JP3790109B2 - Printing pin control method and printing control apparatus - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a printing pin control method and a printing control apparatus.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, in a printer such as a serial dot printer in which a plurality of printing pins are arranged vertically, when the same printing pins are frequently used, for example, when performing horizontal ruled line printing, the same printing pins and printing ribbons are used. The load concentrates on the same location. Therefore, when horizontal ruled line printing is performed, the printing pins to be used are sequentially changed, and the load applied to the printing pins and the printing ribbon is averaged.
[0003]
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a print pattern.
[0004]
In the figure, in the case of an application for printing on paper such as daily reports and customer management, for example, d1 and d3 are character data using fonts built in the printer, and d2 and d4 are image data. It is horizontal ruled line data, and the print pattern having such a configuration is repeated in the page.
[0005]
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a relationship between a print pattern and a print pin in a conventional printer.
[0006]
In this case, the print head of the printer has a vertical 24 pin structure including 24 print pins W1 to W24, and the distance between the print pins in the vertical direction, that is, the pin interval is 1/180 [inch]. It is.
[0007]
As shown in the figure, the horizontal ruled line data d2 and d4 are image data of one horizontal row to be printed by the printing pin W1. d1 and d3 are character data. A pitch line feed is designated between the character data d1 and d3 and the horizontal ruled line data d2 and d4. That is, after printing is performed using a plurality of predetermined printing pins according to the character data d1, a line feed of 5/180 [inch] is performed, and printing is performed using the printing pins W1 according to the horizontal ruled line data d2. Is called. Subsequently, a line feed of 6/180 [inch] is performed, and printing is performed using a plurality of predetermined printing pins in accordance with the character data d3, and then a line feed of 30/180 [inch] is performed and a horizontal ruled line Printing is performed using the printing pin W1 according to the data d4.
[0008]
Next, the operation of the conventional printer will be described. In this case, the operation of the printer when the printer control unit of the printer receives character data d1 and d3 and horizontal ruled line data d2 and d4 as print data for the first to fourth lines from the upper apparatus will be described.
[0009]
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the conventional printer, and FIG. 5 is a diagram showing changes in the printing pins when horizontal ruled line printing is performed in the conventional printer.
[0010]
First, when the power is turned on, the printer control unit starts printing pin control, and initializes by setting 1 to a value m (= 1, 2,..., 13) representing the printing pin configuration. The print pin configuration #m is set for each line so that the same print pin is not frequently used when printing the horizontal ruled line data. Indicates the print position when printing using pins.
[0011]
Subsequently, when receiving the print data from the host device, the printer control unit determines whether there is continuous data of n dots or more in one line of print data, that is, continuous data. The value n is set in advance. In this case, as shown in FIG. 3, the print data on the first line is the character data d1, and since the character data d1 has no continuous data of n dots or more, the printer control unit receives the data on the previous line. The line feed amount, that is, the previous line feed amount, is broken and printing is performed using all the print pins W1 to W24. Also, the print data on the second line is horizontal ruled line data d2, and since there is continuous data of n dots or more in the horizontal ruled line data d2, the printer control unit makes a line feed to the print pin configuration #m and prints the print pin. Printing is performed with configuration #m.
[0012]
In this case, as printing is performed with the printing pin configuration #m, the printing pins that are actually used are changed for each line. Therefore, the printing pins that are supposed to be used and the pins that are actually used are used. It is necessary to move the paper by the interval. Therefore, when a line feed is made to the print pin configuration #m, the previous line feed amount is corrected by an amount set in advance for each print pin configuration #m. For example, in the case of the printing pin configuration # 1, the correction amount of the previous line feed amount is set to 0/180 [inch] with respect to the position of the printing pin W1. In this case, -12/180 [inch] is set with respect to the position of the printing pin W1.
[0013]
By the way, when printing is performed according to the horizontal ruled line data d2, the previous line feed amount is 5/180 [inch]. ], 0/180 [inch] of the correction amount is added, and a line feed of 5/180 [inch] is performed. Then, printing is performed for half of the print data using the print pins W1 to W12 among the print pins W1 to W24. In this case, since the print data is the horizontal ruled line data d2, the printer control unit performs printing using the print pin W1.
[0014]
Subsequently, the printer control unit determines whether or not there is remaining data in the print data. If there is remaining data, it performs a line feed for 12 pins and uses the print pins W1 to W12 in the print pin configuration # 1. The remaining data is printed.
[0015]
In the case of the horizontal ruled line data d2, when printing is performed for half of the print data, the remaining data disappears, so line feed and printing are not performed. If there is remaining data, the printer control unit transports the sheet to perform a line feed for 12 pins used for printing as described above, and places the remaining data in a position for printing. The printer control unit prints the remaining data using the print pins W1 to W12 with the print pin configuration # 1.
[0016]
Next, in order to print the next horizontal ruled line data, the value m is incremented and updated. In this case, the value m is 2. The value m is set to 1 again when it reaches 13.
[0017]
For this purpose, the printer control unit determines whether the value m is the maximum value, that is, greater than 13, and if the value m is greater than 13, the value m is set to 1, and if the value m is 13 or less. The process is terminated as it is.
[0018]
Next, the print data on the third line is character data d3, and since there is no continuous data of n dots or more in the character data d3, the printer control unit 6/180 [inch] corresponding to the line feed amount of the previous line. Is printed, and printing is performed using all the printing pins W1 to W24. Also, the print data on the fourth line is horizontal ruled line data d4. Since the horizontal ruled line data d4 has continuous data of n dots or more, the printer control unit makes a line feed to the print pin configuration #m and prints the print pin. Printing is performed with configuration #m.
