JP2005066987A - Recorder, recording system, and its controlling method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a recorder and a recording system in which recording can be carried out depending on the function of the recorder without forcing a recording job forming function corresponding to the recording function of the recorder to an image feeder, and to provide its controlling method. <P>SOLUTION: Date print is specified from a camera with the code of an upper layer and the type of character for printing date is specified by a lower layer. Upon receiving it, a printer specifies date print with the code of the upper layer indispensable of recognition. When the code of the lower layer can be interpreted, processing where recognition corresponds to an arbitrary code of the lower layer is executed (1204, 1205). When the code of the lower layer can not be recognized, date print specified by the code of the upper layer is executed (1202). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a recording apparatus and a recording system for recording an image on a recording medium based on image data supplied from an image supply device, a control method therefor, and a program therefor.

  In recent years, digital cameras (imaging devices) that can take an image with a simple operation and convert the taken image into digital image data have been widely used. When printing an image taken with such a camera and using it as a photograph, the taken digital image data is usually once taken into a PC (computer) from the digital camera, and image processing is performed on the PC. After that, the data is generally output from the PC to a color printer and printed.

  On the other hand, recently, it is mounted on a color print system (hereinafter referred to as direct printing) that can directly print digital image data from a digital camera to a color printer without using a PC, and on a digital camera. A so-called photo direct (PD) printer or the like in which a memory card storing stored images is directly attached to a color printer and a photographed image stored in the memory card can be printed has been developed. (See Patent Document 1).

  Such direct printing was originally a limited printing function that can only be realized between the camera and printer of the same manufacturer, but in recent years, standardization in these industries has been demanded, regardless of the manufacturer, We are trying to create an environment where direct printing can be performed by connecting cameras and printers from different manufacturers. .

Also, printing functions that can be realized by direct printing have been diversified year by year. As such a printing function, not only printing like a conventional silver halide photograph in which a single image taken with a digital camera is printed on a single recording medium, but also as additional information at the time of printing, , A function for printing the file name of the printed image, a printing function for printing a plurality of images on one recording medium (hereinafter referred to as layout printing), and the preference of the captured image The function of extracting and printing only this part can be easily performed according to the user's preference.
JP 2003-061034 A

  In order to realize direct printing independent of the manufacturer as described above, at least one of a device that supplies image data and an image output apparatus that receives and prints it acquires the function of the other (hereinafter referred to as capability). Is considered. If the user implements direct printing by operating the camera interface, the camera must acquire the capability of the printer to which the image is to be printed in advance. Therefore, it is necessary to define a command for exchanging capability between the camera and the printer, define a communication specification of the command, and transmit / receive the command according to the communication specification. Thus, the commands must be interpreted to confirm each other's functions, and a print command (hereinafter referred to as a print job) in accordance with a print instruction from the user must be appropriately generated according to the capability of the printer. In other words, the camera must be designed so as to be able to generate a plurality of print jobs in accordance with the capability of the printer, which is a very heavy load on the camera.

  If direct printing is performed only between models of the same manufacturer, it is only necessary to follow the rules established by the manufacturer, so it is easy to reduce the above-mentioned load. By doing so, it is easy to confirm that all functions work without problems before being introduced to the market. However, in order to guarantee the connection with an unspecified number of devices according to the standardization mentioned above, we set the rules in detail and met each other for the first time in the market while confirming whether or not they satisfy the rules. The reliability of the connection between devices must be guaranteed. Under such circumstances, more load is generated to realize the same function, and more load is generated to realize a more advanced function.

  Hereinafter, specific problems will be described by taking date printing as an example.

  For example, even if the character string to be printed is specified by the character set of US-ASCII + ISO-8859-1 from the image input device, some printers can print only numbers. In this case, the printer cannot perform date printing. In such a case, for example, if the date is specified in a mixed form of alphabets and numbers from the image input device, such as “August 22nd, 2003”, the alphabet part is converted into numbers and symbols and “2003 / If the date can be expressed only with numbers such as "08/22", it will be possible to respond to capability as a printer capable of date printing.

  Therefore, it is necessary for the camera to inquire whether the printer can perform normal date printing by using a command for inquiring about the capability of the printer, or whether the printer can perform date printing by converting the alphabet part into a number. If you can print a date with the alphabet part converted to a number, what kind of alphabet can be converted to a number, for example, what language date can be converted to a number, or abbreviated notation, etc. Inquiries about various capabilities are made to the printer. Based on this, it is necessary to analyze and judge the received data, specify the functions that can be performed by the printer and the functions that cannot be performed, and create an appropriate print job according to the specified results. In other words, if the printer only supports normal date printing, or if it also supports date printing that converts the alphabet part into numbers, detailed information such as what kind of alphabet can be converted into numbers Accordingly, separate print jobs corresponding to all combinations must be generated and transmitted to the printer.

  Further detailed explanation is omitted here, but if there are other additional functions not described here, the camera must have a function capable of generating a print job considering the combination with these functions. . Otherwise, for example, if you send a command that assumes that you can do date printing that converts the alphabet part to numbers to a printer that can not print the date that converts the alphabet part to numbers, the printer will send the command The print job cannot be understood, and a print result unintentional for the user on the camera side can be obtained.

  In date printing that converts alphabet parts into numbers, the printer bears much of the load to perform such printing. Therefore, for example, in a conventional form in which direct printing is performed by connecting a camera and a printer of the same manufacturer, in many cases, the camera specifies information specifying an image to be printed by the user and an alphabet part indicating whether or not normal date printing is desired. In many cases, it is sufficient to pass the additional function information selected by the user, such as whether to perform date printing to be converted into numbers, to the printer. However, as described above, the industry standardized specification is the first time that an unspecified camera and printer are connected in the market to perform direct printing, so it is necessary to send and receive more information than before, increasing communication load and program size. The camera will not be able to support these complex functions. As a result, although there is a printer equipped with an additional function such as date printing that converts the alphabet part into numbers, the function is not used because cameras that support it are not widespread. There is concern that irrationality will occur.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and can perform recording according to the function of the recording apparatus without forcing the image supply apparatus to create a recording job according to the recording function of the recording apparatus. It is an object to provide an apparatus, a recording system, and a control method thereof.

