Printing apparatus

Abstract

To make it possible to easily discriminate processing types which can be realized by a processing unit.SOLUTION: A printer (1) comprises a processing part (70) which has a detachable processing unit (72), and performs processing for dividing sheets (P) conveyed by conveyance rollers (60, 62, 64) into multiple pieces. The processing unit (72) has an identification part for identifying types of processing capable of being performed by the processing unit (72).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a printing apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] For example, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, a printing apparatus including a cutter for cutting paper is known in the prior art. The cutter is detachable from the main body housing of the printing apparatus. A user removes the cutter that has reached the replacement time from the main body housing and attaches a new cutter to the main body housing.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, processing methods for dividing a printing medium into a plurality of parts include, in addition to cutting the printing medium with a cutter as in Patent Document 1, for example, perforating or creasing. Depending on the type of processing method, the blades capable of realizing the processing are different.

[0005] In a printing apparatus, when an arbitrary processing method can be selected from a plurality of processing methods, it is necessary to replace the processing unit with a blade suitable for the selected processing method. However, if the housings of the processing units all have a similar design, it becomes difficult for the user to determine which processing unit can realize which processing method.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure aims to provide a printing apparatus capable of easily determining the type of processing that can be realized by a processing unit.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] To solve the above problems, a printing apparatus according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes: a transport unit that transports a printing medium along a transport direction; an image printing unit that supports the printing medium transported by the transport unit with a platen and prints an image on the printing medium by scanning a print head in a first scanning direction which is intersecting with the transport direction; and a processing unit that has a detachable processing unit and performs a processing operation to divide the printing medium transported by the transport unit into a plurality of parts, wherein the processing unit has an identification unit for identifying the type of processing operation that can be performed by the processing unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a printing apparatus can be provided that can easily determine the type of processing that can be achieved by the processing unit. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing the external appearance of the printing apparatus according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] This is a cross-sectional view showing the internal configuration of a printing apparatus according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of a printing apparatus according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] This is a front view showing the standby position and replacement position of the processing unit of the printing apparatus according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 5] This is a diagram showing the configuration of the processing unit of the processing section according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] This figure illustrates the types of processing performed by the processing unit according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] This is a perspective view showing the external appearance of the housing section of the printing device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] This figure shows an example of a display screen shown on the display unit of a printing device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 9] This figure shows a modified example of the processing unit according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 10]It is a diagram showing a modification example of a storage unit of a printing apparatus according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 11] It is a flowchart showing an example of a control flow during printing processing by the printing apparatus according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 12] It is a flowchart showing an example of a control flow during unit confirmation processing by the printing apparatus according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 13] It is a flowchart showing a modification example of a control flow during printing processing by the printing apparatus according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 14] It is a diagram showing a configuration of a processing unit of a processing section according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 15] It is a flowchart showing an example of a control flow during printing processing by the printing apparatus according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 16] It is a diagram showing a modification example of a processing unit of a processing section according to Embodiment 2. [Modes for Carrying Out the Invention]

[0010] [Embodiment 1] Hereinafter, a printing apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 13.

[0011] [Outline of Printing Apparatus] The outline of the printing apparatus 1 will be described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the printing apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment. The printing apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1 has an inkjet printing function of printing print data specified by a print job on a sheet P, which is an example of a printing medium, by discharging ink, and a scanner function of reading an image printed on the sheet P by an image printing unit 3. The printing method is not limited to the inkjet method and may be an electrophotographic method. Also, the image printed on the sheet P may be capable of color printing or may be dedicated to monochrome printing.

[0012] Hereinafter, for convenience of explanation, based on the posture in which the printing apparatus 1 is installed horizontally so as to be usable, the vertical direction, the left - right direction, and the front - rear direction of the printing apparatus 1 are defined as shown by the arrows in FIG. 1 and the like. Specifically, it is assumed that the front of the printing apparatus 1 is the paper discharge direction of the paper P, and the rear of the printing apparatus 1 is the direction opposite to the paper discharge direction of the paper P.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1, the printing apparatus 1 is composed of a main body housing 11 and a scanner housing 12 laminated above the main body housing 11. The scanner housing 12 has a scanner for reading an image printed on the paper P.

[0014] An opening 20 is formed in the front surface of the main body housing 11. In the opening 20, a feed tray 21 and a discharge tray 22 are arranged so as to be movable in the front - rear direction. The feed tray 21 is a case for accommodating a plurality of papers P, and its upper surface is open. The discharge tray 22 is arranged above the feed tray 21 and supports the paper P on which an image is printed, the first paper P1, and the second paper P2. The size of the paper P is, for example, A4 size. Note that the paper P is not limited to a paper medium, and may also be, for example, a resin medium such as an OHP sheet.

[0015] Also, a setting unit 123 is provided on the front surface of the main body housing 11. The setting unit 123 has various operation buttons and a display unit 124. By the user operating the setting unit 123, various settings regarding the operation of the printing apparatus 1 and the like can be performed. The information set by the setting unit 123 is output to the control unit 100.

[0016] Also, a cartridge cover 81 is provided on the right side of the front surface of the main body housing 11 so as to be rotatable. Inside the cartridge cover 81, an ink cartridge 8 mounted on a cartridge case 80 is arranged. Note that the ink cartridge 8 is an example of a liquid storage unit.

[0017] [Internal Structure of the Printing Apparatus] The internal configuration of the printing apparatus 1 will be described with reference to Figure 2. Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal configuration of the printing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 2, the printing apparatus 1 includes a feed roller 24, a first transport path R1, transport rollers 60, 62, and 64, an image printing unit 3, a transport roller 64, and a processing unit 70. The transport rollers 60, 62, and 64 are an example of the transport unit.

[0018] The feed roller 24 is a roller for feeding the paper P contained in the feed tray 21 to the first transport path R1. The feed roller 24 is rotatably supported at the tip of the feed arm 25. The feed arm 25 is rotatably supported on a shaft 26 supported on the frame of the printing device 1. The feed arm 25 is biased to rotate toward the feed tray 21 by its own weight or by an elastic force such as a spring.

[0019] The feed roller 24 rotates in the forward direction when driven by the feed motor 107 (see Figure 3). As the feed roller 24 rotates in the forward direction, the paper P contained in the feed tray 21 is fed one sheet at a time to the first transport path R1. The paper P fed to the first transport path R1 is transported in the transport direction D1, that is, from the rear to the front of the printing device 1.