[0019]
In this case, the line feed amount for the previous line is corrected as a line feed is made to the print pin configuration # 2, and the correction amount of -1/180 [inch] is added to 30/180 [inch] to obtain 29/180 [inch]. 〕become. Then, printing is performed for half of the print data using the print pins W2 to W13 of the print pins W1 to W24. In this case, since the print data is the horizontal ruled line data d4, the printer control unit performs printing using the print pin W2.
[0020]
In this way, every time horizontal ruled line data is received, if printing is performed by sequentially updating the print pin configuration #m while incrementing the value m, the horizontal ruled line data is printed as shown in FIG. The printing pins used to do change sequentially. In addition, the line feed amount of the preceding line is corrected accordingly, so that horizontal ruled line printing can be performed.
[0021]
As described above, since the actually used printing pins are sequentially changed, even when horizontal ruled line printing is performed, the same printing pins are not frequently used, and the load applied to the printing pins and the printing ribbon is averaged. be able to.
[0022]
Next, a flowchart will be described.
Step S1: Set 1 to the value m.
Step S2 Waiting for reception of print data.
Step S3: Determine whether there is continuous data of n dots or more. If there is continuous data of n dots or more, the process proceeds to step S4, and if not, the process proceeds to step S12.
Step S4 Line feed is made to the printing pin configuration #m.
Step S5: Printing is performed with the printing pin configuration #m.
Step S6: Determine whether there is remaining data. If there is remaining data, the process proceeds to step S7, and if not, the process proceeds to step S9.
Step S7: Line feed for 12 pins is performed.
Step S8 The remaining data is printed with the printing pin configuration #m.
Step S9: The value m is incremented.
Step S10: Determine whether the value m is greater than 13. If the value m is greater than 13, the process proceeds to step S11. If the value m is 13 or less, the process ends.
Step S11: 1 is set to the value m, and the process is terminated.
Step S12: A line feed is made for the previous line feed amount.
Step S13 Printing is performed using all the printing pins W1 to W24, and the process is terminated.
[0023]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in the conventional printer, when correcting the previous line feed amount, if the correction amount is larger than the previous line feed amount, the line feed amount after correcting the previous line feed amount takes a negative value. A reverse line feed operation is performed, and a line feed in a negative direction relative to the current print position on the paper, that is, a line feed to the negative position is performed.
[0024]
For example, when the horizontal ruled line data d2 shown in FIG. 3 is printed, the previous line feed amount is 5/180 [inch]. By correcting the previous line feed amount, print pin configurations # 7 to ## When a line feed is made at 13, the correction amount becomes -6/180 to -12/180 [inch]. In this case, it is necessary to perform a line feed to the negative position of −1/180 to −7/180 [inch] by the reverse line feed operation.
[0025]
In the reverse line feed operation, a shift occurs by the amount of backlash existing in the drive gear used in the paper transport mechanism for transporting the paper in the reverse direction with respect to the current position. It is necessary to set the reverse line feed amount in advance in consideration of the backlash. As a result, the print throughput is reduced accordingly.
[0026]
In addition, even if the reverse line feed amount is set in consideration of the backlash, if the deviation cannot be absorbed sufficiently, white spots, character overlap, etc. may occur, resulting in poor print quality. Resulting in.
[0027]
The present invention solves the problems of the conventional printer, can average the load applied to the printing pins and the printing ribbon when horizontal ruled line printing is performed, and the reverse line feed operation is performed. It is an object of the present invention to provide a printing pin control method and a printing control apparatus that do not have any.
[0028]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
Therefore, in the printing pin control method of the present invention, based on the basic line feed amount when printing continuous data corresponding to a plurality of printing pins arranged downstream in the feeding direction of the printing medium. Corresponds to the first print pin configuration that represents the print position where the reverse line feed operation is not performed when the line feed amount is set, and a plurality of print pins arranged upstream in the feed direction of the print medium The second print pin configuration that represents the print position where the reverse line feed operation may be performed when the line feed amount is corrected is set to print on the print medium according to the print data. Yes.
Then, it is determined whether or not there is continuous data in the line direction in the print data. If the continuous data is present, the continuous data is printed with one print pin according to a predetermined order in the second print pin configuration. A provisional line feed amount is calculated, and it is determined whether or not the calculated provisional line feed amount takes a negative value with respect to the feeding direction of the print medium, and the provisional line feed amount takes a negative value A line feed is made to the first print pin configuration, the line feed amount is corrected so that printing is performed on the continuous data with one print pin according to a predetermined order in the first print pin configuration, and the provisional line feed amount Does not take a negative value with respect to the feeding direction of the print medium, a line feed is made to the second print pin configuration, and the one print pin according to a predetermined order in the second print pin configuration The line feed amount is compensated so that the data is printed. To.
[0029]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In this case, a printer such as a serial dot printer in which a plurality of printing pins are arranged vertically will be described.
[0030]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a printer according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0031]
In the figure, 11 is a receiving circuit for receiving data such as a control code and print data or a control signal from a host device (not shown) or transmitting a control signal to the host device, and 12 is a control of the entire printer. And a microprocessor as a printer control unit that interprets data or control signals received via the receiving circuit 11, and a program for performing control by the microprocessor 12, and character data incorporated in the printer A ROM 15 in which the font is recorded is a RAM 15 for recording control information for printing, and for recording print data sent from the microprocessor 12. The RAM 15 can be used as a buffer for editing the print data into image data, or can be used as a buffer memory for developing the edited image data into a row image buffer.
