JP2000094757A - Code image recorder - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent to the utmost a paper jam caused by unintentional cutting of a printing medium by a code image recorder of a type to print and record division code images. SOLUTION: The code image formation output part 76 of a code image conversion part 56 forms code images obtained by dividing a code image to be consecutively print-recorded into a plurality of division code images for every preset specific length of print-recording in the direction of the carrying of a label-like printing medium. And a division code output-count judging part 86 detects, under control by a printer-output control part 58, that the print- recording of all the division code images is finished by the printer 16, and informs a user of it under the control of a speaker 12 by a sound-output control part 54.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a code for printing information such as voice, video, text data and the like inputted by a microphone or the like on a predetermined print medium as an optically readable code image. The present invention relates to an image recording device.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art The applicant of the present invention has proposed a dot code which is a code image for printing and recording an audio in an optically readable form on a print medium such as a paper surface, and the dot code on a predetermined print medium. JP-A-6-23146 has invented a recording apparatus for printing and recording optically readable information.
No. 6 is proposed.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a physical format configuration of the dot code. That is, the code image of the dot code 1 is constituted by a plurality of blocks 2 arranged two-dimensionally adjacently, and each block 2 is composed of data divided for each block of data relating to audio. A data area 3 existing in a predetermined arrangement as a dot image of white dots or black dots corresponding to the value “0” or “1”, and a reference point for detecting each dot of the data area 3 And a marker 4 having a constant number of continuous blacks arranged at the four corners of each block 2 used to find a plurality of blocks 2 and an error detection arranged between the markers 4 so that the plurality of different blocks 2 can be identified at the time of reading. Or a block address pattern 5 including an error correction code. Note that the vertical and horizontal grid lines drawn in the block 2 are virtual lines, and do not exist in the actual code image of the dot code 1.

A dot code having such a physical format configuration can be used even if the size of the imaging surface of the solid-state imaging device of the reading device is smaller than the size of the entire dot code. Even if it is not possible to take a single shot with the solid-state imaging device, if the addresses assigned to the blocks can be read and recognized, the original data can be reconstructed from the data of each block by the addresses. As a result, a large amount of data that could not be realized by a well-known one-dimensional or two-dimensional barcode conventionally known can be held on a paper surface or the like. The transmission of such voice information can be easily performed, and expectations are expanding for various uses that have not been considered before.

[0005] As a recording device used here, for example, in addition to a general printing device, a dot code is continuously optically printed on a label-shaped print medium sequentially fed in a predetermined one-dimensional direction along the feeding direction. And a label printer that prints and records data so that it can be read.

This label printer is particularly excellent in portability and simplicity, and can be said to be an extremely high-potential code image recording apparatus.

The present applicant has proposed Japanese Patent Application No. 10-32592 for the purpose of further improving the usability of a code image recording apparatus including such a label printer. This is audio, video, or information input means for inputting at least one information of text data,
Code image conversion means for converting the information input by the information input means into code data and converting it into a code image in accordance with a predetermined format; and converting the code image converted by the code image conversion means in a predetermined one-dimensional direction. Recording means for continuously printing and recording optically readable on a printing medium which is sequentially fed along the feeding direction, and a code image which is continuously printed and recorded along the feeding direction of the printing medium. Non-recording area insertion means for inserting a code image non-recording area for each predetermined print recording length, the recording means,
Disclosed is a code image recording device that prints and records each code image such that the at least one input information is divided and included in each code image divided by the code image non-recording area. .

Accordingly, for example, when an input voice is printed and recorded as a code image, even if the length of the code image becomes unnecessarily long, the user can easily place the code image non-recording area. By cutting, the code image can be divided without damaging the code image, and as a result, there is an advantage that a relatively free code image layout configuration can be obtained.

[0009]

By the way, a code image recording apparatus of the type which prints and records a divided code image as described above also uses a print medium in the same manner as a label printer of the type which prints ordinary characters. It is preferable in terms of usability to provide cutting means such as a cutter for cutting.

[0010] In this case, however, the user may inadvertently cut the print medium using the cutter before all the divided code images are completely printed and recorded. Such inconveniences are caused.

That is, the user mistakenly recognizes that the code image has been completely printed and recorded by printing and recording a certain divided code image, and inadvertently prints using the cutter at that time. There is a risk that the medium will be cut, and the printing operation of the subsequent divided code image will be hindered by the cutter operation, and as a result, a paper jam will occur.

The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and in a code image recording apparatus of a type that prints and records a divided code image, a code image recording apparatus that minimizes paper jam due to careless cutting operation of a print medium. The purpose is to provide.

[0013]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a code image recording apparatus for inputting at least one of audio, video, and text data. Input means, code image conversion means for converting the information input by the information input means into code data and converting it into a code image conforming to a predetermined format, and transporting a print medium for printing and recording the code image in a predetermined direction And a code image converted by the code image converting means, and the code image is printed on the printing medium continuously and optically readable along the conveying direction of the printing medium conveyed by the medium conveying means. And a recording means for recording the image in the recording medium. Every set predetermined print recording length,
Code image dividing means for dividing the code image continuously printed and recorded into a plurality of divided code images, wherein all of the divided code images divided by the code image dividing means are printed and recorded by the recording means. It further comprises a notifying means for detecting and notifying the fact.

That is, according to the code image recording apparatus of the present invention, the notifying means detects and notifies that all the divided code images have been printed and recorded. Therefore, the user can easily recognize that the code image is being discharged, can effectively prevent an erroneous cutting operation, can cut the medium without any trouble without causing a paper jam, and can use the apparatus comfortably. .

