JP2008049683A - Printing apparatus and tag label making apparatus, and printing management system having these - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a printing apparatus and a tag label making apparatus which can easily obtain data itself of a printed matter from the printed matter, and a printing management system having these. <P>SOLUTION: A print head 401 conducts printing based on print data for printing file data to be printed on a substrate, and a control circuit 402 outputs tag data to the tag label making apparatus 300 so that a wireless tag label T which can obtain information on the storage location of the file data can be generated in response to printing by the print head 401. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention includes a printing apparatus that performs printing on a substrate, a tag label producing apparatus that can produce a RFID label including a RFID circuit element capable of wirelessly communicating information with the outside, and the printing apparatus and the tag label producing apparatus. The present invention relates to a print management system.

  An RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) system that reads / writes information in a non-contact manner between a small wireless tag and a reader (reading device) / writer (writing device) is known. The wireless tag circuit element included in the wireless tag includes an IC circuit unit that stores predetermined wireless tag information and an antenna that is connected to the IC circuit unit and transmits and receives information, and the wireless tag is dirty. Even if it is placed in an invisible position, it is possible to access (read / write information) the RFID tag information of the IC circuit section from the reader / writer side, product management, inspection process, etc. Are being put to practical use in various fields.

  For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a conventional technique in which the RFID system is applied to, for example, printed matter. In this prior art, URL information of a website related to the printed matter is stored in a wireless tag attached to the printed matter (page of a publication or the like), and the RFID tag information is read from the RFID circuit element by a reader. And the URL information can be acquired. Thereby, the URL information of the website related to the contents of the printed matter can be reliably and easily acquired.

JP 2001-307042 A

  Since the above prior art is to store the URL information of the website related to the printed matter in the wireless tag, for example, when the printed matter in which a new procedure format is circulated in the company, the data of the printed matter itself If you want to get it could not cope.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a printing apparatus, a tag label producing apparatus, and a print management system having these that can easily acquire data of the printed matter from the printed matter.

  In order to achieve the above object, the first invention corresponds to printing means for performing printing based on a print instruction signal for printing file data to be printed on a substrate, and printing by this printing means. And a creation instruction output means for outputting a tag creation instruction signal to the tag label creation apparatus so as to create a RFID label capable of acquiring the file data.

  In the printing apparatus of the first invention of this application, for example, when a print instruction signal is input from the operation terminal, the printing means performs printing corresponding to the file data to be printed on the substrate. Corresponding to the printing by the printing means, the creation instruction output means outputs a tag creation instruction signal to the tag label creation device. In response to this, the tag label creating apparatus creates a RFID label that can acquire the file data.

  If the created RFID label is affixed to the printed matter of the file data of the corresponding printing means, if the user who has the printed matter intends to acquire the file data of the printed matter, it is affixed to the printed matter. File data can be obtained by reading information from the RFID tag circuit element of the RFID tag label. In this way, the data itself of the printed matter can be easily obtained from the printed matter, so that convenience for the user can be improved.

  In a second aspect based on the first aspect, the creation instruction output means outputs a tag creation instruction signal to the tag label creation device so as to create a RFID label capable of acquiring the storage location information of the file data. It is characterized by.

  In the printing apparatus according to the second aspect of the present invention, for example, when a print instruction signal is input from the operation terminal, the printing unit performs printing corresponding to the file data to be printed on the substrate. Corresponding to the printing by the printing means, the creation instruction output means outputs a tag creation instruction signal to the tag label creation device. In response to this, the tag label creating apparatus creates a RFID label that can acquire the storage location information of the file data.

  If the created RFID label is affixed to the printed matter of the file data of the corresponding printing means, if the user who has the printed matter intends to acquire the file data of the printed matter, it is affixed to the printed matter. By reading information from the RFID tag circuit element of the RFID tag label, the storage location of the file data can be acquired, and the file data can be easily accessed using this. In this way, the data itself of the printed matter can be easily obtained from the printed matter, so that convenience for the user can be improved.

  According to a third aspect, in the second aspect, the information acquisition means for acquiring the storage location information of the file data, the creation instruction output means includes the storage location information acquired by the information acquisition means. The tag production instruction signal is output to the tag label production device.

  The storage location information acquired from the operation terminal by the information acquisition means is included in the tag creation instruction signal by the creation instruction output means and output, so that the storage location information or information corresponding thereto is written in the RFID circuit element. Tag labels can be created.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the second or third aspect of the invention, the creation instruction output unit includes the one storage location information of the file data that becomes a plurality of printed materials when the printed material is printed. The tag production instruction signal is output to the tag label production device so as to produce a tag label.

  In this way, when it is more convenient to handle multiple printed materials at once, such as when the file data is printed on multiple pages, a single RFID tag label is created by associating the multiple printed materials. Thus, convenience can be improved.

  According to a fifth invention, in any one of the second to fourth inventions, the printing unit includes an antenna base in which an RFID circuit element including an IC circuit unit that stores information and an antenna that transmits and receives information is arranged. An identifier representing the arrangement position of the material is printed on the substrate.

  Accordingly, the user can easily and reliably attach the RFID circuit element to the printed material.

  According to a sixth invention, in any one of the second to fifth inventions, the creation instruction output means creates the tag for creating a RFID label capable of acquiring the storage location information of the file data as an operation mode. A tag creation mode for outputting an instruction signal and a tag non-creation mode for not creating the RFID label are provided.

  As a result, the user can acquire the file data storage destination from the RFID tag label according to the contents of the printed matter, the usage mode, etc., and the tag creation printing mode that makes it easy to manage the printed matter. No) Since the normal printing mode can be selected as appropriate, the convenience can be further improved.

  In order to achieve the above object, a seventh aspect of the invention is directed to a conveying means for conveying a tag medium on which an RFID circuit element having an IC circuit section for storing information and an antenna for transmitting and receiving information is arranged. , A creation device side communication means for performing information transmission / reception via wireless communication with the RFID circuit element, and a tag creation instruction signal input from a printing device that performs printing corresponding to the file data to be printed on the substrate. Accordingly, it has write control means for writing the storage destination information of the file data or information corresponding thereto to the IC circuit section of the RFID circuit element via the creation device side communication means. To do.

  In the tag label producing apparatus according to the seventh aspect of the present invention, a tag producing instruction signal output when the printing unit performs printing corresponding to the file data to be printed on the printing material is input. Then, the writing control means sends the storage location information of the file data to the creation device side communication in response to the tag creation instruction signal to the IC circuit portion of the RFID tag circuit element provided in the tag medium transported by the transport means. Write through means.

  If the RFID label produced in this way is affixed to the printed matter of the file data of the corresponding printing means, if the user who has obtained the printed matter intends to acquire the file data of the printed matter, By reading information from the RFID tag circuit element of the affixed RFID label, the storage location of the file data can be acquired, and the file data can be easily accessed using this. As a result, the data itself of the printed material can be easily acquired from the printed material, and the convenience for the user can be improved.

  In an eighth aspect based on the seventh aspect, the write control means writes an electronic address as the storage destination information of the file data in the IC circuit portion of the RFID circuit element.

  By writing an electronic address such as a URI (Uniform Resource Identifier) as file data storage location information in the IC circuit portion of the RFID label, the information is read from the RFID tag circuit element of the RFID tag label. The electronic address of the data can be obtained and used to easily access the file data.

  According to a ninth invention, in the seventh or eighth invention, the write control means writes the identification information of the file data in the IC circuit portion of the RFID circuit element.

  Thereby, the identification information (file type, number, etc.) of the file data can be acquired by reading information from the RFID tag circuit element of the RFID tag label, so that the convenience can be further improved.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in any one of the seventh to ninth aspects, the write control unit writes file additional information relating to an electronic file corresponding to the file data to the IC circuit unit of the RFID circuit element. It is characterized by.