[0032]
Reference numeral 21 denotes a print head having a plurality of print pins W1 (see FIG. 3) to W24, 16 denotes a print head control circuit for controlling the print head 21 to perform printing with a specified dot pattern, and 22 denotes the above-described print head control circuit. A space motor for moving the print head 21 in the scanning direction, 18 is a space motor control circuit for controlling the space motor 22, and 23 is a line feed for moving a sheet as a print medium in the sub-scanning direction to make a line feed. A motor 19 is a line feed motor control circuit for controlling the line feed motor 23.
[0033]
The continuous data determination processing means (not shown) of the microprocessor 12 determines whether there is continuous data of n dots or more in a predetermined amount of print data, in the present embodiment, one line of print data, When there is the continuous data, a temporary line feed amount calculation processing unit (not shown) of the microprocessor 12 calculates the line feed amount to the printing pin configuration #m as a temporary line feed amount. The value n is set in advance. The provisional line feed amount is calculated by correcting the previous line feed amount by a correction amount set corresponding to the print pin configuration #m.
[0034]
In this case, the printing pin configuration #m is set to represent a printing pin candidate that is actually used. In the present embodiment, the basic line feed amount (print pitch) is 5/180 [inch], and even if the previous line feed amount is corrected when a line break occurs in the print pin configurations # 1 to # 6, There is no reverse line feed operation. Therefore, the initial value of the value m is set to 7, and the temporary line feed amount is calculated so that the line feed amount of the previous line is corrected by −6/180 [inch] or more.
[0035]
Then, the line feed processing means (not shown) of the microprocessor 12 drives the line feed motor 23 via the line feed motor control circuit 19, operates the paper transport mechanism for transporting the paper, and makes a line feed to a predetermined print pin configuration, Printing is performed with the printing pin configuration. Therefore, the line feed processing means determines whether the provisional line feed amount takes a negative value every time one line is printed, and if a negative value is taken, When the print pin configuration #p (p = 1, 2,..., 6) is sequentially updated in the range, and the provisional line feed amount does not take a negative value, that is, when 0 or a positive value is taken, only the normal position is used. The printing pin configuration #m (m = 7, 8,..., 13) is sequentially updated in the range of the printing pin configuration.
[0036]
That is, the line feed processing unit makes a line break to the print pin configuration #p when the provisional line feed amount takes a negative value, and changes to the print pin configuration #m when the provisional line feed amount takes 0 or a positive value. Begin on a new line.
[0037]
When a line feed is made to the print pin configuration #p, the print processing means (not shown) of the microprocessor 12 prints one line with the print pin configuration #p. The print processing means prints one line with the print pin configuration #m.
[0038]
In this case, as the printing pins actually used are changed as printing is performed with the printing pin configurations #p and #m, the pins between the printing pins that are supposed to be used and the printing pins that are actually used are used. It is necessary to move the paper by the interval. Therefore, when a line feed is made to the print pin configurations #p and #m, the previous line feed amount is corrected by an amount set in advance for each of the print pin configurations #p and #m. For example, in the case of the printing pin configuration # 1, the correction amount is 0/180 [inch] with respect to the position of the printing pin W1, and in the case of the printing pin configuration # 13, −12 with respect to the position of the printing pin W1. / 180 [inch], and each time the values p and m are increased by 1, the correction amount is increased by-1/180 [inch].
[0039]
By the way, when printing is performed with the printing pin configurations #p and #m, printing is performed in two steps using 12 of the 24 printing pins. For this purpose, the print processing means prints half of the print data using the print pins Wp to W (p + 11) and Wm to W (m + 11) of the print pins W1 to W24, and then print data. If there is remaining data, a line feed for 12 pins is performed, and the printing pins Wp to W (p + 11) and Wm to W (m + 11) are printed with the printing pin configurations #p and #m. Used to print the remaining data.
[0040]
Next, the operation of the printer having the above configuration will be described. In this case, when the microprocessor 12 receives character data d1 and d3 and horizontal ruled line data d2 and d4 as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 as print data for the first to fourth lines from the host device. The operation of the printer will be described.
[0041]
FIG. 6 is a first flowchart showing the operation of the printer in the first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 7 is a second flowchart showing the operation of the printer in the first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. It is a figure which shows the change of the printing pin at the time of performing horizontal ruled line printing in the printer in the 1st Embodiment of invention.
[0042]
First, when the power is turned on, the microprocessor 12 (FIG. 1) starts printing pin control, and sets 7 to a value m (= 7, 8,..., 13) representing a printing pin configuration exclusively for the normal position. Then, initialization is performed by setting 1 to the value p (= 1, 2,..., 6) representing the print pin configuration exclusively for the negative position.
[0043]
Subsequently, when print data is received from a host device (not shown), the continuous data determination processing means determines whether there is continuous data of n dots or more in one line of print data.
[0044]
In this case, as shown in FIG. 3, the print data of the first line is character data d1, and since there is no continuous data of n dots or more in the character data d1, the microprocessor 12 does not change the line feed amount for the previous line. Is printed, and printing is performed using all the printing pins W1 to W24. The print data on the second line is horizontal ruled line data d2, and the horizontal ruled line data d2 includes continuous data of n dots or more. Therefore, the provisional line feed amount calculation processing means performs a line feed to the print pin configuration # 7. The amount is calculated as a temporary line feed amount.
[0045]
When printing is performed in accordance with the horizontal ruled line data d2, the line feed amount for the previous line is 5/180 [inch]. Therefore, the line feed amount for the previous line is 5/180 [inch] when the line feeds to the print pin configuration # 7. A correction amount of −6/180 [inch] is added to the value, and the provisional line feed amount becomes −1/180 [inch], which is a negative value.
