JPH04179563A - Printing device and its control method - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] This bulletin contains application data before electronic filing, so abstract data is not recorded.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [Field of Industrial Application] The present invention relates to a printing device, and particularly to a configuration and control method of a printing device optimal for PO3/ECR.

[Prior Art] Conventional printing devices that print on a type of form paper, which is a type of cut paper, generally have a flat recording paper guide with a large area because the size of the form paper is irregular and there are many printing lines. A printing device is used and is called a slip printing device. For this reason, it was rarely used as a printing device for roll paper.

In addition, validation paper, which is a type of cut paper, is generally a standard size paper called multi-copy paper, which makes it difficult to share the recording paper path with conventional roll paper printing devices.

[Problem H to be solved by the invention] In recent years, various types of paper have been distributed in the PO8 market, and printing devices that can handle these various types of recording paper are P.

It was sought after as a printing device for S/ECR.

However, when a conventional slip printing device, a validation printing device, or even a roll paper printing device is integrated into an integrated printing device, the number of copies of commonly used validation paper is large, and the number of copies is large in the long recording paper path. There were many technical difficulties, such as peeling off or getting caught, which could cause problems.

In recent usage, there is a need for slip printing, which not only prints on roll paper, but also records the contents printed by slip on roll paper at the same time as a journal for safety and reliability reasons, something that cannot be handled using conventional methods. It became. This kind of need is called a security slip.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a printing device that integrates a printing section and is compatible with various types of recording paper, and that has a simple structure, high reliability, inexpensive space efficiency, and a printing mechanism that controls the same. The purpose of this study is to provide optimal control means and control methods for

A further object of the present invention is to provide a mechanism and control method for a printing device that can efficiently use cut paper and continuous paper, and simultaneously print the print content of cut paper on roll paper as necessary. Means for Solving Problem C] In order to solve the above problem, the present invention provides a printing device configured to be able to print on at least two or more types of recording paper with a printing unit having one print head. A first recording paper path for a first recording paper inserted from the lower part of the printing section or from the suction side in the recording paper transport direction to print, and a first recording paper path for printing on the first recording paper from the upper part of the printing part or from the recording paper transport direction. a second recording paper path for a second recording paper inserted from the side for printing; and a first recording paper path installed in the recording paper path for the first recording paper.
a recording paper opening/closing mechanism; and a first transport configured to be electrically capable of opening and closing a recording paper path by pressing and releasing a recording paper transport drive section in the first recording paper opening/closing mechanism against the first recording paper. a second recording paper path installed in a common recording paper path for the first recording paper and the second recording paper and transporting the first and second recording paper;
a recording paper opening/closing mechanism; and a recording paper transport drive unit in the second recording paper opening/closing mechanism is electrically movable to open and close the recording paper path by press-contacting and releasing the recording paper transport drive unit from the first recording paper or the second recording paper. a second transport section opening/closing mechanism configured, and a recording paper detection means installed near the confluence of the first recording paper path and the second recording paper path and detecting the first and second recording paper. a path blocking mechanism configured to be electrically movable and located between the recording paper detection means and the printing section and blocking the paths of the first and second recording papers; and common to the first and second recording paper opening/closing mechanisms. a step motor serving as a drive source; a counting means for counting the number of drive steps of the step motor; and a storage means for storing a predetermined number of steps from the cutting position of the recording paper to a predetermined position of the printing section. This is a printing device with special features.

Further, the present invention provides a printing apparatus having the above-mentioned mechanism and means, further comprising a recording paper selection means for specifying one of the first and second recording papers, and the second recording paper is designated. a step of opening the recording paper blocking mechanism; a step of activating the first transfer section opening/closing mechanism for the first recording paper to close the transfer section; a recording paper detection step of confirming that the second recording paper is set by the detection means; a step of operating the printing section opening/closing mechanism to close the printing after detecting the second recording paper; This method of controlling a printing apparatus is characterized by comprising a step of executing a predetermined EIIJ #J on the recording paper after detecting the recording paper.

