Canon global

I assume that paper feed precision would naturally be an issue in improving image quality in the development of this system?

Nagahara

The precision of the feed mechanism in previous models had already reached a considerably high level, but we worked to improve it further. We managed to reduce errors that occur in a single print feed to just a few microns.

How did you do that?

Nagahara

We redesigned and tested each individual area where precision seemed to be relatively lax and repeated this process over and over. For example, it helps to have a paper guide that firmly holds the paper on both sides during the paper-feed process, but paper-feed accuracy improves if the paper guide is not in contact with the paper during printing. So, I thought we should experiment with a variety of paper types. That's what it was like. We also improved the overall rigidity of the feed mechanism by thoroughly eliminating the flexure, offset and other issues that occur on the roller.

The PRO-1 incorporates an off-carriage ink tank system that utilizes a tubular ink supply system from fixed ink tanks, a first for Canon inkjet printers. What benefits does this provide for users?

Nagahara

The ink tanks need to be changed less frequently. Since the tanks aren't attached to the print head, we were able to provide them with greater capacity. Under the same conditions, it's now possible to print 2.5 times more than before.

Off-carriage ink tank system

The tubular ink supply system was developed completely from scratch. Did you face any issues during development?

Nagahara

Yes, there were many issues (laughs). First, we had to repeatedly conduct tests, beginning with the selection of the tube material. It had to be neither too hard nor too soft, and not allow any moisture in the ink to evaporate. Also, the hardness of the material affects print head movement.

I see. So when doing something for the first time, you need to begin by considering which type of material to use.

Nagahara

The next problem we faced was that the mechanism would become quite heavy when using a set of 12 tubes containing ink. The movement of the tubes causes the print head to vibrate.

Kudo

The pressure placed on the ink within the tubes can change when the tubes move around, which can affect the ink discharge from the nozzle.

Nagahara

We addressed each problem caused by the free movement of the tubes through such steps as using a structure to offset vibration and changing the tube length and retention method.
To fill the tubes with ink, the tubular ink supply system also required mechanisms to apply pressure on the tank side and provide suction on the print head side. Despite its simple appearance, the system presented many technological issues.

No matter how good a machine is, its value drops if it's too difficult to use. In this way, the Print Studio Pro printing application software developed by Mr. Yamamoto's group plays an important role. Could you tell us about it?

What are the most distinguishing characteristics of this development?

Yamamoto

We placed emphasis on the user interface and enabled all configurations to be carried out on a single screen.

Print Studio Pro

I understand that you also conducted numerous interviews with photographers during development.

Yamamoto

Yes, we learned a variety of things. For example, we found out that a user's configuration content and procedures can differ depending on the editing software and operating system, and we were asked to do things in a certain way. We organized all of the feedback we received and spent time considering to what extent they should be reflected in the software.

I see. What sort of user feedback left the strongest impression?

Yamamoto

For example, one user said, “Professional photographers pay so much attention to color that we work in rooms with only white walls when making color adjustments to photos. Therefore, it would be nice if consideration was given to the color of the frames and backgrounds used in printing applications.” In response, we use gray-based frames in the new software.

I'm not surprised that professional photographers have such pointed feedback.

Yamamoto

It was very interesting to hear from the point of view of professional photographers, who notice even the slightest deviation in color. During these interviews, I recall thinking that I wanted to make software that would bring out the best of their creativity.