[0046]
Accordingly, the line feed processing means makes a line feed to the print pin configuration # 1 within the range of the print pin configuration #p dedicated to the negative position, and the print processing means performs printing with the print pin configuration # 1. In the case of the printing pin configuration # 1, the correction amount is 0/180 [inch] with respect to the position of the printing pin W1, and the previous line feed amount is 5/180 [inch]. Accordingly, the correction amount 0/180 [inch] is added to the previous line feed amount 5/180 [inch], and a 5/180 [inch] line feed is performed. Then, printing is performed for half of the print data using the print pins W1 to W12 among the print pins W1 to W24. In this case, since the print data is the horizontal ruled line data d2, the print processing means prints using the print pin W1.
[0047]
Subsequently, the print processing means determines whether or not there is remaining data in the print data. However, since the print data is the horizontal ruled line data d2, there is no remaining data, and line feed and printing are not performed.
[0048]
The microprocessor 12 increments and updates the value p in order to print the next horizontal ruled line data d4. In this case, the value p is 2. Subsequently, the microprocessor 12 determines whether the value p is the maximum value, that is, whether it is larger than 6. When the value p is larger than 6, the value p is set to 1, and when the value p is 6 or less. Ends the processing as is.
[0049]
Next, the print data on the third line is character data d3, and since there is no continuous data of n dots or more in the character data d3, the microprocessor 12 performs 6/180 [inch] corresponding to the line feed amount of the previous line. Is printed, and printing is performed using all the printing pins W1 to W24. Further, the print data on the fourth line is horizontal ruled line data d4. Since the horizontal ruled line data d4 includes continuous data of n dots or more, the provisional line feed amount calculation processing means performs a line feed to the print pin configuration #m. The amount is calculated as a temporary line feed amount.
[0050]
When printing is performed in accordance with the horizontal ruled line data d4, the line feed amount for the previous line is 30/180 [inch]. Therefore, the line feed amount for the previous line is 30/180 [inch] as the line feeds to the print pin configuration # 7. -6/180 [inch] of the correction amount is added to the value, and the provisional line feed amount becomes 24/180 [inch], which is a positive value.
[0051]
Therefore, the line feed processing means makes a line feed to the printing pin configuration # 7, and the printing processing means uses the printing pin configuration # 7 and uses the printing pins W7 to W18 among the printing pins W1 to W24 for half of the print data. Printing is performed for. In this case, a line break of 24/180 [inch] equal to the provisional line feed amount is performed. Since the print data is the horizontal ruled line data d4, the print processing means prints using the print pin W7.
[0052]
Subsequently, the print processing means determines whether or not there is remaining data in the print data. However, since the print data is the horizontal ruled line data d4, there is no remaining data, and line feed and printing are not performed.
[0053]
The microprocessor 12 increments and updates the value m to print the next horizontal ruled line data. In this case, the value m is 8. Subsequently, the microprocessor 12 determines whether or not the value m is the maximum value, that is, greater than 13. When the value m is greater than 13, the value m is set to 1 and when the value m is 13 or less. Ends the processing as is.
[0054]
When printing is performed by sequentially updating the printing pin configurations #p and #m in this way, the printing pins used for printing the horizontal ruled line data are sequentially changed as shown in FIG. Along with this, the amount of line feed in the preceding line is corrected, so that horizontal ruled line printing can be performed.
[0055]
As described above, since the actually used printing pins are sequentially changed, even when horizontal ruled line printing is performed, the same printing pins are not frequently used, and the load applied to the printing pins W1 to W24 and the printing ribbon is increased. Can be averaged.
[0056]
In addition, the temporary line feed amount is calculated by correcting the line feed amount of the previous line when a line breaks to a predetermined print pin configuration. When the temporary line feed amount takes a negative value, the line feed is not performed based on the temporary line feed amount. Since another print pin configuration is set such that the line feed amount obtained by correcting the line feed amount of the previous line takes 0 or a positive value, the reverse line feed operation is not performed.
[0057]
Therefore, there is no deviation of the backlash existing in the drive gear used for the paper transport mechanism, and it is not necessary to set the reverse line feed amount in consideration of the backlash. As a result, the printing throughput can be improved accordingly. In addition, white spots and overlapping of characters do not occur, so that the print quality can be improved.
[0058]
Since the negative position dedicated print pin configuration #p and the positive position dedicated print pin configuration #m are set differently, the print pins used for printing the horizontal ruled line data may overlap. Disappear. Therefore, the load applied to the printing pins W1 to W24 and the printing ribbon can be further averaged.
[0059]
In the present embodiment, the basic line feed amount is 5/180 [inch], and the reverse line feed operation is performed even if the previous line feed amount is corrected when a line feed is made to the print pin configurations # 1 to # 6. Never done. Therefore, the value p is changed in the range of 1 to 6, and the initial value of the value m is set to 7.
[0060]
In addition, when the basic line feed amount is 7/180 [inch], the reverse line feed operation will not be performed even if the previous line feed amount is corrected when a line feed is made to the print pin configurations # 1 to # 8. Therefore, the value p can be changed in the range of 1 to 8, and the initial value of the value m can be set to 9. When the basic line feed amount is 3/180 [inch], the reverse line feed operation is not performed even if the previous line feed amount is corrected when a line feed is made to the printing pin configurations # 1 to # 4. Therefore, the value p can be changed in the range of 1 to 4, and the initial value of the value m can be set to 5. That is, the values p and m can be changed corresponding to the basic line feed amount.
[0061]
Next, a flowchart will be described.
Step S21: Set 7 to the value m.
Step S22: Set 1 to the value p.
Step S23: Waiting for reception of print data.
Step S24: Determine whether there is continuous data of n dots or more. If there is continuous data of n dots or more, the process proceeds to step S25.
Step S25: A temporary line feed amount to the printing pin configuration #m is calculated.