Further, the present invention provides a printing apparatus having the mechanism and means, including the steps of activating the recording paper cutoff mechanism when the first recording paper is specified, and after the recording paper path is blocked by the recording paper cutoff mechanism. A process of detecting the setting of recording paper by the recording paper detection means, a process of releasing the blocking mechanism after detecting the recording paper, and a process of activating the recording paper opening/closing mechanism after detecting the recording paper to a state in which the recording paper can be transferred. a step of counting the number of steps of transporting the first recording paper by the step motor; and a step of transporting the first recording paper until the predetermined number of steps of the storage means and the count value of the counting means match. a step of detecting the recording paper by the recording paper detector after one transfer by the transfer means;
Starts the specified printing process on the recording paper, and displays "No recording paper".
A method for controlling a printing apparatus, comprising the step of displaying that the type of recording paper is incorrect and interrupting the printing process when

[Function] According to the configuration of the present invention described above, a type of relatively large form paper such as cut paper can be inserted and printed from the suction side in the recording paper transport direction, and - a large number of copies can be printed. By inserting standard paper with a small number of print lines, such as validation paper that accompanies paper, from the output side, it is possible to print reliably without damaging the copy paper, and the recording is compatible with each recording paper. It becomes possible to set the recording position of the paper or detect the end of the recording paper. Therefore, it is possible to achieve functions compatible with various types of recording paper on the market with a single device.

[Example] An example according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 10(a) is a schematic diagram showing the structure of an example of a print head used in a mechanical section of a printing apparatus according to the present invention, in which 1 indicates a print head main body, and 1a indicates a printing wire pin that forms a dot. As shown in the figure, the plurality of wire pins la are arranged in a row in the horizontal direction at predetermined intervals, and are indicated by arrows IA and 1B.
It prints characters and symbols while moving back and forth in the direction.

FIG. 10(b) is an overall external view of the mechanical part of the printing apparatus according to the present invention, which is equipped with the printing head 1 and is capable of printing on three or more types of recording paper while swinging the printing head 1 in the left and right directions. r) The configuration will be described in detail below.

FIGS. 6(a), (b) and 7(a) and (b) are schematic diagrams showing the structure of the mechanical parts of the printing apparatus according to the present invention and the operation of each mechanical part depending on the type of recording paper.

FIGS. 6(a) and 6(b) show the operation when the printing device is used as a slip printing device. Reference numeral 1 denotes a print head in which print elements 1a are arranged in rows in the horizontal direction, and print is performed via an ink ribbon (not shown) on a recording paper placed between a platen 2 and a platen 2 disposed opposite to each other. As an example, the print head 1 is a so-called shuttle printing device, which is installed so as to be swingable in the left and right directions by a motor (not shown). 1b shows a ribbon cassette containing an ink ribbon.

Reference numeral 5 denotes a recording paper drive roller for transporting the recording paper, which is connected to a power source (not shown) such as a motor through a transmission system such as gears. Reference numeral 6 denotes a recording paper pressing roller disposed at a position facing the recording paper driving roller, and is pivotally supported by an arm 25. The platen 2 is similarly fixed to an arm 25, and the arm 25 is configured to be rotatable in directions of arrows 25A and 25B about a fulcrum 25a by a plunger 28. The printing section opening/closing mechanism 40 is composed of the platen 2, the arm 25, and the plunger 28 as main components. In addition, the paper holding roller 6, the arm 25, and the plunger 28 form the transport section opening/closing mechanism 30 as the main components, and the paper drive roller 5 is added as the main components to form the transfer section opening/closing mechanism 30 for cutting paper. A recording paper opening/closing mechanism 50 is formed. The printing section opening/closing mechanism 40 changes the distance between the printing head 1 and the platen 2 of the printing section.
0 and the transfer section opening/closing mechanism 30 share an arm 25 which is a drive source and a transmission member.

7 is a recording paper driving roller, and 8 is a recording paper pressing roller installed at a position opposite to this. This recording paper pressing roller 8 is pivotally supported by an arm 19 and is driven by a plunger 18.
It is installed so as to be rotatable in the direction of arrow 19A using 9 & as a fulcrum. A recording paper opening/closing mechanism 10 is composed of a recording paper driving roller 7, a recording paper pressing roller 8, an arm 19, and a plunger 18 as main components. In addition, the plunger 18,
The arm 19 and the recording paper pressing roller 8 constitute a transfer section opening/closing mechanism 20. A recording paper guide 21 forms a recording paper transport path, and is provided with a notch 21a through which the platen 2 passes, and a notch 21b through which the drive roller 6 passes. Reference numeral 22 denotes a recording paper path for form paper (also called slip paper), which merges with a recording paper path 23 for validation paper, which will be described later, and is connected to a recording paper path 24.

The operation of the plunger 18 (in the direction of arrow 18A) is transmitted via cranks 14, 15 and support member 16 to a form stopper 27 that serves as a positioning force and blocks the path of the recording paper. The route cutoff mechanism 35 is composed of these as main components.

The plungers 18 and 28, which serve as the power source for reciprocating motion, are both suitably state-memory magnetic built-in types.