  Thus, by reading information from the RFID tag circuit element of the RFID tag label, additional information of the electronic file such as the tag label creation date and application version information can be acquired, so that convenience can be further improved. In particular, when writing the tag label creation date, it is possible to determine whether the contents of the printed matter are the latest (whether updated after that), which is particularly convenient.

  In an eleventh aspect according to any one of the seventh to tenth aspects, the write control means sends authority information regarding access to the file data or various processes after the access to the IC circuit unit of the RFID circuit element. It is characterized by writing in.

  Thereby, according to the printed matter management mode of the user who creates the label, for example, the person who can download the file data is limitedly set, or the authority range is set for each person according to the processing operation, or It is possible to set a password for each processing operation without identifying a person, and it is possible to manage a wide variety of printed materials.

  A twelfth aspect of the invention is characterized in that, in any of the seventh to eleventh aspects, the tag medium or a printing medium to be attached to the tag medium has printing means for performing printing corresponding to the file data.

  Accordingly, it is possible to visually clarify that the RFID tag label is for the printed matter of the corresponding file data, and the connection between the printed matter and the RFID label can be clarified. As a result, it is possible to reliably prevent label sticking errors and the like.

  In a thirteenth aspect based on the twelfth aspect, the printing means prints identification information of the file data on the tag medium or the medium to be printed.

  By printing the identification information of the file data such as the file name, number, and type on the wireless tag label, it is possible to visually clarify that the wireless tag label is used for a print of the corresponding file data.

  In a fourteenth aspect based on the thirteenth aspect, the printing means prints storage location information of the file data on the tag medium or the print medium.

  As a result, the user can also visually confirm the storage location information of the file data stored in the RFID tag circuit element of the RFID tag affixed to the printed matter and obtained by reading information, and the convenience is further improved. Can do.

  In order to achieve the above object, a fifteenth aspect of the invention is a printing apparatus for printing file data to be printed on a substrate, and a tag label producing apparatus for producing a RFID label in cooperation with the printing apparatus. The printing apparatus includes: a printing unit that performs printing based on a printing instruction signal for printing the file data; and the file corresponding to the printing by the printing unit. A tag generation instruction output unit configured to output a tag generation instruction signal so as to generate the RFID label capable of acquiring data storage location information, and the tag label generation apparatus includes an IC circuit unit for storing information and an information A carrier means for carrying a tag medium on which a RFID circuit element having an antenna for transmitting and receiving is arranged; and information transmission / reception via wireless communication with the RFID circuit element And the IC circuit unit of the RFID circuit element via the creation device side communication means in response to the tag creation instruction signal input from the creation instruction output of the printing device. And a write control means for writing at least storage information of the file data or information corresponding thereto.

  In the print management system according to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, for example, when a print instruction signal is input from the operation terminal to the printing apparatus, the printing unit performs printing corresponding to the file data to be printed on the substrate. Corresponding to the printing by the printing means, the creation instruction output means outputs a tag creation instruction signal to the tag label creation device. In response to this, in the tag label producing apparatus, the writing control means stores the file data in response to the tag production instruction signal for the IC circuit portion of the RFID tag circuit element provided in the tag medium carried by the carrying means. Prior information (or information corresponding thereto) is written via the creating apparatus side communication means to create a RFID label.

  If the created RFID tag is affixed to the printed matter of the file data by the corresponding printing device, if the user who has the printed matter intends to acquire the file data of the printed matter, it is affixed to the printed matter. By reading information from the RFID tag circuit element of the RFID tag label, the storage location of the file data can be acquired, and the file data can be easily accessed using this. In this way, since the data of the printed matter can be easily acquired from the printed matter, the convenience for the user can be improved.

  In order to achieve the above object, a sixteenth aspect of the present invention includes an IC circuit unit that stores information and an antenna that transmits and receives information, which is provided on a RFID label attached to a printed material printed based on file data. Reading device side communication means for transmitting / receiving information to / from the wireless tag circuit element via wireless communication, and storage of the file data stored in the IC circuit portion of the wireless tag circuit element via the reading device side communication means Using the information acquired by the reading device side information acquisition means for acquiring the destination information or the information corresponding thereto, and the information acquired by the reading device side information acquisition means, the storage location of the file data is accessed. Update determination means for determining whether or not the RFID tag label has been updated after creation.

  In the print management system according to the sixteenth aspect of the present invention, when a user who has a printed material intends to acquire file data of the printed material, the reader side communication means is used for the wireless tag circuit element of the wireless label attached to the printed material. Information can be transmitted and received, and the file data storage destination information (or information corresponding thereto) can be acquired by the reading device side information acquisition means, so that the file data can be easily accessed using this. Further, at this time, the update determination unit determines whether the content of the file data has been updated since the label was created, thereby confirming whether the printed matter with the RFID label attached thereto is the latest. It becomes possible. As a result, when the printed matter is not the latest, it is possible to take a measure such as printing the file data (the latest version) with the printing device, and the convenience can be further improved. .

  According to the present invention, the data itself of the printed material can be easily acquired from the printed material.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram illustrating an overall configuration of a print tag generation system including a print management system having a printing apparatus according to the present embodiment.

  Referring to FIG. 1, a print management system 10A (showing a state when a print tag is created here) includes a wireless tag circuit element including an IC circuit unit 150 for storing information and an antenna 151 connected to the IC circuit unit 150. The above-described tag label producing apparatus 300 for producing the RFID label T having To (see FIG. 10 described later) and the tag label producing apparatus 300 via the connecting means 2 such as a USB cable are connected to the substrate (A4 paper). Etc.) and a printer 400 (printing apparatus) that prints file data to be printed to create a printed matter 1. The print management system 10A (more precisely, the printer 400 constituting the system) and a PC terminal (or general-purpose computer; hereinafter referred to as “PC”) 100 having a display unit 101, an operation unit 102, etc. are wired or They are connected via a wireless communication line 5, and a print tag generation system 20 is configured by these.

  FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing detailed functions of the PC 100 (operation terminal), the printer 400, and the tag label creating apparatus 300 that constitute the print tag generation system 20.

  In FIG. 2, the PC 100 includes the display unit 101 for performing predetermined display of various input screens, and the operation unit 102 including appropriate buttons, keys, a mouse, and the like for an operator to perform operation inputs. And a communication control unit that controls communication performed between the printer 400 and the database 103 (such as a hard disk or a memory) that stores the file data to be printed on the printed matter 1 and the printer 400. 104, and a control circuit 105 that controls the operation of the entire PC 100 including the display unit 101, the operation unit 102, the database 103, and the communication control unit 104.

  The printer 400 includes a print head 401 (printing means) for printing file data stored in the database 103 of the PC 100 on a substrate (A4 paper or the like), and the entire printer 400 including the print head 401. Control of communication performed between the control circuit 402 for controlling the operation and the PC 100 via the communication line 5 and control of communication performed via the connection means 2 with the tag label producing apparatus 300 And a communication control unit 403 for performing the above.

  On the other hand, the tag label producing apparatus 300 can attach and detach the tag tape roll 304 around which the tag tape 303 (tag medium) provided with the RFID circuit element To is provided at a predetermined interval (or a cartridge having the tag tape roll 304). A detachable tag tape roll holder portion 310, and a print head 305 (printing means) for performing predetermined printing in an area corresponding to the RFID circuit element To in the tag tape 303 fed out from the tag tape roll 304. The antenna 306 (creating apparatus side communication means) that transmits and receives information by wireless communication with the RFID circuit element To, the high-frequency circuit 301 and the control circuit 302, and the printer 400 are connected via the connection means 2. The communication control unit 308 for controlling the communication performed in this way, the printing on the tag tape 303 and the RFID circuit element To The tag tape 303 on which the above information has been written is cut to a predetermined length to form a RFID label T. The cutter 307 is provided opposite to the print head 305 and is controlled by the control circuit 302 so that the tag tape roll 304 is A conveying device 309 (conveying means) for conveying.