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a code image recording apparatus, comprising: information input means for inputting at least one of audio, video and text data; and information input by the information input means. A code image converting means for converting the code image into a code image according to a predetermined format, a medium conveying means for conveying a print medium for printing and recording the code image in a predetermined direction, and a conversion by the code image converting means Recording means for printing and recording the code image continuously and optically readable on the print medium along the transport direction of the print medium transported by the medium transport means, The code image conversion means is provided for each of a predetermined print recording length set in advance along the transport direction of the print medium. A code image dividing unit that divides a code image to be sequentially printed and recorded into a plurality of divided code images, and detects that the divided code image divided by the code image dividing unit is printed and recorded by the recording unit; And a notifying means for notifying.

That is, according to the code image recording apparatus of the present invention, the notifying means detects and notifies that the divided code image is in the middle of printing and recording. Therefore, the user can easily recognize that the code image is being discharged, can effectively prevent an erroneous cutting operation, can cut the medium without any trouble without causing a paper jam, and can use the apparatus comfortably. .

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a code image recording apparatus comprising: an information input unit for inputting at least one of audio, video, and text data; and an information input by the information input unit. A code image converting means for converting the code image into a code image according to a predetermined format, a medium conveying means for conveying a print medium for printing and recording the code image in a predetermined direction, and a conversion by the code image converting means Recording means for printing and recording the code image continuously and optically readable on the print medium in the transport direction of the print medium transported by the medium transport means, and transporting the code image by the medium transport means Cutting means for cutting the printed print medium, wherein the cutting means cuts the print medium. By detecting the work and further comprising a control means for prohibiting the print recording operation by said recording means.

That is, according to the code image recording apparatus of the present invention, the control means detects that the cutting operation of the recording medium is being performed, and inhibits the print recording operation. . Therefore, even if the user inadvertently prints and records the code image during the cutting operation, the medium is not conveyed for the print recording. If it is turned over, the user can be effectively prevented from performing an erroneous cutting operation during printing of the code image, that is, while the medium is being conveyed, and the medium can be cut without causing a paper jam without any trouble, thereby providing a comfortable use of the apparatus. Can be.

[0019]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a code image recording apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an appearance of the code image recording apparatus. FIG. In this code image recording device, a microphone 10 for inputting audio, a speaker 12 for confirming and reproducing the input audio, and a printer 16 for printing the dot code 1 on a label-shaped print medium 14 are the same. Of the type arranged in the housing of the above.

On the upper surface and each side surface of the code image recording apparatus, a voice input start operation unit 20, a reproduction operation operation unit 22, a print operation unit 24, a stop operation unit 26, a data amount display unit 28, Remaining divided code display unit 30, code generation parameter setting unit 3
2. A voice inputtable data amount setting unit 34 and a code division length setting unit 36 are provided.

The voice input start operation unit 20 is provided with, for example, “R” for instructing the start of voice input from the microphone 10.
The "EC" button 20A, and the reproduction operation operation unit 22 is, for example, a "PLAY" button 22A for instructing the start of sound reproduction from the speaker 12. Further, the print operation unit 24 outputs, for example, “PRIN” for instructing the printer 16 to start printing the dot code 1.
T "button 24A, and the stop operation unit 26 is, for example,
"STOP" button 26 for instructing to stop each operation
A.

The data amount display unit 28 displays, for example, the remaining amount of inputtable data obtained from the preset total audio input data amount and the audio already input from the microphone 10 and the speaker 1.
The divided code remaining number display unit 30 displays one continuous dot code 1A on the label print medium 14 with the non-recording area 14A interposed therebetween, as shown in FIG. This is for displaying the number of unprinted divided codes when printing as the divided code 1B divided into a plurality. Actually, the data amount display section 28 and the divided code remaining number display section 30 are not displayed at the same time.
It is configured as an indicator 30A for displaying the remaining input amount / reproduced progress / remaining number of divided codes composed of ED.

The code generation parameter setting section 32
Is an input section for inputting various parameters for creating a code image of the dot code 1 such as a dot diameter, a dot pitch, and a resolution. The voice inputtable data amount setting section 34 sets the total voice input data amount. Is a setting operation unit. The code generation parameter setting unit 32 and the voice inputtable data amount setting unit 34 are not limited to those operated by the user as described above, and may be ones in which parameters are stored in a ROM or the like in advance. The good thing is, of course.

The code division length setting section 36 is for instructing the recording form of the code image of the dot code 1 on the label print medium 14, and is configured as, for example, a long / short changeover switch 36A. here,
The long / short as a recording form of the dot code 1 is defined as a case where one dot code is divided into a plurality of parts with a non-recording area therebetween and recorded on the label-shaped print medium 14.
The length of each divided portion. For example, if the length is long, the length is such that a label-shaped print medium can be stuck on A4 portrait paper in the horizontal direction. If it is short, the length is horizontal (or vertical). The length must be such that a label-shaped print medium can be stuck on the postcard in the horizontal direction.

Reference numeral 38 in FIG. 2 is a playback volume for setting the volume of the playback sound from the speaker 12, and reference numeral 40 is a jack for inputting / outputting sound from / to the outside. .

Reference numeral 42 denotes a label printing medium 14 on which the dot code 1 is printed, as shown in FIG.
This is an operation lever (cutter lever) for operating the built-in cutter 44 for cutting off. That is, the printed label-shaped print medium 14 is led out of the apparatus through the blades of the built-in cutter 44, and when the user depresses the cutter lever 42, the built-in cutter 4
The blade 4 is closed to cut the label print medium 14.