Step S26: Determine whether the provisional line feed amount takes a negative value. If the provisional line feed amount takes a negative value, the process proceeds to step S35, and if the negative value is not taken (takes 0 or a positive value), the process proceeds to step S27.
Step S27 A line feed is made to the printing pin configuration #m.
Step S28 Printing is performed with the printing pin configuration #m.
Step S29: Determine whether there is remaining data. If there is remaining data, the process proceeds to step S30. Otherwise, the process proceeds to step S32.
Step S30 Line feed for 12 pins is performed.
Step S31 The remaining data is printed with the printing pin configuration #m.
Step S32: The value m is incremented.
Step S33: It is determined whether the value m is greater than 13. If the value m is greater than 13, the process proceeds to step S34, and if the value m is 13 or less, the process ends.
Step S34: The value m is set to 7, and the process is terminated.
Step S35: A line feed is made to the printing pin configuration #p.
Step S36 Printing is performed with the printing pin configuration #p.
Step S37: It is determined whether there is remaining data. If there is remaining data, the process proceeds to step S38, and if not, the process proceeds to step S40.
Step S38 Line feed for 12 pins is performed.
Step S39 The remaining data is printed with the printing pin configuration #p.
Step S40: The value p is incremented.
Step S41: It is determined whether the value p is larger than 6. If the value p is greater than 6, the process proceeds to step S42, and if the value p is 6 or less, the process ends.
Step S42: The value p is set to 1, and the process is terminated.
Step S43 A line feed is made for the previous line feed amount.
Step S44 Printing is performed using all the printing pins W1 to W24, and the process is terminated.
[0062]
Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. The configuration of the present embodiment is the same as the configuration of the first embodiment, and therefore will be described with reference to FIG.
[0063]
In this case, the printing pin configuration #p dedicated to the negative position and the printing pin configuration #m dedicated to the positive position are automatically set based on the previous line feed amount. Therefore, when horizontal ruled line data that results in a new line at the negative position is received, the minimum value of the value m necessary for preventing the temporary new line amount from taking a negative value is x, and the temporary new line amount Is set to y, and the initial values of the values m and p and the minimum value x are all set to 1.
[0064]
A continuous data determination processing unit (not shown) of the microprocessor 12 (FIG. 1) as the printer control unit determines whether there is continuous data of n dots or more in one line of print data. A temporary line feed amount calculation processing unit (not shown) of the microprocessor 12 calculates the line feed amount to the printing pin configuration #m as a temporary line feed amount.
[0065]
Further, a line feed processing unit (not shown) of the microprocessor 12 determines whether the provisional line feed amount takes a negative value every time one line is printed. As the minimum value x, the value p is set as the maximum value y, and when the negative value is not taken, the value m is incremented and the printing pin configuration #m is updated.
[0066]
Therefore, when the horizontal ruled line data does not become a line feed to the negative position, the print pin configuration #m is updated in the range of all the print pin configurations # 1 to # 13, and when the horizontal ruled line data becomes a line feed to the negative position, Printing pin configurations # 1 to #y are set as the printing pin configuration #p exclusively for the negative position, and printing pin configurations #x to # 13 are set as the printing pin configuration #m only for the positive position, and the printing pin configurations # 1 to #y are set. The printing pin configuration #p is updated in the range of, and the printing pin configuration #m is updated in the range of the printing pin configuration #x to # 13.
[0067]
Next, the operation of the printer having the above configuration will be described. In this case, the microprocessor 12 receives character data d1 and d3 and horizontal ruled line data d2 and d4 as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 as print data for the first to fourth lines from a host device (not shown). The operation of the printer will be described.
[0068]
FIG. 9 is a first flowchart showing the operation of the printer in the second embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 10 is a second flowchart showing the operation of the printer in the second embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. It is a figure which shows the change of the printing pin at the time of performing horizontal ruled line printing in the printer in the 2nd Embodiment of invention.
[0069]
First, when the power is turned on, the microprocessor 12 (FIG. 1) starts printing pin control, sets 1 to the minimum value x, sets the minimum value x to the value m, and sets 1 to the value p. And initialize.
[0070]
Subsequently, when print data is received from a host device (not shown), the continuous data determination processing means determines whether there is continuous data of n dots or more in one line of print data. The value n is set in advance.
[0071]
In this case, as shown in FIG. 3, the print data of the first line is character data d1, and since there is no continuous data of n dots or more in the character data d1, the microprocessor 12 does not change the line feed amount for the previous line. Is printed, and printing is performed using all the printing pins W1 to W24.
[0072]
Next, the print data of the second line is horizontal ruled line data d2, and since there is continuous data of n dots or more in the horizontal ruled line data d2, the provisional line feed amount calculation processing means performs a line feed to the print pin configuration #m. The amount is calculated as a temporary line feed amount.
[0073]
When printing is performed according to the horizontal ruled line data d2, the line feed amount for the previous line is 5/180 [inch]. 0/180 [inch] of the correction amount is added to the value, and the provisional line feed amount becomes 5/180 [inch], which is a positive value.
[0074]
Then, printing is performed for half of the print data using a predetermined print pin among the print pins W1 to W24. In this case, since the print data is the horizontal ruled line data d2, the print processing means prints using the print pin W1.
[0075]
Subsequently, the print processing means determines whether or not there is remaining data in the print data. However, since the print data is the horizontal ruled line data d2, there is no remaining data, and line feed and printing are not performed.
[0076]
Then, the microprocessor 12 increments and updates the value m. In this case, the value m is 2. Subsequently, the microprocessor 12 determines whether or not the value m is the maximum value, that is, greater than 13. When the value m is greater than 13, the value m is set to 1 and when the value m is 13 or less. Ends the processing as is.