  The high frequency circuit 301 and the control circuit 302 generate access information to the IC circuit unit 150 of the RFID circuit element To and transmit it to the RFID circuit element To via the antenna 306, and the IC circuit unit of the RFID circuit element To Information is written to 150.

  In the print tag generation system 20 having such a configuration, when creating a print tag (details will be described later), the operator uses the operation unit 102 of the PC 100 to specify file data to be printed, tag layout, and the like. While performing editing input, the file data is stored in the database 103. As a result, print data is transmitted from the PC 100 to the printer 400, printing based on the print data is performed on the printed material to create the printed material 1, and the tag data is transmitted from the PC 100 to the tag label creating device 300 via the printer 400. The RFID label T is generated based on the transmitted tag data. That is, under the control of the control circuit 302 of the tag label producing apparatus 300, printing is performed by the print head 305 based on the printing information in the tag data, and access information is generated by the high frequency circuit 301 via the apparatus antenna 306. The tag data is transmitted to the RFID circuit element To, and the file access information (details will be described later) in the tag data is written to the IC circuit section 150 of the RFID circuit element To, and the RFID label T is created. Then, when the operator attaches the RFID label T created by the tag label producing apparatus 300 to the tag attaching area of the printed matter 1 created by the printer 400, the print tag 1-T is generated (FIG. 9 described later). reference).

  FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a control procedure executed by the control circuit 105 of the PC 100 when the print tag is created. This flow is started by the control circuit 105 when an appropriate print tag creation instruction is input by the operator.

  First, in step S3, the RFID tag label T is pasted on the printed matter 1 to create a printing tag 1-T, or “normal printing” is performed to create the ordinary printed matter 1 without attaching the RFID label T. A flag F indicating whether the mode is “initialized” is initialized to 0 indicating “normal printing mode”.

  In the next step S100, a print data creation process for creating print data is performed based on the file data input by the operator via the operation unit 102 and its layout information (refer to FIG. 4 described later for the detailed procedure).

  In the next step S5, it is determined whether or not the file data input in step S100 is stored in the database 103 with a file name. This step S5 is repeated until a save instruction is input via the operation unit 102 by the operator. If there is an input, the determination is satisfied and the routine goes to the next step S10.

  In step S10, printing information including the file name input in step S5 (printing information printed on the RFID tag label T), identification information (tag ID) of the RFID circuit element To, and file data are stored. Tag data including tag write information having file access information indicating the destination is created. The file access information is, for example, electronic address information “C: ¥... ¥... ¥ file name” and includes file name information of normal file data.

  In the next step S15, the print data (print instruction signal) created in the previous step S100 is transmitted to the printer 400 via the communication control unit 104 and the communication line 5.

  In the next step S20, whether or not printing by the printer 400 has been completed is determined by whether or not a printing completion signal has been received from the printer 400 via the communication line 5. If the print completion signal has not been received from the printer 400, the process proceeds to step S25, and it is determined whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed. If not, the process returns to step S20, and it is determined again whether a print completion signal has been received from the printer 400. If the predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S50 described later, and a control signal is output to the display unit 101 to display a corresponding error (for example, “printing did not end normally”). Error notification to the operator (not only display but notification may be made by voice). Then, this flow ends.

  On the other hand, if a print completion signal is received from the printer 400 in step S20, the determination is satisfied and the routine goes to the next step S30.

  In step S30, it is determined whether or not the flag F is 1 representing “tag creation print mode”. When the operator has entered the tag creation print mode, the flag F is 1 (see step S140 in FIG. 4 described later), so the determination is satisfied and the routine goes to the next step S35.

  In step S35, the tag data created in the previous step S10 is transmitted to the printer 400 via the communication control unit 104 and the communication line 5. The tag data is then transmitted from the printer 400 to the tag label producing apparatus 300.

  In the next step S40, it is determined whether or not the production of the RFID label T by the tag label production apparatus 300 is completed, depending on whether or not a tag production completion signal transmitted from the tag label production apparatus 300 via the printer 400 is received. To do. If the tag creation completion signal has not been received, the process proceeds to step S45 to determine whether or not a predetermined time has passed. If not, the process returns to step S40, and it is determined again whether a tag creation completion signal has been received from the tag label producing apparatus 300 (via the printer 400). If the predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S50, where a control signal is output to the display unit 101 to display a corresponding error (for example, “tag label creation did not end normally”). Then, error notification is given to the operator (not only display but notification may be made by voice). Then, this flow ends.

  On the other hand, when the tag creation completion signal is received from the tag label producing apparatus 300 (via the printer 400) in step S40, this flow is finished.

  Note that if the operator has not entered the tag creation print mode in the previous step S30, the flag F remains 0 (see step S140 in FIG. 4 to be described later). Exit.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the detailed procedure of step S100.

  First, in step S <b> 110, it is determined whether or not file data to be printed to be printed on the printing material by the printer 400 has been input by the operator via the operation unit 102. This step 110 is repeated until there is an input. If there is an input, the determination is satisfied and the routine goes to the next step S120.

  In step S120, it is determined whether or not the input of file data performed by the operator via the operation unit 102 is completed. This determination is made based on, for example, whether file data has been saved or whether a print instruction has been input. This step S120 is repeated until the input of the file data is completed. When the input is completed, the determination is satisfied, and the process proceeds to the next step S130.

  In step S130, it is determined whether or not the tag creation print mode is set. This determination is made based on whether or not the tag creation print mode is selected and input by the operator. This mode selection is performed, for example, by displaying a selection screen of “tag creation printing mode” or “normal printing mode” on the display unit 101, and an operator selecting and inputting via the operation unit 102 according to the screen. . If it is the tag creation print mode, the determination is satisfied and the routine goes to the next step S140.

  In step S140, the flag is set to 1 representing “tag creation print mode”, and the process proceeds to next step S150.

  In step S150, it is determined whether or not the operator has input tag layout data (arrangement information of the area where the RFID label T is attached to the printed material) via the operation unit 102. This tag layout data can be input in a format such as the position when the RFID label T affixing area is moved to the top or bottom of the substrate (A4 paper, etc.) or further to the left and right, and the RFID label's vertical or horizontal format. A plurality of settings are set in advance, and the selection is performed by the operator through the operation unit 102 from among these formats. This step S150 is repeated until the tag layout is input, and when there is an input, the process proceeds to the next step S160.

  In step S160, a tag layout is determined based on the tag layout data input in step S150, and the process proceeds to the next step S180.

  If the normal print mode is selected and input by the operator in the previous step S130, the determination is not satisfied and the process proceeds to step S165 to enter the normal print mode. In the next step S170, the RFID label T pasting area is selected. The layout as a normal printed matter that does not include is determined, and the process proceeds to the next step S180.

  In step S180, print data to be transmitted to the printer 400 is created based on the file data and layout data set by the above procedure. In the case of the tag creation print mode, drawing of a tag pasting frame L (further, text data may be included in the pasting frame, see FIG. 9 described later) based on the layout data set in the print data. Data is also included. Then, this routine ends.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a control procedure executed by the control circuit 402 of the printer 400 when the print tag is created.