The voice input start operation unit 20, reproduction operation operation unit 22, print operation unit 24, and stop operation unit 26 function as an operation mode setting unit 46. The operation signals of the operation mode setting unit 46 are The data is input to the operation mode detection permission control unit 50 via the input / output operation control unit 48. The operation mode detection permission control unit 50 detects each of the input operation signals and the current operation mode, and according to them,
It controls the operation states of the voice input processing unit 52, the sound output control unit 54, the code image conversion unit 56, and the printer output control unit 58, and details of the operations will be described later.

The audio input processing unit 52 amplifies, filters, performs A /
It performs processing such as D conversion. The voice input processing unit 52 is set to an operation start state by an operation signal of the voice input start operation unit 20, and is set to an operation stop state by an operation signal of the stop operation unit 26. The operation is not started unless the operation mode detection permission control unit 50 gives an operation permission.

The digital audio data output from the audio input processing unit 52 is compression-encoded by the audio data compression encoding unit 60 in units of, for example, 30 msec audio frames, and stored in the data temporary storage unit 62. At this time, the input data remaining amount calculation unit 66 of the audio data amount detection unit 64 determines the number of frames compressed by the audio data compression encoding unit 60 and the audio inputtable data amount setting unit 3
From the number of audio frames corresponding to the total audio data to be input set in step 4, the input data amount, that is, the remaining amount, is calculated, and the result is transmitted via the input / output operation control unit 48. This is given to the data amount display drive unit 68. The data amount display drive unit 68 controls the lighting of the five LEDs of the input remaining amount / playback progress / divided code remaining number display indicator 30A as the data amount display unit 28 in accordance with the remaining amount, and sets the remaining inputtable amount. Display the amount. For example, all five LEDs are turned on at the start of voice input, and the number of lights of these five LEDs is decreased from left to right as the remaining input amount decreases, thereby reducing the remaining input possible amount. Represent.

The sound output control unit 54 performs processing such as D / A conversion, filtering, and amplification of the audio data in order to reproduce and output the audio data from the speaker 12, and according to the operation status of the code image recording apparatus. And various notification sounds are output from the speaker 12. The sound output control unit 54 is set to an operation start state by an operation signal of the reproduction operation operation unit 22 and is set to an operation stop state by an operation signal of the stop operation unit 26. The operation is not started unless the mode detection permission control unit 50 gives an operation permission.

The audio data supplied to the audio output control unit 54 is obtained by expanding the compression-encoded data stored in the data temporary storage unit 62 by the audio data expansion processing unit 70. At this time, data indicating how many frames have been expanded by the audio data decompression processing unit 70 is supplied from the audio data decompression processing unit 70 to the reproduction data amount calculation unit 72 of the audio data amount detection unit 64,
The reproduced data amount calculation unit 72 calculates how much of the data stored in the data temporary storage unit 62 has been reproduced. Then, the result is given to the data amount display driving unit 68 via the input / output operation control unit 48, and the input remaining amount / reproducing progress / split code remaining number display indicator 30A as the data amount display unit 28 is displayed. The lighting of the five LEDs is controlled, and the reproduction progress state is displayed.
This indicates, for example, that all five LEDs are turned off at the start of reproduction, and the number of lights of these five LEDs is increased from the right side to the left side with the progress of reproduction, thereby indicating the progress of reproduction.

The printer output control section 58 controls the printer 16 to control the code image conversion section 5.
6 is to print the code image of the dot code 1 converted. The printer output control unit 58 is set to an operation start state by an operation signal of the print operation unit 24 and is set to an operation stop state by an operation signal of the stop operation unit 26. The operation is not started unless the detection permission control unit 50 gives an operation permission.

The code image conversion unit 56 that supplies the code image of the dot code 1 to the printer output control unit 58 includes an encoding processing unit 74 that encodes the compression-encoded audio data stored in the data temporary storage unit 62. And a code image generation / output unit 76 that converts encoded data into a code image and outputs the code image. In this case, the operation of the encoding processing unit 74 is controlled by the operation mode detection permission control unit 50. Also, for example, various parameters necessary for encoding and code image generation and output, such as compression ratio, resolution, the number of blocks, the division length of the dot code described above, and the like,
It is provided from the code parameter setting unit 32 and the code division length setting unit 36.

That is, the code image generation / output unit 76
As shown in FIG. 5A, it is composed of a code length calculation unit 78, a code division determination unit 80, a division number calculation unit 82, and a code image generation unit 84.

The code length calculating section 78 calculates the length of a code image based on the data amount of the encoded data from the encoding processing section 74. The code division determination unit 80 determines whether to print the continuous dot code 1A as shown in FIG. 3 as a result of the user's selection by the code division selection unit 32A as a part of the code generation parameter setting unit 32, It is determined whether 1B is to be printed. If it is determined that the division code 1B is to be printed, the division code output instruction is output to the code image generation unit 84.
And the entire code length calculated by the code length calculation unit 78 is supplied to the division number calculation unit 82. The division number calculation unit 82 calculates how many divided codes 1B need to be generated according to the supplied overall code length and the setting by the code division length setting unit 36. Then, the calculated division number N is supplied to the division code output number counting determination section 86, and the data amount of the division code 1B is given to the code image generation section 84.

