US 6,655,783 B2 · Printing by switching sub-scanning feed between monochromatic areas and color areas

A printing method comprising the steps of:

(a) executing monochromatic mode printing by repeating a unit scan operation using an achromatic nozzle group, the unit scan operation consisting of main scans and intervening sub-scans of a first feed amount, wherein all dot positions in a first achromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween are serviced in a single unit scan operation by the achromatic nozzle group, and wherein a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations, and
(b) executing color mode printing by repeating the unit scan operation using a specific achromatic nozzle group and a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups while a color mode sub-scan of a third feed amount less than the second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group,
wherein the step (a) comprises:
(a1) in a case that a lowermost main scan line of a second achromatic unit band comes to be positioned within the color area when it is assumed that a set of the color mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation is performed J times (where J is an integer of two or greater), the second achromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween for which the specific achromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation,
performing a sub-scan whose feed amount is equal to a sum of (J−1) times the third feed amount and (J−2) times a total feed amount of sub-scans performed in one unit scan operation;
and
proceeding to the color mode printing.

4 more elements

A printing method comprising the steps of:

providing a print head having:
a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D where k is an integer of at least 2 and D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups;
and
printing images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with the achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with the chromatic inks, the step of printing images comprising the steps of:
(a) executing monochromatic mode printing by repeating a unit scan operation using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups, the unit scan operation consisting of k main scans and (k−1) sub-scans of a first feed amount, wherein the unit scan operation in the monochromatic mode printing is performed such that all dot positions in a first achromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween are serviced by the achromatic nozzle group, and wherein a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations, and
(b) executing color mode printing by repeating the unit scan operation using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups while a color mode sub-scan of a third feed amount less than the second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group,
wherein the step (a) comprises:
(a1) in a case that (i) a lowermost main scan line of the first achromatic unit band comes to be positioned within the color area when it is assumed that the monochromatic mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation are performed next, that (ii) a lowermost main scan line of a second achromatic unit band comes to be positioned within the color area when it is assumed that a set of the color mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation is performed J times (where J is an integer of two or greater), and that (iii) a lowermost main scan line of the second achromatic unit band comes to be positioned within the monochromatic area when it is assumed that the set of the color mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation is performed (J−1) times, the second achromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween for which the specific achromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation,
performing a sub-scan whose feed amount is equal to a sum of (J−1) times the third feed amount and (J−2) times a total feed amount of sub-scans performed in one unit scan operation;
performing the unit scan operation once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
proceeding to the color mode printing.

10 more elements

A printing method comprising the steps of:

providing a print head having:
a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D where k is an integer of at least 2 and D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups;
and
printing images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with the achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with the chromatic inks, the step of printing images comprising the steps of:
(a) executing monochromatic mode printing by repeating a unit scan operation using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups, the unit scan operation consisting of k main scans and (k−1) sub-scans of a first feed amount, wherein the unit scan operation in the monochromatic mode printing is performed such that all dot positions in a first achromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween are serviced by the achromatic nozzle group, and wherein a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations,
(b) executing color mode printing by repeating the unit scan operation using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups while a color mode sub-scan of a third feed amount less than the second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group,
wherein the step (a) comprises:
(a1) in a case that main scan line count Lr1 of a remaining monochromatic area is (i) smaller than main scan line count L1 of the first achromatic unit band, (ii) equal to or larger than main scan line count of (J−1) times of main scan line count L2, and (iii) smaller than main scan line count of J times of main scan line count L2, the main scan line count L2 being a main scan line count of a second achromatic unit band, the second achromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween for which the specific achromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation,
performing a sub-scan whose feed amount is equal to a sum of (J−1) times the third feed amount and (J−2) times a total feed amount of sub-scans performed in one unit scan operation;
performing the unit scan operation once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
proceeding to the color mode printing.

10 more elements

A printing method comprising the steps of:

providing a print head having:
a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D where k is an integer of at least 2 and D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups;
and
printing images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with the achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with the chromatic inks, the step of printing images comprising the steps of:
(a) executing color mode printing by repeating a unit scan operation using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups, the unit scan operation consisting of k main scans and (k−1) sub-scans of a first feed amount, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group, wherein a color mode sub-scan of a second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations,
(b) executing monochromatic mode printing by repeating the unit scan operation using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups while a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a third feed amount more than the second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations,
wherein the step (a) comprises:
(a1) in a case that when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation are performed next, (i) a lowermost main scan line of specific achromatic unit lines comes to be positioned within the monochromatic area, the specific achromatic unit lines consisting of plural main scan lines for which the specific achromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation, and also (ii) the uppermost main scan line of color unit lines comes to be positioned within the color area, the color unit lines consisting of plural main scan lines for which an uppermost single chromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation,
performing the color mode sub-scan;
and
performing the unit scan operation, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups;
(a2) in a case that all main scan lines of the color unit lines come to be positioned within the monochromatic area when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation are performed next,
performing a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that the uppermost main scan line of an achromatic unit band comes to an upper edge of the monochromatic area, the achromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween for which the achromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation;
performing the unit scan operation once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
proceeding to the monochromatic mode printing.