[0020] The first transport path R1 refers to the space formed by the guide members 51, 52, 53, 54 and the image printing section 3, etc. The first transport path R1 extends upward from the rear end of the supply tray 21, curves in the area partitioned by the guide members 51 and 52, passes through the position of the image printing section 3, extends linearly in the area partitioned by the guide members 53 and 54, and is a path that leads to the discharge tray 22.

[0021] A transport roller 60 is positioned upstream of the image printing unit 3 in the transport direction D1 on the first transport path R1. A pinch roller 61 is positioned opposite the lower part of the transport roller 60. The transport roller 60 is driven by a transport motor 108 (see Figure 3). The pinch roller 61 rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the transport roller 60. As the transport roller 60 and pinch roller 61 rotate in the forward direction, the paper P is gripped by the transport roller 60 and pinch roller 61 and transported to the image printing unit 3.

[0022] The image printing unit 3 is located between the transport rollers 60 and 62 in the first transport path R1 and prints an image onto the paper P. The image printing unit 3 includes a head carriage 31, a print head 32, and a platen 33. The print head 32 is mounted on the head carriage 31. Multiple nozzles (not shown) are provided on the underside of the print head 32. The print head 32 ejects ink droplets from the nozzles by vibrating a vibrating element such as a piezoelectric element. The platen 33 is a rectangular plate-shaped member on which the paper P is placed. As the head carriage 31 moves relative to the paper P supported by the platen 33, the print head 32 selectively ejects ink droplets, thereby printing an image onto the paper P.

[0023] The platen 33 is rotatably positioned between a first position (see solid line in Figure 2), which is parallel to the first transport path R1, and a second position (see dotted line in Figure 2), which is rotated downward by a predetermined angle from the first position. The platen 33 is in the first position when transporting and printing paper P. On the other hand, if a paper jam occurs, the user can move the platen 33 to the second position to remove the jammed paper P.

[0024] The head carriage 31 reciprocates in the first scanning direction by the driving force transmitted from the head carriage motor 109 (see Figure 3). In this embodiment, the first scanning direction is perpendicular to the transport direction D1. That is, the processing unit 70 reciprocates in the width direction of the paper P. In other words, it reciprocates in the left-right direction of the printing device 1. Note that the first scanning direction does not need to be perpendicular to the transport direction D1. In printing an image on the paper P, the control unit 100 of the printing device 1 repeatedly performs a printing process in which ink is ejected from the print head 32 while the transport of the paper P is stopped, thereby printing one line of image onto the paper P, and a line-breaking process in which the transport rollers 60 and 62 are driven to transport the paper P by a predetermined line break amount.

[0025] A transport roller 62 is positioned downstream of the image printing unit 3 in the transport direction D1 on the first transport path R1. A spur roller 63 is positioned opposite the top of the transport roller 62. The transport roller 62 is driven by a transport motor 108 (see Figure 3). The spur roller 63 rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the transport roller 62. As the transport roller 62 and the spur roller 63 rotate in the forward direction, the paper P is gripped by the transport roller 62 and the spur roller 63 and transported to the processing unit 70.

[0026] The processing unit 70 is positioned between the transport roller 62 and the transport roller 64 in the first transport path R1. The processing unit 70 performs a process (referred to as processing in this specification) that divides the transported paper P into multiple parts. In this embodiment, the case in which the processing unit 70 divides the paper P into a first sheet P1 and a second sheet P2 will be described as an example. Details of the processing unit 70 will be described later.

[0027] A transport roller 64 is positioned downstream of the processing section 70 in the transport direction D1 on the first transport path R1. A spur roller 65 is positioned opposite the top of the transport roller 64. The transport roller 64 is driven by a transport motor 108 (see Figure 3). The spur roller 65 rotates in conjunction with the rotation of the transport roller 64. As the transport roller 64 and spur roller 65 rotate in the forward direction, the paper P or the first paper P1 is gripped by the transport roller 64 and spur roller 65 and discharged to the discharge tray 22. As shown in Figure 1, the discharge tray 22 is positioned above the feed tray 21. The discharge tray 22 is a tray for receiving the paper P, the first paper P1, and the second paper P2 discharged by the transport roller 64.

[0028] A register sensor 120 is provided upstream of the transport roller 60 in the first transport path R1. The register sensor 120 is attached to the guide member 52 and is a sensor that detects when the front or rear end of the paper P passes the contact point with the transport roller 60. As the register sensor 120, a sensor with an actuator that swings when the paper P comes into contact with it, or an optical sensor, etc., can be used.

[0029] [Electrical configuration of printing equipment] The electrical configuration of the printing apparatus 1 will be described with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration of the printing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 3, in addition to the parts described above, the printing apparatus 1 includes a control unit 100 and a communication interface (I / F) 122.

[0030] The control unit 100 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, an EEPROM (Registered Trademark) 104, and an ASIC 105, all connected by an internal bus 106. The ROM 102 stores programs for the CPU 101 to control various operations. The RAM 103 is used as a storage area for temporarily recording data and signals used by the CPU 101 when executing the above programs, or as a work area for data processing. The EEPROM 104 stores setting information that should be retained even after the power is turned off. Based on the control program read from the ROM 102, the control unit 100 controls the feed motor 107, transport motor 108, print head 32, head carriage motor 109, and unit carriage motor 110, etc.

[0031] The ASIC105 is connected to a feed motor 107, a transport motor 108, a head carriage motor 109, a print head 32, a unit carriage motor 110, a register sensor 120, a rotary encoder 121, a communication interface 122, and a setting unit 123.

[0032] The ASIC105 supplies drive current to the feed motor 107, transport motor 108, head carriage motor 109, and unit carriage motor 110. The feed motor 107, transport motor 108, head carriage motor 109, and unit carriage motor 110 are DC motors whose rotational speed increases with increasing drive current and decreases with decreasing drive current. The control unit 100 controls the rotation of the feed motor 107, transport motor 108, head carriage motor 109, and unit carriage motor 110, for example, by PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) control. The control unit 100 also causes ink droplets to be ejected from the nozzles by applying a drive voltage to the vibrating element of the print head 32.

[0033] The rotary encoder 121 is installed on the transport roller 60 and detects the rotation of the transport roller 60. The rotary encoder 121 outputs a pulse signal to the control unit 100 in accordance with the rotation of the transport roller 60. The control unit 100 detects the amount of rotation of the transport roller 60 based on the pulse signal output from the rotary encoder 121. The control unit 100 detects that the paper P has passed the contact position with the transport roller 60 based on the detection signal output from the register sensor 120. Then, after an ON signal is output from the register sensor 120, the control unit 100 estimates the amount of paper P transported in the first transport path R1 based on the pulse signal output from the rotary encoder 121.