In order to achieve the above object, the recording apparatus of the present invention has the following configuration. That is,
A recording apparatus for recording an image on a recording medium based on image data supplied from an image supply device,
Receiving means for receiving a print command having a layer structure transmitted from the image supply device;
An upper layer of the print command is a code that must be recognized, and a first determination unit that determines a recording mode specified by the upper layer;
Second determination means for determining the associated recording mode specified by the lower layer code of the upper layer, which is optionally recognized under the recording mode determined by the first determination means;
If the accompanying recording mode cannot be determined by the second determining means, a recording operation corresponding to the recording mode determined by the first determining means is executed, and the accompanying recording mode determined by the second determining means Control means for controlling to perform recording in accordance with the accompanying recording mode.

In order to achieve the above object, the recording system of the present invention comprises the following arrangement. That is, a recording system that includes an image supply device and a recording device, and records an image on a recording medium by the recording device based on image data supplied from the image supply device,
The image supply device includes a code that is required to be recognized by the upper layer, and the lower layer transmits a print command including an arbitrary code that is recognized to the recording device,
The recording device comprises:
Receiving means for receiving a print command having a layer structure transmitted from the image supply device;
First determination means for determining a recording mode designated by the upper layer of the print command;
Second determination means for determining an accompanying recording mode specified by the lower layer code under the recording mode determined by the first determination means;
If the accompanying recording mode cannot be determined by the second determining means, a recording operation corresponding to the recording mode determined by the first determining means is executed, and the accompanying recording mode determined by the second determining means Control means for controlling to perform recording in accordance with the accompanying recording mode.

In order to achieve the above object, a control method for a recording apparatus of the present invention comprises the following steps. That is,
A control method in a recording apparatus for recording an image on a recording medium based on image data supplied from an image supply device,
A receiving step of receiving a print command of a layer structure transmitted from the image supply device;
An upper layer of the print command is a code that must be recognized, and a first determination step of determining a recording mode specified by the upper layer;
A second determination step of determining an accompanying recording mode specified by a lower layer code of the upper layer under which the recognition is optional under the recording mode determined in the first determination step;
If the accompanying recording mode cannot be determined in the second determining step, a recording operation corresponding to the recording mode determined in the first determining step is performed, and the accompanying recording mode determined in the second determining step And a control step for controlling to perform recording according to the accompanying recording mode.

  According to the present invention, with respect to the recording of accompanying information such as a date, the recording apparatus may not necessarily be able to cope with all of the many situations while allowing the setting made by the image supply device to have a degree of freedom. At the same time, it is possible to avoid errors even if settings that cannot be handled are received.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

<Overview of printer>
FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of a photo direct printer (hereinafter referred to as a PD printer) 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The PD printer 1000 has a function as a normal PC printer that receives and prints data from a host computer (PC) and directly reads and prints image data stored in a storage medium such as a memory card, or It has a function of receiving and printing image data from a digital camera or PDA.

  In FIG. 1, the main body that forms the outer shell of the PD printer 1000 according to the present embodiment includes a lower case 1001, an upper case 1002, an access cover 1003, and an exterior tray 1004. The lower case 1001 forms a substantially lower half portion of the PD printer 1000, and the upper case 1002 forms a substantially upper half portion of the main body. A storage space for storing each mechanism to be described later by combining both cases. The body has a hollow body structure, and the upper surface portion and the front surface portion each have an opening. Further, one end of the discharge tray 1004 is rotatably held by the lower case 1001, and an opening formed on the front surface of the lower case 1001 can be opened and closed by the rotation. For this reason, when executing the recording operation, the discharge tray 1004 is rotated to the front side to open the opening, thereby including sheets (plain paper, special paper, resin sheet, etc.) recorded from here. (Hereinafter simply referred to as “sheets”) can be discharged, and the discharged sheets can be stacked one after another. The paper discharge tray 1004 accommodates two auxiliary trays 1004a and 1004b. By pulling out each tray as necessary, the sheet support area can be expanded or reduced in three stages. It has become.

  One end of the access cover 1003 is rotatably held by the upper case 1002 so that an opening formed on the upper surface can be opened and closed. By opening the access cover 1003, the access cover 1003 is accommodated inside the main body. It is possible to replace the print head cartridge (not shown) or the ink tank (not shown). Although not particularly shown here, when the access cover 1003 is opened and closed, a protrusion formed on the back surface rotates the cover opening and closing lever, and the rotation position of the lever is detected by a micro switch or the like. Thus, the open / closed state of the access cover 1003 can be detected.

  A power key 1005 is provided on the upper surface of the upper case 1002. An operation panel 1010 including a liquid crystal display unit 1006 and various key switches is provided on the right side of the upper case 1002. The structure of the operation panel 1010 will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. Reference numeral 1007 denotes an automatic feeding unit that automatically feeds sheets into the apparatus main body. Reference numeral 1008 denotes a paper interval selection lever which is used to adjust the interval between the print head and the sheet. Reference numeral 1009 denotes a card slot, into which an adapter capable of mounting a memory card is inserted, through which image data stored in the memory card can be directly captured and printed. Examples of the memory card (PC) include a compact flash (registered trademark) memory, smart media, and a memory stick. A viewer (liquid crystal display unit) 1011 is detachable from the main body of the PD printer 1000. When searching for an image to be printed from images stored in the PC card, an image or index for each frame is displayed. Used to display images. Reference numeral 1012 denotes a USB terminal for connecting a digital camera to be described later. In addition, a USB connector for connecting a personal computer (PC) is provided on the rear surface of the PD device 1000.

<Overview of printer operation unit>
FIG. 2 is an overview of the operation panel 1010 of the PD printer 1000 according to this embodiment.