Thus, the code image generator 84
The encoded data from the encoding processing unit 74 is converted into code image data and output to the printer output control unit 58. When the code division determination unit 80 receives a divided code output command, the encoded data is supplied from the division number calculation unit 82. The code image data in units of divided codes corresponding to the data amount to be output is output to the printer output control unit 58.

That is, when the operation permission by the operation mode detection permission control section 50 is given from the operation mode detection permission control section 50, the printer output control section 58 prints the label-like print by the medium transport mechanism (not shown) of the printer 16. While the medium 14 is being conveyed, the code image data from the code image generating unit 84 is printed on the label print medium 14 by a print head (not shown) of the printer 16.

Here, when a divided code output command is given from the code division judging section 80, if printing of one divided code 1B is performed, the driving of the print head is temporarily stopped. Is transported by a predetermined amount without being stopped. The method of transporting the predetermined amount is to include margin data enough to form a non-recording area in the code image in the data, so that the medium is transported mechanically based on the margin data. There are two cases in which the medium is conveyed independently after the division code 1B having no margin data is printed. After the conveyance of the predetermined amount is completed, a medium feeding and printing operation for outputting the next divided code is performed. By repeating such an operation, the divided code 1 constituting the unit code
When printing of the last of B is completed, the drive of the print head is stopped, the medium is conveyed by the predetermined amount, and a series of printing operations is completed.

The printer output control unit 58 supplies the output divided code number n to the divided code output number counting judgment unit 86 every time one divided code 1B is printed.
As shown in FIG. 5A, the division code output number counting determination unit 86 calculates the difference between the total number N of divisions from the division number calculation unit 82 and the number n of division codes to obtain the remaining number N− a division code output number counting unit 88 for calculating n; a code output completion determination unit 90 for determining whether the output of the unit code is completed, that is, whether or not all the division codes 1B have been printed based on the output of the division code output number counting unit 88; It is composed of

The division code output number counting section 88 displays the remaining number obtained as described above and the total number of divisions supplied from the division number calculation section 82 through the input / output operation control section 48 to display the remaining number. This is given to the drive unit 92. The remaining number display drive unit 92 includes:
In accordance with the remaining amount and the total number of divided codes, the lighting of the five LEDs of the input remaining amount / reproduction progress / divided code remaining number display indicator 30A as the divided code remaining number display section 30 is controlled to control the remaining divided code number. Is displayed.

FIG. 5B is a diagram showing how the indicator 30A for displaying the remaining input amount / elapsed reproduction / remaining divided code number is actually turned on. Is shown. That is, at the start of printing the division code, for example, if the total number of divisions N calculated by the division number calculation unit 82 is 4, four LEDs are turned on, and every time one division code is printed, one LED is turned on from the left. LE lights up individually
D decreases. In this case, in addition to simply keeping the LED lit, in order to make the remaining number clearer,
The leftmost LED that is turned on may be displayed blinking.

On the other hand, the code output completion judging section 90
When the start of the printing operation is detected from the remaining number output from the division code output number counting unit 88, the cutter operation control unit 9
4 is given a print start signal. As a result, the cutter operation control section 94 provides a cutter lock member (for example, a plunger) 96A provided in the cutter mechanism section 96 as shown in FIG.
Is driven to restrict the movement of the cutter lever 42 so that the label cutter 14 cannot be cut by the built-in cutter 44. When the code output completion determination section 90 detects that all the divided codes 1B constituting the unit code have been printed from the remaining number, the code output completion determination section 90 gives a print end signal. Thereby, the cutter operation control unit 9
4 drives the cutter lock member 96A to allow the cutter lever 42 to move freely, thereby allowing the built-in cutter 44 to move.
In such a state that the label-shaped print medium 14 can be cut by the printer.

The cutter mechanism 96 is provided with a cutter operation detection sensor 98A as a cutter operation detector 98 for detecting the state of the cutter lever 42.
At the start of printing, the cutter operation control unit 94 detects that the built-in cutter 44 in which the cutter lever 42 is pressed down is not being operated by the cutter operation detection sensor 98A, and then drives the cutter lock member 96A. The movement of the cutter lever 42 is regulated. At this time, in order to notify the user that the cutter operation has been locked (prohibited), the cutter operation control unit 94 sends a predetermined lock state notification signal to the sound output control unit 54, and the sound output control unit 54 In response to this, for example, a notification sound such as “beep” or a voice message such as “not yet cut” is generated from the speaker 12.

The code output completion determining section 90
The above-mentioned print start signal and print end signal are output to the sound output control unit 5.
4 and the sound output control unit 54 responds
In order to notify the user of the start and end of printing to the user, for example, a beep sound or a voice message such as "printing is completed" is generated from the speaker 12. In addition, the code output completion determination unit 90 provides a one-split code printing end signal to the sound output control unit 54 in accordance with the change in the remaining number, so that a notification sound such as “beep” A voice message such as “No” may be generated from the speaker 12.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a printing operation which is a characteristic part of such a code image recording apparatus.
That is, upon receiving the input of the encoded data (step S10), the code length calculation unit 78 calculates the code length (step S12). Here, the code division determination unit 8
0, it is determined whether to print the continuous dot code 1A or the divided code 1B (step S1).
4). If it is determined that the division code 1B is to be printed,
Upon receiving the setting of the division unit length by the user using the code division length setting unit 36 (step S16), the division number calculation unit 8
In step S2, the total number of divisions is calculated and the total number N of divisions is set (step S18). When printing the continuous dot code 1A, 1 is set to the total number N of divisions (step S2).
0).