[0034] The communication interface 122 is connected to a network such as a LAN and enables connection to an external device that has a driver for the printer 1 installed. The printer 1 can receive print jobs via the communication interface 122, which include identification information that identifies the type of paper P.

[0035] [Configuration of the processing unit] The configuration of the processing unit 70 of the printing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 4 to 6. Figure 4 is a front view showing the standby position A1 and the replacement position A2 of the processing unit 70 of the printing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 5 is a diagram showing the configuration of the processing unit 72 of the processing unit 70 according to this embodiment. Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the types of processing performed by the processing unit 70 according to this embodiment.

[0036] The processing unit 70 includes a unit carriage 71 (see Figure 4) and a processing unit 72 (see Figure 5). The processing unit 72 is detachable from the unit carriage 71. As shown in Figure 4, the processing unit 70 moves along a support rail 18 that extends in a second scanning direction (scanning direction D2), which is perpendicular to the transport direction D1. That is, the processing unit 70 reciprocates in the width direction of the paper P. In other words, it reciprocates in the left-right direction of the printing device 1. The second scanning direction may be any direction that intersects the transport direction D1. In this embodiment, the first scanning direction of the head carriage 31 is the same as the second scanning direction of the unit carriage 71. The second scanning direction may be a different direction from the first scanning direction.

[0037] The support rail 18 is provided with an endless belt wound around a rotating shaft (not shown). The endless belt is connected to the unit carriage 71. The rotating shaft rotates due to the driving force of the unit carriage motor 110, causing the endless belt to rotate. As the endless belt rotates, the unit carriage 71 reciprocates along the support rail 18 in the scanning direction D2.

[0038] In the scanning direction D2, a standby position A1 is provided on the opposite side of the ink cartridge 8 for keeping the processing unit 70 in standby mode. The standby position A1 is a space for keeping the processing unit 70 in standby mode when the processing unit 70 is not cutting the paper P. The standby position A1 is located outside the platen 33 in the scanning direction D2. The standby position A1 is located outside the opening 20 in the scanning direction D2.

[0039] Furthermore, in the scanning direction D2, a replacement position A2 for replacing the processing unit 72 is provided between the standby position A1 and the ink cartridge 8. The replacement position A2 is positioned in the central part of the opening 20 in the scanning direction D2. In this embodiment, the replacement position A2 is also a position from which the identification color (identification part), described later, can be confirmed (hereinafter referred to as the confirmation position). The user can visually confirm the processing unit located at the replacement position A2 through the opening 20. Note that the confirmation position may be a different position from the replacement position A2.

[0040] The configuration of the processing unit 72 will be described with reference to Figure 5. Figure 5 is a diagram showing the external view of the processing unit 72 of the processing section 70 according to this embodiment. Herein, in describing the details of the processing unit 72, the opening 20 side of the processing unit will be defined as the front, the image printing section 3 side as the rear, the feed tray 21 side as the bottom, and the direction opposite to the feed tray 21 as the top, with the processing unit 72 attached to the unit carriage 71 as the reference (the same applies in Figures 9, 14, and 16). Reference numeral 1000 in Figure 5 is a perspective view of the processing unit 72 seen from the front. Reference numeral 1001 in Figure 5 is a perspective view of the processing unit 72 seen from the rear. Reference numeral 1002 in Figure 5 is a perspective view of the processing unit 72 seen from below.

[0041] As shown in Figure 5, the processing unit 72 has a processing blade 73 and a unit housing 74. The processing blade 73 is a blade for performing processing. The configuration of the processing blade 73 differs depending on the type of processing. That is, the type of processing performed by the processing unit 70 is determined by the type of processing blade of the processing unit 72. The user attaches the processing unit 72 having a processing blade 73 capable of performing the desired processing to the unit carriage 71.

[0042] Referring to Figure 6, examples of processing types that can be performed by the processing unit 70 are given. Reference numeral 1003 in Figure 6 shows an example of processing that cuts the paper P at the division position SL (hereinafter referred to as cutting processing). Reference numeral 1004 in Figure 6 shows an example of processing that forms perforations at the division position SL (hereinafter referred to as perforation processing). Reference numeral 1005 in Figure 6 shows an example of processing that cuts the paper P in a wavy line shape at the division position SL (hereinafter referred to as wavy line processing). Reference numeral 1006 in Figure 6 shows an example of processing that forms a fold at the division position SL (hereinafter referred to as fold processing). By applying each of the above-described processing operations to the paper P, the paper P is divided into a first sheet P1 and a second sheet P2.

[0043] In the following description of the processing unit, when describing it without regard to the type of processing, the symbols of components related to the processing unit, such as processing unit 72, processing blade 73, and unit housing 74, will not be assigned letters. When describing the processing unit 72 in relation to the type of splitting processing, the symbols of components related to the processing unit will be assigned letters corresponding to the type of splitting processing. For example, processing unit 72A, assigned the letter "A", will be described as performing cutting processing; processing unit 72B, assigned the letter "B", will be described as performing perforation processing; processing unit 72C, assigned the letter "C", will be described as performing wavy line processing; and processing unit 72D, assigned the letter "D", will be described as performing creasing processing. The processing unit 72A shown in Figure 5 is fitted with a processing blade 73A that performs cutting processing. The processing blade 73A is a circular blade.

[0044] As shown in Figure 5, the unit housing 74 is a roughly rectangular housing. However, the shape of the unit housing 74 is not limited to this. The front surface 741 of the unit housing 74, indicated by reference numeral 1000 in Figure 5, is the surface facing forward. In this embodiment, the side surface 744 of the unit housing is the surface facing the return path direction of the scanning direction D2. The top surface 743 of the unit housing 74 is the surface facing above the printing device 1, i.e., the side opposite to the feed tray 21. The rear surface 742 of the unit housing 74, indicated by reference numeral 1001 in Figure 5, is the surface facing backward. The side surface 745 of the unit housing 74 is the surface facing the forward path direction of the scanning direction D2.

[0045] A mounting portion 76 is provided on the rear surface 742. The processing unit 72 is mounted on the unit carriage 71 by attaching the mounting portion 76 to the mounting portion (not shown) of the unit carriage 71. The processing unit 72 is removed from the unit carriage 71 by removing the mounting portion 76 from the mounting portion. In the example shown in Figure 5, the mounting portion 76 is a cylindrical protrusion. The mounting portion of the unit carriage 71 is an opening into which the protrusion fits. Note that the method of attaching the processing unit 72 to the unit carriage 71 is not limited to this. For example, the processing unit 72 may be attached to the unit carriage 71 using fasteners such as screws.