[0077]
Next, the print data on the third line is character data d3, and since there is no continuous data of n dots or more in the character data d3, the printer control unit 6/180 [inch] corresponding to the line feed amount of the previous line. Is printed, and printing is performed using all the printing pins W1 to W24.
[0078]
Further, the print data on the fourth line is horizontal ruled line data d4, and the horizontal ruled line data d4 has continuous data of n dots or more. Therefore, the provisional line feed amount calculation processing means performs a line feed to the print pin configuration # 2. The amount is calculated as a temporary line feed amount.
[0079]
When printing is performed in accordance with the horizontal ruled line data d4, the line feed amount for the previous line is 30/180 [inch]. Therefore, the line feed amount for the previous line is 30/180 [inch] as the line feeds to the print pin configuration # 2. A correction amount of −1/180 [inch] is added to the value, and the provisional line feed amount becomes 29/180 [inch], which is a positive value.
[0080]
Accordingly, the line feed processing means makes a line feed to the printing pin configuration # 2, and the printing processing means uses the printing pin configuration # 2 and uses a predetermined printing pin among the printing pins W1 to W24 for about half of the print data. Perform printing. In this case, a line break of 29/180 [inch] equal to the provisional line feed amount is performed. Further, since the print data is the horizontal ruled line data d4, the print processing means performs printing using the print pin W2.
[0081]
Subsequently, the print processing means determines whether or not there is remaining data in the print data. However, since the print data is the horizontal ruled line data d4, there is no remaining data, and line feed and printing are not performed.
[0082]
The microprocessor 12 increments and updates the value m to print the next horizontal ruled line data. In this case, the value m is 3. Subsequently, the microprocessor 12 determines whether the value m is the maximum value, that is, greater than 13, and if the value m is greater than 13, sets the minimum value x as the initial value to the value m and performs processing. When the value p is 13 or less, the provisional line feed amount of the next printing pin configuration #m is calculated. Here, since the minimum value x is 1, only the printing pin configuration #m dedicated to the normal position is set, and the range of the printing pin configuration #m is the printing pin configuration # 1 to # 13.
[0083]
Thus, each time horizontal ruled line data is received as print data, the value m is incremented, the print pin configuration #m is updated, and the correction amount is increased.
[0084]
When the value m increases, the correction amount increases, and when the provisional line feed amount takes a negative value, the line feed processing means prevents the provisional line feed amount from taking a negative value. Therefore, the maximum value y and the minimum value x are calculated based on the basic line feed amount and the correction amount corresponding to each of the print pin configurations # 1 to # 13. In this case, since the basic line feed amount is 5/180 [inch], when the value m becomes 7 and the correction amount becomes −6/180 [inch], the temporary line feed amount takes a negative value. Therefore, the maximum value y is set to 6 and the minimum value x is set to 7 so that the provisional line feed amount does not take a negative value. Therefore, the printing pin configuration # 1 to # 6 is set as the printing pin configuration #p dedicated to the negative position, and the printing pin configuration #p is updated in the range of the printing pin configuration # 1 to # 6, and the printing dedicated to the positive position is performed. Printing pin configurations # 7 to # 13 are set as the pin configuration #m, and the printing pin configuration #m is updated in the range of the printing pin configurations # 7 to # 13.
[0085]
In this way, for horizontal ruled line data that does not result in a line break to the negative position, the print pin configuration is sequentially updated in the range of all print pin configurations # 1 to # 13, and the horizontal ruled line data that becomes a line break to the negative position. When printing is performed by sequentially updating the print pin configuration in the range of the print pin configurations #p and #m, the print pins used for printing the horizontal ruled line data as shown in FIG. It changes sequentially. Along with this, the amount of line feed in the preceding line is corrected, so that horizontal ruled line printing can be performed.
[0086]
As described above, since the printing pins W1 to W24 that are actually used are sequentially changed, the same printing pins are not frequently used even when performing horizontal ruled line printing, and the load applied to the printing pins and the printing ribbon is increased. Can be averaged.
[0087]
In addition, for horizontal ruled line data that does not result in a line feed to the negative position, the print pin configuration can be updated in the range of all the print pin configurations # 1 to # 13, which further increases the load applied to the print pins and the print ribbon. Can be averaged.
[0088]
Then, when the basic line feed amount changes, the minimum value x and the maximum value y are automatically calculated by the line feed processing means, and the ranges of the print pin configurations #p and #m are automatically determined. The operator's work can be simplified.
[0089]
Next, a flowchart will be described.
Step S51: Set 1 to the minimum value x.
Step S52: The minimum value x is set to the value m.
Step S53: Set 1 to the value p.
Step S54: Waiting for reception of print data.
Step S55: Determine whether there is continuous data of n dots or more. If there is continuous data of n dots or more, the process proceeds to step S56.
Step S56: A temporary line feed amount to the printing pin configuration #m is calculated.
Step S57: It is determined whether or not the temporary line feed amount takes a negative value. If the provisional line feed amount takes a negative value, the process proceeds to step S66. If the negative line value does not take a negative value (takes 0 or a positive value), the process proceeds to step S58.
Step S58 A line feed is made to the printing pin configuration #m.
Step S59 Printing is performed with the printing pin configuration #m.
Step S60: Determine whether there is remaining data. If there is remaining data, the process proceeds to step S61; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S63.
Step S61 Line feed for 12 pins is performed.
Step S62 The remaining data is printed with the printing pin configuration #m.
Step S63: The value m is incremented.
Step S64: Determine whether the value m is greater than 13. If the value m is greater than 13, the process proceeds to step S65, and if the value m is 13 or less, the process ends.