  In the figure, the liquid crystal display unit 1006 displays menu items for setting various data relating to items printed on the left and right. The items displayed here include, for example, the top number of a photo image to be printed, a designated frame number (start frame designation / print frame designation), and the last photo number to be printed (end) among a plurality of photo image files. ), The number of copies (number of copies), the type of sheet used for printing (paper type), the number of photos to be printed on one sheet (layout), the specification of print quality (quality), and the date of shooting For example (date printing), whether to correct a photo for printing (image correction), and the number of sheets required for printing (number of sheets). These items are selected or designated using the cursor keys 2001. 2002 is a mode key, and each time this key is pressed, the type of printing (index printing, full-frame printing, single-frame printing, designated-frame printing, etc.) can be switched, and the LED corresponding to the LED 2003 changes accordingly. Illuminated. A maintenance key 2004 is a key for performing maintenance of the printer such as cleaning of the print head. Reference numeral 2005 denotes a print start key which is pressed when instructing the start of printing or when establishing maintenance settings. Reference numeral 2006 denotes a print cancel key which is pressed when printing is stopped or when maintenance is instructed.

<Printer electrical specifications overview>
Next, with reference to FIG. 3, the configuration of the main part related to the control of the PD printer 1000 according to the present embodiment will be described. In FIG. 3, the same reference numerals are given to portions common to the above-described drawings, and the description thereof is omitted.

  In FIG. 3, reference numeral 3000 denotes a control unit (control board). Reference numeral 3001 denotes an ASIC (dedicated custom LSI). Reference numeral 3002 denotes a DSP (digital signal processor) having an internal CPU, and various control processes to be described later and images such as conversion from a luminance signal (RGB) to a density signal (CMYK), scaling, gamma conversion, and error diffusion. I am in charge of processing. A memory 3003 has a program memory 3003a that stores a control program for the CPU of the DSP 3002, a RAM area that stores a program at the time of execution, and a memory area that functions as a work memory that stores image data and the like. Reference numeral 3004 denotes a printer engine. Here, a printer engine of an ink jet printer that prints a color image using a plurality of color inks is installed. Reference numeral 3005 denotes a USB connector as a port for connecting a digital camera (DSC) 3012. Reference numeral 3006 denotes a connector for connecting the viewer 1011. Reference numeral 3008 denotes a USB hub (USBHUB). When the PD printer 1000 performs printing based on image data from the PC 3010, the data from the PC 3010 is directly passed through and output to the printer engine 3004 via the USB 3021. As a result, the connected PC 3010 can directly perform printing by exchanging data and signals with the printer engine 3004 (functions as a general PC printer). Reference numeral 3009 denotes a power connector which inputs a DC voltage converted from commercial AC by a power source 3019. A PC 3010 is a general personal computer, 3011 is the memory card (PC card) described above, and 3012 is a digital camera (DSC: Digital Still Camera).

  Note that the exchange of signals between the control unit 3000 and the printer engine 3004 is performed via the USB 3021 or the IEEE 1284 bus 3022 described above.

<Overview of digital camera>
FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a DSC (digital camera) 3012 according to the present embodiment.

  In the figure, reference numeral 3100 denotes a CPU that controls the entire DSC 3012, and reference numeral 3101 denotes a ROM that stores a processing procedure performed by the CPU 3100. Reference numeral 3102 denotes a RAM used as a work area of the CPU 3100. Reference numeral 3103 denotes a switch group for performing various operations, which includes a shutter, a mode change switch, a selection switch, a cursor key, and the like. Reference numeral 2700 denotes a liquid crystal display unit, which is used to display a video currently captured, an image captured and stored in a memory card, and a menu for performing various settings. Reference numeral 3105 denotes an optical unit mainly composed of a lens and its drive system. Reference numeral 3106 denotes a CCD element, and reference numeral 3107 denotes a driver that drives and controls the optical unit 3105 under the control of the CPU 3100. Reference numeral 3108 denotes a connector for connecting a storage medium 3109 (compact flash (registered trademark) memory card, smart media, etc.). Reference numeral 3110 denotes a USB interface (USB slave side) for connecting to a PC or the PD printer 1000 in the embodiment. ).

<Camera / printer connection overview>
FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the connection between the PD printer 1000 and the DSC 3012 according to the present embodiment. Portions common to the above-described drawings are denoted by the same symbols, and the description thereof is omitted.

  In the figure, a cable 5000 includes a connector 5001 connected to the connector 1012 of the PD printer 1000 and a connector 5002 for connecting to a connection connector 5003 of the digital camera 3012. The image data stored in this memory can be output via the connection connector 5003. Note that as the configuration of the digital camera 3012, various configurations such as a configuration having a memory as a storage unit inside and a configuration having a slot for mounting a removable memory can be employed. As shown in FIG. 5, by connecting the PD printer 1000 and the digital camera 3012 via the cable 5000, the image data from the digital camera 3012 can be directly printed by the PD printer 1000.

  An outline of operations in a printing system including the DSC 3012 and the PD printer 1000 based on the above configuration will be described below. In the printing system according to this embodiment, it is assumed that the DSC 3012 and the PD printer 1000 can operate in accordance with the specifications of the procedure DPS (Direct Print System) according to this embodiment.

<Overview of direct printing>
FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining a rough signal flow when printing is performed by issuing a print request from the DSC 3012 to the PD printer 1000 in the printing system according to the present embodiment.