14 more elements

A printing method comprising the steps of:

providing a print head having:
a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D where k is an integer of at least 2 and D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups;
and
printing images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with the achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with the chromatic inks, the step of printing images comprising the steps of:
(a) executing color mode printing by repeating a unit scan operation using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups, the unit scan operation consisting of k main scans and (k−1) sub-scans of a first feed amount, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group, wherein a color mode sub-scan of a second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations,
(b) executing monochromatic mode printing by repeating the unit scan operation using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups while a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a third feed amount more than the second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations,
wherein the step (a) comprises:
(a1) in a case that when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation are performed next, (i) a lowermost main scan line of specific achromatic unit lines comes to be positioned within the monochromatic area, the specific achromatic unit lines consisting of plural main scan lines for which the specific achromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation, and also (ii) the uppermost main scan line of color unit lines comes to be positioned within the color area, the color unit lines consisting of plural main scan lines for which an uppermost single chromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation,
performing the color mode sub-scan;
and
performing the unit scan operation, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups;
(a2) in a case that a lowermost main scan line of a color unit band comes to be positioned within the monochromatic area when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation are performed next, the color unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween for which the uppermost single chromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation,
performing a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that the lowermost main scan line of the color unit band comes to a lower edge of the color area when it is assumed that the unit scan operation are performed;
performing the unit scan operation once, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups;
performing a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that the uppermost main scan line of an achromatic unit band comes to an upper edge of the monochromatic area, the achromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween for which the achromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation;
performing the unit scan operation once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
proceeding to the monochromatic mode printing.

16 more elements

A printing method comprising the steps of:

providing a print head having:
a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D where k is an integer of at least 2 and D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups;
and
printing images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with the achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with the chromatic inks, the step of printing images comprising the steps of:
(a) executing color mode printing by repeating a unit scan operation using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups, the unit scan operation consisting of k main scans and (k−1) sub-scans of a first feed amount, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group, wherein a color mode sub-scan of a second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations,
(b) executing monochromatic mode printing by repeating the unit scan operation using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups while a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a third feed amount more than the second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations,
wherein the step (a) comprises:
(a1) in a case that (i) a lowermost main scan line of specific achromatic unit lines comes to be positioned within the monochromatic area when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation are performed next, and (ii) main scan line count Lr2 of a remaining color area is equal to or larger than main scan line count L2 of a single chromatic unit band, the remaining color area being an area of the color area comprising main scan lines not yet been recorded, the single chromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween for which a one of the single chromatic nozzle groups services with a single unit scan operation,
performing the color mode sub-scan;
and
performing the unit scan operation, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups;
(a2) in a case that main scan line count Lr2 of the remaining color area is smaller than main scan line count L2 of the single chromatic unit band,
performing a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that the lowermost main scan line of a color unit band comes to a lower edge of the remaining color area;
performing the unit scan operation once, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups;
performing a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that the uppermost main scan line of a achromatic unit band comes to an upper edge of the monochromatic area, the achromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween for which the achromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation;
performing the unit scan operation once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
proceeding to the monochromatic mode printing.

16 more elements

A printing method comprising the steps of:

providing a print head having:
a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D where D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups;
and
printing images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with the achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with the chromatic inks, the step of printing images comprising the steps of:
(a) executing monochromatic mode printing by repeating a main scan using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups, and wherein a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans, and
(b) executing color mode printing by repeating the main scan using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups while a color mode sub-scan of a second feed amount less than the first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group,
wherein the step (a) comprises:
(a1) in a case that (i) a lowermost nozzle of the achromatic nozzle group comes to be positioned over the color area when it is assumed that the monochromatic mode sub-scan is performed next, that (ii) a lowermost nozzle of the specific achromatic nozzle group comes to be positioned over the color area when it is assumed that a sub-scan of a feed amount J times (where J is an integer of two or greater) the second feed amount of the color mode sub-scan is performed, and that (iii) a lowermost nozzle of the specific achromatic nozzle group comes to be positioned over the monochromatic area when it is assumed that a sub-scan of a feed amount (J−1) times the second feed amount of the color mode sub-scan is performed,
performing a sub-scan of a feed amount (J−1) times the second feed amount of the color mode sub-scan;
performing the main scan once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
proceeding to the color mode printing.

10 more elements

A printing method comprising the steps of:

providing a print head having:
a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D where D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups;
and
printing images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with the achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with the chromatic inks, the step of printing images comprising the steps of:
(a) executing monochromatic mode printing by repeating a main scan using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups, and wherein a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans, and
(b) executing color mode printing by repeating the main scan using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups while a color mode sub-scan of a second feed amount less than the first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group,
wherein the step (a) comprises:
(a1) in a case that main scan line count Lr1 of a remaining monochromatic area is (i) smaller than a nozzle number N1 (where N1 is an integer of two or greater) of the achromatic nozzle group, (ii) equal to or larger than a number of (J−1) times (where J is an integer of two or greater) a nozzle number N2 (where N2 is an integer of two or greater) of the specific achromatic nozzle group, and (iii) smaller than a number of J times the nozzle number N2,
performing a sub-scan of a feed amount (J−1) times the second feed amount of the color mode sub-scan;
performing the main scan once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
proceeding to the color mode printing.

10 more elements

A printing method comprising the steps of:

providing a print head having:
a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D where D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups;
and
printing images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with the achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with the chromatic inks, the step of printing images comprising the steps of:
(a) executing color mode printing by repeating the main scan using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups, and wherein a color mode sub-scan of a first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group, and
(b) executing monochromatic mode printing by repeating a main scan using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups while a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a second feed amount more than the first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans,
wherein the step (a) comprises:
(a1) in a case that when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan is performed next, (i) a lowermost nozzle of specific achromatic nozzle group comes to be positioned over the monochromatic area, and also (ii) a nozzle positioned at the very top of the nozzles of the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups comes to be positioned over the color area,
performing the color mode sub-scan;
and
performing the main scan, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups;
(a2) in a case that all nozzles of the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups come to be positioned within the monochromatic area when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan is performed next,
performing a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that an uppermost nozzle of the achromatic nozzle group comes over an upper edge of the monochromatic area,;
and
performing the main scan once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
proceeding to the monochromatic mode printing.