Step S65: The minimum value x is set to the value m.
Step S66 The maximum value y is set to the maximum value y.
Step S67: The minimum value x is set to the minimum value x.
Step S68 Line feed is made to the printing pin configuration #p.
Step S69 Printing is performed with the printing pin configuration #p.
Step S70: It is determined whether there is remaining data. If there is remaining data, the process proceeds to step S71, and if not, the process proceeds to step S73.
Step S71 Line feed for 12 pins is performed.
Step S72 The remaining data is printed with the printing pin configuration #p.
Step S73: The value p is incremented.
Step S74: It is determined whether the value p is larger than the maximum value y. If the value p is greater than the maximum value y, the process proceeds to step S75, and if the value p is less than or equal to the maximum value y, the process ends.
Step S75: The value p is set to 1, and the process is terminated.
Step S76 A line feed is made for the previous line feed amount.
Step S77 Printing is performed using all the printing pins W1 to W24, and the process is terminated.
[0090]
By the way, in the first and second embodiments, the print pin configuration is updated each time printing is performed for a predetermined amount of horizontal ruled line data, for example, one line of horizontal ruled line data, and the print pin used is used. However, it is not always necessary to change the printing pin each time printing is performed for one line of horizontal ruled line data. In that case, the print pin configuration is updated every time printing is performed for multiple lines of horizontal ruled line data, the print pin configuration is updated each time printing is performed for one page of horizontal ruled line data, and multiple pages of horizontal ruled line data are updated. The print pin configuration can be updated each time printing is performed. Also, the print pin configuration can be updated according to the print density when printing is actually performed.
[0091]
Next, a description will be given of a third embodiment of the present invention in which the print pin configuration is updated according to the print density when printing is actually performed.
[0092]
FIG. 12 is a first flowchart showing the operation of the printer in the third embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 13 is a second flowchart showing the operation of the printer in the third embodiment of the present invention.
[0093]
In this case, the load determination processing means (not shown) of the microprocessor 12 (FIG. 1) as the printer control unit determines whether or not a load is applied to the print pin or the print ribbon by the horizontal ruled line data that has been printed. Judgment is made based on whether or not the threshold value is greater than or equal to a preset threshold value. The line feed processing means (not shown) of the microprocessor 12 updates the print pin configuration #p, #m when the print density is equal to or higher than the threshold value, and print pin configuration #p, #m when the print density is lower than the threshold value. Do not update.
[0094]
In this case, in order to record the print density, a buffer is provided for each of the print pin configurations # 1 to # 13 in the RAM 15, and the print density is recorded as continuous data of n dots or more is printed in each buffer. Is done.
[0095]
As described above, in the present embodiment, the load applied to the print pin or the print ribbon is monitored by the print density when printing is actually performed, and when the load is applied, the print pin configuration #p, Since #m is updated, the load applied to the printing pin and the printing ribbon can be further averaged.
[0096]
Even when the dot widths of the plurality of horizontal ruled line data are not uniform depending on the print pattern, the load applied to each print pin or print ribbon can be monitored. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the printing pins from being wasted.
[0097]
Next, a flowchart will be described.
Step S81: Set 7 to the value m.
Step S82: Set 1 to the value p.
Step S83: Waiting for reception of print data.
Step S84: Determine whether there is continuous data of n dots or more. If there is continuous data of n dots or more, the process proceeds to step S85, and if not, the process proceeds to step S105.
Step S85 A provisional line feed amount to the printing pin configuration #m is calculated.
Step S86: It is determined whether or not the provisional line feed amount takes a negative value. If the provisional line feed amount takes a negative value, a negative value is not taken (takes 0 or a positive value) in Step S96. Advances to step S87.
Step S87 A line feed is made to the printing pin configuration #m.
Step S88 Printing is performed with the printing pin configuration #m.
Step S89: It is determined whether there is remaining data. If there is remaining data, the process proceeds to step S90; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S92.
Step S90 Line feed for 12 pins is performed.
Step S91 The remaining data is printed with the printing pin configuration #m.
Step S92: to determine whether the print density is equal to or higher than a threshold value. If the print density is equal to or higher than the threshold value, the process proceeds to step S93. If the print density is lower than the threshold value, the process ends.
Step S93: The value m is incremented.
Step S94: It is determined whether the value m is greater than 13. If the value m is greater than 13, the process proceeds to step S95. If the value m is 13 or less, the process ends.
Step S95: The value m is set to 7, and the process is terminated.
Step S96 Line feed is made to the printing pin configuration #p.
Step S97 Printing is performed with the printing pin configuration #p.
Step S98: It is determined whether there is remaining data. If there is remaining data, the process proceeds to step S99; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S101.
Step S99 Line feed for 12 pins is performed.
Step S100 The remaining data is printed with the printing pin configuration #p.
Step S101: It is determined whether the print density is equal to or higher than a threshold value. If the print density is equal to or higher than the threshold value, the process proceeds to step S102. If the print density is lower than the threshold value, the process ends.
Step S102: The value p is incremented.
Step S103: It is determined whether the value p is greater than 6. If the value p is greater than 6, the process proceeds to step S104. If the value p is 6 or less, the process is terminated.
Step S104: Set 1 to the value p and end the process.
Step S105 A line feed is made for the previous line feed amount.
Step S106 Printing is performed using all the printing pins W1 to W24, and the process is terminated.
[0098]
In addition, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment, It can change variously based on the meaning of this invention, and does not exclude them from the scope of the present invention.