  This processing procedure is executed after the PD printer 1000 and the DSC 3012 are connected via the USB cable 5000 and after confirming that they comply with the DPS specification. First, the DSC 3012 transmits “ConfigurePrintService” to the PD printer 1000 to check the state of the PD printer 1000 (600). In response to this, the PD printer 1000 is notified of the state of the PD printer 1000 at this point (here, “idle” state) (601). Here, since it is in the “idle” state, the DSC 3012 inquires about the capability of the PD printer 1000 (602), and issues a print start request (StartJob) corresponding to the capability (603). This print start request is issued in 601 from the DSC 3012 to the PD printer 1000 on condition that “newJobOK” in status information from the PD printer 1000 described later is “True”. The

  In response to this print start request, the PD printer 1000 requests the DSC 3012 for file information based on the file ID of the image data for which printing is instructed (GetFileInfo) (604). In response to this, the DSC 3012 transmits the file information (FileInfo). This file information includes information such as file capacity. If the PD printer 1000 receives the file information and determines that it can be processed, it requests the file information from the DSC 3012 (GetFile) (605). As a result, the image data (ImageFile) of the requested file is sent from the DSC 3012 to the PD printer 1000. As a result, when the PD printer 1000 starts print processing, status information indicating “Printing” is sent from the PD printer 1000 to the DSC 3012 in “606” by “NotifyDeviceStatus”. When the printing process for one page is completed, this is notified by the “NotifyJobStatus” 607 from the PD printer 1000 when the processing for the next page is started. If the printing of only one page is completed, when the printing of the requested one page is completed, the “NotifyDviceStatus” 608 notifies that the PD printer 1000 is in the “idle” state (NotifyDeviceStatus (Idle) ).

  For example, in the case of N-up printing in which a plurality of (N) images are laid out and printed on one page, “NotifyJobStatus” 607 is sent from the PD printer 1000 to the DSC 3012 every time N images are printed. Will be. The issuance timing of “NotifyJobStatus” and “NotifyDeviceStatus” and the order of image data acquisition in this embodiment are examples, and various cases may occur depending on the product implementation.

  In this print processing, the print start request (StartJob) from the DSC 3012 includes the file ID of the image data to be printed in a batch and is sent for printing, and the DPOF file used for general photo development. In the case where only the file ID is included in the print start request (StartJob) from the DSC 3012 and transmitted to the PD printer 1000, the PD printer 1000 interprets the DPOF file, acquires the file ID of necessary image data, and prints it. included.

<Overview of Print Job>
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of a print start request issued from the DSC 3012 to the PD printer 1000.

  In the figure, 720 indicates the configuration (jobConfig) of this print job, and 721 indicates print information (printInfo).

  First, the configuration 720 will be described. Reference numeral 700 denotes an image quality (quality) to be printed, and examples thereof include “standard” and “high image quality”. Reference numeral 701 denotes a paper size (paperSize), and reference numeral 702 denotes a paper type (papertype). Examples thereof include “plain paper”, “photo paper”, and “inkjet paper”. Reference numeral 703 designates the type (fileType) of the image file to be printed. For example, when DPOF is used, this is designated. 704 is date printing presence / absence (datePrint), 705 is file name printing presence / absence (fileNamePrint), 706 is image optimization (imageOptimize), 707 is fixed size printing (fixedSize), and 708 is image designation. Specify whether or not to print the specified range (cropping). The print information 721 includes a file ID (field ID) 709 and date information (date) 710.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining information included in the above-described JobStatus and DeviceStatus. Here, JobStatus in FIG. 8A and DeviceStatus in FIG. 8B are transmitted from the PD printer 1000 to the DSC 3012. Further, the DSC 3012 can request transmission of such information to the PD printer 1000 at an arbitrary timing.

  In FIG. 8A, “prtPID”, “ImagePath”, and “copyID” are valid when printing of the DPOF file is instructed. Here, “prtPID” is identification information (ID) of the print section specified in the DPOF file, “ImagePath” is path information for specifying the image file specified in the DPOF file, and “copyID” is a plurality of copies. This means the number of sheets actually printed when printing is designated. In the case of printing using a DPOF file, the DSC 3012 describes the “fileID” of the DPOF file in a print start request (StartJob) and transmits it to the PD printer 1000. As a result, the PD printer 1000 can start printing the DPOF file. Then, the PD printer 1000 acquires the DPOF file based on the “fileID” of the DPOF file, executes “GetFileID”, identifies the “fileID” of the image file specified in the DPOF file, and the image file To the DSC 3012 to acquire the image data. In this way, the image specified by the DPOF file can be printed. Then, during the execution of printing using the DPOF file, the “prtPID”, “ImagePath”, and “copyID” indicating the printing progress are notified from the PD printer 1000 to the DSC 3012 by the above-mentioned “NotifyJobStatus”.

  When printing is resumed after printing is interrupted for some reason during printing of the DPOF file, the printing process is resumed from the top of the page where printing was stopped.

  “Progress” indicates the current print number (N / T) of the scheduled print number. Here, N represents the current print page, and T represents the total number of printed pages. “ImagePrinted” indicates the number of printed images.

  Next, DeviceStatus shown in FIG. 8B will be described.

  “DpsPrintServiceStatus” means the status of the PD printer 1000 and is notified to the DSC 3012. This state includes an idle state, a print state, and a pause state. “JobEndReason” means the end status of the print process, and is notified to the DSC 3012 when the printing of the last page is completed. “ErrorStatus” means the status of the error, and is notified when an error occurs. “ErrorReason” means the reason for the occurrence of the error, and is notified together with “errorStatus”. “DisconnectEnable” means that printing is possible even when the USB cable 5000 is disconnected, and is notified from the PD printer 1000 to the DSC 3012. “CapabilityChanged” means that the capability of the PD printer 1000 has been changed, and is notified to the DSC 3012. “NewJobOK” means that the PD printer 1000 can accept a print request, and is notified to the DSC 3012.

<Description of GetCapability>
FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining a specific example of the capability acquisition method of the PD printer 1000 issued from the DSC 3012 to the PD printer 1000.

  FIG. 9A is a diagram for explaining a command for requesting the capability of the PD printer 1000 from the DSC 3012 to the PD printer 1000.

  In the example of FIG. 9A, acquisition of capability is requested by <getCapability>, </ getCapability>, and PD printer 1000 is set as capability by <layouts /> 901 surrounded by <capability>, </ capability>. It is inquired whether it has a layout printing function.

  FIG. 9B is a diagram illustrating an example in which capability is returned from the PD printer 1000 to the DSC 3012 in response to the capability request in FIG. 9A.

  In the figure, among the capability information surrounded by <capability> 902 and </ capability> 906, the layout function possessed by the PD printer 1000 is indicated by the layout information 904 surrounded by <layouts> 903 and <layouts /> 905. Has been notified.

  As is clear from FIG. 9B, in this embodiment, the capability is transmitted from the PD printer 1000 to the DSC 3012 with an 8-digit code (“57000000”, “57010000”, “57020000”). In this embodiment, the layout capability is defined as a code whose upper two digits start with “57”, and the next two digits indicate layout information indicating how many images can be printed on one sheet. ing. That is, the upper 4 digits “5701” indicate that layout printing for printing one image on one sheet is possible, and “5702” indicates a layout printing function for printing two images on one sheet. It has shown that it has. When the upper 4 digits are “5700”, this indicates a layout printing mode using the default layout of the PD printer 1000. That is, in the example of FIG. 9B, the layout printing capability of the PD printer 1000 is the layout printing of one image on one sheet, the layout printing of two images on one sheet, and the default of the PD printer 1000. This indicates that the printer has three layout printing functions for layout printing.

  In FIG. 9, the capability transmission / reception method related to layout printing has been described. However, the function that can be confirmed by this capability is not limited to this layout printing. For example, the capability of the sheet type that can be printed by the PD printer 1000, the capability of the sheet size that can be printed by the printer 1000, the capability of the file type of image data that can be supported by the printer 1000, the date and file name by the printer 1000 There are various capabilities such as the capability of whether or not printing can be performed, the capability of a printing mode that the printer 1000 can support, the capability of the presence or absence of an automatic image correction function that can be supported by the printer 1000, and these capabilities are here. The explanation about the detailed communication specifications is omitted.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a code for notifying a status or the like from the PD printer 1000 to the DSC 3012 used in the direct printing system according to the present embodiment. Here, as described above, each code is composed of 8 digits, and the numerical value of each digit is composed of a hexadecimal code.

  Here, the upper 4 digits “XXXX” is a major code, and the lower 4 digits “YYYY” is a minor code. When this code is applied to the layout information 904 in FIG. 9B, layout printing is performed with the major four-digit major code, and how many images are printed on one sheet. . In addition, the capability indicated by the major code is defined in more detail by the minor code.

  For example, in the case of layout printing in which four images are printed on one sheet, the major code is “5704” as described above, and at this time, the arrangement is such that these four images are printed in the lower four digits. Can be specified. In this embodiment, “0000” as a minor code following “5704” designates a print layout for printing four images side by side with a border. “0001” designates a print layout in which four images are printed side by side without a border.

  In the present embodiment, the PD printer 1000 transmits the code indicating the 8-digit capability to the DSC 3012 to notify the DSC 3012 of the printing function capability provided in the PD printer 1000. Here, this 8-digit code is composed of the upper 4-digit major code and the lower 4-digit minor code as described above. The major code is a code that can be recognized by a general camera, and the minor code is Depending on the camera, it is constructed by combining two codes having different recognition levels, such as a code that may be skipped or not recognized. That is, the PD printer 1000 can perform layout printing of four images, and can also print a print layout in which four images are arranged with a border (“57040000”), or four images are arranged without a border. It is possible to notify that the printer has the capability of performing layout printing ("57040001").

  Here, in the case of the DSC 3012 that can understand only the major code, the camera UI display displays “4 layouts can be selected”. However, if even minor codes can be used, it is possible to display that there is a variety of print layout functions, such as being able to select up to four images.

  As described above, since information of a plurality of levels can be transmitted with one code, layout printing under various conditions can be handled with one code.

  In the present embodiment, layout printing and bordered printing and borderless printing, which are one printing form of the layout printing, are represented by one code. Briefly described.

  If these two functions are transmitted in completely different codes, it will be controlled as follows. That is, as described with reference to FIG. 9A, the layout capability of the PD printer 1000 is required by <layouts> of <getcapability>. Next, for example, another tag such as <Border> is defined as a tag for acquiring the capability of bordered / borderless printing, and the capability of the bordered / borderless printing function is acquired. However, as described above, the bordered / borderless printing function has a strong dependency on the layout function, and thus <Border> capability cannot be returned independently. Therefore, if the PD printer 1000 supports layout printing from the two-sheet layout to the 64-sheet layout, the <Border> capability of the two-sheet layout is inquired, and then the <Border> capability of the three-sheet layout is checked. It is necessary to inquire about the capability with and without borders after specifying the layout and the sequential layout. This places a heavy load on the transmission / reception of capability information, and there is a possibility that a long waiting time will be required until the user can actually use the direct printing function after he / she wants to perform the direct printing.

  Further, since complicated exchanges between the DSC 3012 and the PD printer 1000 increase, the communication load also increases. Furthermore, in order to perform such complicated communication, a program for determining the communication result and performing an operation in accordance with the determination is required, which increases the program size. This leads to a delay in development time and an increase in cost. In addition, unlike printing via a PC, the above may be a very serious problem in direct printing where the processing capacity and memory capacity of the CPU are greatly limited.

  However, according to the present embodiment, as described above, a bordered / borderless printing function can be set by using a minor code of <layouts> capability, so that an increase in communication load and mounting load, an increase in user waiting time, etc. Can be greatly reduced.

  Also in the PD printer 1000, it is only necessary to always return the same capability regardless of whether the DSC 3012 wants information about the presence or absence of the bordered / borderless printing function, so that the mounting load on the PD printer 1000 can be reduced. The effect can also be expected.

<Image identification method>
Next, how to specify an image when printing an image will be described.

  As described above with reference to FIG. 7, the print condition is that information is sent from the DSC 3012 to the PD printer 1000 using StartJob (command for specifying a print job). Here, the image to be printed is designated by a tag of <fileID> (709 in FIG. 7). That is, the print image handle number is listed in this tag to specify the print image. The example of FIG. 7 shows an example of printing one image instead of specifying layout printing for printing a plurality of images, so only one handle number is described (handle number “00000001”). ). However, in the case of printing two images, it goes without saying that two handle numbers expressed in eight digits are sent in parallel. After the handle number of the image to be printed is transmitted to the PD printer 1000, the PD printer 1000 requests the DSC 3012 for an image file designated by the handle number before printing. At this time, first, before acquiring the image file. The PD printer 1000 obtains image information and prepares to receive an image file.

  FIGS. 11A and 11B are diagrams showing examples of commands for exchanging image data executed between the PD printer 1000 and the DSC 3012. FIG.

  FIG. 11A shows an example of a command when the PD printer 1000 requests image data with the handle name “00000001” from the DSC 3012.

  FIG. 11B shows an example in which image data is transmitted from the DSC 3012 to the PD printer 1000 in response to this request. In this case, information about the image file type <fileType> and the image file size <fileSize> (number of bytes) is transmitted from the DSC 3012 to the PD printer 1000.

  More specifically, for example, when this command is realized on USB PTP, the following processing is performed. That is, the PD printer 1000 that is a USB host receives “ObjectInfoDataset” of the handle number of an image that is designated for printing from the DSC 3012 that is a USB slave. Here, the “ObjectInfoDataset” is composed of a plurality of data fields. For example, if file type information is acquired, the file type can be specified from the contents of “ObjectFormatCode” in the data field. In PTP, “ObjectFormatCode” is described as a 4-digit hexadecimal code. However, in the table of “ObjectFormatCode”, what is the specific file type (for example, JPEG, TIFF, GIF, etc.) Is specified separately, so that the file type can be specified. Further, the folder storing the image for which printing is designated can also be identified from the information in the data field of “ObjectInfoDataset”.

  Here, the outline of the method for obtaining file information has been described by taking the case of USB-PTP below the transport layer as an example. However, obtaining such file information differs depending on the interface. It can be generally obtained with many interfaces.

<Description of this example>
FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a print example when the DSC 3012 and the PD printer 1000 in the present embodiment interpret minor codes with each other. In this figure, a major code designates a function for printing a date when an image is taken, and a minor code shows a printing example when a description method of a date to be printed is designated.

  Here, an example is shown in which printing of the original image 1200 and the date “August 22nd, 2003” (1201) is designated. If “54020000” (1202) is sent as the code of date printing <datePrints>, the character string “August” meaning August is converted into the number “08” and is suitable for the number notation. When the print job is instructed to perform printing with the dates rearranged in the arrangement order, the original image 1200 designated for printing and the character string “2003/08/22” indicating the date are one sheet. Are printed as indicated at 1204.

  Also, when “540020001” (1203) is received as the date printing <datePrints> code, “August 22nd” indicating the date by the designated original image 1200 and US-ASCII + ISO-8859-1 character set. , 2003 "is printed on one sheet (1205). Thus, more flexible and advanced printing is possible.

  If the code “540020001” is transmitted from the DSC 3012 to the PD printer 1000, the code “54020000” is transmitted if the PD printer 1000 does not support printing using the US-ASCII + ISO-8859-1 character set. In the same format (default format) as printed, it is printed on one sheet as indicated by 1204. Thus, there may be a case where it is more preferable to print the date using the character set of US-ASCII + ISO-8859-1. However, the date information in numbers and the specified image, that is, the related image and the related information ( The date is printed on a single sheet, which is very convenient.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart for explaining code interpretation and printing processing in the PD printer 1000 according to the present embodiment. A program for executing this processing is stored in the program memory 3003a.

  First, in step S1, a code (FIG. 10) for specifying date printing, for example, is received from the DSC 3012. In step S2, the major code of the code is analyzed, and in step S3, the printing function designated by the major code is recognized. Next, the process proceeds to step S4 to check whether the minor code of the code can be analyzed. If the minor code can be analyzed, the process proceeds to step S5, and it is determined whether or not the printing function specified by the minor code is provided. If it has the printing function, the process proceeds to step S6 to set the printing function designated by the minor code. For example, in the example of FIG. 12 described above, “August 22nd, 2003” is set to be expanded and printed by the ASCI code, or converted to a number and set to “2003/08/22”. It is. In step S6, an image to be printed is output to the printer engine 3004 according to the set print function and printed.

  On the other hand, if the minor code cannot be analyzed in step S4, or if the printing function designated by the minor code cannot be executed in step S5, the process proceeds to step S8, and printing is performed in the default print mode corresponding to the major code. Execute.

<Second embodiment>
FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a print example when the DSC 3012 and the PD printer 1000 interpret the minor code with each other in the second embodiment of the present invention. In this figure, the major code indicates a printing example in which a function (“5402”) for printing a date when an image is taken is designated, and the recording position of the date to be printed is designated by a minor code.

  Here, an example in which printing of the original image 1400 and the date “August 22nd, 2003” 1401 is designated is shown. When “54020000” (1402) is transmitted as the date print <datePrints> code, that is, when the date “August 22nd, 2003” is instructed to be printed on the lower right of the sheet, 1404 is indicated. As described above, the date character string is printed at the lower right of the original image.

  When “540020001” (1403) is transmitted as the date printing <datePrints> code, as indicated by reference numeral 1405, the date character string “August 22nd, 2003” is printed on the upper left of the original image sheet. Thereby, more flexible and advanced printing becomes possible.

  If the code “540020001” is sent from the DSC 3012 to the PD printer 1000, the PD printer 1000 can interpret the minor code, but if the code “540020000” does not have a function for printing the date on the upper left, the code “54020000”. Is printed in exactly the same format as when received at 1404. As described above, when the PD printer 1000 does not have a function corresponding to the minor code, the date is not printed on the upper left side of the sheet as indicated by reference numeral 1405 according to the user's intention. However, the designated original image 1400 and the date information 1401, that is, the related image and the related information are printed on one sheet, which is very convenient.

  Also in this case, in the flowchart of FIG. 13 described above, the date printing function is specified in steps S2 and S3, and a printing result as indicated by 1404 or 1405 is obtained in steps S6 and S7 according to the contents of the minor code. be able to. If the minor code cannot be analyzed, or if the function cannot be executed as specified by the minor code, date printing as indicated by 1404 is executed in step S8.

<Third embodiment>
FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a printing example when the DSC 3012 and the PD printer 1000 interpret the minor code with each other in the third embodiment of the present invention. In this figure, the major code designates the number of images (number of layout images) to be printed on one sheet (paper), and the minor code prints each image on the sheet with a border or without a border. An example of printing when this is specified will be described.

  When “57040000” (1501) is sent from the DSC 3012 to the PD printer 1000 as a code for layout printing <layout>, that is, when printing with a border with a four-sheet layout is instructed as a print job, four sheets are designated. The printed image is printed on one sheet with a border (1503).

  When the code “57040001” (1502) is sent, four designated images are printed without a border on one sheet (1504).

  If the code “570400001” (1502) is sent from the DSC 3012 to the PD printer 1000, the PD printer 1000 understands this minor code and does not support the function of printing without a border. In the same format as when “57040000” (1501) is sent, as indicated by 1503, four designated images are printed on one sheet with a border.

  Also in this case, in the flowchart of FIG. 13 described above, layout printing and the number of images are specified in steps S2 and S3, and printing as indicated by 1503 or 1505 is performed in steps S6 and S7 according to the contents of the minor code. The result can be obtained. If the minor code cannot be analyzed or if the function cannot be executed by being specified by the minor code, in step S8, printing with a border of four sheets as shown by 1503 is executed.

<Fourth embodiment>
FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a print example when the DSC 3012 and the PD printer 1000 interpret the minor code with each other in the fourth embodiment of the present invention. In this figure, the major code designates the number of images (the number of layout images) to be printed on one sheet (paper), and the minor code designates the multi-reduced printing that performs information on the number and arrangement of images to be printed on the same sheet. An example of printing when “” is specified will be described.

  When “57010000” (1601) is sent as a code for layout printing <layout>, that is, when normal printing is instructed in one sheet layout, one designated original image 1600 is printed on one sheet. (1603). When the code “570010001” (1602) is transmitted from the DSC 3012 to the PD printer 1000, one designated original image 1600 is formed on one sheet, for example, ¼ of the sheet as indicated by 1604. There are no borders, such as 2 images, 2 images of 1/8 size, 2 images of 1/16 size, and 4 images of 1/32 size Will be printed.

  Also, if the code “570010001” (1602) is sent from the DSC 3012 to the PD printer 1000, the code “57010000” if the PD printer 1000 interprets this minor code and does not support multi-reduction printing. The designated original image 1600 is printed on one sheet in exactly the same format as when (1601) is received, as indicated by 1603.

  Also in this case, in the flowchart of FIG. 13 described above, layout printing and the number of images are specified in steps S2 and S3, and printing as indicated by 1603 or 1604 is performed in steps S6 and S7 according to the contents of the minor code. The result can be obtained. If the minor code cannot be analyzed or if the function cannot be executed by being designated by the minor code, the designated original image 1600 is printed on one sheet as shown at 1603 in step S8. .

<Fifth embodiment>
FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a print example when the DSC 3012 and the PD printer 1000 interpret the minor code with each other in the fifth embodiment of the present invention. In this figure, the major code specifies the print area of the image to be printed on one sheet (paper), and the minor code prints when the cropping shape of the image to be printed on the same sheet is specified. This will be explained with an example.

  When “59020000” (1701) is sent as the code of image cropping <cropping>, that is, when cropping printing to be cut into a rectangular shape is instructed, the designated area of one designated original image 1700 is rectangular. And is printed on one sheet (1703). When the code “590020001” (1702) is sent, the specified range of the specified original image 1700 is cut out in a diamond shape and printed on one sheet (1704). Thereby, more flexible and advanced printing becomes possible.

  If the code “590010001” (1702) is sent from the DSC 3012 to the PD printer 1000, if the PD printer 1000 does not support cropping printing that interprets this minor code and cuts it into a diamond shape, In the same format as when “59010000” (1701) is received, the specified range of the specified original image 1700 is cut out in a rectangular shape and printed on one sheet (1703).

  Also in this case, in the flowchart of FIG. 13 described above, image cutout printing is specified in steps S2 and S3, and a print result as indicated by 1703 or 1704 is obtained in steps S6 and S7 according to the contents of the minor code. be able to. If the minor code cannot be analyzed or if the function cannot be executed by being designated by the minor code, the designated range of the designated original image 1700 is cut out in a rectangular shape as indicated by 1703 in step S8. Print on a single sheet.

[Other embodiments]
As described above, the object of the present invention is to provide a system or apparatus with a storage medium storing software program codes for realizing the functions of the embodiments, and the system or apparatus computer (or CPU or MPU) stores the storage medium. It is also achieved by reading and executing the program code stored on the medium. In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention. As a storage medium for supplying such program code, for example, floppy (registered trademark) disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, CD-R, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM Etc. can be used.

  Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS (operating system) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code Includes a case where part or all of the actual processing is performed and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.

  Furthermore, after the program code read from the storage medium is written in the memory provided in the function expansion board inserted into the computer or the function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function is determined based on the instruction of the program code. This includes a case where the CPU or the like provided in the expansion board or function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing, and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.

1 is a schematic perspective view of a PD printer according to an embodiment of the present invention. 2 is an overview of an operation panel of the PD printer according to the embodiment. FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the principal part which concerns on control of PD printer concerning a present Example. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of DSC which concerns on a present Example. It is a figure explaining the connection of PD printer and digital camera concerning an example. It is a figure explaining the exchange of the command between PD printer and DSC in the printing system which concerns on a present Example. It is a figure explaining the specific example of the print start command issued from DSC which concerns on a present Example. It is a figure explaining JobStatus (A) and DeviceStatus (B) transmitted to the DSC from the PD printer according to the embodiment. 4A and 4B are diagrams for explaining the exchange of capability of a PD printer according to the present embodiment. FIG. 5A shows an example of a request command for capability from the DSC to the PD printer, and FIG. FIG. It is a figure explaining the code format of the capability notified to DSC from the PD printer which concerns on a present Example. 2A and 2B are diagrams illustrating an example of acquiring file information of an image to be printed according to the present embodiment. FIG. 3A illustrates an example of a file request command from the PD printer to the DSC, and FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of a command in the case of transmitting. It is a figure explaining the example of a printing result in the direct printing system which concerns on the Example of this invention. 6 is a flowchart illustrating code interpretation and printing processing in the PD printer according to the embodiment. It is a figure explaining the example of a printing result in the direct printing system which concerns on 2nd Example of this invention. It is a figure explaining the example of a printing result in the direct printing system which concerns on 3rd Example of this invention. It is a figure explaining the example of a printing result in the direct printing system which concerns on 4th Example of this invention. It is a figure explaining the example of a printing result in the direct printing system which concerns on 5th Example of this invention.

Claims (19)

A recording apparatus for recording an image on a recording medium based on image data supplied from an image supply device,
Receiving means for receiving a print command having a layer structure transmitted from the image supply device;
An upper layer of the print command is a code that must be recognized, and a first determination unit that determines a recording mode specified by the upper layer;
Second determination means for determining the associated recording mode specified by the lower layer code of the upper layer, which is optionally recognized under the recording mode determined by the first determination means;
If the accompanying recording mode cannot be determined by the second determining means, a recording operation corresponding to the recording mode determined by the first determining means is executed, and the accompanying recording mode determined by the second determining means Control means for controlling to perform recording according to the accompanying recording mode if recording in is possible,
A recording apparatus comprising:   The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the recording mode is a mode for recording date information, and the accompanying recording mode is a mode for specifying and recording a recording character of the date information.   The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the recording mode is a mode for recording date information, and the accompanying recording mode is a mode for recording by specifying a recording position of the date information.   The recording mode is a mode in which a plurality of images are recorded on a recording medium, and the accompanying recording mode is a mode in which each of the plurality of images is recorded with no border or designated with a border. The recording apparatus according to claim 1.   The recording according to claim 1, wherein the recording mode is a mode for recording a plurality of images on a recording medium, and the accompanying recording mode is a mode for recording by specifying a reduction and layout of the image. apparatus.   2. The recording mode according to claim 1, wherein the recording mode is a mode in which a designated image is cut out and recorded on a recording medium, and the accompanying recording mode is a mode in which a cut shape of the image is designated and recorded. Recording device. A recording system that includes an image supply device and a recording apparatus, and records an image on a recording medium by the recording apparatus based on image data supplied from the image supply device,
The image supply device includes a code that is required to be recognized by the upper layer, and the lower layer transmits a print command including an arbitrary code that is recognized to the recording device,
The recording device comprises:
Receiving means for receiving a print command having a layer structure transmitted from the image supply device;
First determination means for determining a recording mode designated by the upper layer of the print command;
Second determination means for determining an accompanying recording mode specified by the lower layer code under the recording mode determined by the first determination means;
If the accompanying recording mode cannot be determined by the second determining means, a recording operation corresponding to the recording mode determined by the first determining means is executed, and the accompanying recording mode determined by the second determining means Control means for controlling to perform recording according to the accompanying recording mode if recording in is possible,
A recording system comprising:   The recording system according to claim 7, wherein the recording mode is a mode for recording date information, and the accompanying recording mode is a mode for specifying and recording a recording character of the date information.   The recording system according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the recording mode is a mode for recording date information, and the accompanying recording mode is a mode for recording by specifying a recording position of the date information.   The recording mode is a mode in which a plurality of images are recorded on a recording medium, and the accompanying recording mode is a mode in which each of the plurality of images is recorded with no border or designated with a border. The recording system according to claim 7.   8. The recording according to claim 7, wherein the recording mode is a mode for recording a plurality of images on a recording medium, and the accompanying recording mode is a mode for recording by specifying reduction and layout of the image. system.   8. The recording mode according to claim 7, wherein the recording mode is a mode in which a designated image is cut out and recorded on a recording medium, and the accompanying recording mode is a mode in which the cut shape of the image is designated and recorded. Recording system. A control method in a recording apparatus for recording an image on a recording medium based on image data supplied from an image supply device,
A receiving step of receiving a print command of a layer structure transmitted from the image supply device;
An upper layer of the print command is a code that must be recognized, and a first determination step of determining a recording mode specified by the upper layer;
A second determination step of determining an accompanying recording mode specified by a lower layer code of the upper layer under which the recognition is optional under the recording mode determined in the first determination step;
If the accompanying recording mode cannot be determined in the second determining step, a recording operation corresponding to the recording mode determined in the first determining step is performed, and the accompanying recording mode determined in the second determining step A control step for controlling to perform recording according to the accompanying recording mode when recording in
A control method characterized by comprising:   14. The control method according to claim 13, wherein the recording mode is a mode for recording date information, and the accompanying recording mode is a mode for specifying and recording a recording character of the date information.   The control method according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the recording mode is a mode for recording date information, and the accompanying recording mode is a mode for recording by specifying a recording position of the date information.   The recording mode is a mode in which a plurality of images are recorded on a recording medium, and the accompanying recording mode is a mode in which each of the plurality of images is recorded with no border or designated with a border. The control method according to claim 13.   14. The control according to claim 13, wherein the recording mode is a mode for recording a plurality of images on a recording medium, and the accompanying recording mode is a mode for recording by specifying reduction and layout of the image. Method.   The recording mode is a mode in which a designated image is cut out and recorded on a recording medium, and the accompanying recording mode is a mode in which a cut shape of the image is designated and recorded. Control method.   The program which performs the control method of any one of Claims 13 thru | or 18.

Images