JPH10175321A - Recording apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To well transfer an overcoat layer at the writing start part of the overcoat layer and at the edge part corresponding to the lateral end edge of recording paper. SOLUTION: This recording apparatus is constituted so that heat energy larger than the usual heat energy applied to the overcoat layer covering recording paper 18 in a printing final stage is applied to a thermal head with respect to the writing start part 92a of the overcoat layer. The heat energy at this time is set so as to allow the temp. of a heating element to be capable of reaching the temp. fitted to the transfer of the overcoat layer in the number of short drawing lines without bonding the remaining of a film after the.transfer of the overcoat layer to recording paper. Further, heat energy larger than usual one is applied to the thermal head even with respect to the edge part of the overcoat layer corresponding to the vicinity of the lateral end edge of recording paper.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

The present invention relates to an improved method for transferring an overcoat layer of an ink film used in a thermal transfer recording apparatus.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A thermal transfer recording apparatus includes a platen roller,
On the other hand, there is provided a thermal head as a heating element capable of pressing and releasing the pressing, and the recording paper is fed between the platen roller and the thermal head. Between the recording paper and the thermal head, an ink film having one surface coated with, for example, a heat sublimable ink is conveyed. This ink film is unreeled from the supply reel and wound on the take-up reel.

When a color image is reproduced on recording paper by one thermal head, an ink film having an ink layer of each color such as yellow, magenta and cyan and an overcoat layer applied on the surface in this order is used. And
Color printing is performed by superimposing images of each color.

Here, the overcoat layer is a layer which is formed by thermally transferring an overcoat agent as a laminating resin onto a recording paper at the final stage of printing in order to prevent fading or the like of a printed portion. In such a recording apparatus, the overcoat layer is transferred to be larger than the image area.

[0005]

The ink layers of yellow, magenta, cyan and the like are formed of a sublimation dye or the like, and the transfer of the ink layers is carried out by sublimation (diffusion). . On the other hand, the overcoat layer is composed of a pigment or the like, and when transferring the overcoat layer, it is necessary to securely adhere the overcoat layer to the recording paper at an appropriate temperature. In some cases, the temperature of the thermal head at which the transfer of the coat layer becomes good cannot be maintained, and transfer failure to recording paper may occur.

In this case, the background color other than the image area of the recording paper is mostly white in the past,
If the transfer of the overcoat layer is made larger than the image area as described above, it is not so noticeable because it is located in the very white part of the background where some transfer failure occurred, and it does not greatly affect the finish quality. Did not.

However, recently, a so-called index print, which reproduces information recorded on a plurality of frames of a negative film on a single sheet of recording paper, has been used in a photo lab or the like which prints photographs.
In printing or the like, a color may be applied to a background portion other than the image area. In such a case, the above-described transfer failure of the overcoat layer is remarkably recognized, which has led to a problem.

On the other hand, at the side edge of the recording paper on the platen roller, a gap is formed between the outer peripheral surface of the platen roller, the edge of the recording paper, and the portion surrounded by the overcoat layer due to the thickness of the recording paper. Will exist. For this reason, there is a problem that heat transfer by the thermal head is not good in the portion, and transfer failure of the overcoat layer occurs at the edge portion of the overcoat layer corresponding to the vicinity of the side edge of the recording paper. there were.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a recording apparatus which can transfer an overcoat layer satisfactorily at a writing portion of the overcoat layer and at an edge portion corresponding to a side edge of the recording paper. is there.

[0010]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a recording apparatus for transferring an image onto a recording sheet by a heating element using an ink film to form an image. Applying, to the heating element, heat energy larger than the heat energy applied to the heating element for the overcoat layer other than the writing section for the writing portion of the overcoat layer of the ink film covering the recording paper. Features. According to the present invention, a larger amount of heat energy is applied to the heating element for the writing portion of the overcoat layer, and the temperature quickly reaches a temperature suitable for transfer of the overcoat layer.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the recording apparatus of the first aspect, the heat energy E applied to the heating element with respect to the write-out portion of the overcoat layer is different from the write-out portion other than the write-out portion. characterized when the heat energy applied to the heating element with respect to the overcoat layer was _{E 0, E = E 0 +} ΔE, 1/2 ≦ ΔE / E 0 ≦ 1, to be set so as to satisfy the And According to the present invention, the thermal energy applied to the heating element with respect to the write-out portion of the overcoat layer does not become excessive, and reaches a temperature suitable for transferring the overcoat layer very quickly.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the recording apparatus according to the first or second aspect, the writing portion of the overcoat layer is within 2 mm in a printing direction from a writing start position and the heat generation is performed. It is characterized in that it is a portion up to a position where the temperature detected by the temperature detecting thermistor attached to the body does not reach 40 ° C. In this invention, heat energy larger than usual is applied to the heating element until the temperature detected by the temperature detecting thermistor attached to the heating element reaches 40 ° C. within 2 mm from the writing start position of the overcoat layer. You.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a recording apparatus for transferring an image to a recording sheet by a heating element using an ink film to form an image, wherein the overcoat layer of the ink film covering the recording sheet at the final stage of printing includes a recording sheet. Heat energy greater than the heat energy applied to the heating element to the overcoat layer other than the edge section, to the heating element with respect to the edge portion corresponding to the vicinity of the edge in the direction perpendicular to the conveyance direction of the heating element. It is characterized by doing. According to the present invention, heat energy larger than usual is applied to the heating element at the edge portion of the overcoat layer corresponding to the vicinity of the edge of the recording paper, and a gap exists at the edge of the recording paper. Even so, heat is transmitted well.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the recording apparatus of the fourth aspect, thermal energy E applied to the heating element with respect to an edge portion of the overcoat layer.
Is, when the heat energy applied to the heating element with respect to the overcoat layer other than the edge portion is E ₀ ,
E = E ₀ + ΔE, and 1/5 ≦ ΔE / E ₀ ≦ 1. According to the present invention, the heat energy applied to the heating element with respect to the edge portion of the overcoat layer does not become excessive and is suitable for transferring the overcoat layer.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the recording apparatus according to the fourth or fifth aspect, the edge portion of the overcoat layer is 2 mm inward from an edge in a direction orthogonal to a recording paper conveyance direction. Is a portion corresponding to the range of. According to the present invention, heat energy larger than usual is applied to the heating element at an edge portion of the overcoat layer corresponding to within 2 mm from the side edge of the recording paper.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the recording apparatus according to the fourth or fifth aspect, the overcoat layer is transferred over the entire length of the line including the edge portion in a direction perpendicular to the conveying direction of the recording paper. In this case, the large heat energy is applied to the heating element over the entire area of the line. According to the present invention, when the overcoat layer is transferred to both sides of the recording paper over the entire length of one line in the width direction, heat energy larger than usual is applied to the heating element over the entire area of the line.

[0017]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. (Embodiment 1) FIG. 1 is an external perspective view showing a thermal transfer recording apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. For convenience of description, the edge of the recording paper that is the leading end when the recording paper is discharged is referred to as the leading end of the recording paper.

The illustrated thermal transfer recording apparatus 10 is used in, for example, a photo printing laboratory, as described above, and is a so-called index for reproducing information recorded on a plurality of frames of a negative film on one sheet of recording paper. -Used to output prints and the like. Thermal transfer recording device 10
Is connected via an interface to a controller (not shown) for performing various image processing on information recorded on the negative film, so that image signals and control signals from the controller are input via the interface. Has become.

A lid member 12 is mounted on an upper surface of a housing 11 forming a main body of the thermal transfer recording apparatus 10 so as to be openable and closable about a swing shaft 12a (see FIG. 2). An ink film cassette is opened with the lid member 12 opened. Housing 11
It is designed to be loaded at a predetermined position in the inside. The left front side in the figure is the front surface of the apparatus 10, and the paper discharge unit 22 is provided on the front side, and the paper supply unit 21 is provided on the back side. The paper feed unit 21 is provided with a paper feed tray 14 that stores a plurality of recording papers in an inclined manner. Further, the thermal transfer recording apparatus 10 is provided with a cutter unit 23 for cutting an unnecessary portion (a leading end portion and / or a trailing end portion of the recording paper) of the recording paper after reproducing the image. A duster unit 24 for storing paper pieces is provided on the front side of the apparatus so as to be freely inserted and removed. The recording paper from which the unnecessary portion has been cut is discharged vertically through a paper discharge port 16 onto a paper discharge tray 17 provided integrally on the front surface of the duster 24.

The thermal transfer recording apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment
In this method, an ink film coated with a heat sublimable ink is used, and a recording paper as an image receiving paper for trapping the sublimated ink is a thick (150) paper such as photographic paper.
〜250 μm).

FIG. 2 is a schematic sectional view showing a state in which a cover member of the thermal transfer recording apparatus is opened, FIG. 3 is a schematic sectional view showing a state in which an ink film cassette is loaded in a main body of the thermal transfer recording apparatus, and FIG. 5A to 5C are cross-sectional views schematically showing the operation states of the thermal transfer recording apparatus at the time of paper feeding, at the start of printing, and at the end of printing, respectively. FIGS. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing an operation state of the thermal transfer recording device at the time of cutting.

The internal structure of the thermal transfer recording apparatus 10 will be described in detail. As shown in FIG. 2, a platen roller 25 is rotatably supported in a housing 11 and a cover member 12 is provided.
A head base 27 having a thermal head 26 as a heating element is attached to the inner surface side of the substrate so as to be able to move forward and backward with respect to the platen roller 25 by an interlocking member (not shown). When the head base 27 moves forward with respect to the platen roller 25, the thermal head 26 moves to a position where it comes into pressure contact with the platen roller 25. On the other hand, when the head base 27 moves backward with respect to the platen roller 25, the thermal head 26 makes pressure contact. Move to the position to release. The head base 27 is connected to the platen roller 25 by a resilient means such as a spring (not shown).
2 is held in the position shown by the arrow R in FIG.

A drive shaft 28 rotatably attached to the cover member 12 is brought into contact with a head base 27 to move the head base 27 forward, thereby pressing the thermal head 26 against the platen roller 25. 29 are fixed. By rotating the drive shaft 28, the eccentric cam 2
A thermal head drive motor M <b> 1 composed of a pulse motor is connected to the drive shaft 28 in order to rotate the drive 9.

As shown in FIG. 3, between the thermal head 26 and the platen roller 25, a belt-shaped ink film 32 which is fed from the supply reel 30 and wound on the take-up reel 31 is conveyed. It has become so. The ink film 32 has three yellow ink layers,
A magenta ink layer, a cyan ink layer, and an overcoat layer are formed by coating the base film in this order (see FIG. 7). Both reel 3 on supply side and winding side
Reference numerals 0 and 31 are housed in an ink film cassette 33. The ink film cassette 33 is detachable from the housing 11,
It is mounted at a predetermined position by setting it on the holding plate 34 attached inside. A part of a gear 35 attached to the take-up reel 31 faces an opening formed in the ink film cassette 33, and a driving gear 36 provided on the apparatus side meshes with the gear 35 when the cassette is mounted. . The drive gear 36 is driven to rotate by the motor M <b> 2, and winds the fed ink film 32 around the take-up reel 31.

An ink film take-up roller 37 is provided near the platen roller 25 so as to form a conveyance path for the ink film 32 when the cassette is mounted. The ink film take-up roller 37 is normally free of rotation, but is driven by the ink film take-up motor M3 by engaging a clutch (not shown) only when it is desired to move the ink film 32 during non-printing. On the other hand, at the time of printing, the ink film 32 is sent out as the recording paper 18 is conveyed, and is sent to the ink film guide plate 38 provided at the tip of the thermal head 26 and the ink film take-up roller 37 in a free rotation state. It is guided and wound on the take-up reel 31.

The recording paper 18 is held on the paper feeding tray 14 in an inclined state. In order to regulate the width direction of the recording paper 18, a width regulating plate 40 is provided on the paper feeding tray 14. I have. The width regulating plate 40 is slidable in the width direction according to the size of the recording paper 18.

The recording paper 18 on the paper feed tray 14 is fed one by one by a paper feed roller 45 and a separating roller 46 disposed with a small gap from the paper feed roller 45. The sheet is conveyed while being guided by the guide member 47. The paper feed roller 45 is driven to rotate by a paper feed motor M4 composed of a pulse motor, but the separating roller 46 is not rotated. The separating roller 46 has a hardness of 70 degrees, and its surface is coded. The gap is set to about 0.3 mm obtained by adding a predetermined dimension to the paper thickness. With this configuration, the thick recording paper 18 can be fed smoothly, and the surface of the recording paper 18 is not scratched.

On the upstream side of the platen roller 25, adjacent to the platen roller 25, a grip roller 50 and a pinch roller 5 which comes into contact with the grip roller 50 are disposed.
1 and the fed recording paper 18 is fed between the rollers 50 and 51. Grip roller 5
0 is a grip roller drive motor M composed of a pulse motor
5, the pinch roller 51 is driven to rotate as the recording paper is conveyed.

On the downstream side of the platen roller 50, in order to discharge the recording paper 18 onto the paper discharge tray 17, a first discharge roller pair 53 located on the paper discharge port 16 side and a platen roller 25 side. The second discharge roller pair 54 is attached at a predetermined distance. These discharge rollers 5
Reference numerals 3 and 54 are adapted to be rotationally driven by a transport motor M6 composed of a pulse motor.

Between the platen roller 25 and the discharge roller pair 54, there is provided a guide member 55 for guiding the conveyance of the recording paper 18 during the discharge processing. This guide member 55
A storage space 56 for storing the recording paper 18 when a printing operation is performed is formed below the space.

In the illustrated thermal transfer recording apparatus 10,
When reproducing a color image on the recording paper 18, first, FIG.
As shown in (1), the recording paper 18 is fed from the paper feed tray 14 and transported in the direction shown by the arrow P, and the recording paper 18 is stored in the storage space 56 as shown in FIG. . Next, from this state, a yellow image is formed while the recording paper 18 is returned and conveyed in the direction indicated by the arrow Q. That is, the return printing method is used. After transferring the yellow image while returning and transporting the recording paper 18, the recording paper 18 is transported forward to prepare for reproducing the next magenta image. In this way, for example, 3
A color image is formed on the recording paper 18 by superimposing and transferring the color images. The thermal head 26 comes into pressure contact with the platen roller 25 only during return transport,
When the recording paper 18 is transported forward, the thermal head 2
6 is separated from the platen roller 25. When the return conveyance and the forward conveyance are repeated during the printing operation, the grip roller 50 and the pinch roller 51 always keep the recording paper 1
8 continues to be pinched.

Under the guide member 55, the recording paper 18 conveyed by the grip roller 50 and the pinch roller 51 is transferred to the paper discharge section 22 provided with discharge roller pairs 53 and 54 or the storage space 56. A swing guide 58 is provided so as to be swingable about the support shaft 57 in order to selectively guide the swing guide 58 to one of them. The swing guide 58 is formed of a flexible material. As shown in FIG. 4B, when the swing guide 58 swings upward, the recording paper 18 conveyed by the grip rollers 50 and the like is stored in the storage space 56. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 5A, when the swing guide 58 swings clockwise about the support shaft 57 from the upper position to the lower position, the recording paper 18 is conveyed toward the paper discharge unit 22. .

In order to improve the print quality, it is necessary to prevent the recording paper 18 from being caught between the discharge roller pairs 53 and 54 at the time of printing. If the storage space 56 is formed at a position below the transport path to the paper section 22, the platen roller 25
And the distance between the discharge roller pair 53 and 54 can be reduced, and the floor area of the apparatus 10 can be reduced.

The cutter unit 23 provided between the first discharge roller pair 53 and the second discharge roller pair 54 includes a rotary cutter 60 and a receiving table 61 for cutting the recording paper 18 in cooperation with the cutter 60. And The non-printing area can be cut by the cutter unit 23, and unnecessary cut pieces of paper are separated by their own weight.
The duster unit 2 disposed below the cutter unit 23
4 falls and is collected.

As shown enlarged in FIG. 6, a sensor S1 is provided adjacent to the grip roller 50 for detecting the leading edge of the recording sheet during paper feeding or the trailing edge of the recording sheet during printing. The sensor S1 issues an ON signal when detecting the leading edge or the trailing edge of the recording paper 18. Since the sensor S1 detects the trailing edge of the recording paper during printing, it will be referred to as a trailing edge detection sensor S1 in the following description for convenience.

As shown in FIG. 2, the cutter unit 23
Is provided with a leading edge detection sensor S2 for detecting the leading edge of the recording paper. The leading edge detection sensor S2 issues an ON signal when detecting the leading edge of the recording paper 18. Tip detection sensor S
A pulse for driving the transport motor M6 is managed with reference to a point in time at which the leading end of the recording paper 18 is detected, and a leading end cut for cutting the recording paper 18 by a predetermined length from the leading end of the recording paper, and a predetermined cut from the trailing end of the recording paper. A trailing edge cut for cutting the recording paper 18 by the length is performed.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, a control unit 19 is disposed below the inside of the thermal transfer recording apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment. The control unit 19 supplies external power. The apparatus includes a power supply unit, a controller 90 which receives signals from a control device (not shown) provided outside the apparatus via an interface and controls each unit in the apparatus, and various substrates.

FIG. 7 is a plan view showing the ink film 32 used in the present apparatus. As shown in FIG. 6, a reading sensor S3 is provided adjacent to the ink film take-up roller 37 as a detecting means for detecting a cue mark 86 provided on the ink film 32. As each of the sensors S1, S2, and S3, a reflection type photo sensor can be exemplified, but it is not limited to this case. For example, a transmission type photo sensor may be used.

As shown in FIG. 7, the cue mark 86 is imprinted on the head (winding side) of each yellow ink layer. The symbol “Y” in the figure is the yellow ink layer, “M”
Indicates a magenta ink layer, “C” indicates a cyan ink layer, and “O” indicates an overcoat layer, and printing is performed in this order. The overcoat layer, as described above,
In order to increase the durability of the printed portion and prevent fading, etc., an overcoat agent as a laminating resin is thermally transferred and covered over the entire surface of the pigment dye already transferred onto the recording paper 18 in the final stage of printing. .

The cue of each screen of the ink film 32 is as follows.
This is performed by sending out the ink film 32 until the cue mark 86 is detected by the reading sensor S3 and then stopping it. After receiving a print command, the rear end of the fed recording paper 18 is detected by the rear end detection sensor S1. This is performed while the recording paper 18 is being conveyed forward until it is detected in step (1).

The cueing of the ink layer of the next color is performed by pulse counting the transport amount of the ink film 32 by an encoder (not shown) provided at one end of the ink film take-up roller 37.

As shown in FIG. 7, a film end mark 87a is provided near the cue mark 86 only on the last screen of the ink film 32. Accordingly, when a print command is received, predetermined printing is performed after the normal film cueing operation. When this printing is performed, the film end mark 87a can be detected by the reading sensor S3. Is configured. That is, by detecting the film end mark 87a, the controller 90 can recognize that the printing is the last printing. In this case, the reading sensor S3 also functions as an end mark detecting unit that detects the film end mark 87a.

FIG. 8 is a control block diagram for driving the thermal head 26 and the grip roller drive motor M5. As illustrated, the thermal head 26 is connected to a controller 90 via a thermal head control circuit 91. The thermal head 26 as a heating element has a heating element (not shown) that is linearly provided in a direction orthogonal to the direction in which the recording paper 18 is conveyed, and generates heat when energized.

The image data created in the data processing unit 82 outside the apparatus is temporarily stored in the memory 83 inside the apparatus. The controller 90 reads the image data stored in the memory 83, transmits a signal corresponding to the image data to the thermal head control circuit 91, and applies a predetermined voltage from the thermal head control circuit 91 to the thermal head 26. I do. Image data (print pattern) of the overcoat layer is also created by the same procedure as for the ink layers of each color such as yellow, magenta, and cyan, and these ink layers and overcoat layer are sequentially printed.

The data processing section 82 may be arranged inside the apparatus, and the image data created in the data processing section 82 may be printed without being stored in the memory.

On the other hand, the grip roller drive motor M5 is
It is connected to the controller 90 via the motor control unit 81. The controller 90 transmits a predetermined signal to the motor control unit 81 to rotate and drive the grip roller drive motor M5 to perform predetermined conveyance of the recording paper 18.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram for explaining the details of the control for driving the thermal head. As shown in the figure, the controller 90 controls a voltage application signal (hereinafter, STB).
A signal is transmitted to the thermal head control circuit 91, and a voltage is applied from the thermal head control circuit 91 to the thermal head 26 based on these signals.

Specifically, when the STB signal is at a high level (hereinafter referred to as H), the thermal head control circuit 91
, A voltage is applied to the thermal head 26, while when the STB signal is at a low level (hereinafter, referred to as L), no voltage is applied to the thermal head 26. When the VUP signal is H, when the STB signal becomes H, the voltage V ₀ + which is higher than the normal voltage V ₀ by ΔV.
ΔV (both in units of volts)
On the other hand, when the VUP signal is L, the normal voltage V ₀ is applied to the thermal head 26 when the STB signal becomes H.

FIG. 10 is a time chart showing an example of the STB signal and VUP signal and the voltage applied to the thermal head corresponding thereto, and FIG. 11 is a control flow chart for performing the operation shown in FIG.

In FIG. 11, the controller 90 sets the VUP signal and the STB signal to H (step S).
1, S2, T ₁ in FIG. 10), and the timer is started (YES in step S3) maintaining the H state, a ₀ (msec) at the time elapsed (step S4), and by stopping the timer (step S5) , STB signal is L (step S6, T ₂ in FIG. 9). Based on this, FIG.
As shown in FIG. _{0, the} voltage applied to the thermal head in the section between T _{1 and} T ₂ is a voltage higher than usual (V ₀ + ΔV). Next, the timer is started again (step S
7) When b ₀ (msec) has elapsed (step S8)
YES), stop the timer (step S
9) At the same time as setting the VUP signal to L (step S1)
0), the STB signal is set to H (step S11, FIG.
T ₃ ). Based on this, as shown in FIG. 10, T ₂
Voltage applied to the thermal head in through T ₃ period, STB
Since the signal is L and before it becomes H, 0 (vol.
t). Further, the timer is started (step S12), and when a ₀ (msec) has elapsed (YES in step S13), the timer is stopped (step S14), and the STB signal is set to L (step S1).
5, T ₄ in FIG. 9). Based on this, as shown in FIG. 10, the voltage applied to the thermal head at T ₃ through T ₄ interval is a normal voltage V _0.

In this embodiment, particularly, as shown in FIG. 12, the thermal energy applied to the thermal head 26 for the write-out portion 92a of the overcoat layer is larger than that for the overcoat layer 92b other than the write-out portion. It is configured to apply heat energy to the thermal head 26. As described above, by applying a larger thermal energy than usual, in the writing portion 92a,
It is possible to make the temperature of the thermal head 26 reach a temperature suitable for transferring the overcoat layer very quickly.

In order to increase the heat energy applied to the thermal head 26 with respect to the writing portion of the overcoat layer, the present embodiment employs a method in which the voltage applied to the thermal head 26 is set higher than usual. I have.

FIG. 13 is a time chart showing the voltage applied to the thermal head. FIG. 13 (A) shows the case where the voltage applied to the thermal head is increased in order to give a larger thermal energy than usual, and FIG. 13 (B) Indicates a voltage applied to the thermal head to give normal thermal energy.
In the present embodiment, FIG. 13A corresponds to the voltage applied to the thermal head for the writing portion of the overcoat layer, and FIG. It corresponds to the voltage applied to the head.

As shown in the drawing, in order to maintain a temperature suitable for the transfer, a ₀ (mse
The voltage control in which the voltage is applied during c) and then pauses for b ₀ (msec) is repeatedly performed for each line, but the thermal energy E applied to the thermal head for the write-out portion 92a of the overcoat layer is applied. is the heat energy applied to the thermal head when the E ₀ with respect to the overcoat layer 92b other than the writing portion, E
= E ₀ + ΔE, 1/2 ≦ ΔE / E ₀ ≦ 1. The lower limit of the setting range of ΔE / E ₀ is to quickly reach a temperature at which the transfer is good,
It is necessary to ensure that the overcoat layer is transferred to the recording paper, and the upper limit is set so that the heat energy is not excessive and the rest of the film after the transfer of the overcoat layer and the recording paper do not stick together. It is necessary to ensure that they are separated.

By the way, assuming that the applied voltage to the thermal head is V, the resistance of the heating element of the thermal head is R, and the voltage application time is t, the thermal energy E is E = (V ² / R)
Is represented by t. Therefore, when the thermal energy E is controlled by the applied voltage V, 1/2 ≦ ΔE / E ₀ ≦ 1
From this, (3/2) · E ₀ ≦ E ₀ + ΔE ≦ 2 · E ₀ , so (3/2) · V ₀ ² ≦ (V ₀ + ΔV) ² ≦ 2 · V
₀ ² which is (3/2) ^1/2 · V ₀
≦ V ₀ + ΔV ≦ 2 ^1/2 · V ₀ .

Therefore, the voltage V applied to the thermal head 26 with respect to the write-out portion 92a of the overcoat layer depends on the overcoat layer 92 other than the write-out portion.
b, the voltage applied to the thermal head 26 is V ₀
V = V ₀ + ΔV, V ₀ · (−1+ (3 /
2) ^1/2 ) ≦ ΔV ≦ V ₀ · (−1 + 2 ^1/2 ).

The writing portion 92a of the overcoat layer, which applies a larger amount of thermal energy to the thermal head 26, has L = 2 in the printing direction from the writing start position.
(Mm) and the temperature detected by a temperature detecting thermistor (not shown) attached to the thermal head 26 is 4
It is the part up to the position that does not reach 0 ° C. This means that although a large amount of heat energy is applied, if it is smaller than 2 mm from the writing start position, the temperature of the thermal head 26 drops to a temperature at which transfer failure occurs, and the temperature at which transfer of the overcoat layer is good cannot be maintained. If the temperature detected by the temperature detecting thermistor is 40 ° C. or higher, the thermal energy becomes excessive as described above, and the rest of the film and the recording paper after the transfer of the overcoat layer are formed. When the detected temperature reaches 40 ° C., the transfer of the overcoat layer is performed favorably even when the applied voltage is switched to a normal level. .

Next, the operation of the thermal transfer recording apparatus will be described with reference to FIG.
This will be described based on (1) to (3), FIGS. 5 (1) and (2), and the main flow of the overcoat layer printing operation shown in FIG.

<< Feeding (FIG. 4 (1)) >> Controller 90
When the print command is output from the printer, the paper feed roller 45 is driven to rotate by the paper feed motor M4, the recording paper 18 is conveyed forward by one sheet in the direction of arrow P, and the trailing edge detection sensor S1 detects the leading edge of the recording paper. Then, the sheet feeding motor M4 is stopped.
Next, when the grip roller 50 is rotated by the grip roller drive motor M5 and the recording paper 18 is further conveyed forward and the rear end of the recording paper 18 is detected by the rear end detection sensor S1, the grip roller drive motor M5 is stopped. .
The transport of the recording paper 18 is performed in a state where the thermal head 26 is separated from the platen roller 25. The swing guide 58 swings to the upper position, and the recording paper 18 is guided to the storage space 56.

At the same time as the sheet feeding, the film cueing is performed. This film cueing is performed by the reading sensor S
Until the cue mark 86 is detected by 3, the ink film 32 is sent out to the winding side and then stopped. Here, the ink film take-up roller 37 is rotated by driving the ink film take-up motor M3 by engaging a clutch (not shown).

<< Start of Printing (FIG. 4 (2)) >> When the cueing of the film is completed, printing starts. That is, the thermal head 26 is pressed against the platen roller 25, and then the grip grip roller 50 is rotated to convey the recording paper 18 back in the direction of arrow Q, and the trailing edge detection sensor S1
Starts printing immediately after detecting the trailing edge of the recording paper.
A yellow image is formed on the recording paper 18. The transport system for returning and transporting the recording paper during printing is only the grip roller 50.

Immediately before this printing operation, it is determined whether or not the film end mark 87a is detected by the reading sensor S3.

<< End of Printing (FIG. 4 (3)) >> When the printing of the yellow image is completed, the return conveyance of the recording paper 18 is also stopped.
The pressing of the thermal head 26 against the platen roller 25 is released.

When the next color printing or the overcoat printing is performed, the recording paper 18 is transported forward by the grip roller 50 and guided to the storage space 56 as shown in FIG. You. The forward conveyance to the printing start position is performed by rotating the grip roller drive motor M5 by a predetermined number of pulses. Simultaneously with the preparation of the next color printing, the ink film take-up motor M3 is driven to rotate, and the encoder provided at one end of the ink film take-up roller 37 counts the amount of conveyance of the ink film 32 by pulse counting. Delivery is performed.
Then, a similar printing operation is performed, and the next color is printed.

After this operation is repeated for all colors, the overcoat layer is thermally transferred over the entire surface of the dye dye already transferred onto the recording paper 18 in the final stage of printing to cover.
That is, overcoat printing is performed.

Next, the printing operation of the overcoat layer will be described in detail. In FIG. 14, the temperature detected by the temperature detecting thermistor attached to the thermal head is 40 ° C.
It is determined whether or not this is the case (step S21). If not, the process proceeds to the next step S22.

In step S22, one line of the overcoat layer is transferred with an applied voltage higher than usual. That is, the write-out portion 92a of the overcoat layer
Is transferred at an applied voltage V = V ₀ + ΔV which is ΔV larger than the voltage V ₀ applied to the thermal head 26 to the overcoat layer 92b other than the writing portion.

FIG. 15 shows a process of drawing one line shown in FIG. 14 with the applied voltage V = V ₀ + ΔV (step S2).
This is a subroutine of 2). That is, specifically, FIG.
At 5, the VUP signal and the STB signal are set to H (steps S31 and S32, T _{1 in} FIG. 13A), the timer is started (step S33), the H state is maintained, and a ₀ (msec) has elapsed. (Step S34)
YES), the timer is stopped (step S3
5), the STB signal is set to L (step S36, FIG. 13)
(A) T ₂ ). Based on this, as shown in FIG. 13A, the voltage applied to the thermal head in the section between T _{1 and} T ₂ is set to a higher voltage (V ₀ + ΔV) than usual. Next, the timer is started again (step S37),
When b ₀ (msec) has elapsed (Y in step S38)
ES), stop the timer (step S3
9), the VUP signal is set to L (step S40, FIG. 13)
(A) T ₃ ), the process returns to the main flow. Based on this, as shown in FIG. 13A, the voltage applied to the thermal head in the section between T _{2 and} T ₃ is 0 (volt) because the STB signal remains at L.

The above one line is applied voltage V = V ₀ + ΔV
The drawing process is performed as long as the temperature detected by the temperature detecting thermistor attached to the thermal head does not rise to 40 ° C. or higher (NO in step S23), as long as it is within 2 mm in the printing direction from the writing start position (step S2).
4 (YES in step S4), and are repeatedly performed (steps S22 to S22).
24).

As described above, by applying a larger amount of thermal energy to the thermal head 26 to the write-out portion 92a of the overcoat layer, a short line from the earliest write-start position to a temperature suitable for the transfer of the overcoat layer. Since it can be reached quickly by a number, the transfer of the overcoat layer becomes good.

On the other hand, step S21 or step S21
If it is determined in step S23 that the temperature detected by the temperature detecting thermistor is 40 ° C. or higher, or if the temperature exceeds 2 mm in the printing direction from the write start position, step S
Go to 25.

In this step S25, one line of the overcoat layer is transferred by a normal applied voltage. That is, the normal overcoat layer 92b other than the writing portion
Is transferred at a voltage V ₀ applied to the thermal head 26.

[0073] Figure 16 is a subroutine of the processing (step S25) to draw a line as shown in FIG. 14 at an applied voltage V _0. That is, specifically, in FIG.
First, the VUP signal is set to L and the STB signal is set to H (steps S41 and S42, T _{1 in} FIG. 13B), the timer is started (step S43), this state is maintained, and a ₀ (msec) has elapsed. At this point (step S4
4), stop the timer (step S)
45), and set the STB signal to L (step S46, FIG. 1)
3 (B) T ₂ ). Based on this, as shown in FIG. 13B, the applied voltage to the thermal head in the section between T _{1 and} T ₂ is set to the normal applied voltage V ₀ . Next, the timer is started again (step S47), and b ₀ (ms
When ec) has elapsed (YES in step S48), the timer is stopped (step S49, FIG. 13).
(B) T ₃ ), returning to the main flow. Based on this, as shown in FIG. 13B, the voltage applied to the thermal head in the section between T _{2 and} T ₃ is 0 (volt) because the STB signal remains at L.

The process of drawing one line with the applied voltage V ₀ (step S25) is repeatedly performed, and when the printing of the specified number of lines is completed (YES in step S26), the printing of the overcoat layer is completed.

When the film end mark 87a (not shown) is detected by the reading sensor S3, the winding operation of the ink film is performed after the overcoat printing is completed, and the film end is displayed on the display unit of the recording apparatus. However, if it is not the film end, the winding of the ink film 32 that has been sent in accordance with the printing operation is stopped at the end of printing, and the system prepares for the next print.

<< Front Cut (FIG. 5 (1)) >> When printing of one screen is completed, the pressure contact of the thermal head 26 to the platen roller 25 is released, and the swing guide 5
8 is swung to the lower position. The recording paper 18 conveyed forward by the grip roller 50 is guided toward the paper discharge unit 22. The transport motor M6 is also rotated at a predetermined timing, and the recording paper 18 is transported forward by the second discharge roller pair 54. Then, while controlling the pulse of the transport motor M6 based on the time when the leading edge detection sensor S2 detects the leading edge of the recording paper 18, the recording paper 18
As a result, the tip is cut by a predetermined length from the tip, and falls into the duster portion 24 to be collected. At this time, the recording paper 18
Is temporarily stopped.

<< Rear End Cut (FIG. 5 (2)) >> When the front end cut is completed, the transport motor M6 is driven by the number of pulses corresponding to the predetermined length, and the first discharge roller pair 53 and the second discharge roller pair 54 are driven. Conveys the recording paper 18. afterwards,
The recording paper 18 is cut at the rear end by a predetermined length from the rear end by the cutter unit 23, and is collected in the duster 24. In this way, a so-called borderless image in which the non-printing area is cut can be obtained. When the collection of the cut paper pieces is completed, the recording paper 18
The sheet is conveyed by the first discharge roller pair 53 and is
7 is discharged.

As described above, in the thermal transfer recording apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment, in the final stage of printing, the write portion 92a of the overcoat layer is applied to the thermal head 26 for the overcoat layer 92b other than the write portion. Heat energy larger than the heat energy
6, the temperature suitable for the transfer of the overcoat layer can be quickly reached, and therefore, the transfer of the overcoat layer becomes good in the writing portion.

Further, the writing portion 9 of the overcoat layer
The thermal energy E applied to the thermal head 26 with respect to the overcoat layer 92 other than the write-out portion
E = E ₀ + ΔE, 1/2 ≦ ΔE / where E ₀ is the thermal energy applied to the thermal head 26 with respect to b.
E ₀ ≦ 1, so that the thermal energy is not excessive and the rest of the film after transfer of the overcoat layer does not stick to the recording paper, and is suitable for transfer of the overcoat layer. Temperature can be reached from the earliest writing position with a very short number of drawing lines.

Moreover, since a large amount of thermal energy is applied to the thermal head 26 within 2 mm from the earliest writing position of the overcoat layer, the temperature of the thermal head 26 drops and the transfer of the overcoat layer is good. It can be avoided that a certain temperature cannot be maintained. Furthermore, when the temperature detected by the temperature detecting thermistor attached to the thermal head is 40 ° C. or higher, the voltage applied to the thermal head is set to the normal level, so that the temperature suitable for transfer is secured while the overcoat layer is formed. It is possible to prevent a situation in which the rest of the film after the transfer is stuck to the recording paper.

(Embodiment 2) FIG. 17 shows Embodiment 2 of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram for explaining details of control for driving a thermal head of the thermal transfer recording apparatus according to the first embodiment.

In the second embodiment, in the same manner as in the first embodiment, the writing portion of the overcoat layer of the ink film covering the recording paper at the final printing stage is applied to the overcoat layer other than the writing portion. Heat energy larger than the heat energy applied to the thermal head,
Although the thermal head 26 is applied to the thermal head, as shown in FIG.
Is connected to the controller 90 through the interface, and in order to increase the thermal energy applied to the thermal head 26 with respect to the writing portion of the overcoat layer, a method of setting the voltage application time for one line of drawing longer than usual is adopted. This is different from the first embodiment in that The other points are the same as those of the first embodiment, and the description is omitted.

The controller 90 transmits only the STB signal to the thermal head control circuit 91 and, based on this signal, sends the thermal head control circuit 91
A voltage is applied to 6. That is, specifically, STB
By making the signal H or L, the control as to whether or not the above-described normal voltage V ₀ is applied to the thermal head 26 is performed.

FIG. 13 is a time chart showing the voltage applied to the thermal head. FIG. 13 (A) shows the case where the voltage applied to the thermal head is increased in order to give a larger thermal energy than usual, and FIG. 13 (B) Indicates a voltage applied to the thermal head to give normal thermal energy.
In the present embodiment, FIG. 13A corresponds to the voltage applied to the thermal head for the writing portion of the overcoat layer, and FIG. It corresponds to the voltage applied to the head.

FIG. 18 is a time chart showing the voltage applied to the thermal head of the apparatus shown in FIG.
Indicates a case where the time for applying a voltage to the thermal head is extended to provide a larger thermal energy than normal.
(B) shows the voltage applied to the thermal head and the application time for giving normal thermal energy. In this embodiment mode, FIG. 18A corresponds to the voltage and application time applied to the thermal head with respect to the writing portion of the overcoat layer, and FIG. On the other hand, it corresponds to the voltage applied to the thermal head and the application time.

FIG. 19 is a main flow of the overcoat layer printing operation of the apparatus shown in FIG. 17, and FIG. 20 is a subroutine for drawing one line shown in FIG. 19 with a longer voltage application time than usual. FIG. 21 is a subroutine of processing for drawing one line shown in FIG. 19 in a normal voltage application time.

Next, the printing operation of the overcoat layer of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

In FIG. 19, the temperature detected by the temperature detecting thermistor attached to the thermal head is 40 ° C.
It is determined whether or not it is greater than the value (step S51). If not, the process proceeds to the next step S52.

In step S52, one line of the overcoat layer is transferred with a longer voltage application time than usual. That is, for the overcoat layer 92b other than the writing portion of the overcoat layer, b ₀ after applying between voltage a ₀ (msec) for one line (mse
Control to pause during c) is performed (see FIG. 18B), but for the write-out portion 92a (see FIG. 12) of the overcoat layer, a (mse
Control (see FIG. 18 (A)) is performed in which the voltage is applied during c) and then pauses for b ₀ (msec).

In this embodiment, since the thermal energy E is controlled by the voltage application time t, the thermal energy E is controlled at the write-out portion 92a of the overcoat layer from the relationship of E = (V ² / R) · t. the time a to the voltage applied to the thermal head 26 against the time that the voltage applied to the thermal head 26 with respect to the overcoat layer 92b other than the writing part when the _{a 0, a = a 0 +} Δt, a 0
/ 2 ≦ Δt ≦ a ₀ . The normal voltage V ₀ is applied to the thermal head 26.
Is applied.

More specifically, in FIG. 20, first, the STB signal is set to H (step S61, FIG. 18A).
T ₁ ), start the timer (step S6)
2) Maintain the H state, and when a (msec) has elapsed (YES in step S63), stop the timer (step S64) and set the STB signal to L (step S65, T _{2 in} FIG. 18A). ). Therefore, FIG.
As shown in (A), the voltage application time to the thermal head in the section between T _{1 and} T ₂ is longer than usual (a ₀ + Δ).
t). Next, the timer is started again (step S66), and when b ₀ (msec) has elapsed (YES in step S67), the timer is stopped (step S68, T _{3 in} FIG. 18A), and the process returns to the main flow. Return. Therefore, as shown in FIG.
The voltage applied to the thermal head in the section between T _{2 and} T ₃ is S
Since the TB signal remains at L, the signal becomes 0 (volt) and the pause time is set to the same time b ₀ as usual.

In the process of drawing one line with a longer voltage application time than usual (applied voltage V ₀ ), the temperature detected by the temperature detection thermistor attached to the thermal head is 4
As long as the temperature does not exceed 0 ° C. (N in step S53)
O), if it is within 2 mm in the printing direction from the writing start position (YES in step S54), the processing is repeated (steps S52 to S54).

On the other hand, step S51 or step S51
If it is determined in step 53 that the temperature detected by the temperature detecting thermistor is 40 ° C. or higher, or if the temperature exceeds 2 mm in the printing direction from the write start position, step S
Go to 55.

In step S55, one line of the overcoat layer is transferred for a normal voltage application time. That is, the normal overcoat layer 9 other than the writing portion
For 2b, control is performed such that a voltage is applied for one line for a ₀ (msec) and then the line is paused for b ₀ (msec) (see FIG. 18B).

More specifically, first, in FIG. 21, the STB signal is set to H (step S71, FIG. 18B).
T ₁ ), start the timer (step S7)
2) In this state, when a ₀ (msec) has elapsed (YES in step S73), the timer is stopped (step S74), and the STB signal is set to L (step S75, T in FIG. 18B). ₂ ). Therefore, FIG.
As shown in (B), T ₁ ~T ₂ voltage application time for the thermal head in the interval is a normal time a _0. Next, the timer is started again (step S76),
When b ₀ (msec) has elapsed (Y in step S77)
ES), stop the timer (step S78,
At T _{3 in} FIG. 18B, the process returns to the main flow. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 18B, the voltage applied to the thermal head in the section between T _{2 and} T ₃ becomes 0 (volt) because the STB signal remains at L, and the pause time is reduced. , The normal pause time b ₀ .

The process of drawing one line with the normal voltage application time (step S55) is repeatedly performed, and when the printing of the specified number of lines is completed (YE in step S56).
S), printing of the overcoat layer ends.

As described above, by applying a process of drawing one line with a longer voltage application time than usual for the write-out portion 92a of the overcoat layer, it is possible to apply heat energy larger than usual to the thermal head 26. Therefore, it is possible to obtain the same effects as those of the above-described embodiment, such as that the transfer of the overcoat layer is improved in the writing portion.

(Embodiment 3) FIG. 22 shows Embodiment 3 of the present invention.
FIG. 23 is a view showing a printing example of an overcoat layer in the thermal transfer recording apparatus according to
FIG. 2 shows image data of the overcoat layer of the line, FIG.
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing image data of one line of the overcoat layer corresponding to the WW line. In FIG. 22, a region surrounded by a hexagon in the recording paper 18 indicates a region where the overcoat layer is printed.

In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG.
In the final stage of printing, the overcoat layer of the ink film covering the recording paper, the edge portion 95a corresponding to the vicinity of the edge in the direction orthogonal to the recording paper conveyance direction, and the overcoat layer 95b other than the edge portion The thermal head 26 is configured to apply heat energy larger than the heat energy applied to the thermal head 26 to the thermal head 26. As described above, by applying a larger amount of heat energy to the edge portion 95a where heat transfer is not good due to the presence of the gap at the side edge of the recording paper, the thermal head 26 is printed in the edge portion 95a. It is possible to maintain the temperature at a temperature suitable for transferring the overcoat layer. Note that the device configuration of the thermal transfer recording apparatus and the control method for driving the thermal head are the same as those in the first embodiment, and thus description thereof will be omitted.

In the image data of the overcoat layer corresponding to the line VV in FIG. 23 shown in FIG. 23, the image data of the white portion 93a at the center in the figure indicates that normal heat energy is applied, The image data of the hatched portion 93b indicates that no thermal energy is applied. On the other hand, FIG.
In the image data of the overcoat layer corresponding to the line WW of No. 2, the image data of the white portion 93d at the center in the drawing indicates that normal thermal energy is applied, and the image data of the shaded portion 93b on the right side of the image data is the heat data. No energy is applied, and the image data of the black portion 93c on the left side indicates that heat energy larger than usual is applied.

In this embodiment, the voltage applied to the thermal head 26 is set higher than usual in order to increase the heat energy applied to the thermal head 26 to the edge portion 95a corresponding to the vicinity of the edge of the recording paper of the overcoat layer. The method of setting high is adopted.

FIG. 25 is a time chart showing the voltage applied to the thermal head of the apparatus according to the third embodiment.
(A) is a voltage applied to the heating element of the thermal head corresponding to the image data of the white portion 93a shown in FIG. 23, and (B) is a hatched portion 9 shown in FIGS. 23 and 24.
The applied voltage corresponding to the image data of FIG.
24 shows an applied voltage corresponding to the image data of the black portion 93c shown in FIG. 24, and (D) shows an applied voltage corresponding to the image data of the white portion 93d shown in FIG.

As described above, when the image data (print pattern) of the overcoat layer is determined, the applied voltage on each line and the voltage application time on each heating element are determined accordingly.

The transfer of the overcoat layer is performed based on the data of the central white portion 93a shown in FIG. 23. Normally, in order to maintain a temperature suitable for the transfer, one line to be transferred is shown in FIG. A ₀ (mse
Voltage control in which the voltage V ₀ is applied during c) and then pauses for b ₀ (msec) is repeatedly performed for each line. On the other hand, based on the data of the black portion 93c shown in FIG. 24, as shown in FIG. 25C, a ₀ (msec) is applied to the edge portion 95a corresponding to the vicinity of the recording paper edge of the overcoat layer. B ₀ (ms) after applying a voltage V ₀ + ΔV to give a larger thermal energy than normal
Voltage control is performed to pause during ec).

Here, the thermal energy E applied to the thermal head with respect to the edge portion 95a is obtained when the thermal energy applied to the thermal head with respect to the overcoat layer 95b other than the edge portion is E _0. , E = E ₀
+ ΔE, 1/5 ≦ ΔE / E ₀ ≦ 1. The lower limit of the setting range of ΔE / E ₀ is necessary for reliably transferring the overcoat layer to the recording paper, and the upper limit thereof is determined after the thermal energy becomes excessive and the overcoat layer is transferred. It is necessary to ensure that the rest of the film and the recording paper are separated from each other so that they do not stick.

The edge portion 95 of the overcoat layer
a is a portion corresponding to a range of 2 mm inward from the edge in the direction perpendicular to the recording paper conveyance direction, and reliable and efficient printing is possible.

The thermal energy E is given by E = (V ² / R), where V is the voltage applied to the thermal head, R is the resistance of the heating element of the thermal head, and t is the voltage application time.
Is represented by t. Therefore, when the heat energy E is controlled by the applied voltage V, 1/5 ≦ ΔE / E ₀ ≦ 1
From this, (6/5) · E ₀ ≦ E ₀ + ΔE ≦ 2 · E ₀ , so (6/5) · V ₀ ² ≦ (V ₀ + ΔV) ² ≦ 2 · V
₀ ² which is (6/5) ^1/2 · V ₀
≦ V ₀ + ΔV ≦ 2 ^1/2 · V ₀ .

Therefore, the voltage V applied to the thermal head 26 with respect to the edge portion 95a of the overcoat layer is the voltage V ₀ applied to the thermal head 26 with respect to the overcoat layer 95b other than the edge portion. In this case, V = V ₀ + ΔV, V ₀ · (−1+ (6/5)
^1/2 ) ≦ ΔV ≦ V ₀ · (−1 + 2 ^1/2 ).

Also, the central white portion 9 shown in FIG.
Since 3a and the central white portion 93d shown in FIG. 24 apply the same normal thermal energy, it is necessary to adjust the application time by the difference in the applied voltage. That is, FIG. 25 (D), the time a ₁ for applying a high voltage V = V ₀ + ΔV than normal, a ₁ = (V ₀ /
(V ₀ + ΔV)) Set shorter than a ₀ so as to satisfy ² · a ₀ .

FIG. 26 is a flowchart of the overcoat layer printing operation in the third embodiment. First, it is determined whether or not a line to be drawn is to apply thermal energy to at least one of the sides of the recording paper in one line for transferring the overcoat layer (step S81). That is, it is determined whether or not the print pattern of the overcoat layer is such that printing is performed on the edge portion 95a of the overcoat layer corresponding to the vicinity of the edge of the recording paper.

If YES in step S81, that is, if it is determined that the print pattern is a print pattern to be printed on the edge portion 95a of the overcoat layer, the flow advances to step S82 to increase the voltage applied to the thermal head 26 to a voltage higher than normal. After that, printing of the overcoat layer is performed.
That is, one line of the edge portion 95a of the overcoat layer is replaced with the overcoat layer 95b other than the edge portion.
Is transferred at an applied voltage V = V ₀ + ΔV which is larger than the voltage V ₀ applied to the thermal head 26 by ΔV.

On the other hand, if NO in step S81, that is, if it is determined that the print pattern does not print on the edge portion of the overcoat layer, step S84 is performed.
Proceeds to the voltage applied to the thermal head 26 in terms of the normal voltage V = V _0, to print the overcoat layer.

The printing of the overcoat layer is completed by repeating the above printing process up to the last line (step S83).

As described above, according to the third embodiment, the edge portion 95a of the overcoat layer corresponding to the vicinity of the edge in the direction orthogonal to the recording paper conveyance direction is compared with the overcoat layer 95b other than the edge portion. Is applied to the thermal head 26, so that heat can be transmitted well in the vicinity of both sides of the recording paper and the overcoat layer Transfer becomes good.

(Embodiment 4) In Embodiment 4, similarly to Embodiment 3 described above, the edge portion of the overcoat layer corresponding to the vicinity of the edge in the direction orthogonal to the recording paper transport direction is applied. Although thermal energy larger than thermal energy applied to the thermal head 26 with respect to the overcoat layer other than the edge portion is applied to the thermal head 26, the thermal head 26 is applied to the edge portion of the overcoat layer. The third embodiment differs from the third embodiment in that a method of setting the voltage application time for one drawing line longer than usual is adopted in order to increase the heat energy applied to 26. Note that the device configuration of the thermal transfer recording apparatus and the control method for driving the thermal head are the same as those in the second embodiment, and thus description thereof will be omitted.

For example, a case in which printing is performed with the overcoat layer printing pattern as shown in FIG. 22 will be described. One line of the overcoat layer corresponding to the VV line and the WW line in FIG. Are the same as those in the third embodiment as shown in FIGS. 23 and 24.

FIG. 27 is a time chart showing the voltage applied to the thermal head of the apparatus according to the fourth embodiment.
(A) is a white portion 93a shown in FIG. 23 and FIG.
Applied to the heating elements of the thermal head corresponding to the image data of FIG. 23 and FIG.
An applied voltage corresponding to the image data of the shaded portion 93b shown in FIG. 4 is shown, and (C) shows an applied voltage corresponding to the image data of the black portion 93c shown in FIG.

In this embodiment, since the heat energy E is controlled by the voltage application time t, the thermal energy E is controlled at the edge portion 95a of the overcoat layer from the above-mentioned relationship of E = (V ² / R) · t. On the other hand, the time a ₃ for applying a voltage to the thermal head 26 is a ₃ = a ₂ + Δt, where a ₂ is a time for applying a voltage to the thermal head 26 for the overcoat layer 95 b other than the edge portion. _Two
/ 5 ≦ Δt ≦ a ₂ . The normal voltage V ₀ is applied to the thermal head 26.
Is applied.

When the image data (print pattern) of the overcoat layer is determined in this manner, the voltage application time of each heating element in each line is determined accordingly, and the overcoat layer can be printed.

According to this embodiment, as in the case of the third embodiment, heat is well transmitted near both sides of the recording paper, and the transfer of the overcoat layer is improved.

(Embodiment 5) FIG. 28 shows Embodiment 5 of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a view showing an example of printing on an overcoat layer in the thermal transfer recording apparatus according to the first embodiment.

In the fifth embodiment, as shown in FIG. 28, when the overcoat layer is transferred over the entire length of the line including the edge portion of the overcoat layer in the direction perpendicular to the transport direction of the recording paper 18, The third embodiment differs from the third and fourth embodiments in that a larger thermal energy is applied to the thermal head 26 over the entire area of the line. Note that reference numeral “97” indicates a print area of the overcoat layer. As a specific way of applying large thermal energy,
It is possible to select whether to increase the applied voltage or to increase the application time, which is performed in the same manner as in the third or fourth embodiment. With such a configuration, it is possible to perform good transfer of the overcoat layer near both sides of the recording paper by simple control.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications can be made within the technical concept of the present invention. For example, in the above-described embodiment, the transfer of the write-out portion of the overcoat layer and the transfer of the edge portion corresponding to the vicinity of the side edge of the recording paper are described in different embodiments, respectively. Can of course be applied to a recording apparatus that performs processing combining these.

[0124]

As described above, according to the recording apparatus of the first aspect, a larger amount of heat energy is applied to the heating element than the write portion of the overcoat layer. A temperature suitable for the transfer of the overcoat layer can be quickly reached, and therefore, the transfer of the overcoat layer becomes good even in the writing portion.

According to the recording apparatus of the second aspect, the thermal energy applied to the heating element for the write-out portion of the overcoat layer becomes excessive, and the recording is performed with the rest of the film after the transfer of the overcoat layer. A temperature suitable for the transfer of the overcoat layer can be reached at a very short distance from the writing start position without causing sticking to the paper.

According to the recording apparatus of the third aspect, it is possible to prevent the temperature of the heating element from dropping and to maintain the temperature at which the transfer of the overcoat layer is good, so that the temperature suitable for the transfer can be maintained. While ensuring, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the rest of the film after transferring the overcoat layer and the recording paper are stuck.

According to the recording apparatus of the present invention, a larger amount of heat energy is applied to the heating element than the edge of the overcoat layer corresponding to the vicinity of the edge of the recording paper. Even if there is a gap at the edge of the recording paper, heat is transmitted well, and the transfer of the overcoat layer is also good near both sides of the recording paper.

According to the recording apparatus of the fifth aspect, it is possible that the heat energy applied to the heating element becomes excessive and the rest of the film after the transfer of the overcoat layer adheres to the recording paper. And the overcoat layer can be reliably transferred to the recording paper.

According to the recording apparatus of the sixth aspect, it is possible to reliably and efficiently transfer the overcoat layer near both sides of the recording paper in a favorable manner.

According to the recording apparatus of the seventh aspect, good transfer of the overcoat layer near both sides of the recording paper can be performed by simple control.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is an external perspective view showing a thermal transfer recording apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic sectional view showing a state in which a lid member of the present apparatus is opened.

FIG. 3 is a schematic sectional view showing a state in which an ink film cassette is loaded in a main body of the present apparatus.

FIGS. 4A to 4C are cross-sectional views illustrating an operation state of the present apparatus at the time of paper feeding, at the time of starting printing, and at the time of finishing printing.

FIGS. 5 (1) and (2) are cross-sectional views showing the operation state of the present apparatus at the time of cutting the front end and cutting the rear end.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a main part of a printing unit.

FIG. 7 is a plan view showing an ink film used in the present apparatus.

FIG. 8 is a control block diagram for driving a thermal head and a grip roller drive motor.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram for explaining details of control for driving the thermal head.

FIG. 10 is a time chart showing an example of an STB signal and a VUP signal and a voltage applied to the thermal head corresponding thereto.

FIG. 11 is a control flowchart when the operation shown in FIG. 10 is performed.

FIG. 12 is a view showing a printing example of an overcoat layer.

FIG. 13 is a time chart showing a voltage applied to the thermal head, wherein (A) shows a voltage applied to the thermal head with respect to a writing portion of the overcoat layer;
(B) shows the voltage applied to the thermal head with respect to the overcoat layer other than the writing portion.

FIG. 14 is a main flow of a printing operation of the overcoat layer.

FIG. 15 shows one line shown in FIG.
This is a subroutine of processing for drawing at V ₀ + ΔV.

[16] applied voltage V ₀ to 1 line shown in FIG. 14
Is a subroutine of processing for drawing.

FIG. 17 is a block diagram for explaining details of control for driving a thermal head of the thermal transfer recording apparatus according to the second embodiment.

18 is a time chart showing a voltage applied to the thermal head of the apparatus according to FIG. 17, (A) shows a voltage applied to the thermal head with respect to a writing portion of the overcoat layer, and (B) shows This shows the voltage applied to the thermal head for the overcoat layer other than the write-out portion.

19 is a main flow of an overcoat layer printing operation of the apparatus according to FIG. 17;

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of processing for drawing one line shown in FIG. 19 with a longer voltage application time than usual.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a subroutine of processing for drawing one line shown in FIG. 19 in a normal voltage application time.

FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a printing example of an overcoat layer in the thermal transfer recording apparatus according to the third embodiment.

23 is a diagram showing image data of one line of the overcoat layer corresponding to line VV in FIG. 22;

24 is a diagram showing image data of one line of the overcoat layer corresponding to line WW in FIG. 22;

FIG. 25 is a time chart showing a voltage applied to the thermal head of the device according to the third embodiment. FIG. FIG. 23 (B)
24, an applied voltage corresponding to the image data of the hatched portion shown in FIG. 24, (C) is an applied voltage corresponding to the image data of the black portion shown in FIG. 24, and (D) is an image of the white portion shown in FIG. This shows the applied voltage corresponding to the data.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart of an overcoat layer printing operation according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 27 is a time chart showing a voltage applied to the thermal head of the device according to the fourth embodiment, where (A) is a heating element of the thermal head corresponding to the image data of the white portion shown in FIGS. 23 and 24; Voltage applied to
(B) shows the applied voltage corresponding to the image data of the hatched portion shown in FIGS. 23 and 24, and (C) shows the applied voltage corresponding to the image data of the black portion shown in FIG.

FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating a printing example of an overcoat layer in the thermal transfer recording apparatus according to the fifth embodiment.

[Explanation of symbols]

 18: Recording paper, 26: Thermal head (heating element), 32: Ink film, 33: Ink film cassette, 90: Controller, 92a: Writing part, 95a: Edge part, O: Overcoat layer.

Claims (7)

[Claims] 1. A recording apparatus for transferring an image onto a recording sheet by a heating element using an ink film to form an image, wherein, in a final stage of printing, an overcoat layer of the ink film covering the recording sheet has a portion other than the writing portion A heat energy which is larger than a heat energy applied to the heating element with respect to the overcoat layer. 2. The thermal energy E applied to the heating element with respect to the write-out portion of the overcoat layer is the thermal energy E ₀ applied to the heating element with respect to the overcoat layer other than the write-out portion. 2. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, when E = E ₀ + ΔE, 1/2 ≦ ΔE / E ₀ ≦ 1 is satisfied. 3. The writing portion of the overcoat layer extends from a writing start position to a position within 2 mm in a printing direction and a temperature detected by a temperature detecting thermistor attached to the heating element does not reach 40 ° C. 3. The recording device according to claim 1, wherein the recording device is a part. 4. A recording apparatus for transferring an image to a recording sheet by a heating element using an ink film to form an image, wherein an overcoat layer of the ink film covering the recording sheet in a final stage of printing is orthogonal to a recording sheet conveyance direction. And applying heat energy to the heating element, which is larger than the heat energy applied to the heating element to an overcoat layer other than the edge section, with respect to the edge portion corresponding to the vicinity of the edge in the direction. Recording device. 5. The thermal energy E applied to the heating element with respect to the edge portion of the overcoat layer is the thermal energy E ₀ applied to the heating element with respect to the overcoat layer other than the edge portion. 5. The recording apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, when E = E ₀ + ΔE, 1/5 ≦ ΔE / E ₀ ≦ 1 is satisfied. 6. An edge portion of the overcoat layer,
2 m inward from the edge in the direction perpendicular to the recording paper transport direction
The recording device according to claim 4, wherein the recording device is a portion corresponding to a range of m. 7. When transferring the overcoat layer over the entire length of a line including the edge portion in a direction perpendicular to the recording paper conveyance direction, the large heat energy is applied to the heating element over the entire area of the line. The recording device according to claim 4, wherein the voltage is applied.