  First, in step S205, it is determined whether print data is received from the PC 100 via the communication line 5. Step S205 is repeated until print data is received. If the print data is transmitted from the PC 100 in step S15 and the data is received, the determination is satisfied and the process proceeds to the next step S210.

  In step S210, a control signal is output to activate the print head 401, and printing is performed on the printing material based on the print data received in step S205.

  In the next step S215, it is determined whether or not all the print data (in other words, file data to be printed) received in step S205 has been printed on the substrate. If the printing has not been completed, the determination is not satisfied and the process returns to step S210 to continue printing. If printing has been completed, the determination is satisfied, and the routine goes to the next Step S220.

  In step S220, a print completion signal is transmitted to the PC 100 via the communication control unit 403 and the communication line 5.

  In the next step S225, it is determined whether tag data is received from the PC 100 via the communication line 5. If tag data has not been received, this flow is terminated because the normal print mode is set. On the other hand, when the tag data is transmitted from the PC 100 in the above-described step S25 and the data is received, the determination is satisfied and the process proceeds to the next step S230.

  In step S230, the tag data (tag creation instruction signal) received in step S225 is transmitted to the tag label creating apparatus 300 via the communication control unit 403 and the connecting means 2.

  In the next step S235, it is determined whether or not the production of the RFID label T by the tag label production device 300 is completed, based on whether or not the tag production completion signal transmitted from the tag label production device 300 is received via the connection means 2. To do. If the tag creation completion signal has not been received, the process proceeds to step S240, and it is determined whether or not a predetermined time has passed. If not, the process returns to step S235, and it is determined again whether a tag creation completion signal has been received from the tag label producing apparatus 300. If the predetermined time has elapsed, the process moves to step S245, and a control signal is output to the display unit of the printer 400 (not shown) to display a corresponding error (for example, “tag label creation did not end normally”). ) To perform error notification to the operator (not only display but also notification by voice). Then, this flow ends.

  On the other hand, if a tag creation completion signal is received from the tag label producing apparatus 300 in step S235, the process proceeds to step S250.

  In step S250, a tag creation completion signal is transmitted to the PC 100 via the communication control unit 403 and the communication line 5. Then, this flow ends.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a control procedure executed by the control circuit 302 of the tag label producing apparatus 300 when the print tag is produced.

  First, in step S <b> 310, it is determined whether tag data has been received from the printer 400 via the connection unit 2. This step S310 is repeated until tag data is received. When the tag data is transmitted from the printer 400 in the above-described step S230 and the data is received, the determination is satisfied and the process proceeds to the next step S400.

  In step S400, on the basis of the tag data received in step S310, printing is performed by the print head 305 according to the print information (file name in this example) in the tag data, and write information (tag ID) in the tag data. , File access information) is written to the IC circuit unit 150 of the RFID circuit element To, and a tag label creating process for creating the RFID label T is performed.

  In the next step S320, a tag creation completion signal is transmitted to the printer 400 via the communication control unit 308 and the connection unit 2. Then, this flow ends.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the detailed procedure of step S400.

  First, in step S410, based on the tag data received from the printer 400 in step S310, print information (file name in this example) and write information (tag ID, file access information) in the tag data are acquired.

  Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S420, where the access information is generated by the high-frequency circuit 301 and transmitted to the RFID circuit element To via the device-side antenna 306, and the write information acquired in step S410 is written to the IC circuit unit 150. . Further, printing is performed by the print head 305 based on the print information acquired in step S410.

  In the next step S430, the tape is cut to produce the RFID label T having one RFID circuit element To, and this routine is finished.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram showing, in a time series, transmission / reception of signals performed between the PC 110, the printer 400, and the tag label producing apparatus 300 in the control performed when creating the print tag described above.

  In FIG. 8, first, the print data created by the PC 110 is transmitted to the printer 400 as shown by the arrow 50 in the figure (see step S15 described above), whereby the printer 400 starts printing (steps S205, described above). (See step S210). Then, when the printing is completed and the creation of the printed material 1 is completed, the printer 400 transmits a print completion signal to the PC 110 as shown by an arrow 51 in the drawing (see steps S215 and S220 described above). The PC 110 that has received this print completion signal transmits the created tag data to the printer 400 as indicated by the arrow 52 in the figure in the tag creation print mode (see steps S20, S30, and S35 described above). ). The printer 400 that has received the tag data transmits the tag data to the tag label producing apparatus 300 as indicated by an arrow 53 in the figure (see steps S225 and S230 described above). The tag label producing apparatus 300 that has received the tag data starts producing the RFID label T (see steps S310 and S400 described above).

  When the production of the RFID label T is completed, the tag label producing apparatus 300 transmits a tag production completion signal to the printer 400 as indicated by an arrow 54 in the figure (see steps S400 and S320 described above). The printer 400 that has received the tag creation completion signal transmits the tag creation completion signal to the PC 100 as indicated by an arrow 55 in the figure (see steps S235 and S250 described above).

  FIG. 9A is a top view illustrating an example of the overall schematic structure of the printed matter 1 created by the printer 400 and the RFID label label T created by the tag label creating apparatus 300 according to the above-described procedure, and FIG. FIG. 3 is a top view illustrating an example of an overall schematic structure of a print tag 1-T generated by attaching a RFID label T to a printed material 1; FIG. 9C shows an example in which the user selects another format. This is a case where the format for attaching the RFID label T to the upper right is selected.

  In FIG. 9A, the file data to be printed (in this example, the file name of the file data is “document 1”) is printed on the surface of the printed matter 1, and the RFID label T is printed on the lower right side thereof. A tag pasting frame L (identifier) representing the pasting position is printed (in this example, the characters “tag pasting” are printed inside the pasting frame L). Here, the tag affixing frame L is shown in a shape matching the shape of the RFID label T, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the RFID tag circuit element To itself or the RFID tag circuit element To is arranged on the tag tape 303. It is sufficient that the arrangement position of the RFID circuit element To can be identified, such as the shape of an antenna base (not shown) provided to protect the RFID circuit element To before the operation. Further, the character inside the pasting frame L may be a character other than the above, for example, “Document 1” as a file name, or may not necessarily be printed.

  On the other hand, the RFID label T is formed in a label shape, a substantially rectangular base material, an IC circuit unit 150 that stores information, and an antenna 151 that is connected to the IC circuit unit 150. And the RFID circuit element To. On the front side (upper surface) of the base material, there is provided a printing area S on which a file name “document 1”, which is identification information of file data printed on the printed matter 1 to which the RFID label T is attached, is printed.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 9B, the user attaches the RFID label T to the printed matter 1 so as to match the tag attachment frame L, thereby generating the print tag 1-T.

  FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the RFID circuit element To provided in the RFID label T.

  In FIG. 10, an RFID circuit element To includes an antenna 306 of the tag label producing apparatus 300 and an antenna 210 of a reader 200 having a function of reading an RFID tag circuit element To described later, a short wave band (for example, 13.56 MHz), a UHF band, Alternatively, an antenna 151 that performs non-contact signal transmission and reception using a high frequency such as a microwave band and an IC circuit unit 150 connected to the antenna 151 are provided.

  The IC circuit unit 150 includes a rectification unit 152 that rectifies the carrier wave received by the antenna 151, and a power source unit 153 that accumulates energy of the carrier wave rectified by the rectification unit 152 and serves as a driving power source for the IC circuit unit 150. A clock extraction unit 154 that extracts a clock signal from the carrier wave received by the antenna 151 and supplies the clock signal to a control unit (described later) 157; a memory unit 155 that functions as an information storage unit that can store a predetermined information signal; A modulation / demodulation unit 156 connected to the antenna 151, and a control unit 157 for controlling the operation of the RFID circuit element To through the rectification unit 152, the clock extraction unit 154, the modulation / demodulation unit 156, and the like. Yes.