This is because no power is wasted to maintain the state. In this case, the drive circuit that drives the plunger is a bipolar type circuit that allows current to flow in both directions.

The recording paper detector 26 is a general optical sensor having an optical axis 26a, which is arranged opposite to each other, and can detect the presence or absence of recording paper depending on whether the optical axis 26a is interrupted.

Recording paper 12 such as form paper is printed using the arrows 12A to 12B as the recording paper path, and FIG. 6(a) shows the recording paper detector 26 detecting the presence or absence of recording paper when the recording paper 12 is set. The state of the recording paper 12 is indicated by the form stopper 2.
7 can be positioned as a scale. The plunger 18 has finished setting the recording paper 12, which is a form paper.
actuate the arm 19 in the direction of arrow 19B to close the recording paper transport section, and at the same time move the form stopper 27 in the direction of arrow 27A.
direction to release the recording paper 12 from the recording paper path and make the recording paper 12 ready for transport. At this time, the printing section opening/closing mechanism operates in the direction of arrow 25A to keep it in the closed state.

Generally, a step motor is used as a drive source for transporting the recording paper, and since the transport m horizontal 10.50 is connected to the same drive source, it is possible to easily drive them in synchronization. As the motor (not shown) rotates, the drive roller 7 rotates in the direction of arrow 7A, and the drive roller 5 rotates in the direction of arrow 5A, and the form 12 is held between each of the drive rollers and a press roller placed opposite thereto. be transferred.

When printing starts, the form paper 12 is first fed by a predetermined pitch to the printing section, and the leading edge of the recording paper reaches a predetermined position above the printing section (composition printing is started.

FIGS. 7(a) and 7(b) show the operation when the printing apparatus of the present invention is used as a validation printing apparatus. 7th
FIG. 7(a) shows the state when recording paper is inserted, and FIG. 7(b) shows the state during printing.

Components that are the same as those in FIG. 6 are designated by the same numbers and explanations will be omitted.

Validation paper is a type of recording paper that has a standard length among business forms, and is used for items that require a large number of copies and authentication, and is generally referred to as such.

When using validation paper, the validation paper 13, which is a recording paper, is moved in the exit direction of the recording paper transport direction for normal printing (
Insert the recording paper from the top of the printing section) in the direction of arrow 13A. When setting recording paper, the printing section opening/closing mechanism 40 is kept open. This creates a large gap in the printing section, and the fact that it is made of multiple sheets of copy paper (multi-ply) makes handling of validation paper extremely easy.

Furthermore, most of the recording paper sizes are standard, with a length of about 3.5 inches, so a long recording paper path is unnecessary.

A notch is provided in the side frame 17 of the printing device to form a recording paper path 23, which guides the recording paper 13 inserted from above the printing section in a direction different from the aforementioned path of the recording paper 12. The inserted recording paper reaches the bottom contact portion 23a and is set. At this time, since the form stopper 27 is slidably installed on the support member 16, it is retracted in the direction of the arrow 27A by the force of the recording paper and does not hinder the advance of the recording paper 13.

From the printing section to the recording paper detector 26, the recording paper path is shared with the recording paper 12, and the recording paper detector 26 is a general optical sensor. Both recording sheets of the form sheet 12 that enter from the direction are arranged at positions where they can be detected.

In this embodiment, the recording paper detectors 26 of the facing type are used for detection, but both recording papers may be detected using a reflective optical detector or a mechanical detector.

When the recording paper has been set, the platen 2 and presser roller 6, which had been retracted from the recording paper path, are moved in the direction of arrow 25B by the action of the plunger, and the drive roller 5 and presser roller 6 move Validation form 1
Printing is executed by the print head 1 while holding the paper 3 and rotating in the directions of arrows 5A and 6A, respectively.

Since the validation paper has a standard size and almost the same length, the printing start position is determined with the recording paper set. When printing is started, the recording paper 13 is fed in the direction of the arrow 13B.

The ends of both recording papers are detected when the recording papers are moved upward and pass the recording paper detector 26, and the optical axis 26a of the recording paper detector 26 is unblocked.

Since the printable range immediately after the end is detected is equal to the length of the remaining recording paper path, this is calculated by a control device using a CPU, etc. to detect the print limit and print within a predetermined range. It is possible.

Pl in FIG. 7(b) indicates the predetermined position of the beginning of the recording set when the leading edge of the recording paper is set at the initial printing position, and P2
P3 indicates the position of the form stopper when setting the recording paper 12, which is slip paper, before printing, and P3 indicates the bottom position of the validation paper. The distance L1 from Pl to P2 is configured to be larger than the distance @L2 from P2 to P3.