[0046] As shown by reference numeral 1002 in Figure 5, the unit housing 74 has an internal space in which the machining blade 73 is positioned. The machining blade 73 is supported by the unit housing 74 by a support shaft 75 and rotates around the support shaft 75. The bottom surface of the unit housing 74 is open, and a portion of the machining blade 73 is exposed to the outside of the unit housing 74 from below.

[0047] The unit housing 74 is marked with a color (hereinafter also referred to as the identification color) to identify the types of processing that can be performed by the processing unit 72. The color on the unit housing 74 for identifying the types of processing is an example of an identification mark. The user identifies the types of processing that can be performed by the processing unit by visually inspecting the identification color on the processing unit 72. The identification color is applied to the entire unit housing 74.

[0048] Furthermore, the identification color does not need to be applied to the entire unit housing 74; it may be applied only to parts of it. In this embodiment, it is sufficient that the identification color is applied to at least the front surface 741 and the top surface 743 of the unit housing 74. By applying the identification color to the front surface 741, the user can visually confirm the identification color of the unit housing 74 of the processing unit 72 attached to the unit carriage 71 at the exchange position A2 through the opening 20. Also, by applying the identification color to the top surface 743, the user can visually confirm the identification color of the unit housing 74 of the processing unit 72 stored in the storage section 90, which will be described later. In other words, it is sufficient that the identification color is applied to parts that are easily visible to the user when the user is checking the type of processing.

[0049] The identification color on the unit housing 74 differs depending on the type of processing. Unit housing 74A is marked with an identification color indicating that the type of processing performed by the processing unit 72 is cutting. For example, unit housing 74A is marked with "white". Although not shown in Figure 5, the unit housing 74B of the processing unit 72B that performs perforation is marked with "yellow", the unit housing 74C of the processing unit 72C that performs wavy line processing is marked with "light blue", and the unit housing 74C of the processing unit 72C that performs wavy line processing is marked with "orange" for the following explanation.

[0050] The hue of the identification color applied to the unit housing 74 is not particularly limited, but it is preferable that it be a different hue from the hue of the ink (cyan, magenta, yellow, black) stored in the ink cartridge 8. This prevents the user from confusing it with the ink cartridge 8. Furthermore, it is desirable that the brightness of the identification color applied to the unit housing 74 be high. This makes it easier to confirm the identification color of the unit housing 74 located inside the printing device 1. The identification color applied to the unit housing 74 may be a fluorescent color or a color that reflects light, such as a metallic color.

[0051] [Storage compartment configuration] Referring to Figure 7, the configuration of the storage section 90 that houses the processing unit 72 will be described. Figure 7 is a perspective view showing the external appearance of the storage section 90 of the printing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment.

[0052] As shown in Figure 7, the printing apparatus 1 is equipped with a storage section 90 capable of accommodating processing units 72 that are not mounted on the processing section 70. The storage section 90 is provided in the main body housing 11. More specifically, the storage section 90 is provided on the upper surface of the main body housing 11 in the vertical direction of the printing apparatus 1. The storage section 90 has recesses 91 formed therein for individually accommodating the processing units 72. Multiple recesses 91 are formed on the upper surface of the main body housing 11. In the example shown in Figure 7, processing units 72B and 72C are stored in their respective recesses 91. Note that the recesses 91 are not limited to the example shown in Figure 7, and a configuration in which multiple processing units 72 are stored in a single recess 91 is also possible.

[0053] The processing unit 72 is housed in the recess 91 in a position that allows the user to see the identification color (identification part) attached to the unit housing 74. That is, the storage section 90 is configured to house the processing unit 72 so that the user can see the identification color (identification part) of the processing unit 72. When the processing unit 72 is housed in the recess 91, a part of the unit housing 74 is exposed to the outside of the recess 91. More specifically, the upper surface 743 of the unit housing 74 is exposed to the outside. As a result, the user can see the identification color attached to the unit housing 74 and recognize the types of processing that can be performed by the processing unit 72.

[0054] Furthermore, a portion of the unit housing 74 of the processing unit 72 housed in the recess protrudes upward from the recess. In addition, a groove 92 is formed around the recess 91. By forming the groove 92, it is possible for the user to easily grasp the processing unit 72 when removing it from the recess 91.

[0055] [Display screen configuration] Referring to Figure 8, the display screens shown on the display unit 124 will be described. Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of a display screen shown on the display unit 124 of the printing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment. Reference numeral 1013 in Figure 8 indicates the notification screen 200 displayed on the display unit 124. Reference numeral 1014 in Figure 8 indicates the selection screen 210 and the setting completion screen 220 displayed on the display unit 124.

[0056] The notification screen 200, shown as reference numeral 1013 in Figure 8, will now be explained. The notification screen 200 is a display screen that informs the user that the machining unit needs to be replaced. Specifically, the notification screen 200 is a display screen that is shown on the display unit 124 before the user replaces the machining unit 72 attached to the unit carriage 71.

[0057] In the example shown by reference numeral 1013 in Figure 8, the notification screen 200 displays multiple types of processing that can be performed by the printing device 1. The notification screen 200 displays a name 201 indicating the type of processing and an identification color corresponding to the type of processing. More specifically, the notification screen 200 displays a mark 202 with an identification color above the name 201. Below the name 201 indicating cutting, a "white" mark 202 is displayed; below the name 201 indicating perforation, a "yellow" mark 202 is displayed; below the name 201 indicating creasing, an "orange" mark 202 is displayed; and below the name 201 indicating wavy line processing, a "light blue" mark 202 is displayed. Note that the notification screen 200 may also display only the name 201 and mark 202 of the processing that is subject to replacement.

[0058] Next, the selection screen 210 shown by reference numeral 1014 in Figure 8 will be described. The selection screen 210 is a display screen that shows multiple types of machining processes, allowing the user to select any type of machining process. The selection screen 210 is a display screen that is displayed on the display unit 124 after the user has replaced the machining unit 72. The user operates the selection screen 210 to select the type of machining process that can be performed by the replaced machining unit 72.

