...Control module, 110c...Control module, 110d...Control module, 111...Head chip, 111a...Flow channel substrate, 111b...Pressure chamber substrate, 111c...Nozzle plate, 111d...Vibration absorber, 111e...Diaphragm, 111f...Drive element, 111g...Protective plate, 111h...Case, 111i...Wiring board, 112...Drive circuit, 113...Power supply circuit, 114...Drive signal generation circuit, 115...Communication device, 115a...First connection part, 115b...Short-range connection part, 116...Memory circuit, 117... Processing circuit, 117a... Acquisition unit, 117b... First output unit, 117c... First input unit, 117d... Determination unit, 120... Movement mechanism, 130... Communication device, 140... Memory circuit, 150... Processing circuit, 200... First processing unit, 200A... First processing unit, 200A_1... First processing unit, 200A_2... First processing unit, 200A_3... First processing unit, 200B... First processing unit, 200B_1... First processing unit, 200B_2... First processing unit, 200B_3... First processing unit, 200_1... First processing unit, 200_2... First processing unit, 200_3... First processing unit, 210... Display device, 2 20...Input device, 230...Communication device, 231...First connection unit, 240...Memory circuit, 250...Processing circuit, 251...Acquisition unit, 252...First output unit, 253...First input unit, 254...Decision unit, 255...Reception unit, 300...Server, 310...Display device, 320...Input device, 330...Communication device, 331...Second connection unit, 340...Memory circuit, 350...Processing circuit, 351...Second output unit, 352...Second input unit, 353...Calculation unit, 400...Third processing unit, 410...Update unit, 500...Second processing unit, 500_1...Second processing unit, 500_2...Second processing unit, 500_3...Second processing unit,510…Display device, 520…Input device, 521…Touch panel, 522…Selection button, 523…Confirm button, 530…Communication device, 531…First connection unit, 532…Short-range connection unit, 540…Memory circuit, 550…Processing circuit, 551…Acquisition unit, 552…First output unit, 553…First input unit, C…Pressure chamber, Com…Drive signal, D1…Output information, D1a…First output information, D1b…Second output information, D1c…Third output information, D2…Input information, D2a…First input information, D2b…Second input information, D4…Correspondence information, DG…Information, DI…Image data, DP…Recorded data, FN…Nozzle Surface, G1...Image, G2...Image, G3...Image, G4...Image, G5...Image, G6...Image, G9...Image, G10...Image, G11...Image, G12...Image, G13...Image, G14...Image, G15...Image, G16...Image, G17...Image, G18...Image, G19...Image, G20...Image, G21...Image, G22...Image, G23...Image, G24...Image, G25...Image, G26...Image, G27...Image, G28...Image, G29...Image, G30...Image, G31...Image, G32...Image, G33...Image, G34...Image, G35...Image, G36...Image, IH...Inlet, L1...First row, L2 ...Second row, M...Media, N...Nozzle, NW...Communication network, Na...Communication channel, PD...Drive pulse, PG1...Program, PG2...Program, R...Reservoir, R1...Space, R2...Space, RP1...Unit area, RP2...Unit area, Ra...Supply channel, S101...Step, S102...Step, S103...Step, S104...Step, S105...Step, S106...Step, S107...Step, S108...Step, S109...Step, S201...Step, S202...Step, S203...Step, S204...Step, S205...Step, S 206...step, S207...step, S301...step, S302...step, S303...step, S304...step, S305...step, S306...step, S307...step, S308...step, S309...step, S401...step, S402...step, S403...step, S404...step, S405...step, S406...step, S407...step, S408...step, S409...step, S410...step, S411...step, SI...print data signal, Sk...control signal, VBS...offset potential,VHV…power supply potential, dCom…waveform specified signal.