8(a), 9(b) and 9(a) and 9(b) are explanatory diagrams of embodiments of the mechanical section of the printing apparatus according to the present invention, and the above-mentioned FIGS. 6(a) and 7 3A and 3B are schematic diagrams of an embodiment of a mechanical section of a printing apparatus in which a continuous paper printing mechanism is further added to the embodiment detailed in FIGS.

Same functions as FIGS. 6(a)(b) and 7(a)(b),
Identical items are indicated by the same numbers.

FIGS. 8(a) and 8(b) are schematic diagrams showing the connections between each recording paper opening/closing mechanism and the motor, and FIG. 9(a) is a diagram showing the state when roll paper and slip paper are set at the recording position. and
FIG. 9(b) is a schematic diagram showing a state where printing is being executed on both recording sheets.

The step motor 9 as a paper feeding power source is installed inside the right side frame 17b, and the motor gear 41 fixed to the motor shaft of the step motor 9 is connected to a gear train arranged outside the side frame 17b. It meshes with the system. Intermediate gears 42, 43 and 44
is rotatably supported by a shaft (not shown) fixed to the side frame 17b. The drive gear 45 is fixed to a drive gear shaft 45a that is rotatably supported by the left and right side frames 17a and 17b. The drive gear 47 and the drive roller 5 are fixed to a gear shaft 47a. In this embodiment, two drive rollers 5 and two presser rollers 6 are shown, but the number may be one or more depending on the paper feed size, paper feed ability, etc. step motor 9
, intermediate gears 42, 43, drive gear 47, drive roller 5,
The pressing roller 6 and the like constitute a recording paper opening/closing mechanism for the form paper, as shown in FIGS. 6(a) and 6(b).

Further, in this embodiment, the intermediate gear 43 and the driving gear 47 are connected to the motor 9, the recording paper driving roller 7 is connected to the driving gear 47 by a belt 48, and the slip paper 12, which is a form paper, is connected to the presser roller 6, The paper is fed while being held by the drive rollers 5. The configurations of the plunger 18, plunger 28, and each recording paper opening/closing mechanism are shown in FIGS. 6(a) and 7(a).
) The same mechanism as (b) is adopted, so the explanation will be omitted. 2
Reference numeral 9 denotes a coil spring that assists the operation of the plunger 28, and is installed so as to keep the printing section open when no current is applied.

The configuration up to this point is basically the same as the mechanism shown in FIGS. 6(a) and 6(b).

Next, a recording paper opening/closing mechanism for the roll paper 11, which is continuous paper, will be described below.

Reference numeral 45 denotes a drive gear for transporting and driving the roll paper 11 connected to the intermediate gear 44, and an electrically controllable latch means 80 is interposed between it and the drive roller 3.

As shown in FIG. 8(a), the recording paper path of the roll paper 11 is from an external roll paper supply section (not shown) through the inside of the arm 25 that supports the platen, via the drive roller 3, and
The paper passes through the paper guide 21 and is discharged to the outside. The print head 1 serves as the same printing unit for printing on slip paper, validation paper, etc. and continuous paper such as roll paper. Roll paper 11 or slip paper 12 or validation paper 13 is set, and ink ribbon 1
Printing is executed via b.

Next, the operation of the embodiment will be explained.

■In the case of roll paper printing When printing only on roll paper, the roll paper 11 is wound around the drive roller 3 and passed through the opening between the platen 2 and the print head. Similarly, by energizing the plunger 28, printing becomes possible, the clutch 80 is connected, and the power of the step motor 9 is changed to the rotational force of the drive roller 3 in the direction of the arrow 3A to feed the paper, and the print head 1 is moved in the same manner as described above. Printing can be performed on the roll paper 11 in synchronization with the drive timing. At this time, since the slip 12 is not set, the drive roller 5 and presser roller 6 are rotating, but there is no problem.

To use it as a receipt issuing machine, a cutter means is provided at the end (not shown) in the direction of arrow 11A, and the printed roll paper is cut to an appropriate length to be used as a receipt issuing machine. I can do it.

Further, when used as a journal machine, by providing a winding means for the roll paper on which the printed information is printed on the extension in the direction of the arrow 11A, the printed information can be recorded and stored, making it possible to use it as a journal machine.

■In the case of printing on slip paper In the case of printing on slip paper, the paper is set by aligning the presser roller 8 with the form stopper (not shown) in the open state as shown in Figure 8(a), and setting the recording paper. The plunger 18 is energized by the paper present signal generated by blocking the optical axis of the detector 26, and the motor 9 is driven, and the slip paper 12 is held between the drive roller 7 and the presser roller 8 and released along the paper guide 21. It is sent to a position past the leading edge of the printing section that is in the current state. In this state, the initialization of the slip paper 12 before printing is completed.