  The modem 156 demodulates communication signals received by the antenna 151 from the antenna 306 of the tag label producing apparatus 300 and the antenna 210 of the reader 200, and based on a return signal from the controller 157, the antennas 306, The carrier wave received from 210 is modulated and reflected.

  The control unit 157 interprets the received signal demodulated by the modulation / demodulation unit 156, generates a return signal based on the information signal stored in the memory unit 155, and performs basic control such as returning by the modulation / demodulation unit 156. Execute proper control.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data configuration of the memory unit 155 of the IC circuit unit 150 of the RFID circuit element To included in the RFID label T created by the tag label producing apparatus 300 as described above.

  In the example shown in FIG. 11, the data stored in the memory unit 155 of the IC circuit unit 150 of the RFID circuit element To includes the tag ID that is the identification information of the RFID circuit element To and the printing of the printed matter 1. It consists of file access information, which is information on the storage destination of the target file data, and an error detection code CRC (Cyclic Redundancy Check) indicating the validity of these data.

  FIG. 12 is a system configuration diagram showing the overall configuration of the print management system when reading a print tag.

  In FIG. 12, a print management system 10B (showing a state when a print tag is read) includes an antenna 210 (reading device) for reading information by wireless communication from the RFID label T created by the tag label producing device 300. Side communication means) and the PC 100 connected to the reader 200 via a connection means 3 such as a USB cable and having a display unit 101, an operation unit 102, and the like. Note that the PC 100 and the reader 200 may be connected via a network via the communication line 5 described above.

  FIG. 13 is a functional block diagram showing detailed functions of the PC 100 and the reader 200 configuring the print management system 10B. In FIG. 13, a reader 200 includes the antenna 210 that transmits and receives signals to and from the antenna 151 of the RFID circuit element To provided in the RFID label T, and the RFID circuit via the antenna 210. The IC circuit unit 150 of the element To is accessed (in this example, reading is performed), the high-frequency circuit 201 that processes a signal read from the RFID circuit element To, and the RFID circuit element To via the high-frequency circuit 201 It includes a function of processing signals read from the IC circuit unit 150 to read information and generating access information for accessing the IC circuit unit 150 of the RFID circuit element To, and controls the operation of the reader 200 as a whole. A control circuit 202; an operation unit 203 including appropriate buttons, keys and the like that can be operated by an operator; And a communication control unit 204 for controlling communication through the connection means 3 with the C100.

  In such a configuration, when reading the RFID tag information of the RFID label T attached to the printing tag 1-T by the reader 200, the printing tag 1-T (RFID tag label T) is brought close to the reader 200 side ( Exist within the communicable range). At this time, as described above, the file access related to the storage location of the file data to be printed on the print tag 1-T (printed matter 1) is transferred to the IC circuit unit 150 of the RFID tag circuit element To of the RFID label T. Information is stored and held, and when this information is acquired by the reader 200, file data is read from the database 103 of the PC 100 based on the file access information.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a control procedure executed by the control circuit 202 of the reader 200 when the RFID tag information of the RFID label T is read.

  In FIG. 14, first, in step S510, a signal for reading information stored in the IC circuit unit 150 of the RFID tag circuit element To of the RFID label T is transmitted via the high frequency circuit 201 and the antenna 210. More specifically, for example, a “Scroll ALL ID” signal (or “Ping” signal) for reading information stored in the RFID circuit element To is generated, and a wireless signal existing in the communication range via the high-frequency circuit 201 is generated. It is transmitted to the tag circuit element To and prompts a reply.

  Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S520, and the reply signal transmitted (returned) from the RFID circuit element To corresponding to the “Scroll ALL ID” signal is received via the antenna 210 and taken into the control circuit 202 via the high frequency circuit 201. Determine whether or not.

  If the reply signal is not received, the determination is not satisfied, and the process returns to step S510 and the same procedure is repeated. If the reply signal is received, the determination at step S520 is satisfied, and the routine goes to step S530.

  In step S530, file access information, which is information on the storage destination of the file data, is read and acquired from the reply signal received from the RFID circuit element To. Note that the read information is temporarily stored in appropriate storage means (for example, a memory included in the control circuit 202).

  Next, in step S540, a control signal is output to the control circuit 105 of the PC 100 via the communication control unit 204 and the connection means 3, and a file data inquiry is made to the database 103 based on the file access information acquired in step S530. Do.

  In the next step S550, the file data corresponding to the inquiry in step S540 is read from the database 103, and a predetermined application (for example, Japanese software, drawing software, etc.) corresponding to the file data is acquired. The read electronic file data and application data are temporarily stored in an appropriate storage unit (for example, a RAM included in the control circuit 105 of the PC 100). As for the application, an appropriate application (such as word processing software) is selected according to the type of file data.

  In step S560, a control signal is output to the control circuit 105 of the PC 100 via the communication control unit 204 and the connection unit 3, and the application acquired in step S550 is activated.

  Thereafter, in step S570, a control signal is output to the control circuit 105 of the PC 100 via the communication control unit 204 and the connection means 3, and the file data is opened on the activated application. Then, this flow ends.

  In the above description, the file data is acquired from the database 103 of the PC 100 and then automatically opened using the application. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and only the acquisition from the database 103 is performed. An operator may perform this. In the above, the control circuit 202 of the reader 200 reads the wireless tag information and acquires the file data from the database 103, but the wireless tag information is read by the control circuit 202 of the reader 200. Subsequent acquisition of file data or the like may be performed on the control circuit 105 side of the PC 100.

  In the above, the control circuit 402 of the printer 400 constitutes a creation instruction output means for outputting the tag creation instruction signal according to claim 1 to the tag label producing apparatus. Further, step S225 executed by the control circuit 402 constitutes information acquisition means for acquiring the storage destination information of the file data according to claim 2 from the operation terminal.

  Further, step S420 executed by the control circuit 302 of the tag label producing apparatus 300 constitutes a write control means for writing the file data storage destination information or the information corresponding thereto. Further, step S530 executed by the control circuit 202 of the reader 200 constitutes a reading device side information acquisition means for acquiring file data storage location information or information corresponding thereto.

  In the printer 400 of the present embodiment configured as described above, when print data is input from the PC 100, the print head 401 performs printing corresponding to the file data to be printed on the printing object. In response to printing by the print head 401, the control circuit 402 outputs tag data to the tag label producing apparatus 300 via the communication control unit 403 and the connection unit 2. In response to this, the tag label creating apparatus 300 creates the RFID label T that can acquire the storage location information of the file data.

  If the created RFID tag T is affixed to the printed matter 1 on which the corresponding file data is printed by the print head 401, the user who has obtained the created print tag 1-T will receive the print tag. When the 1-T file data is intended to be acquired, the storage location information (electronic address) of the file data is obtained by reading information from the RFID tag circuit element To of the RFID label T attached to the print tag 1-T. Obtain and use this to easily access file data. In this way, the data itself of the printed matter can be easily obtained from the printed matter, so that convenience for the user can be improved.

  In the present embodiment, in particular, the tag sticking frame L representing the arrangement position of the RFID circuit element To is printed on the substrate. As a result, the user can easily and reliably attach the RFID label T to the printed matter 1.

  Further, in the present embodiment, in particular, the print head 305 of the tag label producing apparatus 300 can print the file data corresponding to the area corresponding to the RFID circuit element To in the tag tape 303 (printing of the file name in this example). I do. Thereby, it is possible to visually clarify that the RFID label T is for the printed product 1 of the corresponding file data, and the connection between the printed product 1 and the RFID label T can be clarified. As a result, it is possible to reliably prevent label sticking errors and the like.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the technical idea. The modifications will be described below.