[0059] The selection screen 210 displays the types of processing that can be performed by the printing device 1. The selection screen 210 displays the name 211 indicating the type of processing and the corresponding identification color. More specifically, the selection screen 210 displays a mark 212 with an identification color above the name 211 indicating the type of processing, similar to the notification screen 200. The user selects a mark 212 indicating the desired type of processing from among the marks 212 displayed on the selection screen 210.

[0060] As shown by reference numeral 1014 in Figure 8, when any type of processing is selected from the selection screen 210, the display unit 124 displays the setting completion screen 220. The setting completion screen 220 is a display screen that notifies that the setting has been completed to make the type of processing selected on the selection screen 210 a processing process that can be performed by the processing unit 70. The setting completion screen 220 displays only the name 221 indicating the type of processing selected by the user and the mark 222 with an identification color. In the example shown by reference numeral 1014 in Figure 8, the name 221 indicating the selected wavy line processing and the mark 222 with the identification color "light blue" are displayed.

[0061] [Modified examples of processing units] A modified example of the processing unit 72 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 9. Figure 9 is a diagram showing a modified example of the processing unit 72 according to this embodiment. Reference numeral 1007 in Figure 9 indicates a processing unit 721A that can perform cutting. Reference numeral 1008 in Figure 9 indicates a processing unit 721B that can perform perforation. Reference numeral 1009 in Figure 9 indicates a processing unit 721C that can perform wavy line processing.

[0062] The processing unit 721 has an identification shape 77 formed on it in a manner that can be visually confirmed by the user to identify the type of processing. The identification shape 77 is an example of an identification part. The identification shape 77 attached to the unit housing 74 has a different shape for each type of processing. In this modified example, the identification shape 77 is formed on the unit housing 74. In the example shown in Figure 9, the identification shape 77A indicating cutting is a cylindrical shape reminiscent of a "circle", the identification shape 77B indicating perforation is a triangular prism shape reminiscent of a "triangle", and the identification shape 77C indicating wavy line processing is a rectangular prism shape reminiscent of a "square".

[0063] In the example shown in Figure 9, identification shapes 77 are formed on the front surface 741 and the top surface 743 of the processing unit 721. By forming the identification shape 77 on the front surface 741, it becomes easier for the user to see at the exchange position A2. By forming the identification shape 77 on the top surface 743, it becomes easier for the user to see when it is stored in the storage section 90. In other words, when a user is checking the type of processing, it is sufficient for the identification shape 77 to be formed on a part of the unit housing 74 that is easily visible to the user.

[0064] Furthermore, in this modified example, the marks 202, 212, and 222 displayed on the notification screen 200, selection screen 210, and setting completion screen 220, as described above, display a design that represents the identification shape 77.

[0065] [A variation of the storage compartment] A modified example of the storage section 90 will be described with reference to Figure 10. Figure 10 is a diagram showing a modified example of the storage section 90 of the printing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment.

[0066] In the example shown by reference numeral 1010 in Figure 10, a storage compartment 901 is provided on the front of the main housing 11. As shown by reference numeral 1010 in Figure 10, the storage compartment 901 is provided on the front of the main housing 11, which is located on the downstream side in the transport direction D1. The storage compartment 901 is provided on the opposite side from the ink cartridge 8 in the scanning direction D2.

[0067] The main housing 11 is provided with a processing unit cover 93. The processing unit cover 93 is provided so as to be rotatable relative to the main housing 11, around a hinge 94 provided on the main housing 11. The storage section 901 is provided inside the processing unit cover 93. The storage section 901 has a plurality of recesses 91. Processing units 72B, 72C, and 72D are housed in each recess 91.

[0068] With the above configuration, the user can recognize that the storage compartment 901 is located on the front side of the printing device 1. This allows the user to easily recognize the location of the storage compartment 901. Furthermore, with the above configuration, the empty space on the opposite side from where the ink cartridge 8 is located can be utilized. This allows for effective use of the empty space inside the printing device 1.

[0069] In the example shown by reference numeral 1011 in Figure 10, a storage compartment 902 is provided on the side of the main housing 11. As shown by reference numeral 1011 in Figure 10, the storage compartment 902 is provided on the side of the main housing 11 in the scanning direction D2. With this configuration, the empty space on the side of the printing device 1 can be utilized. This makes it possible to effectively utilize the empty space inside the printing device 1.

[0070] The storage section 902 is located on the opposite side of the ink cartridge 8 in the scanning direction D2. The storage section 902 is located inside the processing unit cover 93. The storage section 902 has a plurality of recesses 91. Processing units 72B, 72C, 72D, and 72E are housed in each recess 91.

[0071] In the example shown by reference numeral 1012 in Figure 10, a storage compartment 903 is provided on the rear surface of the main housing 11. As shown by reference numeral 1011 in Figure 10, the storage compartment 903 is provided on the rear surface of the main housing 11, which is located on the upstream side in the transport direction D1. With this configuration, the empty space at the rear of the printing device 1 can be utilized. This makes it possible to effectively utilize the empty space inside the printing device 1.

[0072] The storage section 903 is located on the opposite side of the ink cartridge 8 in the scanning direction D2. The storage section 903 is located inside the processing unit cover 93. The storage section 903 has a plurality of recesses 91. Processing units 72B, 72C, and 72D are housed in each recess 91.

[0073] [Control flow by the control unit] The control flow when the control unit 100 of the printing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment performs printing will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 11. Figure 11 is a flowchart of an example of the control flow during printing by the printing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment. Note that the flowchart shown in Figure 11 is just an example and is not limited thereto.

[0074] As shown in Figure 11, first, when the control unit 100 receives a print job, it determines whether there has been a change in the type of processing specified in the print job and the type of processing set in the printing device 1 (S1). If there has been no change in the type of processing (S1: NO), the control unit 100 executes step S7, which will be described later. If there has been a change in the type of processing (S1: YES), the control unit 100 drives the unit carriage motor 110 to scan the processing unit 70 from the standby position A1 to the exchange position A2 (S2). Step S2 corresponds to the second scanning process.

[0075] After step S2, the control unit 100 displays the notification screen 200 on the display unit 124 (S3). Step S23 corresponds to the notification screen display process. Next, the control unit 100 determines whether or not the processing unit 72 of the processing unit 70 has been replaced (S4). If the processing unit 72 has not been replaced (S4: NO), the control unit 100 executes step S4 again. If the processing unit 72 has been replaced (S4: YES), the control unit 100 erases the notification screen 200 from the display unit 124 (S5).