By energizing the plunger 28, the printing section is closed, the platen 2 is set in a predetermined position, and printing becomes possible as shown in FIG. 7(b). Next, the clutch 80 is disengaged so that the driving force of the step motor 9 is not transmitted to the drive roller 3, and only the slip paper 12 is transferred to the drive roller 7.
, the presser roller 8, the drive roller 5, and the presser roller 6 are moved in the direction of arrow 12A in synchronization with the drive timing of the print head 1, and printing is performed on the slip paper 12.

At this time, even if the roll paper 11 is set and the roll paper is pressure-sensitive paper, the roll paper is not transported, so that the content cannot be clearly printed.

■When printing on validation paper When printing on validation paper, the presser roller 8 is set in the closed state, contrary to what is shown in FIG. 8(a), and the optical axis of the recording paper detector 26 is blocked. The paper presence signal generated by this means that the initialization of the validation paper 13 before printing is completed in this state.

By energizing the plunger 28, the printing section is closed, the platen 2 is set in a predetermined position, and printing becomes possible as shown in FIG. 7(b). Next, the clutch 80 is disengaged so that the driving force of the step motor 9 is not transmitted to the drive roller 3, and only the validation paper 13 is moved in the direction of the arrow 12A by the drive roller 5 presser roller 6 in synchronization with the drive timing of the print head 1. Then, printing is performed on the slip paper 12.

■In the case of simultaneous printing of cut paper and roll paper printing In the case of printing on slip paper and printing this content on roll paper at the same time, in the case of security slip, set the roll paper as pressure-sensitive paper and use it as the journal machine described above. The clutch 80 is brought into the connected state in the same way as in the usage. More slip 1
2, and print the slip 12 over the journal paper 11 in the printing section, so that the slip paper 12 is printed via the ink ribbon, and the roll paper 11 is printed via the wire bin 1.
The same print content can be printed at the same time by applying pressure a. Since the paper feed amount is the same for both the slip paper 12 and the journal paper 11, there is no problem such as paper displacement.

FIG. 1 is a control block diagram showing the overall configuration of the present invention, and 100 is a control block diagram showing the above-mentioned FIGS. 5(a), (b), and 6(a).
This is the mechanical part of the printing device explained in (b), and is the printing head 1.
01, a printing section opening/closing mechanism/transfer section opening/closing mechanism 102, a transfer section opening/closing mechanism/route cutoff mechanism 103, a step motor 104 which is a power source for transporting recording paper, a clutch 105, a recording paper detector 106, etc. 60 is CPU and RO
M61, RAM 62, interface 63, print mode selection means 64, a kind of light emitting diode 65 as error display means, head control circuit 71, plunger control circuit 72
, a plunger control circuit 73, a motor control circuit 74, a clutch control circuit 75, and a recording paper detection circuit 76 connected to a recording paper detector that detects the presence or absence of recording paper. Reference numeral 64 is a type of switch of a print mode selection means for selecting a print mode, and depending on the state of this switch, it is determined whether printing is to be performed on slip type printing on form paper or on validation paper.

60a in the CPU 60 is a built-in timer, 61a in the ROM 60 is a storage unit that stores the number of steps of the step motor when starting the recording paper from the form stopper position, and 62 stores the number of driving steps of the step motor. Each figure shows a type of counter as a counting means.

When print data is input through the interface 63, R
Once taken into the AM62, the CPU decodes this data, reads out the character font data corresponding to the data code from the ROM61, and controls the printing apparatus mechanism via the motor control circuit, head control circuit, and plunger control circuit. Execute printing.

The printing mode can be selected using a panel switch pulled out from the circuit board into the case of the printing device, or can be set using a data code input from the interface 63. PO8 typically connected to a host computer
In a printing device, it is more convenient to be able to select the recording paper using a data code, ie, a command.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing the steps of a method for controlling a printing apparatus according to the present invention, and shows a method for controlling printing when printing on cut paper.

At step 201, a print command is received and at the same time print data is loaded into the RAM 61. In step 202, initial settings of the printing apparatus mechanism are performed, during which the plungers 18 and 28 are brought into the bushing state, and the printing part and the recording paper path are released (step 203). In step 204, the print mode, that is, the recording paper is selected. If this is a form for fishing on a boat, the slip mode of step 205 is entered. If it is a validation paper, the validation mode of step 211 is entered.