(1) When storing file data in a server connected to a network In the above embodiment, file data to be printed by the printer 400 is stored in the database 103 of the PC 100. However, the present invention is not limited to this. It may be stored in a database such as a server connected to the outside, for example, a network.

  FIG. 15 is a system configuration diagram showing the overall configuration of the print tag generation system of this modification, and corresponds to FIG. 1 described above. The same parts as those in FIG. As shown in FIG. 15, the print tag generation system 20 </ b> A has an information server 7 connected to a PC 100 and a printer 400 via a communication line 5 so as to be able to send and receive information.

  FIG. 16 is a functional block diagram showing detailed functions of the PC 100, the printer 400, the tag label producing apparatus 300, and the information server 7 constituting the print tag generation system 20A, and corresponds to FIG. The same parts as those in FIG. As shown in FIG. 16, the information server 7 has a database 701 (hard disk or memory) in which file data to be printed on the printed matter 1 is stored.

  In this modification, the tag label producing device 300 writes file access information corresponding to the database 701 of the server 7 to the RFID circuit element To, and the RFID label T is created. Then, the RFID label T is affixed to the printed matter 1 to generate a print tag 1-T. Then, when the printing tag 1-T (wireless tag label T) is brought close to the reader 200 side (is present in the communicable range), the file access information stored and held in the wireless tag circuit element To of the wireless tag label T is acquired. The file data is read from the database 701 of the information server 7 based on the file access information.

  Also in the modified example described above, the same effect as in the above-described embodiment can be obtained.

(2) When there are a plurality of printed materials In the above-described embodiment, the case where the file data is printed is described as an example in which the printed material is one page as shown in FIG. 9 described above. In such a case, when a printed matter of a plurality of pages is obtained, one RFID tag T may be created by combining the plurality of printed matter.

  FIG. 17A shows an example of the overall schematic structure of a printed tag 1-T ′ generated by attaching the RFID label T created by the tag label producing apparatus 300 to the printed matter 1 ′ created in this modification. It is a top view.

  Although detailed description is omitted, in the present modification, print data is generated by the control circuit 105 (not shown) of the PC 100 so that the tag sticking frame L is arranged on the top page of the printed material 1 ′ composed of a plurality of pages. And printing by the printer 400. As a result, as shown in FIG. 17A, a print tag 1-T ′ to which the RFID label T corresponding to only the top page of the printed material 1 ′ consisting of a plurality of pages is attached is generated.

  Thus, when it is more convenient to handle a plurality of printed materials at once, such as when the file data is printed on a plurality of pages, a single RFID label T is created by associating the plurality of printed materials. Thus, convenience can be improved.

  Contrary to the above, the RFID label T corresponding to each page of a printed matter composed of a plurality of pages may be created and pasted. FIG. 17B shows an example of the overall schematic structure of the print tag 1-T ″ generated by pasting the RFID label T created by the tag label creation device 300 on each page of the printed product 1 ″ in this case. FIG.

  Although detailed explanation is omitted, in this modification, print data is generated by the control circuit 105 of the PC 100 so that the tag sticking frame L is arranged on each page of the printed material 1 ″ composed of a plurality of pages, and is printed by the printer 400. Also, tag data corresponding to each page is created, and the tag label creating apparatus 300 creates RFID tag labels T-1, T-2, T-3,. In this example, the document name and the number of pages corresponding to each of the RFID tag labels T-1, T-2, T-3, etc. are printed, which is shown in FIG. As described above, the print tags 1-T ″ to which the RFID labels T-1, T-2, T-3,... Corresponding to the respective pages of the printed material 1 ″ composed of a plurality of pages are respectively attached are generated.

  In this case, for example, even when it is desired to acquire electronic data only for a predetermined page of the document 1, it is possible to cope with the user's needs in detail.

(3) Variation of tag writing information In the above embodiment, when the RFID label producing device 300 produces the RFID tag T, the tag ID which is identification information of the RFID circuit element To is added to the IC circuit section 150 of the RFID circuit element To. And file access information which is information on the storage destination of the file data to be printed on the printed matter 1 is written, but other information may also be written.

  For example, identification information (file type, attribute, number, etc.) of file data to be printed may be written. FIG. 18A is a diagram illustrating an example of a data configuration of the memory unit 155 of the IC circuit unit 150 of the RFID circuit element To in this case. In this example, data stored in the RFID circuit element To includes a tag ID and file access information, file type information as file data identification information, and an error detection code CRC (Cyclic) indicating the validity of these data. Redundancy Check). Thereby, when the RFID tag information is read by the reader 200, the identification information (file type, attribute, number, etc.) of the file data can be acquired. For example, when acquiring the file data, the optimum information according to the file type is obtained. Convenience can be further improved such that the application can be automatically started.

  Further, for example, file additional information corresponding to the file data to be printed (the creation date of the RFID label T, the software version information that created the file, etc.) may be written. FIG. 18B is a diagram illustrating an example of a data configuration of the memory unit 155 of the IC circuit unit 150 of the RFID circuit element To in this case. In this example, data stored in the RFID circuit element To includes a tag ID and file access information, tag creation date information as file additional information, and the error detection code CRC. Thereby, when the RFID tag information is read by the reader 200, additional information of the electronic file such as the file creation date and software version information can be acquired, so that the convenience can be further improved. In particular, when writing the date of tag creation, it will be possible to determine whether the contents of the printed matter are the latest (whether they have been updated since the tag creation date), as will be described later. Convenient.

  Further, for example, authority information relating to access to file data or various processes (such as editing) after access may be written. This authority information means, for example, that the person who can download the file data is limited according to the confidentiality of the file data, or the authority range is set for each person according to the processing operation (Mr. A) Is possible to download data, but Mr. B can edit data after downloading, etc.), or information for setting a password for each processing operation without identifying a person. FIG. 18C is a diagram illustrating an example of a data configuration of the memory unit 155 of the IC circuit unit 150 of the RFID circuit element To in this case. In this example, the data stored in the RFID circuit element To includes a tag ID, file access information, and edit password information as authority information (the file data downloaded can be edited by inputting the password). And the error detection code CRC.

  As a result, for example, as described above, a person who can download file data can be specified in a limited manner, or an authority range can be set for each person according to the processing operation, depending on the user's print management mode for creating a print tag. It is possible to set a password for each processing operation without performing personal identification or to identify a person, and it is possible to manage a wide variety of printed materials.

(4) Variation of tag label printing mode In the above embodiment, when the RFID label T is created by the tag label creating apparatus 300, the file name of the file data to be printed is printed by the print head 305. Other identification information may be used as long as it is information that can identify a file, such as a file number and a file type.

  In addition to the above identification information, for example, as shown in FIG. 19, a thumbnail image (reduced image) P of the top page (or representative page, etc.) of the printed matter on which the file data is printed may be printed. .

  Further, in addition to the identification information and the image information, as shown in FIG. 20, for example, file access information that is information on the storage destination of the file data written in the RFID circuit element To may be printed. As a result, the user can also visually confirm the storage location information of the file data stored in the RFID circuit element To of the RFID label T attached to the printed matter and obtained by reading the information, further improving convenience. can do.

(5) Case of having a function of checking whether or not a printed material is the latest FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a control procedure executed by a control circuit 202 ′ (not shown) of the reader 200 in the present modification. It is a figure corresponding to FIG. Steps similar to those in FIG. 14 are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

  In this modified example, as shown in FIG. 18B, the data stored in the RFID circuit element To includes a tag ID and file access information, and a tag creation date as file additional information. It is composed of information.

  In FIG. 21, step S510 and step S520 are the same as in FIG. 14, and a “Scroll ALL ID” signal (or “Ping” signal) for reading out information stored in the RFID circuit element To is present in the communication range. If the reply signal transmitted (returned) from the RFID circuit element To corresponding to this is received, the process proceeds to the next step S530A.

  In step S530A, the file access information and the creation date information of the RFID label T, which is information on the storage location of the file data, are read and acquired from the reply signal received from the RFID circuit element To. Note that the read information is temporarily stored in appropriate storage means (for example, a memory included in the control circuit 202).

  In the next step S540 and step S550, the file data is read from the database 103 based on the acquired file access information, and a predetermined application corresponding to the file data is acquired, and then the process proceeds to the next step S551.

  In step S551, the file data acquired in step S550 (specifically, the update date information of the data), the creation date information of the RFID label T acquired from the RFID circuit element To in the previous step S530A, and Are compared to determine whether the file data stored in the database 103 has been updated after the tag creation date. If it has not been updated, the corresponding application is started in the next step S560 and step S570, and the file data acquired in step S550 is opened.

  On the other hand, if the file data has been updated after the tag creation date in step S551, the process proceeds to the next step S552, and a control signal is sent to the control circuit 105 of the PC 100 via the communication control unit 204 and the connection means 3. The information is output, and the display unit 101 displays that the file data has been updated, and notifies the operator. Thereafter, the corresponding application is activated in steps S560 and S570, and the updated file data is opened. Then, this flow ends.

  According to the above modification, the print tag 1-T to which the RFID label T is attached is the latest by determining whether or not the content of the file data is updated after the tag label is created when the file data is acquired. It can be confirmed whether it is. As a result, when the print tag 1-T is not the latest one, it is possible to take a measure such as printing the file data (the latest version) again with the printing device, further improving convenience. can do.

(6) When writing the file data itself into the tag In the above embodiment, the storage location information of the file data is written in the RFID circuit element To, and when the RFID tag information is read by the reader, the storage location information is acquired and stored. Although file data was acquired by accessing first, it is not limited to this. That is, when there is a margin in the storage capacity of the RFID circuit element To, the file data itself (file data to be printed itself may be used, for example, image data of the printed material 1 on which the file data is printed). You may make it write.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing a control procedure executed by the control circuit 105 ′ (not shown) of this modification, and corresponds to FIG. 3 described above. In FIG. 22, the same parts as those in FIG.

  In FIG. 22, steps S3 to S30 are the same as those in FIG. In step S10 of the present modification, tag data including file access information indicating a storage destination where the file data is stored is generated, and tag data including the file data itself to be printed is generated. .

  In the next step S33, it is determined whether or not the file data to be printed is larger than a predetermined size (in this case, a size writable in the memory unit 155 of the IC circuit unit 150 of the RFID circuit element To). Do. If it is larger than the predetermined size, it is impossible to write the file data itself to the RFID circuit element To, so the process moves to step S35A, and the tag data including the file access information created in the previous step S10 is communicated. The data is transmitted to the printer 400 via the control unit 104 and the communication line 5. On the other hand, if the file data is less than or equal to the predetermined size, the file data itself can be written to the RFID circuit element To. Therefore, the process proceeds to step S35B and the file data itself created in the previous step S10 is stored. The included tag data is transmitted to the printer 400 via the communication control unit 104 and the communication line 5.

  Subsequent steps S40 to S50 are the same as those in FIG.

  FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a control procedure executed by the control circuit 202 ′ (not shown) of the reader 200 when reading the RFID tag information of the RFID label T in this modification, and corresponds to the above-described FIG. It is.

  In FIG. 23, steps S510 to S520 are the same as those in FIG. In the next step S525, it is determined whether or not the reply signal received from the RFID circuit element To includes file access information that is information on the storage destination of the file data. If it is included, the process moves to the next step S530, and the file access information is read out and acquired. The subsequent steps 540 to S570 are the same as those in FIG.

  On the other hand, if the file access information is not included in step S525 (that is, the file data itself is included), the process proceeds to step S535, and the file data is selected from the reply signals received from the RFID circuit element To. Is read and acquired. Thereafter, in step S560 and step S570, the file data acquired from the RFID circuit element To by the activated application is opened.

  Also in the modified example described above, the same effect as in the above-described embodiment can be obtained.

(7) Others In the above description, the file access information representing the storage destination where the file data is stored is written in the IC circuit unit 150 of the RFID circuit element To, but the present invention is not limited to this. Combination information (so-called link information) with identification information (tag ID) of the RFID circuit element To is stored in a database or the like, and the combined tag ID is written in the RFID circuit element To. Good. In this case, when the tag ID is read from the RFID circuit element To by the reader, the file access information can be acquired by comparing with the stored combination information. Further, address information (so-called indirect address information) indicating a storage location where the file access information is stored may be written.

  In the above description, when the print tag is created, the printer 400 and the tag label creating apparatus 300 are connected in series, and the PC 100 and the tag label creating apparatus 300 send and receive signals via the printer 400. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and the printer 400 and the tag label producing apparatus 300 may be connected to the PC 100 in parallel, and signals may be transmitted and received from the PC 100 to the printer 400 and the tag label producing apparatus 300 in parallel.

  In the above description, the case where the RFID label T is created by cutting the printed tag label tape 303 after printing and access to the RFID circuit element To by the cutter 307 is described as an example. Absent. That is, in the case where a label mount (so-called die-cut label) previously separated into a predetermined size corresponding to the label is continuously arranged on the tape fed out from the roll, even if it is not cut by the cutter 307, After the tape is discharged from the discharge port, only the label mount (the one with the already accessed RFID circuit element To and the corresponding printing) may be peeled off from the tape to produce the RFID label T. The invention can be applied to such a case.

  Further, the above description has been given by taking as an example the case where the tag tape is wound around the reel member to form a roll, and the roll is arranged in the tag tape roll holder unit 310 and the tag tape is fed out. Not limited to. For example, a long flat paper-like or strip-like tape or sheet in which at least one RFID circuit element To is arranged (the one formed by cutting a tape wound around a roll and cutting it to an appropriate length) Are stacked in a predetermined storage unit (for example, stacked in a tray shape) to form a cartridge, and this cartridge is mounted on the tag tape roll holder unit on the tag card manufacturing apparatus side. The tag label may be produced by printing and writing by transferring and transporting.

  Further, a configuration in which a long flat paper-like or strip-like tape or sheet is transferred one by one from the outside of the tag label producing apparatus 300 by a predetermined feeder mechanism and supplied into the tag label producing apparatus 300 is also conceivable. In this case, the same effect is obtained.

  The “Scroll ALL ID” signal, the “Ping” signal, and the like used above are assumed to conform to the specifications formulated by EPC global. EPC global is a non-profit corporation established jointly by the International EAN Association, which is an international organization of distribution codes, and the United Code Code Council (UCC), which is an American distribution code organization. Note that signals conforming to other standards may be used as long as they perform the same function.

  In addition to those already described above, the methods according to the above-described embodiments and modifications may be used in appropriate combination.

  In addition, although not illustrated one by one, the present invention is implemented with various modifications within a range not departing from the gist thereof.

1 is a system configuration diagram illustrating an overall configuration of a print tag generation system including a print management system having a printing apparatus according to an embodiment. It is a functional block diagram showing the detailed function of PC, a printer, and a tag label production apparatus which comprise a printing tag production | generation system. It is a flowchart showing the control procedure performed by the control circuit of PC at the time of print tag creation. It is a flowchart showing the detailed procedure of step S100. It is a flowchart showing the control procedure performed by the control circuit of a printer at the time of print tag creation. It is a flowchart showing the control procedure performed by the control circuit of a tag label production apparatus at the time of print tag production. It is a flowchart showing the detailed procedure of step S400. It is a figure which shows the transmission / reception of the signal performed between PC, a printer, and a tag label production apparatus in time series in the control performed at the time of printing tag production. The top view showing an example of the whole schematic structure of the printed matter created with the printer and the RFID label created with the tag label creation device, and the top view showing the example of the overall schematic structure of the printed tag generated by attaching the RFID label to the printed matter And a top view of the RFID label and a printed tag when the user selects another format. It is a block diagram showing an example of a functional structure of the RFID circuit element with which the RFID tag label was equipped. It is a figure showing an example of a data structure of the memory part of the IC circuit part of the RFID circuit element which the RFID label produced with the tag label production apparatus has. 1 is a system configuration diagram illustrating an overall configuration of a print management system when a print tag is read. It is a functional block diagram showing detailed functions of a PC and a reader constituting the print management system. It is a flowchart showing the control procedure performed by the control circuit of a reader at the time of reading the RFID tag information of a RFID tag label. It is a system configuration | structure figure showing the whole print tag production | generation system structure in the modification in the case of storing file data in the server connected to the network. It is a functional block diagram showing the detailed function of PC, a printer, a tag label production apparatus, and an information server which comprise a printing tag production | generation system. It is a top view showing an example of the whole schematic structure of the printing tag produced | generated by sticking the RFID label produced | generated with the tag label production apparatus to the printed material produced in the modification in case a plurality of printed materials are produced. RFID tag circuit for writing identification information of file data to be printed, writing file additional information corresponding to file data to be printed, writing authority information regarding access to file data or various processes after access It is a figure showing an example of a data structure of the memory part of the IC circuit part of an element. It is a top view showing an example of a print tag when a thumbnail image of a top page of a printed material is printed. It is a top view showing an example of a printing tag when file access information is printed. It is a flowchart showing the control procedure performed by the control circuit of the reader in the modification in the case of having a function of checking whether or not the printed material is the latest. 10 is a flowchart showing a control procedure executed by a control circuit in a modification in which file data itself is written when there is a margin in the storage capacity of the RFID circuit element. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a control procedure executed by a reader control circuit when reading RFID tag information of a RFID tag label in a modification in which file data itself is written when there is a sufficient storage capacity of the RFID tag circuit element.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Printed matter 1 'Printed matter 10 Print management system 100 PC (operation terminal)
150 IC circuit unit 151 antenna 202 control circuit (reader side information acquisition means)
210 Antenna (reader side communication means)
300 Tag Label Making Device 302 Control Circuit (Write Control Unit)
305 Print head (printing means)
306 Antenna (Creating device side communication means)
309 Conveying device (conveying means)
400 Printer (printing device)
402 Control circuit (creation instruction output means, information acquisition means)
401 Print head (printing means)
L Tag affixing frame (identifier)
T RFID tag label To RFID tag circuit element

Claims (16)

Printing means for performing printing based on a print instruction signal for printing file data to be printed on a substrate;
Corresponding to the printing by the printing means, the printing means has a creation instruction output means for outputting a tag creation instruction signal to the tag label creation apparatus so as to create a RFID label capable of acquiring the file data. apparatus. The printing apparatus according to claim 1.
The printing apparatus, wherein the creation instruction output means outputs a tag creation instruction signal to a tag label creation apparatus so as to create a RFID label capable of acquiring the storage location information of the file data. The printing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein
Comprising information acquisition means for acquiring the storage location information of the file data;
The creation instruction output means includes
The printing apparatus, wherein the tag creation instruction signal including the storage location information acquired by the information acquisition unit is output to the tag label generation apparatus. The printing apparatus according to claim 2 or 3,
The creation instruction output means includes
Outputting the tag creation instruction signal to the tag label creating device so as to create one RFID tag including the storage location information of the file data that becomes a plurality of printed products when printed on the substrate. Characteristic printing device. The printing apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 4,
The printing means prints an identifier representing an arrangement position of an antenna base material on which an RFID tag circuit element including an IC circuit unit for storing information and an antenna for transmitting and receiving information is arranged on the printed material. A printing device. The printing apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 5,
The creation instruction output means includes
As an operation mode, a tag creation mode for outputting the tag creation instruction signal for creating a RFID label capable of acquiring the storage location information of the file data and a tag non-creation mode for not creating the RFID label are provided. A printing apparatus characterized by that. A transport means for transporting a tag medium in which a wireless tag circuit element having an IC circuit section for storing information and an antenna for transmitting and receiving information is disposed;
Creating apparatus side communication means for transmitting and receiving information to and from the wireless tag circuit element via wireless communication;
In response to a tag creation instruction signal input from a printing device that performs printing corresponding to file data to be printed on the substrate, the IC circuit unit of the RFID circuit element is connected to the IC circuit unit via the creating device-side communication unit. A tag label producing apparatus comprising: a storage controller for writing file data storage destination information or information corresponding thereto. In the tag label production apparatus according to claim 7,
The writing control means includes
A tag label producing apparatus, wherein an electronic address as the storage location information of the file data is written in the IC circuit unit of the RFID circuit element. In the tag label producing apparatus according to claim 7 or 8,
The writing control means includes
A tag label producing apparatus, wherein identification information of the file data is written in the IC circuit unit of the RFID circuit element. In the tag label production apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 9,
The writing control means includes
A tag label producing device, wherein file additional information relating to an electronic file corresponding to the file data is written to the IC circuit unit of the RFID circuit element. The tag label producing apparatus according to any one of claims 7 to 10,
The writing control means includes
A tag label producing apparatus, wherein authority information relating to access to the file data or various processes after the access is written in the IC circuit unit of the RFID circuit element. The tag label producing device according to any one of claims 7 to 11,
A tag label producing apparatus, comprising: a printing unit that performs printing corresponding to the file data on the tag medium or a printing medium to be bonded to the tag medium. The tag label producing apparatus according to claim 12,
The printing means includes
A tag label producing apparatus, wherein the identification information of the file data is printed on the tag medium or the printing medium. In the tag label production apparatus according to claim 13,
The printing means includes
A tag label producing apparatus that prints storage location information of the file data on the tag medium or the print medium. A print management system having a printing device for printing file data to be printed on a substrate, and a tag label creating device for creating a RFID label in cooperation with the printing device,
The printing apparatus includes:
Printing means for performing printing based on a print instruction signal for printing the file data;
Corresponding to the printing by this printing means, has a creation instruction output means for outputting a tag creation instruction signal so as to create the RFID label capable of acquiring the file data,
The tag label producing device is
A transport means for transporting a tag medium in which a wireless tag circuit element having an IC circuit section for storing information and an antenna for transmitting and receiving information is disposed;
Creating apparatus side communication means for transmitting and receiving information to and from the wireless tag circuit element via wireless communication;
In response to the tag creation instruction signal input from the creation instruction output of the printing apparatus, the file circuit or at least the file data corresponds to the IC circuit unit of the RFID circuit element via the creation apparatus side communication means. A print management system comprising a writing control means for writing information. To transmit / receive information via wireless communication to / from a wireless tag circuit element that is provided on a wireless tag label attached to a printed material printed based on file data and includes an IC circuit unit that stores information and an antenna that transmits and receives information. The reading device side communication means,
Via this reader side communication means, the reader side information acquisition means for acquiring storage information of the file data stored in the IC circuit part of the RFID circuit element or information corresponding thereto,
Update determination means for accessing the storage location of the file data using the information acquired by the reader side information acquisition means and determining whether the contents of the file data are updated after the RFID label is created A print management system characterized by that.

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