When the total number N of divisions is set in this way,
Then, after waiting for the "PRINT" button 24A to be turned on (step S22), the total number N of divisions is calculated by input remaining amount /
It is displayed by the reproduction progress / divided code remaining number display indicator 30A (step S24), and the divided code image data is generated by the code image generator 84 (step S26). Thereafter, here, after the cutter operation control unit 94 confirms that the built-in cutter 44 is not being operated by the output of the cutter operation detection sensor 98A (step S28), the cutter operation is locked by driving the cutter lock member 96A (step S28). In addition, the sound output control unit 54 causes the speaker 12 to generate a notification sound indicating that the lock has been performed (step S30).

In step S28, the fact that the printing operation of the division code 1B is prohibited may be notified by detecting that the cutter operation detecting sensor 98A is performing the cutter operation.

Then, based on the generated divided code image data, the printer 16 prints out an image of the divided code 1B (step S32). Here, the total number of divided code outputs n is obtained by the divided code number counting section 88 (step S34), and the remaining input / reproduced / remaining divided code display indicator 30A is divided by the remaining number display driving section 92 into the divided code 30D. Turns off for the number of outputs (step S3
6). At this time, the end of printing of the one division code may be notified by the speaker 12.

Then, the code output completion determining section 90 determines whether or not printing has been performed for the total number of divisions (step S38). If not, the process returns to step S26. On the other hand, when printing has been performed for the total number of divisions, the cutter operation control unit 94 controls the cutter lock member 9.
Release the lock of the cutter operation by 6A (step S
40), the sound output control unit 54 causes the speaker 12 to generate a notification sound notifying the completion of the output of the total number of divided codes (step S42).

Thereafter, the user determines whether or not to cut the label printing medium 14 in dot code units, that is, whether or not to print the same dot code further (step S44). The process returns to step S10.

The label printing medium 14 in dot code units
Is cut by the built-in cutter 44 (step S46), and the printing operation is terminated. [Second
Embodiment] Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

In the first embodiment, when it is detected in step S28 that the cutting operation of the recording medium is being performed, the print recording operation is not started. "PRI"
When the "NT" button 24A is turned on, the built-in cutter 44
It is assumed that it is a normal operation situation that it is not operated.

Therefore, in the second embodiment, as shown in the flowchart of FIG.
When the switch 4A is turned on (step S22), the cutter lock member 96A is immediately driven to lock (prohibit) the cutter operation, and the sound output control unit 54 issues a notification sound indicating that the printing operation is being performed by the speaker. 12 (step S5).
0).

After that, the total number of divisions N is indicated by the remaining input / reproduced / remaining division code display indicator 30A.
(Step S24), and the code image generation unit 84 generates divided code image data (step S26). Then, based on the generated divided code image data, the printer 16 prints out an image of the divided code 1B (step S32).

Other Steps S10 to S2
0 and the processing after step S34 are the same as those in the first embodiment. Although the present invention has been described based on the embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and applications are possible within the scope of the present invention.

For example, in the first and second embodiments, the code image recording device prints the sound from the microphone as a dot code, but the image from the camera, the text data from the personal computer, etc. Alternatively, other multimedia information may be input and printed as a dot code.

Here, the gist of the present invention is summarized as follows. (1) An information input unit for inputting at least one of audio, video, and text data, and the information input by the information input unit is converted into code data and converted into a code image according to a predetermined format. Code image conversion means, medium conveyance means for conveying a print medium for printing and recording the code image in a predetermined direction, and print medium for conveying the code image converted by the code image conversion means by the medium conveyance means Recording means for continuously printing and recording optically readable on the print medium along the transport direction of the code image recording apparatus, wherein the code image conversion means, the transport direction of the print medium A plurality of code images that are continuously printed and recorded for each predetermined print recording length set in advance along Including code image dividing means for dividing into divided code images, all of the divided code images divided by the code image dividing means,
A code image recording apparatus, further comprising a notifying unit for detecting and notifying that printing has been performed by the recording unit.

That is, the length of the code image obtained by converting the input information necessarily changes depending on the amount of information. As a natural desire, the user wants to record or affix the converted code image in many situations to a desired medium area. By outputting the code image divided into appropriate lengths so that the code image can be recorded or affixed to the desired area, the user can arrange and record the code image in accordance with the desired area of the medium.

However, when a code image is divided and printed sequentially using the code image recording apparatus of the present invention, one code image printed and recorded by the user is output as a number of divided code images. Or
Alternatively, it is important to know when the printing of the code image is completed. If the completion time of the print recording is not known, the medium may be inadvertently cut during the output of the divided code image, and the cutting means itself may prevent the next feeding of the medium and may cause a paper jam inside the apparatus. The result is that it does.

Therefore, as described in the book (1), if a means is provided for notifying that all the divided code images have been printed and recorded, the user can easily recognize that the code image is being discharged. In addition, an erroneous cutting operation can be effectively prevented, the medium can be cut without any trouble without causing a paper jam, and the apparatus can be used comfortably.

(2) The above code image recording device comprises:
The image processing apparatus further includes a cutting unit that cuts the print medium conveyed by the medium conveying unit, and detects that all of the divided code images divided by the code image dividing unit are printed and recorded by the recording unit. The code image recording apparatus according to (1), further comprising control means for permitting a cutting operation of the cutting means.