Claims

1. A head unit having a nozzle for ejecting ink, a pressure chamber communicating with the nozzle, and a drive element that applies pressure fluctuations to the ink in the pressure chamber by supplying drive pulses, An ink ejection device equipped with the aforementioned head unit, An inkjet system having a server managed by the manufacturer of the head unit, The ink ejection device is An acquisition unit that acquires output information from the ink ejection device or input device, including one or both of the following: first output information relating to the head unit and second output information relating to the ink used in the head unit. A first connection unit is network-connected to the aforementioned server in a manner that enables communication with it. A first output unit that outputs the output information to the server via the first connection unit, A first input unit receives first input information relating to the number of scans performed by the head unit on a unit area of ​​media from the server via the first connection unit, The system includes a determination unit that determines the number of scans based on the first input information, The aforementioned server, A storage unit that stores correspondence information regarding the relationship between output information and first input information in advance, The system includes a calculation unit that performs calculations to generate the first input information based on the output information and the corresponding information, An inkjet system characterized by the following features.

2. A head unit having a nozzle for ejecting ink, a pressure chamber communicating with the nozzle, and a drive element that applies pressure fluctuations to the ink in the pressure chamber by supplying drive pulses, An ink ejection device equipped with the aforementioned head unit, A first processing apparatus connected to the ink ejection device and equipped with a display unit that displays information related to the ink ejection device, An inkjet system having a server managed by the manufacturer of the head unit, The first processing apparatus is An acquisition unit that acquires output information from the ink ejection device or input device, including one or both of the following: first output information relating to the head unit and second output information relating to the ink used in the head unit. A first connection unit is network-connected to the aforementioned server in a manner that enables communication with it. A first output unit that outputs the output information to the server via the first connection unit, A first input unit receives first input information relating to the number of scans performed by the head unit on a unit area of ​​media from the server via the first connection unit, The system includes a determination unit that determines the number of scans based on the first input information, The aforementioned server, A storage unit that stores correspondence information regarding the relationship between output information and first input information in advance, The system includes a calculation unit that performs calculations to generate the first input information based on the output information and the corresponding information, An inkjet system characterized by the following features.

3. A head unit having a nozzle for ejecting ink, a pressure chamber communicating with the nozzle, and a drive element that applies pressure fluctuations to the ink in the pressure chamber by supplying drive pulses, An ink ejection device equipped with the aforementioned head unit, A first processing apparatus connected to the ink ejection device and equipped with a display unit that displays information related to the ink ejection device, A second processing unit connected to the first processing unit, An inkjet system having a server managed by the manufacturer of the head unit, The second processing apparatus is An acquisition unit that acquires output information from the ink ejection device or input device, including one or both of the following: first output information relating to the head unit and second output information relating to the ink used in the head unit. A first connection unit is network-connected to the aforementioned server in a manner that enables communication with it. A first output unit that outputs the output information to the server via the first connection unit, A first input unit receives first input information relating to the number of scans performed by the head unit on a unit area of ​​media from the server via the first connection unit, The system includes a determination unit that determines the number of scans based on the first input information, The aforementioned server, A storage unit that stores correspondence information regarding the relationship between output information and first input information in advance, The system includes a calculation unit that performs calculations to generate the first input information based on the output information and the corresponding information, An inkjet system characterized by the following features.

4. The output information includes information regarding the discharge characteristics of the head unit as the first output information. The aforementioned determination unit, If the discharge characteristics indicated by the first output information are the first discharge characteristics, the number of scans is determined to be the first scan. If the discharge characteristics indicated by the first output information are higher than the second discharge characteristics, the number of scans is determined to be a second number, which is less than the first number. The inkjet system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The output information includes, as the second output information, information regarding the color development properties of the ink used in the head unit. The aforementioned determination unit, If the color development indicated by the second output information is the first color development, the number of scans is determined to be the third number. If the color quality indicated by the second output information is higher than the first color quality (second color quality), the number of scans is determined to be a fourth number, which is less than the third number. The inkjet system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The aforementioned output information includes third output information relating to the color reproduction of the media. The aforementioned determination unit, If the color development indicated by the third output information is the third color development, the number of scans is determined to be the fifth number. If the color quality indicated by the third output information is a fourth color quality that is higher than the third color quality, the number of scans is determined to be a sixth number, which is less than the fifth number. The inkjet system according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. A head unit having a nozzle for ejecting ink, a pressure chamber communicating with the nozzle, and a drive element that applies pressure fluctuations to the ink in the pressure chamber by supplying drive pulses, An ink ejection device equipped with the aforementioned head unit, An inkjet system having a server managed by the manufacturer of the head unit, The ink ejection device is An acquisition unit that acquires output information from the ink ejection device or input device, including one or both of the following: first output information relating to the head unit and second output information relating to the ink used in the head unit. A first connection unit is network-connected to the aforementioned server in a manner that enables communication with it. A first output unit that outputs the output information to the server via the first connection unit, A first input unit receives second input information regarding the scanning direction of the head unit for a unit area on the media from the server via the first connection unit, It includes a determination unit that determines the scanning direction based on the second input information, The aforementioned server, A storage unit that stores correspondence information regarding the relationship between output information and second input information in advance, The system includes a calculation unit that performs calculations to generate the second input information based on the output information and the corresponding information. An inkjet system characterized by the following features.

8. A head unit having a nozzle for ejecting ink, a pressure chamber communicating with the nozzle, and a drive element that applies pressure fluctuations to the ink in the pressure chamber by supplying drive pulses, An ink ejection device equipped with the aforementioned head unit, A first processing apparatus connected to the ink ejection device and equipped with a display unit that displays information related to the ink ejection device, An inkjet system having a server managed by the manufacturer of the head unit, The first processing apparatus is An acquisition unit that acquires output information from the ink ejection device or input device, including one or both of the following: first output information relating to the head unit and second output information relating to the ink used in the head unit. A first connection unit is network-connected to the aforementioned server in a manner that enables communication with it. A first output unit that outputs the output information to the server via the first connection unit, A first input unit receives second input information regarding the scanning direction of the head unit for a unit area on the media from the server via the first connection unit, It includes a determination unit that determines the scanning direction based on the second input information, The aforementioned server, A storage unit that stores correspondence information regarding the relationship between output information and second input information in advance, The system includes a calculation unit that performs calculations to generate the second input information based on the output information and the corresponding information. An inkjet system characterized by the following features.

9. A head unit having a nozzle for ejecting ink, a pressure chamber communicating with the nozzle, and a drive element that applies pressure fluctuations to the ink in the pressure chamber by supplying drive pulses, An ink ejection device equipped with the aforementioned head unit, A first processing apparatus connected to the ink ejection device and equipped with a display unit that displays information related to the ink ejection device, A second processing unit connected to the first processing unit, An inkjet system having a server managed by the manufacturer of the head unit, The second processing apparatus is An acquisition unit that acquires output information from the ink ejection device or input device, including one or both of the following: first output information relating to the head unit and second output information relating to the ink used in the head unit. A first connection unit is network-connected to the aforementioned server in a manner that enables communication with it. A first output unit that outputs the output information to the server via the first connection unit, A first input unit receives second input information regarding the scanning direction of the head unit for a unit area on the media from the server via the first connection unit, It includes a determination unit that determines the scanning direction based on the second input information, The aforementioned server, A storage unit that stores correspondence information regarding the relationship between output information and second input information in advance, The system includes a calculation unit that performs calculations to generate the second input information based on the output information and the corresponding information. An inkjet system characterized by the following features.

10. The output information includes information regarding the discharge characteristics of the head unit as the first output information. The aforementioned determination unit, If the discharge characteristics indicated by the first output information are the first discharge characteristics, the scanning direction is determined to be unidirectional. If the discharge characteristics indicated by the first output information are higher than the second discharge characteristics, the scanning direction is determined to be bidirectional. The inkjet system according to any one of claims 7 to 9.

11. The output information includes, as the second output information, information regarding the color development properties of the ink used in the head unit. The aforementioned determination unit, If the color quality indicated by the second output information is the first color quality, the scanning direction is determined to be unidirectional. If the color quality indicated by the second output information is higher than the first color quality, the scanning direction is determined to be bidirectional. The inkjet system according to any one of claims 7 to 10.

12. The aforementioned output information includes third output information relating to the color reproduction of the media. The aforementioned determination unit, If the coloration indicated by the third output information is the third coloration, the scanning direction is determined to be unidirectional. If the color quality indicated by the third output information is a fourth color quality that is higher than the third color quality, the scanning direction is determined to be bidirectional. The inkjet system according to any one of claims 7 to 11.

Images