[0076] After step S5, the control unit 100 drives the unit carriage motor 110 to scan the processing unit 70 from the exchange position A2 to the standby position A1 (S6). Step S6 corresponds to the first scanning process. Next, the control unit 100 performs an image printing process to print an image on the paper P (S7). In step S7, the control unit 100 drives the feed motor 107 to rotate the feed roller 24 in the forward direction, thereby removing the paper P from the feed tray 21 and transporting the paper P to the image printing unit 3. In step S7, the control unit 100 controls the image printing unit 3 to print an image on the paper P that has been transported to the image printing unit 3.

[0077] After step S7, the control unit 100 performs a processing operation to divide the paper P into multiple pieces (S8). In step S8, the control unit 100 drives the unit carriage motor 110 to scan the processing unit 70 in the scanning direction D2 and performs the processing to divide the paper P into multiple pieces at the division position SL of the paper P. After step S8, the control unit 100 discharges the divided first paper P1 and second paper P2 into the discharge tray 22 (S9).

[0078] Next, the control unit 100 determines whether or not all pages included in the print data of the print job have been printed (S10). If not all pages have been printed (S10: NO), the control unit 100 executes step S7. If all pages have been printed (S10: YES), the control unit 100 terminates the process.

[0079] Next, the control flow during the unit confirmation process by the control unit 100 of the printing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 12. Figure 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the control flow during the unit confirmation process by the printing apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 1. The unit confirmation process is a process for the user to confirm the identification color (identification part) attached to the processing unit 72 of the processing unit 70. The unit confirmation process is performed by operating the setting unit 123, etc. Note that the flowchart shown in Figure 12 is just an example and is not limited thereto.

[0080] First, when the control unit 100 receives a job to confirm the type of processing unit 72 attached to the processing unit 70, it scans the processing unit 70 from the standby position A1 to the replacement position A2 (S11). Next, the control unit 100 determines whether or not the processing unit 72 has been replaced (S12). If the processing unit 72 has not been replaced (S12: NO), the control unit 100 executes step S17, which will be described later. If the processing unit 72 has been replaced (S12: YES), the control unit 100 displays the selection screen 210 on the display unit 124 (S13). Step S13 corresponds to the selection screen display process.

[0081] Next, the control unit 100 determines whether the user has selected a type of processing operation from the selection screen 210 (S14). If no type of processing operation has been selected (S14: NO), the control unit 100 repeats step S14. If a type of processing operation has been selected (S14: YES), the control unit 100 sets the type of processing operation that can be performed by the processing unit 72 attached to the unit carriage 71 to the type of processing operation selected from the selection screen 210 (S15). That is, in step S15, it is set as the type of processing operation that can be performed by the processing unit 70. After step S15, the control unit 100 displays the setting completion screen 220 on the display unit 124 (S16). Step S16 corresponds to the completion screen display process. Next, the control unit 100 scans the processing unit 70 from the exchange position A2 to the standby position A1 (S17). After step S17, the control unit 100 terminates the process.

[0082] [Variations of the control flow during the printing process] Next, a modified example of the control flow when the control unit 100 of the printing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment performs printing will be described with reference to the flowchart in Figure 13. Figure 13 is a flowchart of a modified example of the control flow during printing by the printing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment. Note that the flowchart shown in Figure 13 is just an example and is not limited thereto.

[0083] Steps S20 and S21 shown in Figure 13 correspond to steps S1 and S2 in Figure 11, so their explanation is omitted. After step S22, the control unit 100 determines whether or not the processing unit 72 has been replaced (S22). That is, unlike the flowchart shown in Figure 11, the control unit 100 does not display the notification screen 200 on the display unit 124. If the processing unit 72 has not been replaced (S22: NO), the control unit 100 executes step S22 again. If the processing unit 72 has been replaced (S22: YES), the control unit 100 displays the selection screen 210 on the display unit 124 (S23). That is, unlike the flowchart shown in Figure 11, the control unit 100 displays the selection screen 210 on the display unit 124 after the processing unit has been replaced. Step S23 corresponds to the selection screen display process.

[0084] Next, the control unit determines whether the user has selected any type of machining process from the selection screen 210 (S24). If no type of machining process has been selected (S24: NO), the control unit 100 repeats step S24. If a type of machining process has been selected (S24: YES), the control unit 100 sets the type of machining process that can be performed by the machining unit 72 attached to the unit carriage 71 to the type of machining process selected from the selection screen 210 (S25).

[0085] After step S25, the control unit 100 displays the setting completion screen 220 on the display unit 124 (S26). Step S26 corresponds to the completion screen display process. Steps S26 to S31 shown in Figure 13 correspond to steps S6 to S10 shown in Figure 11, respectively, so their explanation is omitted.

[0086] (Effects of this embodiment) According to the above configuration, the processing units 72 and 721 have an identification section (identification color or identification shape 77). Therefore, by visually inspecting the identification section, the user can recognize the type of processing that can be performed by the processing units 72 and 721. This allows the user to easily determine the type of processing that can be performed by the processing units 72 and 721.

[0087] According to the above configuration, the printing apparatus 1 is equipped with a storage section 90. Therefore, processing units 72 and 721 that are not mounted on the processing section 70 can be stored in the storage section 90. This allows the user to easily replace the processing unit 72 and 721 with the desired one.

[0088] According to the above configuration, the storage compartment 90 is formed on the upper surface of the main body housing 11. Therefore, the user can confirm the position of the storage compartment 90 from above the main body housing 11. This allows the user to easily confirm the location where the storage compartment 90 is provided.

[0089] According to the above configuration, the processing unit located at standby position A1, where it is difficult to confirm the type of processing, is scanned to confirmation position (exchange position A2), where the type of processing can be confirmed. This makes it possible to confirm the processing units 72 and 721 attached to the processing unit 70.

[0090] Furthermore, by setting the confirmation position to replacement position A2, it becomes unnecessary to scan the processing unit 70 located at the confirmation position to replacement position A2. This reduces the working time when replacing processing units 72 and 721.

[0091] According to the above configuration, the notification screen 200 is displayed on the display unit 124. This allows the user to recognize that the processing units 72,721 need to be replaced.

[0092] Furthermore, the notification screen 200 displays the type of processing and the corresponding identification part (identification color or identification shape 77). Therefore, the user can check the identification part attached to the processing unit 72,721 that needs to be replaced from the notification screen 200. This allows the user to easily identify the desired processing unit 72,721.

[0093] According to the above configuration, the selection screen 210 displayed on the display unit 124 shows multiple types of processing that can be performed by the printing device 1. This allows the user to select any type of processing from among the multiple types of processing.

[0094] According to the above configuration, the selection screen 210 displays the type of processing and the corresponding identification part (identification color, identification shape 77). Therefore, the user can confirm the identification part attached to the replaced processing unit 72,721 from the selection screen 210. This allows the user to easily select the type of processing to be performed by the replaced processing unit.

[0095] According to the above configuration, the user will operate the selection screen 210 after replacing the processing units 72,721. This allows the user to confirm whether the type of processing performed by the replaced processing units 72,721 is appropriate.

[0096] With the above configuration, the setting completion screen 220 displayed on the display unit 124 shows the type of processing to be performed. This allows the user to easily recognize that the selected processing will be performed.

[0097] [Embodiment 2] Other embodiments of the present disclosure are described below. For the sake of clarity, components having the same function as those described in the above embodiments are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are not repeated. The processing unit 722 in Embodiment 2 differs from the processing unit 72 in Embodiment 1 in that the type of processing is determined by the control unit 100.

[0098] Referring to Figure 14, the processing unit 722 according to this embodiment will be described. Figure 14 is a diagram showing the configuration of the processing unit 722 of the processing section 70 according to this embodiment. The processing unit 722 has an IC chip 85, which is an example of an identification unit. The IC chip 85 has a memory element that stores an identifier indicating the type of processing performed by the processing unit 722. That is, the IC chip 85 of the processing unit 722 has a different identifier indicating the type of processing stored for each type of processing. The IC chip 85A shown in Figure 14 stores an identifier indicating cutting processing. The IC chip 85 is provided on the front surface 741 of the unit housing 74. Note that the IC chip 85 is not limited to being provided on the front surface 741, but may be provided on other parts as well.

[0099] The IC chip 85 enables contactless transmission and reception of information. The main housing 11 is provided with at least a reader (not shown) that reads information from the IC chip 85. The IC chip 85 transmits and receives information from the reader using electromagnetic waves or alternating magnetic fields. The reader transmits the information read from the IC chip to the control unit 100.

[0100] The control unit 100 scans the processing unit 70 to a position where information can be transmitted and received between the IC chip 85 and the reader in order to read an identifier indicating the type of processing from the IC chip 85. In this embodiment, information is transmitted and received between the IC chip 85 and the reader at the standby position A1. That is, the standby position A1 is a confirmation position where the IC chip 85 (identification unit) can be confirmed. The reader is provided at a position in the standby position A1 where information can be transmitted and received with the IC chip 85. Note that the confirmation position may be a different position from the standby position A1.

[0101] The reader reads an identifier from the IC chip 85A of the processing unit 722A located at standby position A1 and transmits the read identifier to the control unit 100. Based on the identifier transmitted from the reader, the control unit 100 determines that the type of processing that can be performed by the processing unit 722A of the processing section 70 is cutting. If the type of processing specified by the print job differs from the type of processing performed by the processing unit 722A of the processing section 70, the control unit 100 displays an alert on the display unit 124. This allows the user to easily determine the type of processing method that can be implemented by the processing unit.

[0102] [Control flow by the control unit] The control flow when the control unit 100 of the printing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment performs printing will be explained with reference to the flowchart in Figure 15. Figure 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the control flow during printing by the printing apparatus 1 according to this embodiment. Note that the flowchart shown in Figure 15 is just an example and is not limited thereto.

[0103] As shown in Figure 15, first, when the control unit 100 receives a print job, it reads information from the IC chip 85 of the processing unit 722 located at the standby position A1 (S40). Next, the control unit 100 determines whether the processing unit 722 installed can perform the processing specified for the print job (S41). In step S41, the control unit 100 determines whether it can perform the processing specified for the print job by checking whether the type of processing stored in the IC chip matches the type of processing specified for the print job.

[0104] If the processing specified for the print job can be executed (S41:YES), the control unit 100 executes step S48, which will be described later. If the processing specified for the print job cannot be executed (S41:NO), the control unit 100 drives the unit carriage motor 110 to scan the processing unit 70 from the standby position A1 to the replacement position A2 (S42). After step S42, the control unit 100 displays an alert on the display unit 124 indicating that the processing specified for the print job cannot be executed (S43).

[0105] Next, the control unit 100 determines whether the user has replaced the machining unit 722 (S44). If the machining unit 722 has not been replaced (S44: NO), the control unit 100 repeats step S44. If the machining unit 722 has been replaced (S44: YES), the control unit 100 clears the alert from the display unit 124, drives the unit carriage motor 110, and scans the machining unit 70 from the replacement position A2 to the standby position A1 (S45). After step S46, the control unit 100 reads information from the IC chip 85 of the replaced machining unit 722 (S46).

[0106] Next, the control unit 100 determines whether the replaced processing unit 722 can perform the processing specified in the print job (S47). Step S47 is the same as step S41 described above. If the processing specified in the print job cannot be performed (S47: NO), the control unit 100 performs step S42. If the processing specified in the print job can be performed (S47: YES), the control unit 100 performs step S48. Steps S48 to S51 shown in Figure 15 are the same processes as steps S7 to S10 shown in Figure 11, so their explanation is omitted.

[0107] [Modified examples of processing units] A modified example of the processing unit 722 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 16. Figure 16 is a diagram showing a modified example of the processing unit 722 of the processing section 70 according to this embodiment. Reference numeral 1015 in Figure 16 indicates a processing unit 723A that can perform cutting. Reference numeral 1016 in Figure 16 indicates a processing unit 723B that can perform perforation. Reference numeral 1017 in Figure 16 indicates a processing unit 723C that can perform wavy line processing.

[0108] As shown in Figure 16, the processing unit 723 has an arm portion 78. The arm portion 78 is provided on the upper surface 743 of the unit housing 74. The arm portion 78 protrudes in the return direction in the scanning direction D2. More specifically, the arm portion 78 protrudes in the return direction side of the side surface 745 of the unit housing 74 in the scanning direction D2. An IC chip 851 is provided on the portion of the arm portion 78 that protrudes in the return direction side of the side surface 745.

[0109] The position of the arm portion 78 provided on the unit housing 74 differs depending on the type of machining process. The arm portion 78A of the machining unit 723A shown by reference numeral 1015 in Figure 16 is provided on the front side 741. The arm portion 78B of the machining unit 723B shown by reference numeral 1016 in Figure 16 is provided at an intermediate position between the front side 741 and the rear side 742. The arm portion 78C of the machining unit 723C shown by reference numeral 1017 in Figure 16 is provided on the rear side 742.

[0110] The IC chip 851 can contact the sensor unit 95 provided on the main housing 11. In the confirmation position (standby position A1), the IC chip 851 contacts the contact 96 of the sensor unit 95. The sensor unit 95 detects that the IC chip 851 has been electrically connected to the contact 96. When the sensor unit 95 detects that the contact 96 and the IC chip 851 have been electrically connected, it transmits an output signal to the control unit 100.

[0111] The sensor unit 95 is provided with multiple contacts 96. Contact 96A is a contact that contacts the IC chip 851A of the arm unit 78A. Contact 96B is a contact that contacts the IC chip 851B of the arm unit 78B. Contact 96C is a contact that contacts the IC chip 851C of the arm unit 78C. Depending on the type of processing unit 723, the position of the contacts 96 that contact the IC chip 851 differs. That is, in the processing unit 723, the IC chip 851 is provided at a specific position on the unit housing 74 so that the position that can be detected by the sensor unit 95 differs.

[0112] The control unit 100 determines the type of processing based on the contacts 96A to C that are in contact with the IC chips 851A to C. Specifically, the control unit 100 determines that the processing performed by the processing unit 723A is cutting based on the contact 96A being in contact with the IC chip 851A, the processing performed by the processing unit 723B is perforation based on the contact 96B being in contact with the IC chip 851B, and the processing performed by the processing unit 723C is wavy line processing based on the contact 96C being in contact with the IC chip 851C. Note that the sensor unit 95 is not limited to the above example, and may also use a physical sensor that detects contact with the processing unit 723, or an optical sensor having a light-emitting part and a light-receiving part.

[0113] This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. Embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of this disclosure. [Explanation of symbols]

[0114] 1 Printing device, 3 Image printing unit, 8 Ink cartridges, 11 Main unit housing, 32 print head, 33 platen, 60 transport roller, 62 transport roller 64 Conveyor rollers, 70 Processing unit, 100 Control unit, 124 Display unit A1 Standby position, A2 Exchange position, D1 Transport direction, D2 Scanning direction

Claims

1. A transport unit that transports the printing medium along the transport direction, An image printing unit supports the printing medium conveyed by the transport unit with a platen and prints an image on the printing medium by scanning the print head in a first scanning direction which is intersecting with the transport direction. A processing unit having a detachable processing unit, which performs a processing operation to divide the printing medium conveyed by the conveying unit into multiple parts, Control unit and It includes a display unit, The processing unit has a colored identification section for identifying the type of processing that can be performed by the processing unit. The control unit, Based on predetermined conditions, a notification screen display process is executed to display a notification screen on the display unit indicating that the processing unit needs to be replaced. A printing apparatus characterized in that, in the notification screen display process, it displays the type of processing process and the corresponding identification unit.

2. A transport unit that transports the printing medium along the transport direction, An image printing unit supports the printing medium conveyed by the transport unit with a platen and prints an image on the printing medium by scanning the print head in a first scanning direction which is intersecting with the transport direction. A processing unit having a detachable processing unit, which performs a processing operation to divide the printing medium conveyed by the conveying unit into multiple parts, Control unit and It includes a display unit, The processing unit has an identification section having a shape formed for identifying the type of processing that can be performed by the processing unit, The control unit, Based on predetermined conditions, a notification screen display process is executed to display a notification screen on the display unit indicating that the processing unit needs to be replaced. A printing apparatus characterized in that, in the notification screen display process, it displays the type of processing process and the corresponding identification unit.

3. A transport unit that transports the printing medium along the transport direction, An image printing unit supports the printing medium conveyed by the transport unit with a platen and prints an image on the printing medium by scanning the print head in a first scanning direction which is intersecting with the transport direction. A processing unit having a detachable processing unit, which performs a processing operation to divide the printing medium conveyed by the conveying unit into multiple parts, Control unit and It includes a display unit, The processing unit has a colored identification section for identifying the type of processing that can be performed by the processing unit. The control unit, Based on predetermined conditions, a selection screen display process is executed to display a selection screen on the display unit, which is a screen displaying multiple types of processing processes, and on which any of the processing processes can be selected. A printing apparatus characterized in that, in the selection screen display process, the identification unit corresponding to the type of processing process displayed on the selection screen is displayed.

4. A transport unit that transports the printing medium along the transport direction, An image printing unit supports the printing medium conveyed by the transport unit with a platen and prints an image on the printing medium by scanning the print head in a first scanning direction which is intersecting with the transport direction. A processing unit having a detachable processing unit, which performs a processing operation to divide the printing medium conveyed by the conveying unit into multiple parts, Control unit and It includes a display unit, The processing unit has an identification section having a shape formed for identifying the type of processing that can be performed by the processing unit, The control unit, Based on predetermined conditions, a selection screen display process is executed to display a selection screen on the display unit, which is a screen displaying multiple types of processing processes, and on which any of the processing processes can be selected. A printing apparatus characterized in that, in the selection screen display process, the identification unit corresponding to the type of processing process displayed on the selection screen is displayed.

5. The main casing and The printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a storage section provided in the main body housing and capable of accommodating the processing unit not mounted on the processing section.

6. The printing apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that the storage section is provided on the upper surface of the main body housing in the vertical direction of the printing apparatus.

7. The printing apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that the storage section is provided on the front surface of the main body housing located on the downstream side in the transport direction.

8. It further includes a liquid storage section for storing liquid, The printing apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that the storage section is provided on the opposite side from the liquid storage section in the first scanning direction.

9. The printing apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that the storage section is provided on the rear surface of the main body housing located on the upstream side in the transport direction.

10. The printing apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that the storage section is provided on the side surface of the main body housing in the first scanning direction.

11. The processing unit is further provided with a control unit that scans it in a second scanning direction which is intersecting with the transport direction, The control unit, When the processing unit is in a standby state and has not performed the processing on the printing medium, a first scanning process is performed to scan the processing unit so that it is in standby position located outside the platen in the second scanning direction. The printing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that it performs a second scanning process, which scans the processing unit from the standby position to a confirmation position, which is a position where the identification unit can be confirmed, based on predetermined conditions.

12. The printing apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that the confirmation position is a replacement position for replacing the processing unit.

13. The control unit, The printing apparatus according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the selection screen display process is executed after the user replaces the processing unit.

14. The control unit, The printing apparatus according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that it performs a completion screen display process to display a setting completion screen on the display unit, which notifies that the setting has been completed to make the type of processing process selected on the selection screen a processing process that can be performed on the processing unit.

Images