That is, since it is detected that all the divided code images have been printed and recorded, the medium cutting operation is permitted for the first time. Therefore, even if the user attempts to perform the cutting operation carelessly during the printing and recording, the medium is cut off. It cannot be cut. Therefore, it is possible to effectively prevent the user from performing an erroneous cutting operation during printing and recording of the code image, to cut the medium without causing a paper jam without any trouble, and to use the apparatus comfortably.

(3) The control means according to (2), wherein the control means prohibits a cutting operation of the cutting means during printing and recording of the divided code image by the recording means. Code image recording device.

That is, since the medium cutting operation is prohibited while the divided code image is being printed and recorded, even if the user tries to perform the cutting operation carelessly during the printing and recording, it is not possible to cut the medium. Can not. Therefore, it is possible to effectively prevent the user from performing an erroneous cutting operation during printing and recording of the code image, to cut the medium without causing a paper jam without any trouble, and to use the apparatus comfortably.

(4) The code image recording apparatus according to (3), wherein the notifying means further notifies that the cutting operation of the cutting means is prohibited by the control means. .

That is, as described in the above (4), if the medium cutting operation can be prohibited while the divided code image is being printed and recorded, and the fact can be notified,
First, the user is warned not to inadvertently cut during printing and printing, and even if the cutting operation is inadvertently performed, the medium cannot be cut. Therefore, it is possible to effectively prevent the user from performing an erroneous cutting operation during printing and recording of the code image, to cut the medium without causing a paper jam without any trouble, and to use the apparatus comfortably.

(5) The code image recording apparatus according to (1), wherein the notification means includes a display means for displaying a print recording status of the divided code image by the recording means.

That is, as described in the above (5), if the medium cutting operation is prohibited while the divided code image is being printed and recorded, and the print recording state of the divided code image is displayed to that effect. In addition to being able to visually recognize that the code image is being printed, the user can recognize the progress of the print record and predict how long to wait before printing the code image. it can. This makes it possible to shorten the period during which the cutting operation may be performed unexpectedly, and to call attention to careless cutting. Therefore, it is possible to effectively prevent the user from performing an erroneous cutting operation during printing and recording of the code image, to cut the medium without causing a paper jam without any trouble, and to use the apparatus comfortably.

(6) The print recording status of the divided code image is one of the completion of the print recording of all the divided code images and the number of divided code images printed and recorded. The code image recording device according to the above.

That is, as described in the item (6), the medium cutting operation is prohibited while the divided code image is being printed and recorded. Is displayed,
The user can visually recognize that the code image is being recorded. Therefore, it is possible to easily predict or confirm the print recording completion timing of all divided codes, that is, code images. This makes it possible to shorten the period during which the cutting operation may be performed unexpectedly, and to call attention to careless cutting. Therefore, it is possible to effectively prevent the user from performing an erroneous cutting operation during printing and recording of the code image, to cut the medium without causing a paper jam without any trouble, and to use the apparatus comfortably.

(7) Information input means for inputting at least one of audio, video, or text data, and code information in accordance with a predetermined format by converting the information input by the information input means into code data Code image conversion means for converting the code image, a medium conveyance means for conveying a print medium for printing and recording the code image in a predetermined direction, and a code image converted by the code image conversion means, conveyed by the medium conveyance means Recording means for continuously printing and recording optically readable on the print medium along the transport direction of the print medium, wherein the code image conversion means comprises: The code code that is continuously printed and recorded at every predetermined print recording length set in advance along the transport direction of A code image dividing unit that divides the image into a plurality of divided code images; and a notifying unit that detects and notifies that the divided code image divided by the code image dividing unit is printed and recorded by the recording unit. A code image recording device, comprising:

That is, the length of the code image obtained by converting the input information necessarily changes depending on the amount of information. As a natural desire, the user wants to record or affix the converted code image in many situations to a desired medium area. By outputting the code image divided into appropriate lengths so that the code image can be recorded or attached to the desired area, the user can arrange and record the code image in accordance with the desired area of the medium.

However, when a code image is divided and printed sequentially using the code image recording apparatus of the present invention, one code image printed and recorded for the user is output as a number of divided code images. Or
Alternatively, it is important to know when the printing of the code image is completed.

If the completion time of the print recording is not known, the medium may be cut carelessly during the output of the divided code image. This results in a paper jam.

Therefore, as described in the book (7), if means for detecting and notifying that the divided code image is in the middle of printing and recording is provided, it is possible for the user to determine that the code image is being discharged. It can be easily recognized, an erroneous cutting operation can be effectively prevented, the medium can be cut without any trouble without causing a paper jam, and the apparatus can be used comfortably.

(8) The above code image recording apparatus comprises:
Cutting means for cutting the print medium conveyed by the medium conveying means, wherein the cutting means detects that the divided code image divided by the code image dividing means is printed and recorded by the recording means, and The code image recording apparatus according to (7), further comprising control means for prohibiting the cutting operation.

That is, the medium cutting operation is prohibited by detecting that the divided code image is in the middle of print recording. Therefore, even if the user tries to perform the cutting operation carelessly in the middle of the print recording, the medium is cut off. It cannot be cut. Therefore, it is possible to effectively prevent the user from performing an erroneous cutting operation during printing and recording of the code image, to cut the medium without causing a paper jam without any trouble, and to use the apparatus comfortably.

(9) The control means detects that all of the divided code images have been printed and recorded by the recording means, and permits the cutting operation of the cutting means. The code image recording device according to (8).

That is, since the medium cutting operation is permitted only after detecting that all the divided code images have been printed, the medium is cut even if the user tries to perform the cutting operation carelessly during the printing and recording. It is not possible. Therefore, it is possible to effectively prevent the user from performing an erroneous cutting operation during printing and recording of the code image, to cut the medium without causing a paper jam without any trouble, and to use the apparatus comfortably.