[0099]
【The invention's effect】
As described above in detail, according to the present invention, in the printing pin control method, when printing is performed on continuous data corresponding to a plurality of printing pins arranged on the downstream side in the feeding direction of the printing medium. A first print pin configuration that represents a print position that is set based on the basic line feed amount and does not perform reverse line feed operation when the line feed amount is corrected, and disposed upstream in the feed direction of the print medium A second print pin configuration that represents a print position that is set in correspondence with a plurality of print pins and that may cause a reverse line feed operation when the line feed amount is corrected. Printing.
Then, it is determined whether or not there is continuous data in the line direction in the print data. If the continuous data is present, the continuous data is printed with one print pin according to a predetermined order in the second print pin configuration. A provisional line feed amount is calculated, and it is determined whether or not the calculated provisional line feed amount takes a negative value with respect to the feeding direction of the print medium, and the provisional line feed amount takes a negative value A line feed is made to the first print pin configuration, the line feed amount is corrected so that printing is performed on the continuous data with one print pin according to a predetermined order in the first print pin configuration, and the provisional line feed amount Does not take a negative value with respect to the feeding direction of the print medium, a line feed is made to the second print pin configuration, and the one print pin according to a predetermined order in the second print pin configuration The line feed amount is compensated so that the data is printed. To.
[0100]
In this case, when the provisional line feed amount takes a negative value, a line feed is made to the first print pin configuration, and continuous data is printed with one print pin in a predetermined order in the first print pin configuration. And when the provisional line feed amount does not take a negative value, a line feed is made to the second print pin configuration, and the one print pin follows a predetermined order in the second print pin configuration. Since printing is performed for continuous data, even when horizontal ruled line printing is performed, the same printing pin is not frequently used, and the load applied to the printing pin and the printing ribbon can be averaged.
[0101]
In addition, since the printing is performed with the second printing pin configuration, the reverse line feed operation is not performed. Therefore, there is no deviation of the backlash existing in the drive gear used for the paper transport mechanism, and it is not necessary to set the reverse line feed amount in consideration of the backlash. As a result, the printing throughput can be improved accordingly. In addition, white spots and overlapping of characters do not occur, so that the print quality can be improved.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a printer according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a print pattern.
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a print pattern and a print pin in a conventional printer.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of a conventional printer.
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a change of a printing pin when horizontal ruled line printing is performed in a conventional printer.
FIG. 6 is a first flowchart showing the operation of the printer according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a second flowchart showing the operation of the printer according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a change of a printing pin when horizontal ruled line printing is performed in the printer according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a first flowchart illustrating an operation of a printer according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a second flowchart showing the operation of the printer according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a change of a printing pin when horizontal ruled line printing is performed in the printer according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 12 is a first flowchart illustrating an operation of a printer according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 13 is a second flowchart showing the operation of the printer according to the third embodiment of the present invention.
[Explanation of symbols]
12 Microprocessor
W1-W24 Printing pin

Claims (4)

Corresponding to a plurality of printing pins arranged downstream in the feed direction of the printing medium, it is set based on the basic line feed amount when printing continuous data, and reverse line feed when the line feed amount is corrected When the first print pin configuration representing the print position where the operation is not performed and the plurality of print pins arranged on the upstream side in the feed direction of the print medium are set and the line feed amount is corrected In a printing pin control method for printing on a printing medium according to printing data by a second printing pin configuration representing a printing position where a reverse line feed operation may be performed ,
(A) determining whether the the print data has the row direction of the continuous data,
(B) if there is the continuous data, is calculated, and the amount of line feed provisional for performing one print with the continuous data in the printing pins according to the predetermined order of the second print pins in the configuration,
(C) the amount of line feed is calculated tentative determines whether a negative value with respect to the direction of feed of Printout medium,
(D) if the amount of line feed said provisional takes a negative value, a new line before Symbol first print pin configuration, with the continuous data in one printing pins according to the predetermined order in the print pin configuration of the first Correct the line feed amount to print
(E) When the provisional line feed amount does not take a negative value with respect to the feeding direction of the print medium, a line feed is made to the second print pin configuration, and a predetermined order in the second print pin configuration is followed. A printing pin control method , wherein a line feed amount is corrected so that printing is performed on the continuous data with the one printing pin . Before Symbol printing pin configuration, print pin control method according to claim 1 which is updated every time of printing the preset amount.   The printing pin control method according to claim 1, wherein the printing pin configuration is updated when a printing density is equal to or higher than a threshold value. Corresponding to a plurality of printing elements arranged downstream in the feed direction of the print medium, it is set based on the basic line feed amount when printing continuous data, and reverse line feed when the line feed amount is corrected When the line feed amount is corrected by setting corresponding to the first printing element configuration representing the printing position where the operation is not performed and the plurality of printing elements arranged on the upstream side in the feeding direction of the printing medium. In a print control device for performing printing on a print medium according to print data by a second print element configuration representing a print position where a reverse line feed operation may be performed ,
(A) a continuous data determination processing means for determining whether the the print data has the row direction of the continuous data,
(B) the case where there is a continuous data, for performing printing with the continuous data in a printing device according to a predetermined order of said second print element in the configuration, the temporary line feed amount calculation for calculating a line feed amount of the temporary Processing means;
(C) the amount of line feed is calculated tentative determines whether a negative value with respect to the direction of feed of Printout medium, if the line feed amount of the temporary takes a negative value, before Symbol first print A line feed is made to the element configuration, the line feed amount is corrected so that printing is performed on the continuous data by one printing element in a predetermined order in the first printing element configuration, and the temporary line feed amount is fed to the print medium. When not taking a negative value with respect to the direction, a line feed is made to the second printing element configuration, and the continuous data is printed by one printing element according to a predetermined order in the second printing element configuration. print control apparatus characterized by having a line feed processing means for correcting the line feed amount.

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