In slip mode, first check the level of the detector 26 to detect whether recording paper is set, and then turn it off.
wait until After the detector is turned off, in step 206, the plunger 18 is pulled to release the form stopper blocking the recording paper path, allowing the recording paper to be transferred. In step 207, the recording paper 12 is transported to the printing section and the beginning of the recording paper is located. Next, in step 208, the plunger 28 is brought into a pulled state to close the printing section and make it ready for printing. From here, while driving the head and transporting the recording paper (step 209), the position where the end of the recording paper 12 passes the detector is confirmed (step 210). When the detector is turned on, the amount of recording paper transported up to the printing limit is stored in a predetermined location in RAM, and the head is driven and the recording paper is operated until the print data ends or the printing limit is reached while subtracting in synchronization with the recording paper transport. Repeat the transfer (steps 216.217.218).

In step 219, the recording paper is transported by a predetermined amount, and in step 2
The printing operation ends at 20.

In the validation mode, as in the slip mode, the process waits for recording paper to be set in step 211, and when it is set, the plunger 18 is brought into the pull state in step 212. Ba,
In resolution, it is usually not necessary to start the recording paper, and only the recording paper transport code included in the print data is transferred. In steps 213 and 214, head driving and recording paper transport are repeated until the detector is turned on, and the following steps are the same as in the slip mode.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the details of the recording assembly beginning processing 207 in FIG.
Read the predetermined value K of the step motor stored in M61, set the data in the RAM 62 to C in step 252, and transport the recording paper while incrementing the counter N in steps 253 and 254 until K=N. (Step 255) Repeat this. When K=N, the process advances to step 256. Here, the recording paper detector 26 is used to confirm whether the recording paper is properly set in the recording paper path. At this time, if recording paper is detected, the steps from step 208 onward in FIG. 2 are executed. However, if validation paper is incorrectly set, this detector will turn ON due to the relationship L1 > L2 described above, indicating that the type of recording paper is incorrect or that even slip paper cannot be recorded correctly. Since it is possible that the paper has not been transferred, in step 257 the light emitting diode 65 is turned on to display a warning about the recording paper error, and in step 258 printing is stopped.

In this way, by devising the recording paper path and adding a process for detecting recording paper using this, it is possible to detect a recording paper setting failure, a mistake in selecting the type of recording paper, etc.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing details of the process of checking the recording paper set in step 205 or 211 in FIG. 2. After the recording paper once blocks the optical axis of the detector in step 261, the CPU A built-in timer 60a is activated and the detector is checked again in step 263, thereby realizing a process that ensures that the recording paper is set reliably. In this embodiment, a timer built into the CPU is used, but a CR time constant provided externally may be used.

Further, the operation of the timer and the subsequent recording paper detection step may be performed not only once as shown in FIG. 2, but also two or three times.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the steps of a method for controlling a printing apparatus according to the present invention, and shows a control method when printing on roll paper, which is continuous paper.

At step 301, a print command is received and at the same time print data is loaded into the RAM 61. In step 302, ``initial settings of the printing apparatus mechanism section are executed. In step 303, it is determined whether to print on cut paper or continuous paper, and in the case of printing on cut paper, the clutch means is disconnected and the roll paper opening/closing mechanism is disengaged, and the process moves to step 203 in FIG. Run a print routine.

If continuous paper has been selected, the process proceeds to step 304, where the clutch is engaged, and then, in step 305, it is determined whether or not the security mode is in effect. If the security mode is selected, the cut paper printing routine 313 is executed in step 311.

In the case of printing only on roll paper, the plunger 28 in step 306 is pulled, the printing section is closed, and steps 307 and 308, which are printing operations, are executed. After printing is completed, the recording paper is transferred in a predetermined step 309, and then in step 31
0 Finish printing.

Such a printing method makes it possible to implement a single printing device that is compatible with all types of printing in the PO5 market.

As already mentioned, FIG. 10(b) is an external view of the mechanical part of the printing apparatus of the present invention, and the left side of the side frame has a cutout so that printing is possible even on irregularly shaped paper such as slip paper. The configuration is such that printing can be performed even if the portion 32 is set to taM and the recording paper protrudes from the left side. Similarly, the recording paper path for the validation paper has a cutout in the side frame, so that recording paper can be set from the side. Further, reference numeral 90 denotes a roll paper holder, which is installed so that roll paper, which is continuous paper, can smoothly supply recording paper to the printing mechanism section.

In this embodiment, a printing device equipped with a shuttle-type print head is explained as an example, but the same configuration and effect can be obtained using a general serial head with 7-pin or 9-pin print elements arranged vertically. Needless to say, it has.

[Effects of the Invention] As described above, according to the present invention, a printing device capable of handling various types of recording paper in the PO8 market can be created by arranging three recording paper paths and making it possible to share the printing section. It is now possible to supply one unit.

One is the slip mode for printing on irregularly shaped form paper, and the other is the validation mode for printing on standard validation paper.
It is possible to configure a printing device that prints with one print head, and the space can be made compact, and a printing device with extremely high utility value can be provided.

According to the structure of the mechanical section and control means of the printing apparatus according to the present invention, even if slip paper is mistakenly inserted at least in the validation mode, the recording paper blocking mechanism is activated and printing cannot be performed. In addition, when slip mode is specified, even if validation paper is inserted incorrectly due to the paper path, the end of the paper will be detected while the paper is being moved to the print start position, so the error will still not be detected. It becomes possible,
It is possible to provide a printing device that can handle various types of recording paper with one detector and is extremely advantageous in terms of cost.

By arranging three recording paper paths and allowing the printing section to be shared, it is possible to supply a single printing device that can handle various recording papers in the PO8 market.

[Brief explanation of the drawing]

FIG. 1 is a control block diagram showing the overall configuration of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a flowchart of a method for controlling a printing apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing details of the recording assembly start processing 208 portion of FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing details of the process of confirming the recording paper set in step 205 or 211 of FIG. FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a method for controlling a printing apparatus according to the present invention. 6(a), (b) and FIG. 7(a), (b) are schematic diagrams showing the structure of the mechanical part of the printing apparatus according to the present invention and the operation of each mechanical part depending on the type of recording paper. 8(a)(b) and 9(a)(b) are explanatory diagrams of an embodiment of the mechanical section of the printing apparatus according to the present invention, and FIG. 8(a)
)(b) is a schematic diagram showing the connection between each recording paper opening/closing mechanism and the motor, and FIG. 9(a) is a diagram showing the state when roll paper and slip paper are set at the recording position. FIG. 10(a) is a schematic diagram showing the structure of an example of a print head used in a mechanical section of a printing apparatus according to the present invention. FIG. 10(b) is an external view of the mechanical section of the printing apparatus according to the present invention. 1... Print head 2... Platen 25... Recording paper detector 7... Form stopper 3.5.7, Recording paper drive roller 4.6.8, Recording Paper press roller 9... Motor 18, 28, plunger 11... Roll paper (continuous paper) 12... Slip paper (form paper) 13... Validation paper 40... Printing Starting position 10.50 Recording paper opening/closing mechanism 55 Recording paper opening and closing mechanism 20.30 Transfer section opening/closing mechanism 35 Path blocking mechanism 60 CPU 100 Printing device mechanical section or higher Applicant Seiko Epson Co., Ltd. Agent Patent Attorney Kizobe Suzuki (and 1 other person) Figure 1 Figure 3 Figure 6 (Q) Figure 7 (Q) Figure 7 (b)

Claims (1)

[Scope of Claims] 1) In a printing device configured to be able to print on at least two or more types of recording paper with a printing unit having one print head, from the lower part of the printing unit or the suction side in the recording paper transport direction. A first recording paper path for the first recording paper to be inserted and printed, and a second recording paper path for the second recording paper to be inserted from the upper part of the printing section or from the discharge side in the recording paper transport direction for printing. a recording paper path for the first recording paper, and a first recording paper path installed in the recording paper path for the first recording paper.
a recording paper transport mechanism; and a first transport configured electrically to open and close a recording paper path by pressing and releasing a recording paper transport drive section in the first recording paper transport mechanism against the first recording paper. a second recording paper path installed in a common recording paper path for the first recording paper and the second recording paper and transporting the first and second recording paper;
a recording paper transport mechanism; and an electrically powered recording paper transport drive unit in the second recording paper transport mechanism that presses and releases the recording paper transport unit from the first recording paper or the second recording paper to open and close the recording paper path. a second transfer section opening/closing mechanism configured, and a recording paper detection means installed near a confluence of the first recording paper path and the second recording paper path and detecting the first and second recording paper. a path blocking mechanism configured to be electrically movable and configured to block the paths of the first and second recording sheets between the recording paper detection means and the printing section; and the first and second recording paper transport mechanisms. a step motor serving as a common driving source; a counting means for counting the number of drive steps of the step motor; and a storage means for storing a predetermined number of steps from the cutting position of the recording paper to a predetermined position of the printing section. A printing device characterized by: 2) a third recording paper path for a third recording paper that is continuous paper such as roll paper in addition to the first and second recording paper, and the first and second recording paper transport mechanisms; and a third recording paper transport mechanism for transporting the third recording paper, the drive source of which is the same as the step motor, which is the drive source of the recording paper, and the printer is configured to be capable of printing in common by the printing unit. The printing apparatus according to claim 1. 3) In a printing device configured to be able to print on at least two or more types of recording paper with a printing unit having one print head, a printing unit that is inserted from the bottom of the printing unit or from the suction side in the recording paper transport direction to print. a first recording paper path for the first recording paper, and a second recording paper path for the second recording paper inserted from the upper part of the printing section or from the discharge side in the recording paper transport direction for printing; a first recording paper installed in the recording paper path for the first recording paper;
a recording paper transport mechanism; and a first transport configured electrically to open and close a recording paper path by pressing and releasing a recording paper transport drive section in the first recording paper transport mechanism against the first recording paper. a second recording paper path installed in a common recording paper path for the first recording paper and the second recording paper and transporting the first and second recording paper;
a recording paper transport mechanism; and an electrically powered recording paper transport drive unit in the second recording paper transport mechanism that presses and releases the recording paper transport unit from the first recording paper or the second recording paper to open and close the recording paper path. a second transfer section opening/closing mechanism configured, and a recording paper detection means installed near a confluence of the first recording paper path and the second recording paper path and detecting the first and second recording paper. a path blocking mechanism configured to be electrically movable and located between the recording paper detection means and the printing section and blocking the path of the first and second recording paper; storage means for storing a predetermined number of steps up to
a step motor serving as a common driving source for the recording paper transport mechanism; a counting means for counting the number of driving steps of the step motor; and a recording paper selection means for specifying one of the first and second recording papers. and when the first recording paper is designated, a step of activating the recording paper blocking mechanism; and a step of detecting the setting of recording paper by the recording paper detecting means after the recording paper path is blocked by the recording paper blocking mechanism. After the recording paper is detected, the blocking mechanism is released; after the recording paper is detected, the recording paper opening/closing mechanism is activated to enable the recording paper to be transported; and the step motor is used to move the first recording paper. a process of counting the number of transfer steps, a process of transferring the first recording paper until the predetermined number of steps of the storage means and the count value of the counting means match, and a process of transferring the first recording paper to the recording paper detector after the transfer by the transfer means is completed. a step of detecting the recording paper by using the first
Starts the specified printing process on the recording paper, and displays "No recording paper".
A method for controlling a printing apparatus, comprising the step of displaying that the type of recording paper is incorrect and interrupting the printing process when 4) In a printing device configured to be able to print on at least two or more types of recording paper with a printing unit having one print head, a printing device that is inserted from the bottom of the printing unit or from the suction side in the recording paper transport direction to print. a first recording paper path for the first recording paper, and a second recording paper path for the second recording paper inserted from the upper part of the printing section or from the discharge side in the recording paper transport direction for printing; a first recording paper installed in the recording paper path for the first recording paper;
a recording paper transport mechanism; and a first transport configured electrically to open and close a recording paper path by pressing and releasing a recording paper transport drive section in the first recording paper transport mechanism against the first recording paper. a second recording paper path installed in a common recording paper path for the first recording paper and the second recording paper and transporting the first and second recording paper;
a recording paper transport mechanism; and an electrically powered recording paper transport drive unit in the second recording paper transport mechanism that presses and releases the recording paper transport unit from the first recording paper or the second recording paper to open and close the recording paper path. a second transfer section opening/closing mechanism configured, and a recording paper detection means installed near a confluence of the first recording paper path and the second recording paper path and detecting the first and second recording paper. a path blocking mechanism configured to be electrically movable and located between the recording paper detection means and the printing section and blocking the paths of the first and second recording papers; and common to the first and second recording paper transport mechanisms. and a recording paper selection means for specifying one of the first and second recording papers, and when the second recording paper is designated, the recording paper cut-off mechanism is opened. a step of operating a first transfer section opening/closing mechanism for the first recording paper to bring the transfer section into a closed state; and a step of operating the first transfer section opening/closing mechanism for the first recording paper to close the transfer section; A recording paper detection step for confirming the set, a step for operating the printing section opening/closing mechanism to close the printing section after detecting the second recording paper, and a step for closing the printing section after detecting the second recording paper. 1. A method for controlling a printing device, comprising: executing predetermined printing on a printer. 5) The detection step of detecting the setting of the recording paper includes at least a step of first detecting the recording paper, and a subsequent step of activating a timer means to detect the elapse of a predetermined time and further detecting the recording paper. 3. The method of controlling a printing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the step is executed one or more times to detect the setting of the recording paper.