(10) The code image recording apparatus according to (9), wherein the notifying means further notifies that the cutting operation of the cutting means is permitted by the control means. .

That is, the medium cutting operation is permitted only when it is detected that all the divided code images have been printed and recorded, and a time when there is no inconvenience even if the medium is cut off is notified. As a result, an erroneous cutting operation can be effectively prevented, the medium can be cut without any trouble without causing a paper jam, and the apparatus can be used comfortably.

(11) The code image recording apparatus according to (7), wherein the notifying means includes a display means for displaying a print recording status of the divided code image by the recording means.

That is, as described in (11), the medium cutting operation is prohibited by detecting that the divided code image is in the middle of print recording, and the medium cutting operation is permitted when print recording is completed. If the display of the printing status of the divided code image is displayed to the effect, the user not only can visually recognize that the printing of the code image is being recorded, but also recognize the progress of the printing record and how much later If it waits, it can be predicted whether the printing of the code image is completed. This makes it possible to shorten the period during which the cutting operation may be performed unexpectedly, and to call attention to careless cutting. Therefore, it is possible to effectively prevent the user from performing an erroneous cutting operation during printing and recording of the code image, to cut the medium without causing a paper jam without any trouble, and to use the apparatus comfortably.

(12) The method according to (11), wherein the print recording status of the divided code image is one of the completion of the print recording of all the divided code images and the number of divided code images printed and recorded. The code image recording device according to the above.

That is, as described in (12), the medium cutting operation is prohibited by detecting that the divided code image is in the middle of print recording, and the medium cutting operation is permitted when print recording is completed. If either the number of print records of the divided code image or the total completion time is displayed to the effect, the user can visually recognize that the code image is being printed. Therefore, it is possible to easily predict or confirm the print recording completion timing of all divided codes, that is, code images. This makes it possible to shorten the period during which the cutting operation may be performed unexpectedly, and to call attention to careless cutting. Therefore, it is possible to effectively prevent the user from performing an erroneous cutting operation during printing and recording of the code image, to cut the medium without causing a paper jam without any trouble, and to use the apparatus comfortably.

(13) The code image is configured by arranging a plurality of blocks each having a predetermined area capable of holding divided data obtained by dividing data relating to the information for each predetermined data amount. Is a dot pattern arranged corresponding to the divided data, a marker for determining the dot pattern reading reference position arranged in a predetermined positional relationship with respect to the dot pattern, and a block for indicating the position of the block. The code image recording apparatus according to any one of (1) and (7), further comprising at least an address pattern, wherein the divided code image has the block as its constituent unit.

That is, since the divided code image to be printed and recorded is constituted by arranging a plurality of blocks, and each block has a block address pattern, reading is performed in units of blocks, and then the data is aggregated and converted. The recorded information can be reproduced and reproduced. This makes it possible to perform reading in block units without depending on the order and without omission, and makes the reading operation of the code image itself flexible. In addition, since division in units of blocks becomes easy, generation of division code images is extremely simple. Therefore, it is possible to easily create, print, and record a divided code image that matches a user's desired area.

(14) Information input means for inputting at least one of audio, video, or text data, and code information obtained by converting the information input by the information input means into code data and conforming to a predetermined format Code image conversion means for converting the code image, a medium conveyance means for conveying a print medium for printing and recording the code image in a predetermined direction, and a code image converted by the code image conversion means, conveyed by the medium conveyance means Recording means for continuously printing and recording optically readable on the print medium along the transport direction of the print medium, and cutting means for cutting the print medium transported by the medium transport means, In the code image recording apparatus provided with the recording medium, the cutting operation of the printing medium by the cutting means is detected and the recording means detects the operation. A code image recording apparatus further comprising control means for prohibiting a print recording operation.

That is, since the print recording operation is prohibited by detecting that the cutting operation of the recording medium is being performed, even if the user inadvertently attempts to record and print the code image during the cutting operation, The medium is not transported for print recording. If it is turned over, the user can be effectively prevented from performing an erroneous cutting operation during printing of the code image, that is, while the medium is being conveyed, and the medium can be cut without causing a paper jam without any trouble, thereby providing a comfortable use of the apparatus. Can be.

(15) The code image recording apparatus may further include a notifying unit that detects a cutting operation of the printing medium by the cutting unit and notifies that the printing recording operation by the recording unit is prohibited. Features (1
The code image recording device according to 4).

That is, it is detected that the cutting operation of the recording medium is being performed, the print recording operation is prohibited, and the fact is notified, so that the user may inadvertently print the code image during the cutting operation. Attempting to do so can warn the user that printing should not be done.
Therefore, the medium is not conveyed for print recording, and if it is turned over, it is possible to effectively prevent the user from performing an erroneous cutting operation during the print recording of the code image, that is, during the medium conveyance, and the paper jam. The medium can be cut without any trouble without causing trouble, and the apparatus can be used comfortably.

[0092]

As described in detail above, according to the present invention,
It is possible to provide a code image recording apparatus of a type that prints and records a divided code image, in which a paper jam due to an careless cutting operation of a print medium is prevented as much as possible.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a code image recording apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the code image recording device of FIG.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a divided code.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration of a built-in cutter and a cutter mechanism.