15 more elements

A printing method comprising the steps of:

providing a print head having:
a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D where D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups;
and
printing images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with the achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with the chromatic inks, the step of printing images comprising the steps of:
(a) executing color mode printing by repeating the main scan using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups, and wherein a color mode sub-scan of a first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group, and
(b) executing monochromatic mode printing by repeating a main scan using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups while a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a second feed amount more than the first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans,
wherein the step (a) comprises:
(a1) in a case that when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan is performed next, (i) a lowermost nozzle of specific achromatic nozzle group comes to be positioned over the monochromatic area, and also (ii) a nozzle positioned at the very top of the nozzles of the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups comes to be positioned over the color area,
performing the color mode sub-scan;
and
performing the main scan, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups;
(a2) in a case that a lowermost nozzle of an uppermost single chromatic nozzle group comes to be positioned within the monochromatic area when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan is performed next,
performing a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that the lowermost nozzle of the uppermost single chromatic nozzle group comes to a lower edge of the color area;
performing the main scan once, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups;
performing a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that an uppermost nozzle of the achromatic nozzle group comes over an upper edge of the monochromatic area;
performing the main scan once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
proceeding to the monochromatic mode printing.

16 more elements

A printing method comprising the steps of:

providing a print head having:
a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D where D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups;
and
printing images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with the achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with the chromatic inks, the step of printing images comprising the steps of:
p2 (a) executing color mode printing by repeating the main scan using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups, and wherein a color mode sub-scan of a first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group, and
(b) executing monochromatic mode printing by repeating a main scan using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups while a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a second feed amount more than the first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans,
wherein the step (a) comprises:
(a1) in a case that (i) a lowermost nozzle of specific achromatic nozzle group comes to be positioned over the monochromatic area when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan is performed next, and (ii) main scan line count Lr2 of a remaining color area is equal to or larger than a nozzle number N2 of the single achromatic nozzle group, the remaining color area being an area of the color area comprising main scan lines not yet been recorded,
performing the color mode sub-scan;
and
performing the main scan, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups;
(a2) in a case that main scan line count Lr2 of the remaining color area is smaller than the nozzle number N2 of the single achromatic nozzle group,
performing a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that a lowermost nozzle of an uppermost single chromatic nozzle group comes over a lower edge of the remaining color area,
performing the main scan once, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups;
performing a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that the uppermost nozzle of the achromatic nozzle group comes to an upper edge of the monochromatic area;
performing the main scan once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
proceeding to the monochromatic mode printing.

16 more elements

A printing apparatus which prints images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with an achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with chromatic inks, by ejecting ink drops from a nozzle to deposit the ink drops on the printing medium to form dots, comprising:

a printing head having:
a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D where k is an integer of at least 2 and D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks;
and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups;
and
a main scan drive unit that moves at least one of the printing head and the printing medium to perform main scanning,
a sub-scan drive unit that moves at least one of the printing head and the printing medium in a direction that intersects a main scanning direction to perform sub-scanning, and
a control unit that controls each of these units,
wherein the control unit has:
(a) a monochromatic mode unit that executes monochromatic mode printing by repeating a unit scan operation using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups, the unit scan operation consisting of k main scans and (k−1) sub-scans of a first feed amount, wherein the unit scan operation in the monochromatic mode printing is performed such that all dot positions in a first achromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween are serviced by the achromatic nozzle group, and wherein a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations, and
(b) a color mode unit that executes color mode printing by repeating the unit scan operation using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups while a color mode sub-scan of a third feed amount less than the second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group,
wherein the monochromatic mode unit comprising:
a shifting unit that
performs a sub-scan whose feed amount is equal to a sum of (J−1) times the third feed amount and (J−2) times a total feed amount of sub-scans performed in one unit scan operation;
performs the unit scan operation once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
proceeds to the color mode printing,
in a case that (i) a lowermost main scan line of the first achromatic unit band comes to be positioned within the color area when it is assumed that the monochromatic mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation are performed next, that (ii) a lowermost main scan line of a second achromatic unit band comes to be positioned within the color area when it is assumed that a set of the color mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation is performed J times (where J is an integer of two or greater), and that (iii) a lowermost main scan line of the second achromatic unit band comes to be positioned within the monochromatic area when it is assumed that the set of the color mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation is performed (J−1) times, the second achromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween for which the specific achromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation.

15 more elements

A printing apparatus which prints images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with an achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with chromatic inks, by ejecting ink drops from a nozzle to deposit the ink drops on the printing medium to form dots, comprising:

a printing head having:
a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D where k is an integer of at least 2 and D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks;
and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups;
and
a main scan drive unit that moves at least one of the printing head and the printing medium to perform main scanning,
a sub-scan drive unit that moves at least one of the printing head and the printing medium in a direction that intersects a main scanning direction to perform sub-scanning, and
a control unit that controls each of these units,
wherein the control unit has:
(a) a monochromatic mode unit that executes monochromatic mode printing by repeating a unit scan operation using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups, the unit scan operation consisting of k main scans and (k−1) sub-scans of a first feed amount, wherein the unit scan operation in the monochromatic mode printing is performed such that all dot positions in a first achromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween are serviced by the achromatic nozzle group, and wherein a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations, and
(b) a color mode unit that executes color mode printing by repeating the unit scan operation using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups while a color mode sub-scan of a third feed amount less than the second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group,
wherein the monochromatic mode unit comprising:
shifting unit that
performs a sub-scan whose feed amount is equal to a sum of (J−1) times the third feed amount and (J−2) times a total feed amount of sub-scans performed in one unit scan operation;
performs the unit scan operation once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
proceeds to the color mode printing,
in a case that main scan line count Lr1 of a remaining monochromatic area is (i) smaller than main scan line count L1 of the first achromatic unit band, (ii) equal to or larger than main scan line count of (J−1) times of main scan line count L2, and (iii) smaller than main scan line count of J times of main scan line count L2, the main scan line count L2 being a main scan line count of a second achromatic unit band, the second achromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween for which the specific achromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation.

15 more elements

A printing apparatus which prints images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with an achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with chromatic inks, by ejecting ink drops from a nozzle to deposit the ink drops on the printing medium to form dots, comprising:

a printing head having:
a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D where k is an integer of at least 2 and D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks;
and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups;
and
a main scan drive unit that moves at least one of the printing head and the printing medium to perform main scanning,
a sub-scan drive unit that moves at least one of the printing head and the printing medium in a direction that intersects a main scanning direction to perform sub-scanning, and
a control unit that controls each of these units,
wherein the control unit has:
(a) a color mode unit that executes color mode printing by repeating a unit scan operation using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups, the unit scan operation consisting of k main scans and (k−1) sub-scans of a first feed amount, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group, wherein a color mode sub-scan of a second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations,
(b) a monochromatic mode unit that executes monochromatic mode printing by repeating the unit scan operation using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups while a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a third feed amount more than the second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations,
wherein the color mode unit comprising:
a first shifting unit that
performs the color mode sub-scan;
and
performs the unit scan operation, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups;
in a case that when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation are performed next, (i) a lowermost main scan line of specific achromatic unit lines comes to be positioned within the monochromatic area, the specific achromatic unit lines consisting of plural main scan lines for which the specific achromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation, and also (ii) the uppermost main scan line of color unit lines comes to be positioned within the color area, the color unit lines consisting of plural main scan lines for which an uppermost single chromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation;
and
a second shifting unit that
performs a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that the uppermost main scan line of an achromatic unit band comes to an upper edge of the monochromatic area, the achromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween for which the achromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation;
performs the unit scan operation once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
proceeds to the monochromatic mode printing,
in a case that all main scan lines of the color unit lines come to be positioned within the monochromatic area when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation are performed next.

21 more elements

A printing apparatus which prints images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with an achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with chromatic inks, by ejecting ink drops from a nozzle to deposit the ink drops on the printing medium to form dots, comprising:

a printing head having:
a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D where k is an integer of at least 2 and D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks;
and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups;
and
a main scan drive unit that moves at least one of the printing head and the printing medium to perform main scanning,
a sub-scan drive unit that moves at least one of the printing head and the printing medium in a direction that intersects a main scanning direction to perform sub-scanning, and
a control unit that controls each of these units,
wherein the control unit has:
(a) a color mode unit that executes color mode printing by repeating a unit scan operation using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups, the unit scan operation consisting of k main scans and (k−1) sub-scans of a first feed amount, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group, wherein a color mode sub-scan of a second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations,
(b) a monochromatic mode unit that executes monochromatic mode printing by repeating the unit scan operation using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups while a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a third feed amount more than the second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations,
wherein the color mode unit comprising:
a first shifting unit that
performs the color mode sub-scan;
and
performs the unit scan operation, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups;
in a case that when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation are performed next, (i) a lowermost main scan line of specific achromatic unit lines comes to be positioned within the monochromatic area, the specific achromatic unit lines consisting of plural main scan lines for which the specific achromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation, and also (ii) the uppermost main scan line of color unit lines comes to be positioned within the color area, the color unit lines consisting of plural main scan lines for which an uppermost single chromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation;
and
a second shifting unit that
performs a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that the lowermost main scan line of the color unit band comes to a lower edge of the color area when it is assumed that the unit scan operation are performed;
performs the unit scan operation once, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups;
performs a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that the uppermost main scan line of an achromatic unit band comes to an upper edge of the monochromatic area, the achromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween for which the achromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation;
performs the unit scan operation once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
proceeds to the monochromatic mode printing,
in a case that a lowermost main scan line of a color unit band comes to be positioned within the monochromatic area when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation are performed next, the color unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween for which the uppermost single chromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation.

23 more elements

A printing apparatus which prints images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with an achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with chromatic inks, by ejecting ink drops from a nozzle to deposit the ink drops on the printing medium to form dots, comprising:

a printing head having:
a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D where k is an integer of at least 2 and D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks;
and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups;
and
a main scan drive unit that moves at least one of the printing head and the printing medium to perform main scanning,
a sub-scan drive unit that moves at least one of the printing head and the printing medium in a direction that intersects a main scanning direction to perform sub-scanning, and
a control unit that controls each of these units,
wherein the control unit has:
(a) a color mode unit that executes color mode printing by repeating a unit scan operation using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups, the unit scan operation consisting of k main scans and (k−1) sub-scans of a first feed amount, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group, wherein a color mode sub-scan of a second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations,
(b) a monochromatic mode unit that executes monochromatic mode printing by repeating the unit scan operation using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups while a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a third feed amount more than the second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations,
wherein the color mode unit comprising:
a first shifting unit that
performs the color mode sub-scan;
and
performs the unit scan operation, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups;
in a case that (i) a lowermost main scan line of specific achromatic unit lines comes to be positioned within the monochromatic area when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation are performed next, and (ii) main scan line count Lr2 of a remaining color area is equal to or larger than main scan line count L2 of a single chromatic unit band, the remaining color area being an area of the color area comprising main scan lines not yet been recorded, the single chromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween for which a one of the single chromatic nozzle groups services with a single unit scan operation;
and
a second shifting unit that
performs a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that the lowermost main scan line of a color unit band comes to a lower edge of the remaining color area;
performs the unit scan operation once, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups;
performs a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that the uppermost main scan line of a achromatic unit band comes to an upper edge of the monochromatic area, the achromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween for which the achromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation;
performs the unit scan operation once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
proceeds to the monochromatic mode printing,
in a case that main scan line count Lr2 of the remaining color area is smaller than main scan line count L2 of the single chromatic unit band.

23 more elements

A printing apparatus which prints images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with an achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with chromatic inks, by ejecting ink drops from a nozzle to deposit the ink drops on the printing medium to form dots, comprising:

a printing head having:
a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D where D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups;
and
a main scan drive unit that moves at least one of the printing head and the printing medium to perform main scanning,
a sub-scan drive unit that moves at least one of the printing head and the printing medium in a direction that intersects a main scanning direction to perform sub-scanning, and
a control unit that controls each of these units,
wherein the control unit has:
(a) a monochromatic mode unit that executes monochromatic mode printing by repeating a main scan using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups, and wherein a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans, and
(b) a color mode unit that executes color mode printing by repeating the main scan using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups while a color mode sub-scan of a second feed amount less than the first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group,
wherein the monochromatic mode unit comprising:
a shifting unit that
performs a sub-scan of a feed amount (J−1) times the second feed amount of the color mode sub-scan;
performs the main scan once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
proceeds to the color mode printing,
in a case that (i) a lowermost nozzle of the achromatic nozzle group comes to be positioned over the color area when it is assumed that the monochromatic mode sub-scan is performed next, that (ii) a lowermost nozzle of the specific achromatic nozzle group comes to be positioned over the color area when it is assumed that a sub-scan of a feed amount J times (where J is an integer of two or greater) the second feed amount of the color mode sub-scan is performed, and that (iii) a lowermost nozzle of the specific achromatic nozzle group comes to be positioned over the monochromatic area when it is assumed that a sub-scan of a feed amount (J−1) times the second feed amount of the color mode sub-scan is performed.

14 more elements

A printing apparatus which prints images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with an achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with chromatic inks, by ejecting ink drops from a nozzle to deposit the ink drops on the printing medium to form dots, comprising:

a printing head having:
a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D where D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups;
and
a main scan drive unit that moves at least one of the printing head and the printing medium to perform main scanning,
a sub-scan drive unit that moves at least one of the printing head and the printing medium in a direction that intersects a main scanning direction to perform sub-scanning, and
a control unit that controls each of these units,
wherein the control unit has:
(a) a monochromatic mode unit that executes monochromatic mode printing by repeating a main scan using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups, and wherein a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans, and
(b) a color mode unit that executes color mode printing by repeating the main scan using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups while a color mode sub-scan of a second feed amount less than the first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group,
wherein the monochromatic mode unit comprising:
a shifting unit that
performs a sub-scan of a feed amount (J−1) times the second feed amount of the color mode sub-scan;
performs the main scan once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
proceeds to the color mode printing,
in a case that main scan line count Lr1 of a remaining monochromatic area is (i) smaller than a nozzle number N1 (where N1 is an integer of two or greater) of the achromatic nozzle group, (ii) equal to or larger than a number of (J−1) times (where J is an integer of two or greater) a nozzle number N2 (where N2 is an integer of two or greater) of the specific achromatic nozzle group, and (iii) smaller than a number of J times the nozzle number N2.

14 more elements

A printing apparatus which prints images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with an achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with chromatic inks, by ejecting ink drops from a nozzle to deposit the ink drops on the printing medium to form dots, comprising:

a printing head having:
a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D where D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups;
and
a main scan drive unit that moves at least one of the printing head and the printing medium to perform main scanning,
a sub-scan drive unit that moves at least one of the printing head and the printing medium in a direction that intersects a main scanning direction to perform sub-scanning, and
a control unit that controls each of these units,
wherein the control unit has:
(a) a color mode unit that executes color mode printing by repeating the main scan using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups, and wherein a color mode sub-scan of a first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group, and
(b) a monochromatic mode unit that executes monochromatic mode printing by repeating a main scan using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups while a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a second feed amount more than the first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans,
wherein the color mode unit comprising:
a first shifting unit that
performs the color mode sub-scan;
and
performs the main scan, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups,
in a case that when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan is performed next, (i) a lowermost nozzle of specific achromatic nozzle group comes to be positioned over the monochromatic area, and also (ii) a nozzle positioned at the very top of the nozzles of the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups comes to be positioned over the color area;
and
a second shifting unit that
performs a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that an uppermost nozzle of the achromatic nozzle group comes over an upper edge of the monochromatic area,;
and
performs the main scan once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
proceeds to the monochromatic mode printing,
in a case that all nozzles of the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups come to be positioned within the monochromatic area when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan is performed next.

21 more elements

A printing apparatus which prints images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with an achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with chromatic inks, by ejecting ink drops from a nozzle to deposit the ink drops on the printing medium to form dots, comprising:

a printing head having:
a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D where D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups;
and
a main scan drive unit that moves at least one of the printing head and the printing medium to perform main scanning,
a sub-scan drive unit that moves at least one of the printing head and the printing medium in a direction that intersects a main scanning direction to perform sub-scanning, and
a control unit that controls each of these units,
wherein the control unit has:
(a) a color mode unit that executes color mode printing by repeating the main scan using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups, and wherein a color mode sub-scan of a first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group, and
(b) a monochromatic mode unit that executes monochromatic mode printing by repeating a main scan using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups while a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a second feed amount more than the first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans,
wherein the color mode unit comprising:
a first shifting unit that
performs the color mode sub-scan;
and
performs the main scan, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups,
in a case that when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan is performed next, (i) a lowermost nozzle of specific achromatic nozzle group comes to be positioned over the monochromatic area, and also (ii) a nozzle positioned at the very top of the nozzles of the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups comes to be positioned over the color area;
and
a second shifting unit that
performs a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that the lowermost nozzle of the uppermost single chromatic nozzle group comes to a lower edge of the color area;
performs the main scan once, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups;
performs a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that an uppermost nozzle of the achromatic nozzle group comes over an upper edge of the monochromatic area;
performs the main scan once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
proceeds to the monochromatic mode printing,
in a case that a lowermost nozzle of an uppermost single chromatic nozzle group comes to be positioned within the monochromatic area when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan is performed next.

22 more elements

A printing apparatus which prints images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with an achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with chromatic inks, by ejecting ink drops from a nozzle to deposit the ink drops on the printing medium to form dots, comprising:

a printing head having:
a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D where D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups;
and
a main scan drive unit that moves at least one of the printing head and the printing medium to perform main scanning,
a sub-scan drive unit that moves at least one of the printing head and the printing medium in a direction that intersects a main scanning direction to perform sub-scanning, and
a control unit that controls each of these units,
wherein the control unit has:
(a) a color mode unit that executes color mode printing by repeating the main scan using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups, and wherein a color mode sub-scan of a first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group, and
(b) a monochromatic mode unit that executes monochromatic mode printing by repeating a main scan using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups while a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a second feed amount more than the first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans,
wherein the color mode unit comprising:
a first shifting unit that
performs the color mode sub-scan;
and
performs the main scan, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups,
in a case that (i) a lowermost nozzle of specific achromatic nozzle group comes to be positioned over the monochromatic area when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan is performed next, and (ii) main scan line count Lr2 of a remaining color area is equal to or larger than a nozzle number N2 of the single achromatic nozzle group, the remaining color area being an area of the color area comprising main scan lines not yet been recorded;
and
a second shifting unit that
performs a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that a lowermost nozzle of an uppermost single chromatic nozzle group comes over a lower edge of the remaining color area,
performs the main scan once, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups;
performs a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that the uppermost nozzle of the achromatic nozzle group comes to an upper edge of the monochromatic area;
performs the main scan once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
proceeds to the monochromatic mode printing,
in a case that main scan line count Lr2 of the remaining color area is smaller than the nozzle number N2 of the single achromatic nozzle group.

22 more elements

A computer program product for printing images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with the achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with the chromatic inks, using a computer, the computer being connected with a printing device having a printing head equipped with

a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D where k is an integer of at least 2 and D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups, the computer program product comprising:
a computer readable medium;
and
a computer program stored on the computer readable medium, the computer program comprising:
(a) a monochromatic mode program for causing the computer to execute monochromatic mode printing by repeating a unit scan operation using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups, the unit scan operation consisting of k main scans and (k−1) sub-scans of a first feed amount, wherein the unit scan operation in the monochromatic mode printing is performed such that all dot positions in an achromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween are serviced by the achromatic nozzle group, and wherein a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations, and
(b) a color mode program for causing the computer to execute color mode printing by repeating the unit scan operation using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups while a color mode sub-scan of a third feed amount less than the second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group,
wherein the monochromatic mode program comprises:
a sub-program for causing the computer
to perform a sub-scan whose feed amount is equal to a sum of (J−1) times the third feed amount and (J−2) times a total feed amount of sub-scans performed in one unit scan operation;
to perform the unit scan operation once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
to proceed to the color mode printing,
in a case that (i) a lowermost main scan line of the first achromatic unit band comes to be positioned within the color area when it is assumed that the monochromatic mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation are performed next, that (ii) a lowermost main scan line of a second achromatic unit band comes to be positioned within the color area when it is assumed that a set of the color mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation is performed J times (where J is an integer of two or greater), and that (iii) a lowermost main scan line of the second achromatic unit band comes to be positioned within the monochromatic area when it is assumed that the set of the color mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation is performed (J−1) times, the second achromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween for which the specific achromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation.

11 more elements

A computer program product for printing images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with the achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with the chromatic inks, using a computer, the computer being connected with a printing device having a printing head equipped with

a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D where k is an integer of at least 2 and D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups, the computer program product comprising:
a computer readable medium;
and
a computer program stored on the computer readable medium, the computer program comprising:
(a) a monochromatic mode program for causing the computer to execute monochromatic mode printing by repeating a unit scan operation using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups, the unit scan operation consisting of k main scans and (k−1) sub-scans of a first feed amount, wherein the unit scan operation in the monochromatic mode printing is performed such that all dot positions in an achromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween are serviced by the achromatic nozzle group, and wherein a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations, and
(b) a color mode program for causing the computer to execute color mode printing by repeating the unit scan operation using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups while a color mode sub-scan of a third feed amount less than the second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group,
wherein the monochromatic mode program comprises:
a sub-program for causing the computer
to perform a sub-scan whose feed amount is equal to a sum of (J−1) times the third feed amount and (J−2) times a total feed amount of sub-scans performed in one unit scan operation;
to perform the unit scan operation once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
to proceed to the color mode printing,
in a case that main scan line count Lr1 of a remaining monochromatic area is (i) smaller than main scan line count L1 of the first achromatic unit band, (ii) equal to or larger than main scan line count of (J−1) times of main scan line count L2, and (iii) smaller than main scan line count of J times of main scan line count L2, the main scan line count L2 being a main scan line count of a second achromatic unit band, the second achromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween for which the specific achromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation.

11 more elements

A computer program product for printing images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with the achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with the chromatic inks, using a computer, the computer being connected with a printing device having a printing head equipped with

a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D where k is an integer of at least 2 and D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups, the computer program product comprising:
a computer readable medium;
and
a computer program stored on the computer readable medium, the computer program comprising:
(a) a color mode program for causing the computer to execute color mode printing by repeating a unit scan operation using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups, the unit scan operation consisting of k main scans and (k−1) sub-scans of a first feed amount, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group, wherein a color mode sub-scan of a second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations,
(b) a monochromatic mode program for causing the computer to execute monochromatic mode printing by repeating the unit scan operation using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups while a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a third feed amount more than the second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations,
wherein the color mode program comprises:
a first sub-program for causing the computer
to perform the color mode sub-scan;
and
perform the unit scan operation, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups,
in a case that when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation are performed next, (i) a lowermost main scan line of specific achromatic unit lines comes to be positioned within the monochromatic area, the specific achromatic unit lines consisting of plural main scan lines for which the specific achromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation, and also (ii) the uppermost main scan line of color unit lines comes to be positioned within the color area, the color unit lines consisting of plural main scan lines for which an uppermost single chromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation;
and
a second sub-program for causing the computer
to perform a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that the uppermost main scan line of an achromatic unit band comes to an upper edge of the monochromatic area, the achromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween for which the achromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation;
to perform the unit scan operation once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
to proceed to the monochromatic mode printing,
in a case that all main scan lines of the color unit lines come to be positioned within the monochromatic area when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation are performed next.

17 more elements

A computer program product for printing images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with the achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with the chromatic inks, using a computer, the computer being connected with a printing device having a printing head equipped with

a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D where k is an integer of at least 2 and D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups, the computer program product comprising:
a computer readable medium;
and
a computer program stored on the computer readable medium, the computer program comprising:
(a) a color mode program for causing the computer to execute color mode printing by repeating a unit scan operation using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups, the unit scan operation consisting of k main scans and (k−1) sub-scans of a first feed amount, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group, wherein a color mode sub-scan of a second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations,
(b) a monochromatic mode program for causing the computer to execute monochromatic mode printing by repeating the unit scan operation using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups while a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a third feed amount more than the second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations,
wherein the color mode program comprises:
a first sub-program for causing the computer
to perform the color mode sub-scan;
and
to perform the unit scan operation, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups,
in a case that when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation are performed next, (i) a lowermost main scan line of specific achromatic unit lines comes to be positioned within the monochromatic area, the specific achromatic unit lines consisting of plural main scan lines for which the specific achromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation, and also (ii) the uppermost main scan line of color unit lines comes to be positioned within the color area, the color unit lines consisting of plural main scan lines for which an uppermost single chromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation;
and
a second sub-program for causing the computer
to perform a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that the lowermost main scan line of the color unit band comes to a lower edge of the color area when it is assumed that the unit scan operation are performed;
to perform the unit scan operation once, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups;
to perform a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that the uppermost main scan line of an achromatic unit band comes to an upper edge of the monochromatic area, the achromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween for which the achromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation;
to perform the unit scan operation once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
to proceed to the monochromatic mode printing,
in a case that a lowermost main scan line of a color unit band comes to be positioned within the monochromatic area when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation are performed next, the color unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween for which the uppermost single chromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation.

19 more elements

A computer program product for printing images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with the achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with the chromatic inks, using a computer, the computer being connected with a printing device having a printing head equipped with

a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D where k is an integer of at least 2 and D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch k×D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups, the computer program product comprising:
a computer readable medium;
and
a computer program stored on the computer readable medium, the computer program comprising:
(a) a color mode program for causing the computer to execute color mode printing by repeating a unit scan operation using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups, the unit scan operation consisting of k main scans and (k−1) sub-scans of a first feed amount, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group, wherein a color mode sub-scan of a second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations,
(b) a monochromatic mode program for causing the computer to execute monochromatic mode printing by repeating the unit scan operation using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups while a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a third feed amount more than the second feed amount is performed in each interval between each unit scan operations,
wherein the color mode program comprises:
a first sub-program for causing the computer
to perform the color mode sub-scan;
and
to perform the unit scan operation, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups,
in a case that (i) a lowermost main scan line of specific achromatic unit lines comes to be positioned within the monochromatic area when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan and the unit scan operation are performed next, and (ii) main scan line count Lr2 of a remaining color area is equal to or larger than main scan line count L2 of a single chromatic unit band, the remaining color area being an area of the color area comprising main scan lines not yet been recorded, the single chromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween for which a one of the single chromatic nozzle groups services with a single unit scan operation;
and
a second sub-program for causing the computer
to perform a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that the lowermost main scan line of a color unit band comes to a lower edge of the remaining color area;
to perform the unit scan operation once, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups;
to perform a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that the uppermost main scan line of a achromatic unit band comes to an upper edge of the monochromatic area, the achromatic unit band consisting of plural main scan lines without any gap therebetween for which the achromatic nozzle group services with a single unit scan operation;
to perform the unit scan operation once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
to proceed to the monochromatic mode printing,
in a case that main scan line count Lr2 of the remaining color area is smaller than main scan line count L2 of the single chromatic unit band.

19 more elements

A computer program product for printing images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with the achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with the chromatic inks, using a computer, the computer being connected with a printing device having a printing head equipped with

a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D where D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups, the computer program product comprising:
a computer readable medium;
and
a computer program stored on the computer readable medium, the computer program comprising:
(a) a monochromatic mode program for causing the computer to execute monochromatic mode printing by repeating a main scan using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups, and wherein a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans, and
(b) a color mode program for causing the computer to execute color mode printing by repeating the main scan using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups while a color mode sub-scan of a second feed amount less than the first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group,
wherein the monochromatic mode program comprises:
a sub-program for causing the computer
to perform a sub-scan of a feed amount (J−1) times the second feed amount of the color mode sub-scan;
to perform the main scan once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
to proceed to the color mode printing,
in a case that (i) a lowermost nozzle of the achromatic nozzle group comes to be positioned over the color area when it is assumed that the monochromatic mode sub-scan is performed next, that (ii) a lowermost nozzle of the specific achromatic nozzle group comes to be positioned over the color area when it is assumed that a sub-scan of a feed amount J times (where J is an integer of two or greater) the second feed amount of the color mode sub-scan is performed, and that (iii) a lowermost nozzle of the specific achromatic nozzle group comes to be positioned over the monochromatic area when it is assumed that a sub-scan of a feed amount (J−1) times the second feed amount of the color mode sub-scan is performed.

11 more elements

A computer program product for printing images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with the achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with the chromatic inks, using a computer, the computer being connected with a printing device having a printing head equipped with

a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D where D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups, the computer program product comprising:
a computer readable medium;
and
a computer program stored on the computer readable medium, the computer program comprising:
(a) a monochromatic mode program for causing the computer to execute monochromatic mode printing by repeating a main scan using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups, and wherein a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans, and
(b) a color mode program for causing the computer to execute color mode printing by repeating the main scan using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups while a color mode sub-scan of a second feed amount less than the first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group,
wherein the monochromatic mode program comprises:
a sub-program for causing the computer
to perform a sub-scan of a feed amount (J−1) times the second feed amount of the color mode sub-scan;
to perform the main scan once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
to proceed to the color mode printing,
in a case that main scan line count Lr1 of a remaining monochromatic area is (i) smaller than a nozzle number N1 (where N1 is an integer of two or greater) of the achromatic nozzle group, (ii) equal to or larger than a number of (J−1) times (where J is an integer of two or greater) a nozzle number N2 (where N2 is an integer of two or greater) of the specific achromatic nozzle group, and (iii) smaller than a number of J times the nozzle number N2.

11 more elements

A computer program product for printing images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with the achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with the chromatic inks, using a computer, the computer being connected with a printing device having a printing head equipped with

a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D where D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups, the computer program product comprising:
a computer readable medium;
and
a computer program stored on the computer readable medium, the computer program comprising:
(a) a color mode program for causing the computer to execute color mode printing by repeating the main scan using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups, and wherein a color mode sub-scan of a first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group, and
(b) a monochromatic mode program for causing the computer to execute monochromatic mode printing by repeating a main scan using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups while a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a second feed amount more than the first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans,
wherein the color mode program comprises:
a first sub-program for causing the computer
to perform the color mode sub-scan;
and
to perform the main scan, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups,
in a case that when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan is performed next, (i) a lowermost nozzle of specific achromatic nozzle group comes to be positioned over the monochromatic area, and also (ii) a nozzle positioned at the very top of the nozzles of the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups comes to be positioned over the color area;
and
a second sub-program for causing the computer
to perform a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that an uppermost nozzle of the achromatic nozzle group comes over an upper edge of the monochromatic area,;
and
to perform the main scan once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
to proceed to the monochromatic mode printing,
in a case that all nozzles of the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups come to be positioned within the monochromatic area when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan is performed next.

18 more elements

A computer program product for printing images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with the achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with the chromatic inks, using a computer, the computer being connected with a printing device having a printing head equipped with

a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D where D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups, the computer program product comprising:
a computer readable medium;
and
a computer program stored on the computer readable medium, the computer program comprising:
(a) a color mode program for causing the computer to execute color mode printing by repeating the main scan using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups, and wherein a color mode sub-scan of a first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group, and
(b) a monochromatic mode program for causing the computer to execute monochromatic mode printing by repeating a main scan using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups while a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a second feed amount more than the first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans,
wherein the color mode program comprises:
a first sub-program for causing the computer
to perform the color mode sub-scan;
and
to perform the main scan, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups,
in a case that when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan is performed next, (i) a lowermost nozzle of specific achromatic nozzle group comes to be positioned over the monochromatic area, and also (ii) a nozzle positioned at the very top of the nozzles of the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups comes to be positioned over the color area;
and
a second sub-program for causing the computer
to perform a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that the lowermost nozzle of the uppermost single chromatic nozzle group comes to a lower edge of the color area;
to perform the main scan once, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups;
to perform a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that an uppermost nozzle of the achromatic nozzle group comes over an upper edge of the monochromatic area;
to perform the main scan once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
to proceed to the monochromatic mode printing,
in a case that a lowermost nozzle of an uppermost single chromatic nozzle group comes to be positioned within the monochromatic area when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan is performed next.

19 more elements

A computer program product for printing images in a monochromatic area on a printing medium with the achromatic ink alone, and in a color area with the chromatic inks, using a computer, the computer being connected with a printing device having a printing head equipped with

a plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups each consisting of plurality of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D where D is a pitch of main scan lines, the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups being configured to eject mutually different chromatic inks, and
an achromatic nozzle group for ejecting achromatic ink, the achromatic nozzle group consisting of a greater number of nozzles that are arranged at nozzle pitch D than each of the single chromatic nozzle groups, the computer program product comprising:
a computer readable medium;
and
a computer program stored on the computer readable medium, the computer program comprising:
(a) a color mode program for causing the computer to execute color mode printing by repeating the main scan using a specific achromatic nozzle group and the plurality of single chromatic nozzle groups, and wherein a color mode sub-scan of a first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans, the specific achromatic nozzle group being part of the achromatic nozzle group, and
(b) a monochromatic mode program for causing the computer to execute monochromatic mode printing by repeating a main scan using all the nozzles of the achromatic nozzle group but without using the single chromatic nozzle groups while a monochromatic mode sub-scan of a second feed amount more than the first feed amount is performed in each interval between each main scans,
wherein the color mode program comprises:
a first sub-program for causing the computer
to perform the color mode sub-scan;
and
to perform the main scan, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups,
in a case that (i) a lowermost nozzle of specific achromatic nozzle group comes to be positioned over the monochromatic area when it is assumed that the color mode sub-scan is performed next, and (ii) main scan line count Lr2 of a remaining color area is equal to or larger than a nozzle number N2 of the single achromatic nozzle group, the remaining color area being an area of the color area comprising main scan lines not yet been recorded;
and
a second sub-program for causing the computer
to perform a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that a lowermost nozzle of an uppermost single chromatic nozzle group comes over a lower edge of the remaining color area,
to perform the main scan once, while not forming dots in the monochromatic area by the specific achromatic nozzle group but forming dots in the color area using the single chromatic nozzle groups;
to perform a sub-scan of a specific feed amount so that the uppermost nozzle of the achromatic nozzle group comes to an upper edge of the monochromatic area;
to perform the main scan once, while forming dots in the monochromatic area using the achromatic nozzle group;
and
to proceed to the monochromatic mode printing,
in a case that main scan line count Lr2 of the remaining color area is smaller than the nozzle number N2 of the single achromatic nozzle group.

19 more elements

Printing by switching sub-scanning feed between monochromatic areas and color areas

Life of this patent

Printing by switching sub-scanning feed between monochromatic areas and color areas

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims60