JP2005216032A - Data processor, print control method, computer-readable storage medium storing program, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To obtain a print result allowing clear projection of the whole image printed on an OHP film, and to obtain a print result allowing processing with a proper position to a normal image of the printed OHP film as a filing position. <P>SOLUTION: When a printer driver 203 decides that a mirror image print mode and a filing margin direction are simultaneously designated, the printer driver 203 generates print control information for performing reversal designation of the designated filing margin direction. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a data processing apparatus capable of communicating with a printer capable of printing an image on an OHP film that is selectively fed, and a storage medium storing a computer-readable program.

  As a conventional printing technique, there is a technique called OHP printing in which printing is performed on a transparent plastic film in consideration of use in OHP (Over Head Projector).

Conventionally, as a printer driver technique for generating print data for a printer having such an OHP printing function, the following Patent Document 1 has already been published.
JP 2000-185445 A

  However, in such a printer, the obtained product has a problem that a phenomenon called curl in which the film is curved in the printing surface direction occurs.

  When an OHP film in which this curl is generated is actually used in OHP, the end direction of the film is lifted with respect to the projection glass plane, and thus there is a problem that the projected image is blurred.

  In order to avoid this, there has been a technique in which mirror image printing technology is further applied to perform printing on the back surface of the OHP film.

  On the other hand, there has been a technique called a binding margin function that generates a blank area by shifting a print image by a user-specified amount so that stapling or punching does not affect the print image.

  However, when these two technologies are used in combination, the closing direction may differ from what the user expects depending on the relationship between the image reversal direction and the binding margin designation direction.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and is a data processing apparatus capable of communicating with a printer device capable of printing an image on a selectively fed OHP film or an image on a selectively fed OHP film. When the mirror image printing mode and the binding margin direction are simultaneously designated in the printer driver capable of communicating with the printer device capable of printing the image, the print control information for designating the designated binding margin direction in reverse is generated. When the mirror image printing designation and the binding margin designation for the OHP film are specified at the same time, the problem of the binding margin position is solved, and a print result that can clearly project the entire image printed on the OHP film is obtained and printed. A data processing apparatus that can obtain a printing result that can be processed with a proper position as a binding position with respect to a normal image of an OHP film. Fine printer driver and print control method and a computer to provide a storage medium, and program storing readable program.

  According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a data processing apparatus capable of communicating with a printer device capable of printing an image on a selectively fed OHP film, wherein a first designation for designating a mirror image printing mode for the OHP film. Means (for example, the printer driver 203 shown in FIG. 2), second specifying means (for example, the printer driver 203 shown in FIG. 2) for specifying the binding margin direction for the OHP film, and the mirror image printing mode by the first specifying means. And a determination unit (for example, the printer driver 203 shown in FIG. 2) for determining whether or not the binding margin direction by the second designation unit is simultaneously specified, and the mirror image printing mode and the binding margin direction by the determination unit. When it is determined that both are simultaneously specified, print control information is generated that specifies the binding margin direction specified by the second specifying means to be reversed. And having a forming unit (printer driver 203 shown in FIG. 2 for example).

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a printer driver capable of communicating with a printer device capable of printing an image on a selectively fed OHP film, wherein the first designating unit designates a mirror image printing mode for the OHP film. (For example, the printer driver 203 shown in FIG. 2), a second specifying means (for example, the printer driver 203 shown in FIG. 2) for specifying the binding margin direction for the OHP film, and the mirror image printing mode by the first specifying means; The determination unit (for example, the printer driver 203 shown in FIG. 2) that determines whether or not the binding margin direction by the second designation unit is simultaneously specified, and the mirror image printing mode and the binding margin direction are simultaneously determined by the determination unit. If it is determined that it is designated, print control information for designating reversely the binding margin direction designated by the second designation means is generated. And having a generating means (the printer driver 203 shown in FIG. 2 for example).

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a printing control method in a data processing apparatus capable of communicating with a printer device capable of printing an image on an OHP film that is selectively fed, and a mirror image printing mode for the OHP film is designated. A first designation step (step (1501) shown in FIG. 15), a second designation step (step (1501) shown in FIG. 15) for designating a binding margin direction for the OHP film, and the first designation step. 15 (steps (1502) and (1504) shown in FIG. 15) for determining whether or not the mirror image printing mode according to the above and the binding margin direction in the second specifying step are simultaneously specified, and the mirror image by the determination step. When it is determined that the printing mode and the binding margin direction are simultaneously specified, the binding specified by the second specifying step is performed. And having a generation step of generating print control information to reverse specified algebraic direction (step shown in FIG. 15 (1507)).

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a printing control method in a printer driver capable of communicating with a printer device capable of printing an image on a selectively fed OHP film, wherein the mirror image printing mode for the OHP film is designated. 1 specifying step (step (1501) shown in FIG. 15), a second specifying step (step (1501) shown in FIG. 15) specifying the binding margin direction for the OHP film, and the first specifying step. A determination step (steps (1502) and (1504) shown in FIG. 15) for determining whether the mirror image printing mode and the binding margin direction in the second specifying step are simultaneously specified, and mirror image printing by the determination step. When it is determined that the mode and the binding margin direction are simultaneously specified, the binding specified by the second specifying step is performed. And having a generation step of generating print control information to reverse specified algebraic direction (step shown in FIG. 15 (1507)).

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, a program for executing the printing control method of the third or fourth aspect is stored in a computer-readable storage medium.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a program for executing the printing control method according to the third or fourth aspect.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to solve the problem of the binding margin position when the mirror image printing designation and the binding margin designation for the OHP film are simultaneously designated, and to obtain a printing result that can clearly project the entire image printed on the OHP film. In addition, there is an effect that it is possible to obtain a printing result that can process a proper position as a binding position with respect to a normal image of the printed OHP film.

  Next, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  Before describing an embodiment of the present invention, the configuration of a system including an information processing apparatus such as a personal computer connected to a printer to which the present invention can be applied will be described below.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a printing system to which the data processing apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention can be applied. As long as the function of the present invention is executed, a system in which processing is performed by being connected via a network such as a LAN or WAN, whether it is a single device or a system composed of a plurality of devices. Even so, the present invention can be applied.

  In the host computer 100 shown in FIG. 1, reference numeral 101 denotes a CPU, which includes figures, images, characters, tables (including spreadsheets) and the like based on a document processing program stored in a ROM for program in a ROM 103 or an external memory 111. In addition to executing mixed document processing, the CPU 101 generally controls each device connected to the system bus 104.

  The ROM 103 program ROM or external memory 111 stores an operating system program (hereinafter referred to as OS) which is a control program of the CPU 101, and the ROM 103 font ROM or external memory 111 stores the above-mentioned document processing. Font data to be used is stored, and various data used when the document processing is performed is stored in the data ROM of the ROM 103 or the external memory 111.

  Reference numeral 102 denotes a RAM that functions as a main memory, work area, and the like for the CPU 101. A keyboard controller (KBC) 105 controls key input from a keyboard (KB) 109 or a pointing device (not shown). Reference numeral 106 denotes a CRT controller (CRTC), which controls display on a CRT display (CRT) 110. A disk controller (DKC) 107 is a hard disk (HD), flexible disk (FD), etc. that stores a boot program, various applications, font data, user files, edit files, a printer control command generation program (hereinafter referred to as a printer driver), and the like. The access to the external memory 111 is controlled. A printer controller (PRTC) 108 is connected to the printer 150 via a bidirectional interface (interface) 112 and executes communication control processing with the printer 150.

  Note that the CPU 101 executes, for example, outline font development (rasterization) processing on the display information RAM set on the RAM 102 to enable WYSIWYG on the CRT 110. Further, the CPU 101 opens various windows registered based on commands instructed by a mouse cursor (not shown) on the CRT 110, and executes various data processing. When executing printing, the user opens a window relating to print settings, and can set the print processing method for the printer driver including printer settings and print mode selection.

  In the printer 150, a printer CPU 151 is connected to the system bus 154 via the printing unit I / F 156 based on a control program stored in the program ROM of the ROM 153 or a control program stored in the external memory 160. An image signal as output information is output to a printing unit (printer engine) 158.

  Further, the ROM for program of the ROM 153 stores a control program for the CPU 151 and the like. The font ROM of the ROM 153 stores font data used when generating the output information. In the case of a printer without the external memory 160 such as a hard disk, the data ROM of the ROM 153 runs on the host computer. Information to be used is stored.

  The CPU 151 can communicate with the host computer via the input unit 155 and can notify the host computer 100 of information in the printer. The RAM 152 functions as a main memory of the CPU 151, a work area, or the like, and is configured such that the memory capacity can be expanded by an optional RAM connected to an expansion port (not shown).

  The RAM 152 is used as an output information expansion area, environment data storage area, NVRAM, and the like. Access to the above-described external memory 160 such as a hard disk (HD) or IC card is controlled by a memory controller (MC) 157. The external memory 160 is connected as an option and stores font data, an emulation program, form data, and the like.

  Reference numeral 159 denotes an operation panel on which an operation switch, an LED display, and the like are arranged.

  Furthermore, the external memory 160 described above is not limited to one, and a plurality of external memories 160 are provided so that a plurality of external memories storing an option card and a program for interpreting a printer control language having a different language system can be connected in addition to the built-in font. May be. Furthermore, an NVRAM (not shown) may be provided to store printer mode setting information from the operation panel 159.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of modules in the host computer 100 shown in FIG. 1, and the same components as those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals. It is assumed that the printer 150 and the host computer 100 are connected via, for example, an interface cable or a network.

  In FIG. 2, an application 201, a graphic engine 202, a printer driver 203, and a system spooler 204 exist as files stored in the external memory 111, and are loaded into the RAM 102 by the OS and modules that use the module when executed. Program module to be executed.

  The application 201 and the printer driver 203 can be added to the HD of the external memory 111 via the FD of the external memory 111, a CD-ROM (not shown), or a network (not shown). The application 201 stored in the external memory 111 is loaded into the RAM 102 and executed. When printing is performed from the application 201 to the printer 150, the graphic that is similarly loaded into the RAM 102 and executable. Output (drawing) is performed using the engine 202.

  The graphic engine 202 similarly loads the printer driver 203 prepared for each printing apparatus from the external memory 111 to the RAM 102, and sets the output of the application 201 in the printer driver 203.

  Then, the GDI (Graphic Device Interface) function received from the application 201 is converted into a DDI (Device Driver Interface) function, and the DDI function is output to the printer driver 203. Based on the DDI function received from the graphic engine 202, the printer driver 203 converts it into a control command that can be recognized by the printer, for example, a PDL (Page Description Language). The converted printer control command is output as print data to the printer 150 via the interface 112 via the system spooler 204 loaded into the RAM 102 by the OS.

  Upon receiving the print data, the printer 150 forms an image on a medium such as paper based on the print data instruction.

  In this embodiment, the printer driver 203 can designate an OHP plastic film (hereinafter referred to as an OHP film) as a print target medium via a user interface, and the printer 150 can specify a print target medium based on this designation. It is assumed that an OHP film can be fed and printed on the film.

  A phenomenon that occurs when printing on an OHP film is curling. This is a phenomenon in which when printing on an OHP film, the plastic film is deformed due to heating of the fixing device or the like, and is curved toward the printing surface. This phenomenon is difficult to avoid because of the mechanical structure. However, due to this curl, the following phenomenon occurs.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining a print processing state for the OHP film fed from the printer 150 shown in FIG. 1. The OHP film printed by the above means (printer engine) is actually placed on the OHP document table P. The case where it is placed is shown.

  In the case of printing by the conventional technique, in order to project a correct image 302, it is necessary to install the OHP film F so that the printing surface PF is on the upper side as shown in the mounting state 301.

  However, as described above, a special phenomenon called curling occurs in the OHP film F, so that the edge direction of the OHP film F comes to rise as shown in the loaded state 303. For this reason, the projected image is out of focus in the edge direction, resulting in a blurred image 304.

  As a means for avoiding the above-described problems, there is a method of placing the printing surface downward as shown in the placement state 305. By placing in this way, the curl direction is also downward, so that the curl can be extended by the weight of the OHP film F. As a result, the lifting of the OHP film F can be reduced, and the image to be projected is also It is possible to make the image clearer like the image 306.

  However, in the prior art, if the printing surface is on the lower side, the image is naturally reversed left and right, and as a result, the projected image is reversed left and right like the image 306.

  As a method for solving such a problem, there is a method using mirror image printing in which printing is performed by inverting the left and right sides of an image. Further, this method can be automatically performed according to the set media without making the user aware of this method.

  First, a method for realizing mirror image printing will be described below.

  The mirror image creation method includes a first print processing method for creating inverted data on the left and right before creating PDL data mainly on the host computer 100 side shown in FIG. There are two types of the second print processing method in which left and right reversal is performed when developing a print image from PDL data on the printer 150 side without performing any processing, and it does not matter which one is used. In the present embodiment, the latter is taken as an example.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the first data processing procedure in the printing system according to the present invention, and corresponds to the mirror image printing processing procedure. Reference numerals (401) to (410) denote steps, and steps (401) to (405) denote control programs (shown in FIG. 2) stored in the external memory 111 by the CPU 151 of the host computer 100 shown in FIG. The application 201, the graphic engine 202, the printer driver 203, and the system spooler 204) are implemented. Steps (406) to (410) are performed by the CPU 151 of the printer 150 illustrated in FIG. 1 in the external memory 160, the ROM 153, and the like. This is realized by executing a stored control program (mirror image printing processing program).

  First, the printing process is started in response to the user's printing execution (401). Before the printer driver 203 performs the actual data processing for the print command passed through the application 201 and the graphic engine 202, Each command is generated based on each setting made by the user. Similarly for mirror image printing, the presence / absence of setting is determined at this point (402), and if it is set, a command for designating mirror image printing is generated (403).

  Thereafter, the printer driver 203 performs exactly the same process as the conversion process from normal DDI to PDL data (404).

  That is, the generated PDL data is not different from normal printing except that it includes a mirror image printing designation command. The printer driver 203 transfers this data to the printer 150 via the OS system spooler 204 (405).

  Upon receiving this data, the printer 150 develops the image into a single image based on the PDL described in the PDL data. Before this, the printer 150 determines whether or not there is a mirror image designation command (407). If it is determined that there is a coordinate system of the memory space at the time of expansion, as shown in FIG. 5, the origin is set in the opposite direction from the normal case, that is, the origin that is usually at the upper left is the upper right, For the X coordinate, the minus direction is set as the positive direction, that is, the coordinates that are normally taken with the right direction as the positive are set as the left direction as the positive (408), and the image is developed with respect to this coordinate system (409). Then, the OHP film is fed from the engine unit to perform the printing process (410), and the process is terminated.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining an image development coordinate system on the RAM 152 shown in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 5, when the image is developed with respect to the normal coordinate system 501, the left and right are switched in the coordinate system 502 developed after the coordinate shape conversion is performed. The printer 150 prints the image developed in this way onto a designated medium. As a result, a mirror image print is generated.

  Next, a method for automatically switching to the above-described mirror image printing process using a designated medium will be described.

  First, before executing printing, an operation of specifying a medium as one of the settings of the printer driver 203 of the host computer 100 is performed via a user interface as shown in FIG. In order to perform optimum printing according to each media, the printing speed is changed to improve the fixing property, and such designation is not made for media that cannot be finished or printed on both sides. The purpose is to do.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a user interface displayed on the CRT 110 by the printer driver 203 shown in FIG. 2, and corresponds to a property screen for performing media designation (paper type).

  In FIG. 6, the setting is changed by selecting a specific medium from a combo box 602 on the user interface. It is assumed that an OHP film is also prepared as one of the options 603.

  FIG. 7 shows a process when an OHP film is designated as the medium.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the second data processing procedure in the printing system according to the present invention, and corresponds to the mirror image printing processing procedure. Reference numerals (701) to (713) denote steps, and steps (701) to (706) denote control programs (shown in FIG. 2) stored in the external memory 111 by the CPU 151 of the host computer 100 shown in FIG. This is realized by executing the application 201, the graphic engine 202, the printer 203, and the system spooler 204). Steps (707) to (713) are stored in the external memory 160, the ROM 153, etc. by the CPU 151 of the printer 150 shown in FIG. This is realized by executing a control program (mirror image printing program).

  First, the designation of the OHP film set by the user interface 601 is temporarily held in the external memory 111. Next, in response to a print start designation from the user (701), the printer driver 203 starts creating print data. At this time, the medium to be output is determined in accordance with the setting held in the external memory 111 (702). If the determination result is not an OHP film, the process proceeds to step (705) and subsequent steps.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step (702) that the determination result is an OHP film, the printer driver 203 creates a command for designating that the OHP film is a print target medium in accordance with the media setting (703). Subsequently, a mirror image print designation command is generated (704).

  These processes are not performed when a medium other than the OHP film is designated.

  After this, print data creation (conversion to PDL) is performed in the same manner as usual regardless of the media setting (705). A command for designating a mirror image and a command for designating an OHP film are added to the finally created print data and output as a print job (706). The output print job is transferred to the printer 150 via the spooler 204. An example of the data structure at this time is shown in FIG.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a structure example of PDL data generated by the printer driver 203 shown in FIG.

  Upon receiving this data, the printer 150 first analyzes the setting command (707), determines whether the mirror image designation command is set in the printing method setting (708), and determines that there is a setting. In this case, the coordinate shape conversion for creating a mirror image similar to that described above is performed (709), the print data is developed on the memory, and a single print image is formed (710).

  Then, in the setting of the paper supply / discharge method in the PDL data as shown in FIG. 8, it is determined whether an OHP film is set as the medium (711). If it is determined that the setting is not made, step (713) is performed. ) Proceed to the following.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step (711) that the setting has been made, switching to a paper feed stage equipped with an OHP film or an OHP film is provided so that an OHP film is fed as a medium. If not, a request for paper replacement is issued to the user, and the engine speed is switched so as to obtain fixing properties suitable for the OHP film (712).

  Finally, the mirrored print image developed on the memory in step (710) is printed on the selected OHP film (713), and printed on the desired reverse side. An OHP film will be obtained.

  FIG. 9 shows a case where the thus obtained OHP film is placed on the OHP document table.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an OHP film printing process state in the printing system according to the present invention.

  In FIG. 9, in order to prevent blurring due to the curl of the film, the film is placed with the printing surface facing downward as shown in the loaded state 901. At this time, since the printed image is mirror-inverted, the projected image can be obtained in the expected orientation.

  In addition, since the curl direction is downward, when normal printing is used, a clearer image 902 than the image 304 shown in FIG. 3 can be obtained.

  Next, the binding margin function will be described. The binding margin function process uses the internal spool function provided in the printer driver to generate a drawing method that is shifted on the host computer side, and is specified at the time of image development on the printer body side. There is a second method of converting coordinates that are shifted by a given amount. In the present embodiment, the latter will be described as an example, but it does not matter which is used in the present invention.

  Here, the binding margin function means that a margin area is provided on one side of a sheet by specifying a closing direction and an image shift amount at the time of printing, and printing is bound by stapling or printing is cut by punching. This is to avoid problems.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining an output example at the time of designated printing of the binding margin in the printer 150 shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 10, output results 1002 and 1003 show examples of results when stapling and punching are performed on the original data 1001 printed without specifying the binding margin. By performing stapling ST or punching PC, the drawing near the binding side is bound or cut out.

  In order to avoid this, by moving the image area as in the images 1004 and 1005, it is possible to provide a margin area on the side that becomes the binding margin, and to avoid the above-described problems.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a user interface displayed on the CRT 110 by the printer driver 203 shown in FIG. 2 and corresponds to a print setting screen for specifying a binding margin.

  As shown in FIG. 11A, in the present embodiment, the closing direction is designated in a list combo box 1102 provided on the driver user interface 1101, and further displayed when the button 1103 is pressed. By using the control 1105 provided on the user interface 1104 shown in (b) of FIG. 5B to specify the binding margin amount, the user can use this function.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the third data processing procedure in the printing system according to the present invention, and corresponds to the mirror image printing processing procedure. Reference numerals (1201) to (1213) denote steps, and steps (1201) to (1207) denote control programs (shown in FIG. 2) stored in the external memory 111 by the CPU 151 of the host computer 100 shown in FIG. The application 201, the graphic engine 202, the program driver 203, and the system spooler 204) are implemented, and steps (1208) to (1213) are performed by the CPU 151 of the printer 150 shown in FIG. 1 in the external memory 160, the ROM 153, and the like. This is realized by executing a stored control program (binding margin printing processing program).

  First, when printing start is instructed (1201), the designation of the binding direction in the above-described user interface shown in FIG. 11 is determined (1202). If it is determined that there is no designation, step (1206) and the subsequent steps are performed. If it is determined that there is a designation, a binding direction designation command is generated (1203).

  Next, the binding amount designation state is determined (1204). When it is determined that there is no designation, the process proceeds to step (1206) and after, and when it is determined that there is designation, a command for designating the binding margin amount. Is generated (1205). Then, after the generated command is generated (1206), the generated command is added to the print job and transferred to the printer controller (1207). An example of the data structure at this time is shown in FIG.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a structure example of PDL data generated by the printer driver 203 illustrated in FIG. 2, and is a data structure example in a print job at the time of binding margin designation printing.

  Upon receiving this print job, the printer controller (CPU 151) of the printer 150 analyzes the setting command in the PDL data (1208), and determines whether or not the image shift amount is necessary based on whether or not the binding margin is specified ( 1209) If it is determined that it is not necessary, the process proceeds to step (1212), the print data is expanded, the print process is executed (1213), and the process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step (1209) that the image shift amount is necessary, the binding direction designation set in the print job is further determined in order to determine the shift direction (1210). If it is determined that the binding direction is not specified, the process proceeds to step (1212).

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step (1210) that the binding direction is specified, the controller develops the drawing data included in the print job on the memory. At this time, the coordinates designated in each drawing data are converted into the reverse direction of the binding direction and the designated binding margin amount coordinates are shifted, and are expanded on the memory (1211). As a result, a printed matter having a margin for the binding margin is generated.

  Then, the developed image data is printed by the printer engine (1213), and the process is terminated.

  As described above, the OHP mirror image printing function and the binding margin function have been described. However, when both these functions are used in combination, a problem as shown in FIG. 14 is expected.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an image output state at the time of binding mirror image printing in this type of printing system.

  As shown in FIG. 14, when the output result 1402 is expected for the original data 1401 and the binding margin function is applied, the printing is reversed left and right when used together with the OHP mirror image printing function, but the binding direction of the binding margin function is Since the left and right of the designation are designated for the printing surface, a margin is generated at a position 1403.

  However, since the OHP mirror image printing function is based on the assumption that the paper is used with the back side, the binding margin direction is added to the left and right sides 1404 in actual use.

  In order to avoid this phenomenon, in the present embodiment, by performing the following processing, the binding direction is also reversed, and the output result expected by the user can be provided. Note that this process determines the problem from the manuscript data used by the user and the binding margin designation, and automatically performs the process as necessary, so that the user is not particularly aware of it, and unnecessary designation, etc. The objective is to enable optimum output without causing any problems.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the fourth data processing procedure in the printing system according to the present invention, and corresponds to the mirror image printing processing procedure. Reference numerals (1501) to (1511) denote steps, and steps (1501) to (1505) denote control programs (shown in FIG. 2) stored in the external memory 111 by the CPU 151 of the host computer 100 shown in FIG. The application 201, the graphic engine 202, the printer 203, and the system spooler 204) are implemented, and steps (1506) to (1511) are stored in the external memory 160, the ROM 153, etc. by the CPU 151 of the printer 150 shown in FIG. This is realized by executing a control program (binding margin printing processing program).

  When the printer driver 203 is instructed to start the printing process (1501), the printer driver 203 first determines whether or not OHP mirror image printing is specified by the user (1502), and if it is determined that OHP mirror image printing is not specified, Proceeding to step (1506), a normal binding margin designation process is performed.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step (1502) that OHP mirror image printing is designated, an OHP mirror image print command is generated (1503). Next, it is determined whether the binding direction is designated up, down, left, or right (1504). If the binding direction is up or down, the process proceeds to step (1507) and subsequent steps without performing any particular processing.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step (1504) that the binding direction is left or right, the binding direction is reversed (1505) because it is a target of a defect at the time of OHP mirror image printing, and step (1507). Proceed to the following.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step (1502) that OHP mirror image printing has not been designated, it is determined in step (1506) whether the binding direction is up, down, left, or right. ) Proceed to the following.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step (1506) that the binding direction is either up, down, left, or right, the process proceeds to step (1507), and a binding direction designation command is generated in the same manner as in normal binding margin printing processing.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the binding amount is designated as a numerical value if necessary (1508). If it is determined that the binding amount is not designated, the process proceeds to step (1510) and subsequent steps.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step (1508) that the binding amount is designated as a numerical value, a binding amount designation command is generated as necessary (1509).

  Thereafter, the printer driver 203 performs exactly the same processing as the conversion processing from normal DDI to PDL data (1510).

  Then, the printer driver 203 transfers this data to the printer 150 via the OS system spooler 204 (1511). Thereafter, processing is performed as usual on the printer controller side according to the already specified binding margin designation.

  As a result, an image in which the binding margin direction is reversed in conjunction with mirror image printing is output. An output example when the present invention is applied is shown in FIG.

  FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an image output state at the time of binding margin image printing in the printing system according to the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 16, the document data 1601 is printed on an OHP film like an image 1603. When this is actually used, since it is used with the front and back reversed, a state like an image 1604 is obtained. When this is printed on normal paper, a print result 1602 is obtained, which is expected by the user.

  By using the above method, it is possible to avoid problems that occur when two techniques of mirror image printing on an OHP film and a binding margin function are used in combination, and to provide an output as expected by the user.

  In addition, by automatically switching these processes internally, it is possible to always provide optimum output results to the user.

  The configuration of a data processing program that can be read by the printing system according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the memory map shown in FIG.

  FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs readable by the printing system according to the present invention.

  Although not particularly illustrated, information for managing a program group stored in the storage medium, for example, version information, creator, etc. is also stored, and information depending on the OS on the program reading side, for example, a program is identified and displayed. Icons may also be stored.

  Further, data depending on various programs is also managed in the directory. In addition, a program for installing various programs in the computer, and a program for decompressing when the program to be installed is compressed may be stored.

  The functions shown in FIGS. 4, 7, 12, and 15 in the present embodiment may be performed by a host computer by a program installed from the outside. In this case, the present invention is applied even when an information group including a program is supplied to the output device from a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network. Is.

  As described above, a storage medium storing software program codes for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to the system or apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus stores the storage medium in the storage medium. It goes without saying that the object of the present invention can also be achieved by reading and executing the programmed program code.

  In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the novel function of the present invention, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

  Therefore, as long as it has the function of the program, the form of the program such as an object code, a program executed by an interpreter, or script data supplied to the OS is not limited.

  As a storage medium for supplying the program, for example, a flexible disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, MO, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM, DVD, etc. Can be used.

  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 another program supply method, a browser of a client computer is used to connect to a homepage on the Internet, and the computer program itself of the present invention or a compressed file including an automatic installation function is stored on a recording medium such as a hard disk from the homepage. It can also be supplied by downloading. It can also be realized by dividing the program code constituting the program of the present invention into a plurality of files and downloading each file from a different homepage. That is, a WWW server, an ftp server, and the like that allow a plurality of users to download a program file for realizing the functional processing of the present invention on a computer are also included in the claims of the present invention.

  In addition, the program of the present invention is encrypted, stored in a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, distributed to users, and key information for decryption is downloaded from a homepage via the Internet to users who have cleared predetermined conditions. It is also possible to execute the encrypted program by using the key information and install the program on a computer.

  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) or the like running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by performing part or all of the actual processing and the processing is included.

  Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written to a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function expansion is performed based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that the case where the CPU or the like provided in the board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.

  The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications (including organic combinations of the embodiments) are possible based on the spirit of the present invention, and these are excluded from the scope of the present invention. is not.

  Although various examples and embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, the spirit and scope of the present invention are not limited to the specific descriptions in the present specification by those skilled in the art.

  Note that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and it is needless to say that various modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the present invention.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a printing system to which a data processing apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention can be applied. It is a block diagram explaining the structure of the module in the host computer shown in FIG. It is a figure explaining the printing processing state with respect to the OHP film fed from the printer shown in FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first data processing procedure in the printing system according to the present invention. It is a figure explaining an image expansion coordinate system on RAM shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a user interface displayed on a CRT by the printer driver shown in FIG. 2. It is a flowchart explaining an example of the 2nd data processing procedure in the printing system which concerns on this invention. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a structure example of PDL data generated by the printer driver illustrated in FIG. 2. It is a figure explaining the OHP film printing processing state in the printing system which concerns on this invention. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining an output example at the time of designated printing of a binding margin in the printer shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a user interface displayed on a CRT by the printer driver shown in FIG. 2. It is a flowchart explaining an example of the 3rd data processing procedure in the printing system which concerns on this invention. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a structure example of PDL data generated by the printer driver illustrated in FIG. 2. It is a figure which shows the image output state at the time of binding margin mirror image printing in this kind of printing system. It is a flowchart explaining an example of the 4th data processing procedure in the printing system which concerns on this invention. FIG. 6 shows an image output state at the time of binding mirror image printing in the printing system according to the present invention. It is a figure explaining the memory map of the storage medium which stores the various data processing program which can be read by the printing system which concerns on this invention.

Explanation of symbols

100 Host computer 101 CPU
102 RAM
111 External memory 150 Printer 151 CPU
152 RAM
201 Application 202 Graphic Engine 203 Printer Driver 204 System Spooler

Claims (6)

A data processing device capable of communicating with a printer device capable of printing an image on a selectively fed OHP film,
First designation means for designating a mirror image printing mode for the OHP film;
Second specifying means for specifying a binding margin direction for the OHP film;
Determining means for determining whether or not the mirror image printing mode by the first specifying means and the binding margin direction by the second specifying means are simultaneously specified;
Generating means for generating print control information for designating reversely the binding margin direction designated by the second designation means when it is judged by the judgment means that the mirror image printing mode and the binding margin direction are designated simultaneously; ,
A data processing apparatus comprising: A printer driver capable of communicating with a printer device capable of printing an image on a selectively fed OHP film,
First designation means for designating a mirror image printing mode for the OHP film;
Second specifying means for specifying a binding margin direction for the OHP film;
Determining means for determining whether or not the mirror image printing mode by the first specifying means and the binding margin direction by the second specifying means are simultaneously specified;
Generating means for generating print control information for designating reversely the binding margin direction designated by the second designation means when it is judged by the judgment means that the mirror image printing mode and the binding margin direction are designated simultaneously; ,
A printer driver comprising: A printing control method in a data processing device capable of communicating with a printer device capable of printing an image on a selectively fed OHP film,
A first specifying step of specifying a mirror image printing mode for the OHP film;
A second specifying step of specifying a binding margin direction for the OHP film;
A determination step of determining whether or not the mirror image printing mode in the first specifying step and the binding margin direction in the second specifying step are simultaneously specified;
A generation step of generating print control information for designating the reverse of the binding margin direction specified in the second specifying step when it is determined that the mirror image printing mode and the binding margin direction are simultaneously specified in the determining step; ,
A printing control method characterized by comprising: A printing control method in a printer driver capable of communicating with a printer device capable of printing an image on a selectively fed OHP film,
A first specifying step of specifying a mirror image printing mode for the OHP film;
A second specifying step of specifying a binding margin direction for the OHP film;
A determination step of determining whether or not the mirror image printing mode in the first specifying step and the binding margin direction in the second specifying step are simultaneously specified;
A generation step of generating print control information for designating the reverse of the binding margin direction specified in the second specifying step when it is determined that the mirror image printing mode and the binding margin direction are simultaneously specified in the determining step; ,
A printing control method characterized by comprising:   A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for executing the printing control method according to claim 3.   A program for executing the printing control method according to claim 3 or 4.

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