FIG. 5A is a block diagram showing details of a portion related to a characteristic portion of the present invention in the block diagram of FIG. 1;
(B) is a diagram for explaining a display form of the remaining input / reproduction progress / split code remaining number display indicator.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a printing operation in the code image recording device according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a printing operation in the code image recording device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8A is a diagram illustrating a physical format configuration of a dot code recorded on a print medium, and FIG. 8B is a diagram illustrating a block address.

[Explanation of symbols]

Reference Signs List 1 dot code 1A continuous dot code 1B division code 2 block 3 data area 4 marker 5 block address pattern 14 label print medium 16 printer 24 print operation unit 24A “PRINT” button 30 division code remaining number display unit 30A remaining input / reproduction Elapsed / divided code remaining number display indicator 32 Code generation parameter setting unit 32A Code division selection unit 36 Code division length setting unit 36A Long / short changeover switch 42 Cutter lever 44 Built-in cutter 56 Code image conversion unit 58 Printer output control unit 86 Division code Output number counting determining section 88 Divided code output number counting section 90 Code output completion determining section 92 Remaining number display driving section 94 Cutter operation control section 96 Cutter mechanism section 96A Cutter lock member 98 Cutter operation detecting section 98A cutter operation detection sensor

Claims (15)

[Claims] 1. An information input unit for inputting at least one of audio, video, and text data, and the information input by the information input unit is converted into code data to form a code image according to a predetermined format. Code image converting means for converting; a medium conveying means for conveying a print medium for printing and recording the code image in a predetermined direction; and a code image converted by the code image converting means, conveyed by the medium conveying means. Recording means for continuously printing and recording optically readable on the print medium along the transport direction of the print medium; anda code image recording apparatus comprising: The code image that is continuously printed and recorded at every predetermined print recording length set in advance along the transport direction. Notifying means for detecting that all of the divided code images divided by the code image dividing means have been printed and recorded by the recording means, and reporting the result. A code image recording device, further comprising: 2. The code image recording apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a cutting unit configured to cut the print medium conveyed by the medium conveying unit, wherein all of the divided code images divided by the code image dividing unit are recorded. 2. The code image recording apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising control means for detecting that printing has been performed by the means and permitting the cutting operation of the cutting means. 3. The code according to claim 2, wherein the control unit further inhibits a cutting operation of the cutting unit during printing and recording of the divided code image by the recording unit. Image recording device. 4. The code image recording apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the notifying unit further notifies that the cutting operation of the cutting unit is prohibited by the control unit. 5. The code image recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the notifying unit includes a display unit that displays a print recording status of the divided code image by the recording unit. 6. The printing condition of the divided code image is one of the completion of the printing of all the divided code images and the number of the divided code images printed and recorded. Code image recording device. 7. An information input unit for inputting at least one of audio, video, and text data, and converting the information input by the information input unit into code data to form a code image according to a predetermined format. Code image converting means for converting; a medium conveying means for conveying a print medium for printing and recording the code image in a predetermined direction; and a code image converted by the code image converting means, conveyed by the medium conveying means. Recording means for continuously printing and recording optically readable on the print medium along the transport direction of the print medium; anda code image recording apparatus comprising: The code image that is continuously printed and recorded at every predetermined print recording length set in advance along the transport direction. A code image dividing unit that divides the divided code image into a plurality of divided code images; and a notifying unit that detects and notifies that the divided code image divided by the code image dividing unit is printed and recorded by the recording unit. A code image recording device, comprising: 8. The code image recording apparatus further includes a cutting unit that cuts the print medium conveyed by the medium conveyance unit, and the divided code image divided by the code image division unit is printed by the recording unit. 8. The code image recording apparatus according to claim 7, further comprising control means for detecting the recording and prohibiting a cutting operation of said cutting means. 9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein said control means further detects that all of said divided code images have been printed and recorded by said recording means, and permits a cutting operation of said cutting means. Item 9. The code image recording device according to Item 8. 10. The code image recording apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the notifying unit further notifies that the cutting operation of the cutting unit is permitted by the control unit. 11. The code image recording apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the notifying unit includes a display unit that displays a print recording status of the divided code image by the recording unit. 12. The printing method according to claim 11, wherein the printing status of the divided code image is one of the completion of printing of all the divided code images and the number of the divided code images printed and recorded. Code image recording device. 13. The code image is configured by arranging a plurality of blocks having a predetermined area capable of holding divided data obtained by dividing data relating to the information for each predetermined data amount, wherein the blocks are A dot pattern arranged corresponding to the divided data, a marker for determining the dot pattern reading reference position arranged in a predetermined positional relationship with respect to the dot pattern, and a block address for representing the position of the block The code image recording device according to claim 1, wherein the code image recording device includes at least a pattern, and the divided code image includes the block as a constituent unit. 14. An information input means for inputting at least one of audio, video, or text data, and information input by the information input means is converted into code data to form a code image according to a predetermined format. Code image converting means for converting; a medium conveying means for conveying a print medium for printing and recording the code image in a predetermined direction; and a code image converted by the code image converting means, conveyed by the medium conveying means. Recording means for continuously printing and recording optically readable on the print medium along the transport direction of the print medium, and cutting means for cutting the print medium transported by the medium transport means. A code image recording apparatus for detecting a cutting operation of a print medium by the cutting means, A code image recording apparatus, further comprising control means for inhibiting a print recording operation. 15. The code image recording apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a notifying unit that detects a cutting operation of the printing medium by the cutting unit and notifies that the printing recording operation by the recording unit is prohibited. The code image recording device according to claim 14, wherein: