Patent ID: 12187033

DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Hereinafter, preferred embodiments according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, the dimensions and scale of each portion are appropriately different from the actual ones, and some portions are schematically shown for easy understanding. Further, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited to these forms unless it is stated in the following description that the present disclosure is particularly limited.

1. FIRST EMBODIMENT

1-1. Outline of Liquid Ejecting System

FIG.1is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of a liquid ejecting system10according to a first embodiment. The liquid ejecting system10is a system that performs printing by an ink jet method, and has a function of detecting an ejection failure of a liquid. In the example shown inFIG.1, the liquid ejecting system10includes liquid ejecting apparatuses100_1to100_3, first processing apparatuses200_1to200_3, and a server300. In the following, the liquid ejecting apparatuses100_1to100_3are collectively referred to as a “liquid ejecting apparatus100”. Similarly, the first processing apparatuses200_1to200_3are collectively referred to as a “first processing apparatus200”.

Here, the liquid ejecting apparatuses100_1to100_3are provided by a manufacturer of a printer main body (described later). Each of the liquid ejecting apparatuses100_1to100_3may be provided by the same manufacturer or may be provided by different manufacturers. The first processing apparatuses200_1to200_3may be owned by the user or may be provided by the manufacturer of the printer main body. On the other hand, head units110incorporated in the liquid ejecting apparatuses100_1to100_3are provided by the manufacturer of the head (described later). The server300is maintained and managed by a head manufacturer.

When a user uses the printer main body, the user owns the liquid ejecting apparatus100_1, the first processing apparatus200_1, and the head unit110. On the other hand, although the user does not own the server300, the user can communicate (connected to) with the server300through a communication network NW (described later).

The user refers to a person who uses the liquid ejecting apparatus100_1. For example, when the manufacturer of the printer main body, who purchases the head from the head manufacturer and manufactures the printer main body, uses the printer main body, the manufacturer of the printer main body is the user. Further, for example, when the manufacturer of the printer main body purchases the head from the head manufacturer and manufactures the printer main body, and a third party purchases and uses the printer main body from the manufacturer of the printer main body, the third party is the user.

The liquid ejecting apparatuses100_1to100_3and the first processing apparatuses200_1to200_3have a one-to-one correspondence with each other. In addition, inFIG.1, three liquid ejecting apparatuses100_1to100_3and three first processing apparatuses200_1to200_3are described, but the numbers thereof are exemplary, and the liquid ejecting system10has any number of sets of the liquid ejecting apparatus100and the first processing apparatus200.

In the liquid ejecting system10, the first processing apparatus200is communicably connected to each of the liquid ejecting apparatus100and the server300wirelessly or by wire. The first processing apparatus200is connected to the server300through a communication network NW including the Internet. A communication network including the Internet may intervene in the connection between the first processing apparatus200and the liquid ejecting apparatus100.

Further, as shown inFIG.1, output information D1is transmitted from the liquid ejecting apparatus100to the first processing apparatus200. Further, the output information D1is transmitted from the first processing apparatus200to the server300. Meanwhile, input information D2is transmitted from the server300to the first processing apparatus200. The details of the output information D1and the input information D2will be described later with reference toFIGS.2and4.

1-2. Configuration of Liquid Ejecting Apparatus

FIG.2is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the liquid ejecting apparatus100used in the liquid ejecting system10according to the first embodiment. The liquid ejecting apparatus100is a printer that performs printing on a print medium by an ink jet method. The print medium may be any medium as long as it can be printed by the liquid ejecting apparatus100, and is not particularly limited, and is, for example, various papers, various cloths, various films, and the like. The liquid ejecting apparatus100may be a serial type printer or a line type printer.

As shown inFIG.2, the liquid ejecting apparatus100includes the head unit110, a moving mechanism120, a communication device130, a storage circuit140, and a processing circuit150.

The head unit110is an assembly including a head chip111, a drive circuit112, a power supply circuit114, a drive signal generation circuit115, and a residual vibration detection circuit116.

In the example shown inFIG.2, the head unit110is divided into a liquid ejecting head110aincluding the head chip111and the drive circuit112, and a control module110bincluding the power supply circuit114, the drive signal generation circuit115, and residual vibration detection circuit116. The head unit110is not limited to the aspect of being divided into the liquid ejecting head110aand the control module110b, and for example, a part or all of the control module110bmay be incorporated in the liquid ejecting head110a.

The head chip111ejects ink toward the print medium. InFIG.2, among the components of the head chip111, a plurality of drive elements111fare typically shown.

In the example shown inFIG.2, the head unit110has one head chip111in number, but the number may be two or more. When the liquid ejecting apparatus100is a serial type, one or more head chips111are arranged so that a plurality of nozzles N are distributed over a part of the width direction of the print medium. Further, when the liquid ejecting apparatus100is a line type, two or more head chips111are arranged so that the plurality of nozzles N are distributed over the entire width direction of the print medium.

The drive circuit112performs switching under the control of the processing circuit150as to whether or not to supply the drive signal Com output from the drive signal generation circuit115to each of the plurality of drive elements111fof the head chip111as the drive pulse PD. The drive circuit112includes, for example, a group of switches such as a transmission gate for the switching.

The power supply circuit114receives electric power from a commercial power source (not shown) and generates various predetermined potentials. The various potentials generated are appropriately supplied to each portion of the liquid ejecting apparatus100. In the example shown inFIG.2, the power supply circuit114generates a power supply potential VHV and an offset potential VBS. The offset potential VBS is supplied to the head chip111and the like. Further, the power supply potential VHV is supplied to the drive signal generation circuit115and the like.

The drive signal generation circuit115is a circuit that generates a drive signal Com for driving each drive element111fof the head chip111. Specifically, the drive signal generation circuit115includes, for example, a digital-to-analog (DA) conversion circuit and an amplifier circuit. The drive signal generation circuit115generates the drive signal Com by the DA conversion circuit converting a waveform designation signal dCom described later from the processing circuit150from a digital signal to an analog signal, and the amplifier circuit amplifying the analog signal using the power supply potential VHV from the power supply circuit114. Here, among the waveforms included in the drive signal Com, the signal of the waveform actually supplied to the drive element111fis the drive pulse PD.

The residual vibration detection circuit116detects information regarding residual vibration after causing a pressure change in the ink in a pressure chamber C, which will be described later, by drive of the drive element111f. The residual vibration detection circuit116acquires information regarding residual vibration, for example, based on a signal output by the piezoelectric effect from the drive element111fdue to the residual vibration. The method of generating residual vibration differs depending on the state in the nozzles N and the pressure chamber C, which will be described later, a viscosity of ink, and the like. More specifically, depending on the above-mentioned factors, the amplitude, period, attenuation rate, and the like of the waveform indicating the residual vibration vary. The information regarding the residual vibration detected by the residual vibration detection circuit116is output to the first processing apparatus200by the processing circuit150as residual vibration information D3. The residual vibration information D3includes at least one of the amplitude, period, and attenuation rate of the waveform indicating the residual vibration described above. The residual vibration information D3is an example of first information.

The moving mechanism120changes a relative position of the liquid ejecting head110aand a print medium. More specifically, when the liquid ejecting apparatus100is a serial type, the moving mechanism120includes a transport mechanism for transporting the print medium in a predetermined direction and a moving mechanism for repeatedly moving the liquid ejecting head110aalong an axis orthogonal to the transport direction of the print medium. Further, when the liquid ejecting apparatus100is a line type, the moving mechanism120includes a transport mechanism for transporting the print medium in a direction intersecting a longitudinal direction of the elongated liquid ejecting head110a.

The communication device130is a circuit that is communicably connected to the first processing apparatus200. For example, the communication device130is an interface such as a wireless or wired local area network (LAN) or a universal serial bus (USB). USB is a registered trademark. The communication device130may be connected to another first processing apparatus200through another network such as the Internet. Further, the communication device130may be integrated with the processing circuit150.

The storage circuit140stores various programs executed by the processing circuit150and various data, such as print data, processed by the processing circuit150. The storage circuit140includes, for example, one or both semiconductor memories of one or more volatile memories such as a random-access memory (RAM) and one or more non-volatile memories such as a read-only memory (ROM), an electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), or a programmable ROM (PROM). The print data is supplied from, for example, the first processing apparatus200. The storage circuit140may be built as a part of the processing circuit150. The print data is an example of recorded data.

The processing circuit150has a function of controlling the operation of each portion of the liquid ejecting apparatus100and a function of processing various data. The processing circuit150includes, for example, one or more processors such as a central processing unit (CPU). The processing circuit150may include a programmable logic device such as a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) in place of the CPU or in addition to the CPU.

The processing circuit150controls the operation of each portion of the liquid ejecting apparatus100by executing a program stored in the storage circuit140. Here, the processing circuit150generates signals such as a control signal Sk, a print data signal SI, and the waveform designation signal dCom as signals for controlling the operation of each portion of the liquid ejecting apparatus100.

The control signal Sk is a signal for controlling the drive of the moving mechanism120. The print data signal SI is a signal for controlling the drive of the drive circuit112. Specifically, the print data signal SI specifies whether the drive circuit112supplies the drive signal Com from the drive signal generation circuit115to the liquid ejecting head110aas the drive pulse PD, for each predetermined unit period. By the specification, the amount of ink ejected from the liquid ejecting head110aand the like are specified. The waveform designation signal dCom is a digital signal for defining the waveform of the drive signal Com generated by the drive signal generation circuit115.

Further, the processing circuit150outputs, to the first processing apparatus200through the communication device130, the output information D1including information on the number of times that the drive element111fis driven by the drive signal Com, information on the drive waveform which is the waveform of the drive signal Com, and the like. The details of the output information D1will be described later with reference toFIG.4.

FIG.3is a cross-sectional view showing a configuration example of the head chip111. In the following description, an X axis, a Y axis and a Z axis that intersect each other are appropriately used. In the following, one direction along the X axis is a X1 direction, and a direction opposite to the X1 direction is an X2 direction. Similarly, the directions opposite to each other along the Y axis are a Y1 direction and a Y2 direction. Opposite directions along the Z axis are a Z1 direction and a Z2 direction.

As shown inFIG.3, the head chip111has a plurality of nozzles N arranged in a direction along the Y axis. The plurality of nozzles N are divided into a first row L1and a second row L2which are arranged at intervals in a direction along the X axis. Each of the first row L1and the second row L2is a set of a plurality of nozzles N linearly arranged in the direction along the Y axis.

The head chip111has a configuration substantially symmetrical with each other in the direction along the X axis. However, positions of the plurality of nozzles N in the first row L1and the plurality of nozzles N in the second row L2in the direction along the Y axis may match or differ from each other.FIG.3illustrates a configuration in which the positions of the plurality of nozzles N in the first row L1and the plurality of nozzles N in the second row L2in the direction along the Y axis match with each other.

As shown inFIG.3, the head chip111includes a flow path substrates111a, a pressure chamber substrate111b, a nozzle plate111c, vibration absorbing bodies111d, a vibration plate111e, a plurality of drive elements111f, protective plates111g, a case111h, and a wiring substrate111i.

The flow path substrate111aand the pressure chamber substrate111bare stacked in this order in the Z1 direction, and form a flow path for supplying ink to a plurality of nozzles N. The vibration plate111e, the plurality of drive elements111f, the protective plates111g, the case111h, and the wiring substrate111iare installed in a region located in the Z1 direction with respect to the stack body formed by the flow path substrate111aand the pressure chamber substrate111b. On the other hand, the nozzle plate111cand the vibration absorbing bodies111dare installed in a region located in the Z2 direction with respect to the stack body. Each element of the head chip111is schematically a plate-shaped member elongated in the Y direction, and is joined to each other by, for example, an adhesive. Hereinafter, each element of the head chip111will be described in order.

The nozzle plate111cis a plate-shaped member provided with a plurality of nozzles N in each of the first row L1and the second row L2. Each of the plurality of nozzles N is a through hole through which ink is passed. Here, the surface of the nozzle plate111cfacing the Z2 direction is a nozzle surface FN. The nozzle plate111cis manufactured by processing a silicon single crystal substrate by a semiconductor manufacturing technique using a processing technique such as dry etching or wet etching, for example. However, other known methods and materials may be appropriately used for manufacturing the nozzle plate111c. Further, the cross-sectional shape of the nozzle N is typically a circular shape, but the shape is not limited thereto, and may be a non-circular shape such as a polygon or an ellipse.

The flow path substrate111ais provided with a space R1, a plurality of supply flow paths Ra, and a plurality of communication flow paths Na for each of the first row L1and the second row L2. The space R1is an elongated opening extending in the direction along the Y axis in a plan view in the direction along the Z axis. Each of the supply flow path Ra and the communication flow path Na is a through hole formed for each nozzle N. Each supply flow path Ra communicates with the space R1.

The pressure chamber substrate111bis a plate-shaped member provided with a plurality of pressure chambers C referred to as cavities for each of the first row L1and the second row L2. The plurality of pressure chambers C are arranged in the direction along the Y axis. Each pressure chamber C is an elongated space formed for each nozzle N and extending in the direction along the X axis in a plan view. Each of the flow path substrate111aand the pressure chamber substrate111bis manufactured by processing a silicon single crystal substrate by, for example, semiconductor manufacturing technique, in the same manner as the nozzle plate111cdescribed above. However, other known methods and materials may be appropriately used for the manufacturing of each of the flow path substrate111aand the pressure chamber substrate111b.

The pressure chamber C is a space located between the flow path substrate111aand the vibration plate111e. For each of the first row L1and the second row L2, a plurality of the pressure chambers C are arranged in a direction along the Y axis. Further, the pressure chamber C communicates with each of the communication flow path Na and the supply flow path Ra. Therefore, the pressure chamber C communicates with the nozzle N through the communication flow path Na and communicates with the space R1through the supply flow path Ra.

The vibration plate111eis arranged on the surface of the pressure chamber substrate111bfacing the Z1 direction. The vibration plate111eis a plate-shaped member that can elastically vibrate. The vibration plate111ehas, for example, a first layer and a second layer, which are stacked in the Z1 direction in this order. The first layer is, for example, an elastic film made of silicon oxide (SiO2). The elastic film is formed, for example, by thermally oxidizing one surface of a silicon single crystal substrate. The second layer is, for example, an insulating film made of zirconium oxide (ZrO2). The insulating film is formed by, for example, forming a zirconium layer by a sputtering method and thermally oxidizing the layer. The vibration plate111eis not limited to the above-mentioned stacked configuration of the first layer and the second layer, and may be constituted by, for example, a single layer or three or more layers.

On the surface of the vibration plate111efacing the Z1 direction, a plurality of drive elements111fcorresponding to the nozzles N are arranged for each of the first row L1and the second row L2. Each drive element111fis a passive element that is deformed by the supply of the drive signal Com. Each drive element111fhas an elongated shape extending in the direction along the X axis in a plan view. The plurality of drive elements111fare arranged in the direction along the Y axis to correspond to the plurality of pressure chambers C. The drive element111foverlaps the pressure chamber C in a plan view.

Each drive element111fis a piezoelectric element, and although not shown, it has a first electrode, a piezoelectric layer, and a second electrode, which are stacked in the Z1 direction in this order. One of the first electrode and the second electrode is an individual electrode arranged apart from other first electrodes for each drive element111f, and a drive pulse PD is supplied to the one electrode. The other electrode of the first electrode and the second electrode is a band-shaped common electrode extending in the direction along the Y axis to be continuous over the plurality of drive elements111f, and the offset potential VBS is supplied to the other electrode. Examples of the metal material of the electrodes include metal materials such as platinum (Pt), aluminum (Al), nickel (Ni), gold (Au), and copper (Cu), and of the materials, one type can be used alone or two or more types can be used in combination in an alloyed or stacked manner. The piezoelectric layer is made of a piezoelectric material such as lead zirconate titanate (Pb(Zr, Ti) O3), and has, for example, a band shape extending in the direction along the Y axis be continuous over the plurality of drive elements111f. However, the piezoelectric layer may be integrated over the plurality of drive elements111f. In this case, the piezoelectric layer is provided with a through hole penetrating the piezoelectric layer extending in the direction along the X axis in a region corresponding to the gap between the pressure chambers C adjacent to each other in a plan view. When the vibration plate111evibrates in conjunction with the above deformation of the drive elements111f, the pressures in the pressure chambers C fluctuate, and ink is ejected from the nozzles N.

The protective plates111gare a plate-shaped members installed on the surface of the vibration plate111efacing the Z1 direction, and protect the plurality of drive elements111fand reinforce the mechanical strength of the vibration plate111e. Here, the plurality of drive elements111fare accommodated between the protective plates111gand the vibration plate111e. The protective plates111gare made of, for example, a resin material.

The case111his a member for storing ink supplied to a plurality of pressure chambers C. The case111his made of, for example, a resin material. The case111his provided with a space R2for each of the first row L1and the second row L2. The space R2is a space communicating with the above-mentioned space R1and functions as a reservoir R for storing ink supplied to a plurality of pressure chambers C together with the space R1. The case111his provided with an introduction port IH for supplying ink to each reservoir R. The ink in each reservoir R is supplied to the pressure chamber C through each supply flow path Ra.

The vibration absorbing body111d, also referred to as a compliance substrate, is a flexible resin film constituting a wall surface of the reservoir R, and absorbs pressure fluctuations of ink in the reservoir R. The vibration absorbing body111dmay be a thin plate made of metal and having flexibility. The surface of the vibration absorbing body111dfacing the Z1 direction is joined to the flow path substrate111awith an adhesive or the like.

The wiring substrate111iis mounted on the surface of the vibration plate111efacing the Z1 direction, and is a mounting component for electrically coupling a control unit20and the head chip111. The wiring substrate111iis a flexible wiring substrate such as a chip on film (COF), a flexible printed circuit (FPC) or a flexible flat cable (FFC). The drive circuit112described above is mounted on the wiring substrate111iof the present embodiment.

In the head chip111, when the vibration plate111eor the drive element111fdeteriorates, when the type of ink supplied to a plurality of the pressure chambers C is changed, and so on, the waveform of the residual vibration in the vibration plate111eis changed after the pressure is changed in the ink in the pressure chambers C. As an example, the liquid ejecting system10according to the present embodiment compares the amplitude of the waveform of the residual vibration with a threshold value, and detects an ejection failure of the ink based on a comparison result. Further, the liquid ejecting system10according to the present embodiment more accurately detects the ejection failure of the ink by correcting the threshold value as the vibration plate111eand the drive element111fdeteriorate or the ink is replaced.

1-3. Configuration of First Processing Apparatus

FIG.4is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the first processing apparatus200used in the liquid ejecting system10according to the first embodiment. The first processing apparatus200is a computer of a desktop type, a laptop type, or the like, and controls printing by the liquid ejecting apparatus100.

As shown inFIG.4, the first processing apparatus200includes a display device210, an input device220, a communication device230, a storage circuit240, and a processing circuit250. The components are communicably connected to each other.

The display device210displays various images under the control of the processing circuit250. Here, the display device210includes various display panels such as a liquid crystal display panel or an organic electro-luminescence (EL) display panel, for example. The display device210may be provided outside the first processing apparatus200. Further, the display device210may be a component of the liquid ejecting apparatus100.

The input device220is a device that receives operations from the user. For example, the input device220has a pointing device such as a touch pad, a touch panel or a mouse. Here, when the input device220has a touch panel, the input device220may also serve as a display device210. The input device220may be provided outside the first processing apparatus200. Further, the input device220may be a component of the liquid ejecting apparatus100.

The communication device230is a circuit that is communicably connected to the liquid ejecting apparatus100and the server300. For example, the communication device230is an interface such as a wireless or wired LAN or USB. The communication device230transmits print data to the liquid ejecting apparatus100and receives the residual vibration information D3from the liquid ejecting apparatus100, by communicating with the liquid ejecting apparatus100. Further, the communication device230transmits the output information D1and receives the input information D2by communicating with the server300. That is, the communication device230functions as a connection portion231communicably connected to the liquid ejecting apparatus100and the server300. The communication device230may be integrated with the processing circuit250. Further, the connection portion231is an example of a network connection portion.

The output information D1is an output parameter regarding the degree of deterioration of the drive element111f. Specifically, the output information D1includes, for example, first output information D1aregarding the number of times that the drive element111fis driven. Further, the output information D1includes, for example, second output information D1bregarding the drive waveform for driving the drive element111f. Here, the second output information D1bregarding the drive waveform includes, for example, one or more of the amplitude of the drive waveform, a period of the drive waveform, an attenuation rate of the drive waveform, and the like.

The first output information D1ais an example of a first output parameter. The second output information D1bis an example of a second output parameter. The output information D1is not limited to the first output information D1aand the second output information D1b, and may include other information.

The input information D2is an input parameter for detecting an ejection failure of the drive element111fbased on the residual vibration of a vibration plate111e. As will be described later, when a detection portion254compares, for example, a potential indicating the amplitude of residual vibration with a threshold value, the input information D2includes a first input parameter regarding the threshold value. As will be described later, the first input parameter is a value calculated by the server300. The server300calculates the first input parameter so that the threshold value becomes smaller as the degree of deterioration of the drive element111fbecomes larger. The first input parameter may be the correction value of the threshold value itself.

The storage circuit240is a device that stores various programs executed by the processing circuit250and various data processed by the processing circuit250. The storage circuit240has, for example, a hard disk drive or a semiconductor memory. A part or all of the storage circuit240may be provided in a storage device or a server outside the first processing apparatus200.

The program PG1, the output information D1, the input information D2, and the residual vibration information D3are stored in the storage circuit240of the present embodiment. Some or all of the program PG1, the output information D1, the input information D2, and the residual vibration information D3may be stored in a storage device or server outside the first processing apparatus200. Further, the programs PG1, the output information D1, the input information D2and the residual vibration information D3are collectively referred to as a “data set DG” in the present specification.

The processing circuit250is a device having a function of controlling each portion of the first processing apparatus200, the liquid ejecting apparatus100and the server300, and a function of processing various data. The processing circuit250has a processor such as a CPU. The processing circuit250may be constituted by a single processor or may be constituted by a plurality of processors. In addition, some or all of the functions of the processing circuit250are implemented by hardware such as a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (PLD), a field programmable gate array (FPGA).

The processing circuit250functions as an acquisition portion251, an output portion252, an input portion253, and the detection portion254by reading the program PG1from the storage circuit240and executing the program PG1.

The acquisition portion251acquires the output information D1and the residual vibration information D3by communicating with the liquid ejecting apparatus100using the connection portion231. The acquisition portion251stores the acquired output information D1and residual vibration information D3in the storage circuit240.

The output portion252outputs the acquired output information D1to the server300through the connection portion231.

As an example, the output portion252may immediately output the output information D1to the server300when the user of the liquid ejecting apparatus100gives an output instruction using the input device220.

The input portion253inputs the input information D2from the server300through the connection portion231. Further, the input portion253stores the input information D2in the storage circuit240.

The detection portion254detects an ejection failure in the liquid ejecting apparatus100based on the input information D2and the residual vibration information D3. As an example, the detection portion254detects the ejection failure in the liquid ejecting apparatus100based on the comparison result between the potential indicating the amplitude of the residual vibration as the residual vibration information D3and the threshold value as the input information D2.

For example, the detection portion254calculates the attenuation rate of the residual vibration based on an amplitude of residual vibration in a first period of a period for detecting the ejection failure and an amplitude of residual vibration in a second period after the first period. Further, the detection portion254estimates a viscosity of ink in the pressure chamber C based on the attenuation rate of the residual vibration. Then, the detection portion254can detect an ejection failure in the liquid ejecting apparatus100based on the estimated viscosity of ink. In determining whether or not the degree of ejection failure is within a permissible range when the ejection failure is detected, the detection portion254compares the above-mentioned amplitude, attenuation rate, the period of residual vibration, or phase of residual vibration with threshold values.

The acquisition portion251, the output portion252, the input portion253, and the detection portion254are collectively referred to as a “functional portion FG” in the present specification.

1-4. Configuration of Server

FIG.5is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the server300used in the liquid ejecting system10according to the first embodiment. The server300is, for example, a cloud server, and is a computer that generates the input information D2based on the output information D1. The server300is not limited to the cloud server. For example, the server300may be a virtual server such as a virtual private server (VPS). Alternatively, the server300may be operated on-premises.

As shown inFIG.5, the server300includes a display device310, an input device320, a communication device330, a storage circuit340, and a processing circuit350. The components are communicably connected to each other.

The display device310is a device that displays various images under the control of the processing circuit350, and is configured in the same manner as the display device210described above.

The input device320is a device that receives an operation from the user, and is configured in the same manner as the input device220described above.

The communication device330is a circuit that is communicably connected to each first processing apparatus200, and is configured in the same manner as the communication device230as described above. That is, the communication device330functions as a connection portion331that is communicably connected to each first processing apparatus200. The communication device330may be integrated with the processing circuit350.

The storage circuit340is a device that stores various programs executed by the processing circuit350and various data processed by the processing circuit350, and is configured in the same manner as the storage circuit240described above. A program PG2, the output information D1, and the input information D2are stored in the storage circuit340.

The processing circuit350is a device having a function of controlling each portion of the server300and a function of processing various data, and is configured in the same manner as the processing circuit250described above. The processing circuit350functions as an input portion351, a calculation portion352, and an output portion353by reading the program PG2from the storage circuit340and executing the program PG2.

The input portion351allows the output information D1to be input from the first processing apparatus200through the connection portion331. Further, the input portion351stores the output information D1in the storage circuit340. When the output information D1is transmitted from the first processing apparatus200, the input portion351allows the output information D1to be input immediately. However, the input method of the output information D1is not limited thereto. For example, when the output information D1is transmitted from the first processing apparatus200, the server300notifies the first processing apparatus200that the output information D1is transmitted. The first processing apparatus200displays, on the display device210, a message requesting the user of the liquid ejecting apparatus100to permit the server300to input the output information D1. The user of the liquid ejecting apparatus100checks the message, and then gives an instruction to permit the input of the output information D1by the server300using the input device220. When the server300acquires a signal indicating the permission, the input portion351inputs the output information D1through the connection portion331. An input method for the output information D1may be the above method.

The calculation portion352calculates the input information D2based on the output information D1. More specifically, the calculation portion352estimates the degree of deterioration of the drive element111f, for example, by multiplying the number of times that the drive element111fis driven, which is indicated by the first output information D1a, by a voltage indicated by the second output information D1b. Then, the calculation portion352calculates, for example, the first input parameter regarding the threshold value to be compared with the potential indicating the amplitude of the residual vibration in the first processing apparatus200, according to the degree of deterioration of the drive element111f. In the example, the first input parameter is set so that the threshold value becomes smaller as the deterioration of the drive element111fbecomes larger. The first input parameter is, for example, a correction amount of the threshold value.

FIG.6is a graph showing a correspondence relationship between the amplitude of the residual vibration and the threshold value. InFIG.6, a vibration curve at a stage where the drive element111fdoes not deteriorate is shown by V1, and a vibration curve after the deterioration is shown by V2. Further, the threshold value at the stage where the drive element111fdoes not deteriorate is set to Ta. At the stage where the drive element111fdoes not deteriorate, the detection portion254detects an ejection failure in the liquid ejecting apparatus100by comparing the amplitude in the vibration curve V1with the threshold value Ta. However, when the vibration curve changes from V1to V2with the deterioration of the drive element111f, the vibration curve V2always falls below the threshold value Ta, and the detection portion254cannot accurately detect the ejection failure in the liquid ejecting apparatus100when the threshold value Ta is used. Therefore, the calculation portion352calculates the first input parameter so that the threshold value Ta changes to the threshold value Tb with the deterioration of the drive element111f. By comparing the amplitude in the vibration curve V2with the threshold value Tb, the detection portion254can more accurately detect the ejection failure in the liquid ejecting apparatus100after the drive element111fdeteriorates.

Referring back toFIG.5, the output portion353outputs the input information D2to the first processing apparatus200through the connection portion331. The output portion353outputs the input information D2to the first processing apparatus200as soon as the input information D2is generated. However, the method of outputting the input information D2is not limited thereto. For example, the output portion353notifies the first processing apparatus200that the input information D2is generated. Based on the notification, the first processing apparatus200displays, on the display device210, a message for checking whether or not the input information D2is received. The user of the liquid ejecting apparatus100checks the message, and then gives an instruction to permit the output of the input information D2by using the input device220. When the server300acquires the signal indicating the permission, the output portion353outputs the input information D2to the first processing apparatus200. The method of transmitting the input information D2may be the above method.

1-5. Process of Liquid Ejecting System

FIG.7is a flowchart showing a process of the liquid ejecting system10according to the first embodiment.

In step S101, the processing circuit250of the first processing apparatus200acquires the output information D1by functioning as the acquisition portion251.

In step S102, the processing circuit250of the first processing apparatus200outputs the output information D1to the server300by functioning as the output portion252. Further, the processing circuit350of the server300inputs the output information D1by functioning as the input portion351.

In step S103, the processing circuit350of the server300calculates the input information D2by functioning as the calculation portion352.

In step S104, the processing circuit350of the server300outputs the input information D2to the first processing apparatus200by functioning as the output portion353. Then, the processing circuit350of the server300ends the entire process. Further, the processing circuit250of the first processing apparatus200inputs the input information D2by functioning as the input portion253.

In step S105, the processing circuit250of the first processing apparatus200detects the ejection failure in the liquid ejecting apparatus100based on the input information D2and the residual vibration information D3, by functioning as the detection portion254. Then, the processing circuit250of the first processing apparatus200ends the entire process.

After step S105, the processing circuit250of the first processing apparatus200may display the detection result of the ejection failure in the liquid ejecting apparatus100on the display device210.

1-6. Effect of Liquid Ejecting System

The liquid ejecting system10according to the present embodiment includes the head unit110including the pressure chamber C, the drive element111fdriven by the applied drive waveform, the vibration plate111ethat vibrates by drive of the drive element111f, and nozzles N through which a liquid is ejected by a pressure applied in the pressure chamber C by vibration of the vibration plate111e. Further, the liquid ejecting system10includes the input portion253in which the input parameter for detecting an ejection failure of a liquid based on the residual vibration of the vibration plate111eis input from the server300through the connection portion231.

With the liquid ejecting system10having the above-mentioned configuration, the user of the printer as the liquid ejecting apparatus100can detect the ejection failure of the liquid in the liquid ejecting apparatus100. In particular, by the function of inputting input parameters from the server300, the first processing apparatus200can detect the ejection failure of the liquid. As an example, even if the drive element111fprovided in the liquid ejecting apparatus100deteriorates, it is possible to detect the ejection failure of the liquid by adjusting the input parameter from the server300with the deterioration. The function of inputting input parameters from the server300can be set by, for example, the manufacturer of the head. Further, not only when the drive element111fis deteriorated, but also when, for example, in a printer as a liquid ejecting apparatus100, the type of ink supplied to a plurality of pressure chambers C is changed, it is also possible to deal with the case of detecting the ejection failure of the ink.

Further, the liquid ejecting system10further includes the acquisition portion251that acquires the residual vibration information D3regarding the residual vibration of the vibration plate111e, and the detection portion254that detects the ejection failure based on the potential indicating the amplitude of the residual vibration indicated by the residual vibration information D3and the input parameter.

With the liquid ejecting system10having the above-mentioned configuration, it is possible to detect the ejection failure of the ink by using the information regarding the residual vibration.

Further, the input parameter includes the first input parameter regarding the threshold value to be compared with the potential indicating the amplitude of the residual vibration.

With the liquid ejecting system10having the above-mentioned configuration, it is possible to detect the ejection failure of the ink based on the comparison between the potential indicating the amplitude of residual vibration and the threshold value.

Further, the first input parameter is set so that the threshold value becomes smaller as the deterioration of the drive element111fbecomes larger.

With the liquid ejecting system10having the above-mentioned configuration, it is possible to more accurately detect the ejection failure of the ink even if the drive element111fdeteriorates.

Further, the liquid ejecting system10further includes the output portion252that outputs the output parameter regarding the degree of deterioration of the drive element111fto the server300through the network connection portion.

With the liquid ejecting system10having the above-mentioned configuration, it is possible for the server300to grasp the degree of deterioration of the drive element111f.

Further, the output parameter includes the first output parameter regarding the number of times that the drive element111fis driven.

With the liquid ejecting system10having the above-mentioned configuration, it is possible for the server300to grasp the degree of deterioration of the drive element111fbased on the number of times that the drive element111fis driven.

Further, the output parameter further includes the second output parameter regarding the drive waveform.

With the liquid ejecting system10including the above-mentioned configuration, it is possible for the server300to grasp the degree of deterioration of the drive element111fbased on the drive waveform of the drive element111f.

Further, the liquid ejecting system10includes the liquid ejecting apparatus100provided with the head unit110, the first processing apparatus200that is provided with the display device210connected to the liquid ejecting apparatus100and displays information about the liquid ejecting apparatus100, and the server300.

With the liquid ejecting system10having the above-mentioned configuration, it is possible for the first processing apparatus200to control the liquid ejecting apparatus100, and to transmit the information for detecting information about the liquid ejecting apparatus100from the server300to the first processing apparatus200.

Further, the input portion253and the connection portion231are provided in the first processing apparatus200.

With the liquid ejecting system10having the above-mentioned configuration, it is possible to input the input parameter from the server300to the first processing apparatus200.

2. SECOND EMBODIMENT

Hereinafter, a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. In the embodiment illustrated below, elements whose actions or functions are similar to those of the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals used in the description of the first embodiment and detailed description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

2-1. Outline of Liquid Ejecting System

FIG.8is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of a liquid ejecting system10A according to the second embodiment. In the example shown inFIG.8, the liquid ejecting system10A includes liquid ejecting apparatuses100A1to100A3, first processing apparatuses200A1to200A3, and the server300. In the following, the liquid ejecting apparatuses100A1to100A3are collectively referred to as a “liquid ejecting apparatus100A”. Similarly, the first processing apparatuses200A1to200A3are collectively referred to as a “first processing apparatus200A”.

The liquid ejecting apparatuses100A1to100A3and the first processing apparatuses200A1to200A3have a one-to-one correspondence with each other. In addition, inFIG.8, three liquid ejecting apparatuses100A1to100A3and three first processing apparatuses200A1to200A3are described, but the numbers thereof are exemplary, and the liquid ejecting system10A has any number of sets of the liquid ejecting apparatus100A and the first processing apparatus200A.

In the liquid ejecting system10A, the liquid ejecting apparatus100A is communicably connected to each of the first processing apparatus200A and the server300wirelessly or by wire. A communication network NW including the Internet may intervene in the connection.

Further, as shown inFIG.8, output information D1is transmitted from the liquid ejecting apparatus100A to the server300. Meanwhile, input information D2is transmitted from the server300to the liquid ejecting apparatus100A.

2-2. Configuration of Liquid Ejecting Apparatus

FIG.9is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the liquid ejecting apparatus100A used in the liquid ejecting system10A according to the second embodiment. The liquid ejecting apparatus100A is different from the liquid ejecting apparatus100according to the first embodiment in that it has a control module110cinstead of the control module110b. The control module110cdiffers in that it has a communication device117, a storage circuit118, and a processing circuit119in addition to the components of the control module110b.

The communication device117is a circuit that is communicably connected to the server300. For example, the communication device117is an interface such as a wireless or wired LAN or USB. Further, the communication device117transmits the output information D1and receives the input information D2by communicating with the server300. That is, the communication device117functions as a connection portion171that is communicably connected to the server300. The communication device117may be integrated with the processing circuit119. Further, the connection portion171is an example of a network connection portion.

In the storage circuit118of the present embodiment, data set DG is stored in the same manner as the storage circuit240of the first processing apparatus200according to the first embodiment. A part or all of the data set DG may be stored in an external storage device or server of the liquid ejecting apparatus100A.

The processing circuit119operates as the functional portion FG by reading the program PG1from the storage circuit118and executing the program PG1, in the same manner as the processing circuit250of the first processing apparatus200according to the first embodiment.

2-3. Configuration of First Processing Apparatus

FIG.10is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the first processing apparatus200A used in the liquid ejecting system10A according to the second embodiment. The first processing apparatus200A differs from the first processing apparatus200according to the first embodiment in that the storage of the output information D1, the input information D2, and the residual vibration information D3by the storage circuit240is not essential, and in that the processing circuit250A is included instead of the processing circuit250.

The processing circuit250A differs from the processing circuit250according to the first embodiment in that the acquisition portion251and the detection portion254are not essential components.

2-4. Process of Liquid Ejecting System

FIG.11is a flowchart showing a process of the liquid ejecting system10A according to the second embodiment.

In step S201, the processing circuit119of the liquid ejecting apparatus100A acquires the output information D1by functioning as the acquisition portion251.

In step S202, the processing circuit119of the liquid ejecting apparatus100A outputs the output information D1to the server300by functioning as the output portion252. Further, the processing circuit350of the server300inputs the output information D1by functioning as the input portion351.

In step S203, the processing circuit350of the server300calculates the input information D2by functioning as the calculation portion352.

In step S204, the processing circuit350of the server300transmits the input information D2to the liquid ejecting apparatus100A by functioning as the output portion353. Then, the processing circuit350of the server300ends the entire process. Further, the processing circuit119of the liquid ejecting apparatus100A inputs the input information D2by functioning as the input portion253.

In step S205, the processing circuit119of the liquid ejecting apparatus100A detects the ejection failure in the liquid ejecting apparatus100A based on the input information D2and the residual vibration information D3, by functioning as the detection portion254. Then, the processing circuit119of the liquid ejecting apparatus100A ends the entire process.

After step S205, the processing circuit119of the liquid ejecting apparatus100A may display the detection result of the ejection failure in the liquid ejecting apparatus100A on a display device (not shown) provided in the liquid ejecting apparatus100A. Alternatively, the processing circuit119of the liquid ejecting apparatus100A may output the detection result of the ejection failure in the liquid ejecting apparatus100A to the first processing apparatus200A, and the processing circuit250A of the first processing apparatus200A may display the detection result on the display device210.

2-5. Effect of Liquid Ejecting System

In the liquid ejecting system10B according to the present embodiment, the input portion253and the connection portion171are provided in the liquid ejecting apparatus100.

With the liquid ejecting system10A having the above-mentioned configuration, it is possible to input the input parameter from the server300to the liquid ejecting apparatus100A.

Further, the head unit110according to the present embodiment includes the pressure chamber C, the drive element111fdriven by the applied drive waveform, and the nozzle N through which a liquid is ejected by a pressure applied in the pressure chamber C by drive of the drive element111f. The head unit110includes the connection portion171that is connected to the server300through a network. Further, the head unit110includes the input portion253in which the input parameter for detecting an ejection failure of a liquid based on the residual vibration of the vibration plate111eis input from the server300through the connection portion171.

With the liquid ejecting system10A having the above-mentioned configuration, it is possible to input the input parameter from the server300to the head unit110.

3. THIRD EMBODIMENT

Hereinafter, a third embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. In the embodiment illustrated below, elements whose actions or functions are similar to those of the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals used in the description of the first embodiment and detailed description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

3-1. Outline of Liquid Ejecting System

FIG.12is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of a liquid ejecting system10B according to the third embodiment. In the example shown inFIG.12, the liquid ejecting system10B includes the liquid ejecting apparatuses100_1to100_3, first processing apparatuses200B_1to200B_3, second processing apparatuses600_1to600_3, and the server300. In the following, the first processing apparatuses200B_1to200B_3are collectively referred to as a “first processing apparatus200B”. Similarly, the second processing apparatuses600_1to600_3are collectively referred to as a “second processing apparatus600”.

The liquid ejecting apparatuses100_1to100_3, the first processing apparatuses200B_1to200B_3, and the second processing apparatuses600_1to600_3have a one-to-one correspondence with each other. InFIG.12, three liquid ejecting apparatuses100_1to100_3, three first processing apparatuses200B_1to200B_3, and three second processing apparatuses600_1to600_3are described, but the numbers thereof are exemplary, and the liquid ejecting system10B has any number of sets of the liquid ejecting apparatus100, the first processing apparatus200B, and the second processing apparatus600.

In the liquid ejecting system10B, the first processing apparatus200B is communicably connected to each of the liquid ejecting apparatus100and the second processing apparatus600wirelessly or by wire. Further, the second processing apparatus600is communicably connected to each of the first processing apparatus200B and the server300wirelessly or by wire. The communication network NW including the Internet may intervene in the connection.

Further, as shown inFIG.12, output information D1is transmitted from the liquid ejecting apparatus100to the first processing apparatus200B. Further, the output information D1is transmitted from the first processing apparatus200B to the second processing apparatus600. Further, the output information D1is transmitted from the second processing apparatus600to the server300. Meanwhile, the input information D2is transmitted from the server300to the second processing apparatus600. Further, the input information D2is transmitted from the second processing apparatus600to the first processing apparatus200B.

3-2. Configuration of First Processing Apparatus

FIG.13is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the first processing apparatus200B used in the liquid ejecting system10B according to the third embodiment. The first processing apparatus200B differs from the first processing apparatus200according to the first embodiment in that a processing circuit250B is included instead of the processing circuit250, and in that a communication device230A is included instead of the communication device230.

The communication device230A is a circuit communicably connected to the liquid ejecting apparatus100and the second processing apparatus600. For example, the communication device230A is an interface such as a wireless or wired LAN or USB. Further, the communication device230A receives the output information D1and the residual vibration information D3by communicating with the liquid ejecting apparatus100. That is, the communication device230A functions as a connection portion231that is communicably connected to the liquid ejecting apparatus100. Further, the communication device230A transmits the output information D1and receives the input information D2by short-range wireless communication with the second processing apparatus600. That is, the communication device230A functions as a short-range connection portion232that is communicably connected to the second processing apparatus600. Here, short-range wireless communication is implemented according to specifications such as Bluetooth, Bluetooth low energy (BLE), and near field communication (NFC). Bluetooth is a registered trademark. The communication device230A may be integrated with the processing circuit250B.

The processing circuit250B differs from the processing circuit250according to the first embodiment in that an output portion252A is included instead of the output portion252and an input portion253A is included instead of the input portion253.

The output portion252A outputs the acquired output information D1and residual vibration information D3to the second processing apparatus600through the short-range connection portion232. The input portion253A inputs the input information D2from the second processing apparatus600through the short-range connection portion232.

3-3. Configuration of Second Processing Apparatus

FIG.14is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the second processing apparatus600used in the liquid ejecting system10B according to the third embodiment. The second processing apparatus600is a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet, and is assumed to be used by the user of the liquid ejecting apparatus100. The second processing apparatus600acts as an intermediary for transmitting and receiving the output information D1and the input information D2between the first processing apparatus200B and the server300.

As shown inFIG.14, the second processing apparatus600includes a display device610, an input device620, a communication device630, a storage circuit640, and a processing circuit650. The components are communicably connected to each other.

The display device610displays various images under the control of the processing circuit650. Here, the display device610has various display panels such as a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL display panel. The display device610may be provided outside the second processing apparatus600.

The input device620is a device that receives operations from the user. For example, the input device620has a pointing device such as a touch pad, a touch panel or a mouse. Here, when the input device620has a touch panel, the input device620may also serve as a display device610. The input device620may be provided outside the second processing apparatus600.

The communication device630is a circuit that is communicably connected to the first processing apparatus200B and the server300. For example, the communication device630is an interface such as a wireless or wired LAN or USB. Further, the communication device630transmits the output information D1and receives the input information D2by communicating with the server300. That is, the communication device630functions as a connection portion631that is communicably connected to the server300. Further, the communication device630receives the output information D1by short-range wireless communication with the first processing apparatus200B. That is, the communication device630functions as a short-range connection portion632that is communicably connected to the first processing apparatus200B. The communication device630may be integrated with the processing circuit650. Further, the connection portion631is an example of a network connection portion.

The storage circuit640is a device that stores various programs executed by the processing circuit650and various data processed by the processing circuit650. The storage circuit640has, for example, a hard disk drive or a semiconductor memory. A part or all of the storage circuit640may be provided in a storage device or a server outside the second processing apparatus600.

A program PG3, the output information D1, and the input information D2are stored in the storage circuit640of the present embodiment. A part or all of the program PG3, the output information D1, and the input information D2may be stored in an external storage device or server of the second processing apparatus600.

The processing circuit650is a device having a function of controlling each portion of the second processing apparatus600and a function of processing various data. The processing circuit650has a processor such as a CPU. The processing circuit650may be constituted by a single processor or may be constituted by a plurality of processors. Further, a part or all of the functions of the processing circuit650may be implemented by hardware such as DSP, ASIC, PLD, and FPGA.

The processing circuit650functions as an acquisition portion651, an output portion652, and an input portion653by reading the program PG3from the storage circuit640and executing the program PG3.

The acquisition portion651acquires the output information D1by communicating with the first processing apparatus200B using the short-range connection portion632. The acquisition portion651stores the acquired output information D1in the storage circuit640.

The output portion652outputs the acquired output information D1to the server300through the connection portion631.

The input portion653inputs the input information D2from the server300through the connection portion631. Further, the input portion653stores the input information D2in the storage circuit640.

3-4. Process of Liquid Ejecting System

FIG.15is a flowchart showing a process of the liquid ejecting system10B according to the third embodiment.

In step S301, the processing circuit250B of the first processing apparatus200B acquires the output information D1by functioning as the acquisition portion251.

In step S302, the processing circuit250B of the first processing apparatus200B transmits the output information D1to the second processing apparatus600by functioning as the output portion252A. Then, the processing circuit250B of the first processing apparatus200B ends the entire process. Further, the processing circuit650of the second processing apparatus600acquires the output information D1by functioning as the acquisition portion651.

In step S303, the processing circuit650of the second processing apparatus600outputs the output information D1to the server300by functioning as the output portion652. Further, the processing circuit350of the server300inputs the output information D1by functioning as the input portion351.

In step S304, the processing circuit350of the server300calculates the input information D2by functioning as the calculation portion352.

In step S305, the processing circuit350of the server300outputs the input information D2to the second processing apparatus600by functioning as the output portion353. Then, the processing circuit350of the server300ends the entire process. Further, the processing circuit650of the second processing apparatus600inputs the input information D2by functioning as the input portion653.

In step S306, the processing circuit650of the second processing apparatus600outputs the input information D2to the first processing apparatus200B by functioning as the output portion652. Further, the processing circuit250B of the first processing apparatus200B inputs the input information D2by functioning as the input portion253A.

In step S307, the processing circuit250B of the first processing apparatus200B detects the ejection failure in the liquid ejecting apparatus100based on the input information D2and the residual vibration information D3, by functioning as the detection portion254. Then, the processing circuit250B of the first processing apparatus200B ends the entire process.

After step S307, the processing circuit250B of the first processing apparatus200B may display the detection result of the ejection failure in the liquid ejecting apparatus100on the display device210.

3-5. Effect of Liquid Ejecting System

The liquid ejecting system10B according to the present embodiment further includes the second processing apparatus600that can be wirelessly connected to the first processing apparatus200B. The input portion653and the connection portion631are provided in the second processing apparatus600.

With the liquid ejecting system10B having the above-mentioned configuration, it is possible to input the input parameter from the server300to the second processing apparatus600.

4. FOURTH EMBODIMENT

Hereinafter, a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure will be described. In the embodiment illustrated below, elements whose actions or functions are similar to those of the first embodiment to the third embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals used in the description of the first embodiment to the third embodiment and detailed description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

4-1. Outline of Liquid Ejecting System

FIG.16is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of a liquid ejecting system10C according to the fourth embodiment. In the example shown inFIG.16, the liquid ejecting system10C includes the first processing apparatuses200A1to200A3, liquid ejecting apparatuses100B1to100B3, second processing apparatus600A1to600A3, and the server300. In the following, the liquid ejecting apparatuses100B1to100B3are collectively referred to as a “liquid ejecting apparatus100B”. Similarly, the second processing apparatuses600A1to600A3are collectively referred to as a “second processing apparatus600A”.

The first processing apparatuses200A1to200A3, the liquid ejecting apparatuses100B1to100B3, and the second processing apparatuses600A1to600A3have a one-to-one correspondence with each other. InFIG.16, three first processing apparatuses200A1to200A3, three liquid ejecting apparatuses100B1to100B3, and three second processing apparatuses600A1to600A3are described, but the numbers thereof are exemplary, and the liquid ejecting system10D has any number of sets of the first processing apparatus200A, the liquid ejecting apparatus100B, and the second processing apparatus600A.

In the liquid ejecting system10C, the liquid ejecting apparatus100B is communicably connected to each of the first processing apparatus200A and the second processing apparatus600A wirelessly or by wire. Further, the second processing apparatus600A is communicably connected to each of the liquid ejecting apparatus100B and the server300wirelessly or by wire. The communication network NW including the Internet may intervene in the connection.

Further, as shown inFIG.16, the output information D1is transmitted from the liquid ejecting apparatus100B to the second processing apparatus600A. Further, the output information D1is transmitted from the second processing apparatus600A to the server300. Meanwhile, the input information D2is transmitted from the server300to the second processing apparatus600A. Further, the input information D2is transmitted from the second processing apparatus600A to the liquid ejecting apparatus100B.

4-2. Configuration of Liquid Ejecting Apparatus

FIG.17is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the liquid ejecting apparatus100B used in the liquid ejecting system10C according to the fourth embodiment. The liquid ejecting apparatus100B is different from the liquid ejecting apparatus100A according to the second embodiment in that a communication device117A is included instead of the communication device117.

The communication device117A is a circuit that is communicably connected to the second processing apparatus600A. For example, the communication device117A is an interface such as a wireless or wired LAN or USB. Further, the communication device117A transmits the output information D1by short-range communication with the second processing apparatus600A. That is, the communication device117A functions as a short-range connection portion172that is communicably connected to the second processing apparatus600A.

4-3. Configuration of Second Processing Apparatus

FIG.18is a schematic diagram showing a configuration example of the second processing apparatus600A used in the liquid ejecting system10C according to the fourth embodiment. The second processing apparatus600A differs from the second processing apparatus600according to the third embodiment in that a processing circuit650A is included instead of the processing circuit650, and in that a communication device630A is included instead of the communication device630.

The communication device630A differs from the communication device630in that a short-range connection portion632A is included instead of the short-range connection portion632. The communication device630A receives the output information D1by short-range communication with the liquid ejecting apparatus100B. That is, the communication device630A functions as the short-range connection portion632A that is communicably connected to the liquid ejecting apparatus100B. The communication device630A may be integrated with the processing circuit650A.

The processing circuit650A differs from the processing circuit650in that an acquisition portion651A is included instead of the acquisition portion651and an output portion652A is included instead of the output portion652.

The acquisition portion651A acquires the output information D1by communicating with the liquid ejecting apparatus100B using the short-range connection portion632A. The acquisition portion651A stores the acquired output information D1in the storage circuit640.

The output portion652A outputs the acquired output information D1to the server300through the connection portion631. Further, the output portion652A outputs the input information D2input from the server300to the liquid ejecting apparatus100B through the short-range connection portion632A.

4-4. Process of Liquid Ejecting System

FIG.19is a flowchart showing a process of the liquid ejecting system10C according to the fourth embodiment.

In step S401, the processing circuit119of the liquid ejecting apparatus100B acquires the output information D1by functioning as the acquisition portion251.

In step S402, the processing circuit119of the liquid ejecting apparatus100B transmits the output information D1to the second processing apparatus600A by functioning as the output portion252. Then, the processing circuit119of the liquid ejecting apparatus100B ends the entire process. Further, the processing circuit650A of the second processing apparatus600A acquires the output information D1by functioning as the acquisition portion651A.

In step S403, the processing circuit650A of the second processing apparatus600A transmits the output information D1to the server300by functioning as the output portion652A. Further, the processing circuit350of the server300inputs the output information D1by functioning as the input portion351.

In step S404, the processing circuit350of the server300calculates the input information D2by functioning as the calculation portion352.

In step S405, the processing circuit350of the server300outputs the input information D2to the second processing apparatus600A by functioning as the output portion353. Then, the processing circuit350of the server300ends the entire process. Further, the processing circuit650A of the second processing apparatus600A inputs the input information D2by functioning as the input portion653A.

In step S406, the processing circuit650A of the second processing apparatus600A outputs the input information D2to the liquid ejecting apparatus100B by functioning as the output portion652A. Further, the processing circuit119of the liquid ejecting apparatus100B inputs the input information D2by functioning as the input portion253.

In step S407, the processing circuit119of the liquid ejecting apparatus100B detects the ejection failure in the liquid ejecting apparatus100B based on the input information D2and the residual vibration information D3, by functioning as the detection portion254. Then, the processing circuit119of the liquid ejecting apparatus100B ends the entire process.

After step S407, the processing circuit119of the liquid ejecting apparatus100B may display the detection result of the ejection failure in the liquid ejecting apparatus100B on a display device (not shown) provided in the liquid ejecting apparatus100B. Alternatively, the processing circuit119of the liquid ejecting apparatus100B may output the detection result of the ejection failure in the liquid ejecting apparatus100B to the first processing apparatus200A, and the processing circuit250A of the first processing apparatus200A may display the detection result on the display device210.

4-5. Effect of Liquid Ejecting System

The liquid ejecting system10C according to the present embodiment further includes the second processing apparatus600A that can be wirelessly connected to the liquid ejecting apparatus100B. The input portion653A and the connection portion631are provided in the second processing apparatus600A.

By having the configuration, the liquid ejecting system10C can input the input parameter from the server300to the second processing apparatus600A.

5. MODIFICATION EXAMPLES

The liquid ejecting system of the present disclosure has been described above based on the illustrated embodiments, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Further, the configuration of each portion of the present disclosure can be replaced with any configuration that exhibits the same functions as that of the above-described embodiments, or any configuration can be added.

5-1. Modification Example 1

In the liquid ejecting system10according to the first embodiment, it is assumed that the liquid ejecting apparatus100and the first processing apparatus200are separate apparatuses from each other and are communicably connected to each other wirelessly or by wire. However, the liquid ejecting apparatus100and the first processing apparatus200may have a configuration in which one is incorporated in the other in a single housing. The same applies to the liquid ejecting system10A according to the second embodiment to the liquid ejecting system10C according to the fourth embodiment.

5-2. Modification Example 2

In the liquid ejecting system10B according to the third embodiment, the first processing apparatus200B includes the detection portion254, and thus the ejection failure in the liquid ejecting apparatus100is detected. However, the second processing apparatus600may detect the ejection failure in the liquid ejecting apparatus100by the included detection portion254, upon acquiring the residual vibration information D3from the first processing apparatus200B. Further, the processing circuit650of the second processing apparatus600may display the detection result of the ejection failure on the display device610. The same applies to the liquid ejecting system10C according to the fourth embodiment.

5-3. Modification Example 3

In the liquid ejecting system10according to the first embodiment, the first processing apparatus200detects an ejection failure in the liquid ejecting apparatus100. In the liquid ejecting system10A according to the second embodiment, the liquid ejecting apparatus100A detects an ejection failure in itself. In the liquid ejecting system10B according to the third embodiment, the first processing apparatus200B detects an ejection failure in the liquid ejecting apparatus100. In the liquid ejecting system10C according to the fourth embodiment, the liquid ejecting apparatus100B detects an ejection failure in itself. However, when the server300includes the detection portion, the ejection failure in the liquid ejecting apparatuses100to100B may be detected. In this case, the input parameter for specifying the drive element111fin which the ejection failure occurs for the first processing apparatus200, the liquid ejecting apparatus100A, the first processing apparatus200B, or the liquid ejecting apparatus100B is input from the server300.