JP2959238B2 - Printing system - Google Patents

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a printing system for performing a printing operation using a plurality of printers connected to a communication cable, and more particularly to a printing system for executing a printing process by a plurality of emulations.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art FIG. 18 shows a general configuration of a print system using a LAN (local area network) such as Ethernet. In this printing system, a plurality of printers (P) 12 ₁ , 12 ₂ ,... 12 _N and a plurality of workstations (WS) 13 ₁ , 13 ₂ ,.
3 _M is connected. In such a system, documents edited and edited by these workstations 13 ₁ , 13 ₂ ,... 13 _M are transferred to printers 12 ₁ , 12 ₂ ,.
Any one of 2 _N can be specified and printed out.

By the way, these workstations 13
₁ , 13 ₂ ,..., 13 _M are manufactured by different manufacturers, or even if they are manufactured by the same manufacturer but at different ages, the type of control code representing each document is changed. May be different. In such a case, it is necessary for the printers 12 ₁ , 12 ₂ ,..., 12 _N to convert them into their own control codes and perform printing. Emulating the control code or instruction set of another model by hardware or software in this way is called emulation.

In order to realize such emulation,
The conventional printer 12₁, 12 _Two, ... 12_NHaso
Prepare several emulation cards for each
Depending on the type of control code, the operator
Select one of the cards and emulation as required
Was to be executed. However, FIG.
Printer 12 connected to the network as shown in FIG.
₁, 12_Two, ... 12_NSo, as the data destination
Workstation 13₁, 13_Two, ... 13_MChanged
Need to replace the emulation card every time
That the replacement operation is complicated.
There was a title.

In Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. Hei 3-129516, a card box in which a plurality of emulation cards are packed is mounted on a laser printer. Then, when transmitting data from the workstation to the server, a selection code indicating the emulation card to be used is transmitted at the beginning of the data, and the server decodes the selection code and notifies the laser printer. Has become. The laser printer can take out the notified emulation card from the card box, so that the operator does not have to select the card.

[0006]

However, in this method, as shown in FIG. 18, a plurality of 13 ₁ ,
If 13 ₂ ,..., 13 _M exist, it is necessary to prepare a card box for each. Therefore, there is a problem in that a card box for supporting various types of emulation is required in proportion to the number of arranged printers, and the cost is increased. Also, each time a new workstation or computer is added to an existing printing system, it may be necessary to replace card boxes in all printers or change the contents of those boxes. There was also a problem that maintenance was difficult.

It is an object of the present invention to provide a printing system capable of reducing costs for supporting various types of emulation even when the number of printers is large.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a printing system capable of easily coping with newly required emulation even when the system members such as printers and workstations change. Is to do.

[0009]

According to the first aspect of the present invention, a plurality of printers connected to a communication cable, a program storage unit connected to the communication cable and storing a plurality of emulation programs, and a program storage unit The printer system includes a printer control server having a transfer unit that transfers a requested one of the emulation programs stored in the unit to the requested printer.

That is, according to the first aspect of the present invention, a printer control server having a program storage unit storing a plurality of emulation programs is connected to a communication cable. Then, the emulation program requested from the data sending side such as a workstation or the printer is transferred to the requested printer. According to the first aspect of the present invention, various emulation programs are concentrated on the printer control server,
Since the cost can be reduced and a new emulation program needs to be added only to this printer control server, the above-described objects can be achieved.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, (a) a temporary storage unit which is connected to a communication cable and temporarily stores an emulation program, and uses the emulation program stored in the temporary storage unit for printing. One or more first-class printers including a data processing unit for performing data processing, and a printing unit for printing using the processed data, and (b) a plurality of emulation programs connected to the communication cable. A stored program storage unit, a data processing unit that performs data processing for printing using an emulation program stored in the program storage unit, a printing unit that prints using the processed data, and a program storage unit Of the emulation program stored in the first request destination
The print system is provided with two types of printers, a second type printer having a transfer unit for transferring the data to the second type printer.

That is, in the second aspect of the present invention, two types of printers are connected to the communication cable, and the first type of printer is provided with a temporary storage unit for temporarily storing an emulation program. In the second type printer, a program storage unit storing various emulation programs is prepared, and a requested one of the emulation programs is sent to the first type printer at the time of the request, and stored in the temporary storage unit. I will. As a result, the necessary emulation can be executed by the first type printer, and various emulation programs can be intensively managed by the second type printer, so that the above-described objects can be achieved.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, (a) a temporary storage unit that is connected to a communication cable and temporarily stores an emulation program, and uses the emulation program stored in the temporary storage unit for printing. One or more printers including a data processing unit for performing data processing and a printing unit for printing using the processed data, and (b) a program connected to the communication cable and storing a plurality of emulation programs A storage unit,
An emulation program transfer unit for transferring a requested one of the emulation programs stored in the program storage unit to a requested printer and a processing data sending unit for sending processed print data to a printer to be printed are printed. Prepare the system.

That is, according to the third aspect of the present invention, a printer capable of exchanging an emulation program in a communication cable and processing data transfer means such as a workstation having a program storage unit storing a plurality of emulation programs are arranged. Keep it. Then, the emulation program not owned by the printer is transferred by the processing data transfer means, so that the emulation program can correspond to various emulations. In the third aspect of the present invention, it is not necessary for all the workstations or the like to store the emulation programs, and some of them may be processing data transmitting means storing a plurality of emulation programs. According to the third aspect of the present invention, since the processing data transfer means can centrally manage various emulation programs, the above-described objects can be achieved.

According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the print data connected to the communication cable is analyzed to determine an emulation program for processing the print data, and printout is performed using the determined emulation program. One or more printers, a program storage unit connected to a communication cable and storing a plurality of emulation programs, and a requested emulation program among the emulation programs stored in the program storage unit is transferred to the requested printer. And a printer control server having a transfer unit.

That is, according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, a function of analyzing print data is provided to the printer, and a required emulation program is requested from the printer control server. According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the printer control server can centrally manage various emulation programs, thereby achieving each of the above-described objects.

[0017]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention will be described in detail below with reference to embodiments.

FIG. 1 shows an outline of a printing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. A plurality of network compatible printers 22 ₁ , 22 ₂ ,..., 22 are connected to a communication cable 21 forming a ring network.
_N and a plurality of workstations 23 ₁ , 23 ₂ , ...
.. _23M and a printer control server (PS) 24 are connected. Also in this system, documents edited and edited by these workstations 23 ₁ , 23 ₂ ,... 23 _M are transferred to network compatible printers 22 ₁ , 22 ₂ ,.
Any one of 2 _N can be specified and printed out.

FIG. 2 shows an outline of a circuit configuration of a network compatible printer. The network compatible printer 22 includes a CPU 31 which is a center of various controls. The CPU 31 outputs an RO signal via a bus 32 such as a data bus.
M33, RAM, nonvolatile memory (NVM) 35,
It is connected to a network interface (I / F) unit 36, a panel control unit 37, and an engine control unit 38.

Here, ROM (read only memory)
In 33, a processing program for a printer control language native to the network compatible printer 22 is written in addition to the control program. A RAM (random access memory) 34 has a role as a work memory for storing data temporarily required for the CPU 31 to execute various controls, and also for developing image data. It also has a role as a page memory. Here, the image data is data sent to the engine control unit 37 for printing. The nonvolatile memory 35 used in the present embodiment is a rewritable nonvolatile memory, and is used to store an emulation program sent from the printer control server 24. Since it is a non-volatile memory, its contents are retained even when the power is turned off. As a rewritable nonvolatile memory, a flash electrical erase RO
M (Flash E ² PROM) or electrically erasable ROM (E ² P
ROM) or a hard disk storage device is typical. In this embodiment, a flash electrical erase ROM is used as a nonvolatile memory. RAM backed up by a battery can also be used as non-volatile memory.

The network interface unit 36 connects the communication cable 11 and the bus 32, and connects the workstations 23 ₁ , 23 ₂ , 23 ₂ , 23 ₂ shown in FIG.
... A part for communicating with _23M and the printer control server 24. Workstations 23 ₁ , 23 ₂ ,..., 23
_The data sent from _M is fetched via the network interface unit 36 and processed by the CPU 31. The panel control unit 37 is connected to a control panel 41, and controls input and output of data to and from various keys and a liquid crystal display.

FIG. 3 shows the arrangement of these keys and the like on the control panel. The control panel 41 is disposed a liquid crystal display 43 is in its upper, eight keys 44 _{1-44 8} is disposed underneath. Among the above liquid crystal display 43, in addition to the state of the network-compatible printer 22 is displayed, the contents of the function corresponding to each key 44 _{1-44 8} is adapted to be displayed. Here, ONLINE
(Online) key 44 ₁ is adapted to perform one of the switching to the offline state to the network-compatible printer 22 to an online state.

[0023] FONT (ORIENTATION) key 44 _2, in the information sent from the host, the key used to when there is no information about the font used, enters a mode for setting the type of font to be used It is. The FONT (ORIENTATION) key 44 ₂ if you press CONTINUE (SIFT) key 44 ₅ simultaneously enters a mode for setting the orientation of the print sheet and image. MODE (EMULATI
ON) key 44 ₃ is used to enter a mode for setting various printer modes of operation. CONTI
If you press NUE (SIFT) key 44 ₅ at the same time it is adapted to enter a mode for setting the emulation (EMULATION) state.

△ (TEST) key 44_FourThe setting mode
Used to select an item when entering a field. C
ONTINUE (SIFT) key 44_FivePressed at the same time
You will enter a mode to run various tests
Swelling. CONTINUE (SIFT) key 4
4_FiveIf a non-fatal error occurs,
Used to perform a given action, ignoring errors
You. In addition, other keys 44 _Two~ 44_Four, 44₆~ 44₈When
Pressing them simultaneously performs another function of these keys.
Let go. That is, the shift key on a normal keyboard
Performs the same function as-. ENTER (COPY) key 4
4₆Sets the items selected in each setting mode.
Used when CONTINUE (SIFT) key
44_FiveWhen pressed at the same time, one image data
Set the number of printouts for
Mode. FORM FEED (FEEDE
R) key 44₇Information that activates the print operation
Part of the above-mentioned RAM 34 without being received from the
If image data remains on page memory,
Is used to print out the CONTINU
E (SIFT) key 44 _FiveWhen pressed at the same time, mark
Enter the mode for setting the tray to feed
You. ▽ (RESET) key 44₈Is set in each setting mode.
Used when changing items. CONTINUE
(SIFT) key 44_FiveWhen pressed at the same time,
Enter the mode to execute the reset function of

FIG. 4 shows the display contents of a liquid crystal display for selecting two emulation modes. As described above, MODE (EMULATI
ON) If you press key 44 ₃ and CONTINUE (SIFT) key 44 ₅ simultaneously enters a mode for setting the emulation state. At this time, the emulation is displayed on the liquid crystal display 43 automatically.
Mode and Adobe Post Script
The display for selecting one of the language modes is performed. The operator, by pressing the △ (TEST) key 44 ₄ or ▽ (RESET) key 44 ₈ can be set to any desired mode. When the operator selects the auto mode, the network compatible printer 22 can execute various emulations in cooperation with the printer control server 24 on the network. If you choose PostScript language mode,
Only the PostScript language, which is the native language of the network compatible printer 22, is executed.

Returning to FIG. 2, the description will be continued. An engine unit 46 is connected to the engine control unit 38. The engine unit 46 is a printing unit of the network compatible printer 22, and in the present embodiment, is composed of basic components as a laser printer. The engine unit 46 receives the print signal read from the page memory, modulates the laser beam, and exposes and scans a photosensitive drum (not shown) to form an electrostatic latent image. Then, the electrostatic latent image is developed by a developing device (not shown) to form a toner image, which is transferred to a print sheet, fixed, and discharged as a printed sheet to a tray (not shown).

FIG. 5 shows a hierarchical structure of a network in this embodiment. In order to transmit data on a network, each device on the network must communicate according to a protocol corresponding to each of these layers. Here, the electrophysical layer is called a first layer, and is a layer that manages electrical, mechanical, and physical conditions and guarantees transmission of a bit string. The data link layer is called a second layer, and is a layer that guarantees transmission of a frame to a partner system without fail. Network layer is 3rd
This layer is called a layer, and manages the relay and routing functions for establishing a communication path with the final system that is the communication partner, and guarantees data transmission. The transport layer is called a fourth layer, and is a layer that ensures that data is reliably transferred between processes that are actually performing communication in the final system at both ends of the communication network. The session layer is referred to as a fifth layer, and is a layer that manages how to send information required by processes in communication between processes, and manages synchronization and resynchronization between processes. The presentation layer is called a sixth layer, and determines a data structure to be transferred between processes, and converts a data structure unique to each process and a common data structure required for transfer as necessary. It is. The application layer is called the seventh layer and is the highest layer. In this embodiment, since the first to sixth layers are the same as the conventional one, only the data in the seventh application layer will be described.

FIG. 6 shows the data structure of a print request command used in this embodiment. The print request command 51 is transmitted to the workstation 2 shown in FIG.
3 _1, 23 _2, ... 23 or one of the _M (hereinafter referred to as the workstation 23 _1.) Network compatible printer 22 _1, 22 _2, any one of the ... 22 _N (hereinafter network-compatible printer 22 ₁ ) is to be sent when a printout is to be performed.
The print request command 51 includes a code 52 indicating a print request and an emulation code 53. The emulation code 53 indicates in which printer language the data to be transferred is described. Emulation code 53, the network-compatible printer _{22 1, 22 2, ...... 22} N are prepared corresponding to all emulation can be performed. In this embodiment, six types of emulation codes “0” to “5” are prepared. This is shown in Table 1 below.
Shown in

[0029]

[Table 1]

FIG. 7 shows an outline of a circuit configuration of the printer control server. Printer control server 24
Is provided with a CPU 61 which is a center of various controls. C
The PU 61 is connected to the ROM 6 via a bus 62 such as a data bus.
3, RAM 64, network interface (I /
F) unit 65 and a disk control unit 66.

Here, the ROM 63 stores a control program of the printer control server 24. RAM6
Reference numeral 4 has a role as a work memory for storing data temporarily required when the CPU 61 executes various controls. The network interface unit 66
The communication cable 11 and the bus 32 are connected, and the network compatible printer 22 ₁ shown in FIG.
22 ₂ ,..., 22 _N and workstations 23 ₁ , 23
_2, is a portion which communicates with the ...... 23 _M. The disk control device 66 is connected to the hard disk device 67 and controls the hard disk device 67. In the hard disk device 67,
Various emulation programs are stored.

FIG. 8 shows the structure of a table stored in the hard disk drive. Hard disk device 67, a management table 71, the network-compatible printer 22 _1, 22 ₂ shown in FIG. 1, ...... 22 _N
Management table 72 provided corresponding to each
₁ , 72 ₂ ,..., 72 _N are provided. The management table 71, the network-compatible printer 22 ₁ on the current network, 22 _2, the number of ...... 22 _{N N}
, And the individual management tables 72 ₁ , 72 ₂ ,.
... A pointer indicating 72 _N is entered. In contrast, the individual management table _{72 1, 72 2, ...... 72} N
Correspond to the corresponding network compatible printers 22 ₁ , 22
_2, the number of emulation ...... 22 _N can be executed, the mode in which they are network-enabled current settings of the printer, operating conditions, code executable emulation is entered.

Here, the network compatible printer 2
For the mode of 2 ₁ , 22 ₂ ,..., 22 _N , “1”
Indicates the auto mode, in which the requested emulation program is transferred to the corresponding network compatible printer 22. Also, “0”
In this case, the printer control server 24 is not directly involved because the postscript language of Adobe is used. Similarly, regarding the operation state of the printer, the code information is set to "1" or "0" during printing and during standby.

The management of these tables is performed as follows. Each of the network compatible printers 22 ₁ , 22 ₂ ,...
... 22 _N is when it becomes a connection state of online, the printer control server 24 checks whether in the network. If the printer mode exists, the printer mode is notified to the printer control server 24.

FIG. 9 shows the structure of data used to notify the printer mode. That is, the data 81 at this time includes a code 82 indicating that the notification is of the printer mode, code information 83 of “1” or “0” indicating the printer mode, and emulation of the emulation executable by the network compatible printer 22. It is composed of data 84 indicating the numbers and executable emulation codes (see Table 1) 85.

When the printer control server 24 does not exist on the network, the fact that the network compatible printer 22 does not exist on the control panel 41 (see FIG. 2) is displayed. Thereafter, when the printer control server 24 is connected to the network, the printer control server 24 sends a printer mode request command to the network. This command is sent to all network compatible printers 22 ₁ , 22 ₂ ,.
Since ... the sagging shed 22 _N, these network-compatible printer 22 _1, 22 _2, table 7 ...... 22 _N is shown in FIG. 8 by notifying the printer mode as appropriate
1, 72 will be constructed. The contents of the constructed tables 71 and 72 become initial values.

Each time a network compatible printer 22 is newly connected to the network, the tables 71 and 72 are updated by rewriting the printer mode information according to the procedure described above. In addition, the network compatible printers 22 ₁ , 22 ₂ ,... Already connected.
The contents of the table 71 about 22 _N, the printer control server of by 24 itself network compatible printer 22 _1, 22 _2, will be updated in accordance with control over ...... 22 _N.

Next, on the assumption that the work station 23 ₁ issues a print request in the emulation to the printer control server 24 will be described the operation of the printer control server 24 in the printing system.

FIG. 10 shows a part of the data stored on the hard disk device of the printer control server at the time when this request is made. The management table 71 is stored in an area of the hard disk device 67 starting from the address “1500”, and the address “20” is stored.
In the area starting with "00", the first individual management table 7
2 ₁ is stored. The address is in an area starting from "2010" stored second individual management table 72 _2, first the area starting from the address "2020" 3
Individual management table 72 ₃ is stored. The same applies hereinafter.

In the printing system of this embodiment, each of the network compatible printers 22 ₁ , 22 ₂ ,... Shown in FIG.
... The maximum number of emulations that 22 _N can hold is two. This is a limitation from the capacity of the nonvolatile memory 35 shown in FIG. The network printers 22 ₁ , 22 ₂ ,..., 22 _N have a common native language, and the number of emulations in each table 72 shown in FIG. 10 does not include these native languages.

FIGS. 11 and 12 are flowcharts for explaining the operation when the printer control server receives a print request. Workstation 23 ₁ sends a print request as described above shown in FIG. 1, when it is received by the printer control server 24, the printer control server 2
4 checks whether a network-compatible printer 22 having the requested emulation exists, and if necessary, loads an emulation program for emulation into a predetermined network-compatible printer 22. In order to realize such an operation, the CPU 61 of the printer control server 24 sets the contents of the registers i, t, and d to “0”, and sets the register e ₁ corresponding to the emulation code.
The contents of to e _m is set to "0" (step S10
1). Then, the network-compatible printer 22 is counted up by "1" from the current value the value i for specifying the order (step S102), the network-compatible printer 22 ₁ This value i is 22 _2, ... of 22 _N It is checked whether it is larger than the total number N (step S103).

[0042] If value i is smaller than the total number N (N), the search is performed for the individual management table 72 _i of the i-th network enabled printers 22 _i corresponding to the value i (step S104). Then, the contents of the appropriate register corresponding to the emulation of the registers e ₁ to e _m corresponding to the emulation code by "1" incremented (step S105).
Then, if the requested emulation exists (step S106; Y), it is determined whether or not it is being printed (step S107). If printing is not being performed, the i-th network compatible printer 22 _i
Can be used. Therefore, in this case (N), the network-compatible printer 22 _i is designated as a printer to process a print by the emulation routine proceeds to FIG. 12 (step S108). In this case, the individual management table 72 _i of the network compatible printer 22 _i is updated from “0” (standby) to “1” (printing) (step S109), and the workstation that has issued the print request 23 to enable the output of the print data for _one (step S110).

On the other hand, the network-compatible printer 22 _i can use the emulation requested in step S107 in the case that was being printed is changed to (Y), the contents of register t to "0" to "1" (step S1
11). Then, the network compatible printer 22 _i
Is not currently available for printing, so step S
Proceeding to 102, the next network compatible printer 22 _{i + 1}
Is added to the register value i by "1". Then, the same processing as described above is performed (steps S103 to S111).

By the way, in step S106, the network-compatible printer 22 _i of the individual management table 7
If the requested emulation is not present in the 2 _i (N), the network-compatible printer 2
Whether it is possible to download is checked the emulation program for emulation to 2 _i (step S112). That it is possible to download an emulation program, or corresponding network-compatible printer 22 _i nonvolatile memory 35 to the emulation program is stored one, it refers to a state that is not at all stored. If two emulation programs are stored in the non-volatile memory 35 and cannot be downloaded (N), step S10 is performed as it is.
Proceeding to 2, the next network compatible printer 22 _{i + 1} is checked. If download is possible (Y), the contents of register d are set to "1" (step S
113), proceed to step S102. This is because if there is a network compatible printer 22 that does not need to download the corresponding emulation program,
This is for giving priority to printing out by the network compatible printer 22.

As described above, when the network-compatible printers 22 ₁ , 22 ₂ ,..., 22 _N are examined in sequence, the network-compatible printer 2 capable of printing out immediately can be obtained.
In the state where 2 is not found, the determination in step S103 is finally affirmative (Y). At this stage, the CPU 61 checks whether or not the content of the register t is "1" (step S114). If the content of the register t is "1" (Y), a standby command is issued to execute standby because printing is in progress (step S115), and standby is performed for a fixed time (step S116). Thereafter, step S10
In step S108, if the network compatible printer 22 is not printing in this state, the network compatible printer 22 is designated as a print target (step S108).

On the other hand, if the content of the register t is "0" in step S114 (N), the corresponding emulation must be downloaded to any one of the network compatible printers 22. Then, a standby command indicating that downloading is in progress is issued (step S117), and the contents of the register i are initialized to "0" again (step S118). Thereafter, the CPU 61 checks whether or not the content of the register d is "1" (step S11).
9). This is to check whether there is a network compatible printer 22 that can download the corresponding emulation program.

[0047] If, when the contents of register d is "1" (Y), the value of the register i "1" only counts up (step S120), the individual management table for the corresponding network-compatible printer 22 _i to search for 72 _i (step S121). Then, (step this network-compatible printer 22 _i to check whether it is possible to download (step S122), the download of the possible (Y), the emulation to the network-compatible printer 22 _i is performed S123). Then, the network-compatible printer 22 _i is designated as the target of printout (step S108), the individual management table 72 _i is updated to a state during printing (step S109). Thereafter, the workstation 23 ₁ which is the requester of the print is issued.
Is permitted to output print data (step S1).
10).

On the other hand, if the content of the register d is "0" at step S119 (N), it means that download is impossible at present. Therefore, in this case, it is necessary to delete the emulation program already stored for _one of the network compatible printers 22 ₁ , 22 ₂ ,... 22 _N and store the emulation program for the currently requested emulation. is there. Therefore, first, the value of the register i is counted up by “1” (step S124), and the individual management table 72 _{i of the} corresponding network compatible printer 22 _i is counted.
Is searched (step S125). Then, registers e ₁ to e corresponding to the respective emulation codes
_It is checked whether an emulation corresponding to the maximum value of the contents of _m exists (step S12).
6).

[0049] This is, each network compatible printer 22 ₁ at step S105, 22 _2, register emulation stored in ...... 22 _N e ₁ ~e _m
It is related to having counted up to. That is, all network compatible printers 22 ₁ , 22 ₂ ,.
_When the count-up for _N is completed, it is known how many emulations (see Table 1) exist in these. For the largest number of emulations, erasure of one does not affect much. In Therefore step S126 emulation this maximum is examined whether in the network-compatible printer 22 _i.

[0050] Therefore, if the emulation corresponding to the maximum value is determined to exist in step S126 (Y), the erase command of the network corresponding emulation to the corresponding printer 22 _i is performed (step S127). The emulation program for emulation on behalf of the network-compatible printer 22 _i is to be downloaded (step S123). After this, it is as described above (steps S108 to S110). If it is determined in step S126 that the emulation corresponding to the maximum value does not exist (N), the value of the register i is counted up by "1" and the next network compatible printer 22 is counted up.
_A similar check is performed for _{i + 1} (step S1).
25). In the same manner, the emulation programs for the maximum number of emulations and the emulation programs for the emulations are substantially exchanged.

FIG. 13 corresponds to FIG. 10 and shows a part of data stored on the hard disk device of the printer control server at the time when some workstations 23 make a print request. First individual management table 7 starting from address "2000"
Since the 2 ₁ was not so only initial one emulation registered as shown in FIG. 10, when the workstation 23 ₁ requests emulation, the emulation is registered, the emulation program is a first network corresponding Printer 22 ₁
It can be seen that it was stored in

[0052] Figure 14 is a flowchart showing a state of exchanges of signals of the workstation 23 ₁ and the first network compatible printer 22 ₁ and the printer control server 24 in the case such as this example. First, the workstation 23 ₁ performs a print request to the printer control server 24 (step S201). The printer control server 24 instructs the standby to the work station 23 ₁ as described in FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 (step S2
02), to request the load emulation program to the network compatible printer 22 ₁ (step S203). In contrast, network compatible printer 2
Kitara 2 ₁ is transmitted a signal indicating permission (step S204), the printer control server 24 is arranged at the head of the emulation data transfer code, executes the downloading of the emulation program for emulation (step S205).

[0053] Once this manner emulation network compatible printer 22 ₁ is prepared, the printer control server 24 specifies the emulation again the printing (step S206). Then the individual management table 72 ₁ of the contents of the work station 23 ₁ performing the print request of the change from "waiting""Duringprinting" (see FIGS. 10 and 13), sends a signal of print permit (Step S207). Based on this work station 23 ₁ performs the transmission of print data to the network compatible printer 22 ₁ (step S208). Signal indicating the normal end from the network corresponding printer 22 ₁ When this transmission is successful is transmitted to the work station 23 ₁ (step S20
9), a work station 23 ₁ which has received this notifies a normal end to the printer control server 24 (step S2
10). The printer control server 24 to change this the contents of the individual management table 72 ₁ based on the "during printing" to "waiting", the entire operation is completed.

In this state, for example, the workstation 23
Suppose that a print request in emulation was issued from ₂ . The printer control server 24 checks whether the emulation exists in the individual management table 72. If it exists, it is checked whether it is ready for printing. Since the network-compatible printer 22 ₂ can immediately print out from FIG. 13, the processing of the emulation is commanded contrast.
The command output to the network-compatible printer 22 ₂ is made to the workstation 23 _2. At this time, the network-compatible printer 22 ₂ separate management table 72 ₂ is also changed to "during printing" to "waiting".

[0055] and thereafter, further print requests in the emulation to the printer control server 24 from the workstation 23 ₃ were made. The printer control server 24 checks the individual management table 72 and determines which of the network compatible printers 22 ₁ , 2 2
2 ₂ knows that does not exist in ...... 22 _N (see Figure 13). Next, the printer control server 24 checks whether or not the emulation program can be loaded.
Issue a wait instruction to ₃ . Then, to change the program that is loaded into the workstation 23 _3. Although the workstation 23 ₃ As can be seen from the individual management table 72 ₃ are stored and emulation emulation are most abundant in the entire network compatible printer _{22 1, 22 2, ...... 22} N. Therefore, the printer control server 24 deletes the emulation program and loads the emulation program.

FIG. 15 shows a part of the data stored on the hard disk device of the printer control server after being changed as described above.
This corresponds to No. 3. Emulation is registered as an alternative to emulation in a separate management table 72 _3.

In the embodiment described above, the network support
Printer 22₁, 22_Two, ... 22 _NLoaded in
Judgment when erasing the emulation program
Simply have the same emulation on the network
The number of network-compatible printers 22 was determined. After this
In addition, emulation that erases past usage results
Program, or emulation program
Weight for each gram, and the same energy
Network compatible with a simulation program
Emulator for comparing and erasing the product with the number of printers 22
Alternatively, an application program may be determined.

In the embodiment, the printer control server 24 accommodating various emulation programs is prepared. However, such a special printer control server 24 is not always necessary, and may be substituted for a special printer. That is, a normal printer (first
Type printer) and a second type printer containing various emulation programs are prepared, and the first type printer is made to download necessary emulation programs from the second type printer. The effect can be obtained. For the same reason, some workstations or computers may prepare a plurality of emulation programs and send necessary programs to a designated printer.

Modification

Next, a modification of the present invention will be described. 2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, printers that analyze received data and select a corresponding emulation program by themselves have appeared (JP-A-1-314177 and JP-A-2-31477).
156325). In the modified example of the present invention, similarly, the printer receives and analyzes the data, and when the corresponding emulation program is not stored in its own memory, transfers the emulation program to the printer control server. Is what you require. The printer control server transfers the requested emulation program to the requested printer.

In the printing system of such a modified example,
The configuration of each printer may be the same as that of the network compatible printer 22 shown in FIG. 2, and the configuration of the printer control server may be the same as that of the printer control server 24 shown in FIG. now,
Shall workstation WS ₁ on the network makes a print request to the printer P _2, the printer control server PS is assumed that stores various emulation programs.

FIG. 16 shows how signals are exchanged when an emulation program corresponding to the printer control server PS is stored in the printing system according to this modification. First workstation WS ₁ sends out the print data to the printer P ₂ (step S301). The printer P ₂ analyzes the received data (step S302), the emulation program provided with its own know that not addressed. Then, a request is made to the printer control server PS to load the corresponding emulation program (step S303). The printer control server PS to the printer P _2, and transfers the corresponding emulation program (step S304). The printer P ₂ processes the print data using the program (step S305), which then notifies the workstation WS ₁ When completed normally (step S30
6) End all work.

FIG. 17 shows how signals are exchanged when there is no corresponding emulation program in the printer control server PS in this modified example. First workstation WS ₁ sends out the print data to the printer P ₂ (step S40
1). The printer P ₂ analyzes the received data (step S402), knows that it can not deal with the print data received in the emulation program provided to it. Then, a request is made to the printer control server PS to load a necessary emulation program (step S403). In this case, the emulation program does not exist in the printer control server PS. Therefore, the printer control server PS sends the data indicative of no program data to the printer P ₂ (step S404). The printer P ₂ knows that that can not be printed out thereby printing data. Therefore printer P ₂ send a code that represents unprintable the workstation WS ₁ (step S4
05), a message indicating that printing cannot be performed due to emulation mismatch is displayed on its own control panel 41 (see FIG. 2), and all operations are terminated.

[0064]

As described above, according to the first aspect of the present invention, since a printer control server storing a plurality of emulation programs is prepared, it is not necessary for each printer to prepare various emulation programs. Therefore, not only can these printers be manufactured at low cost, but even if a document in a new data format is created in the future, it is necessary to add a corresponding emulation program in the printer control server. Thus, there is an effect that the request of the entire network can be dealt with.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, there are two types of printers, a first type printer capable of rewriting an emulation program as needed, and a second type printer which itself stores a plurality of emulation programs. Printers of the second type, so that the second type printer can transfer the emulation program to the first type printer as needed, so that the emulation programs can be exchanged without requiring a special printer control server. Can be. In addition, according to the present invention, the first type printer can mainly handle ordinary documents and the like, and the second type printer can mainly handle documents and the like of special data formulas. There is also an effect that various data formats can be handled without frequently changing programs.

Further, according to the third aspect of the present invention, a printer capable of rewriting the emulation program as needed, and a processing data sending means having a plurality of emulation programs and also having a print data sending function. Is connected to the communication cable, so that the necessary emulation program can be transferred to the printer without requiring a special printer control server. Moreover, since the processing data sending means such as a workstation can also send the emulation program at the same time, when it is determined that the printer does not have the corresponding emulation in communication with the printer performed prior to sending the print data. Has the effect that the emulation program and the print data can be transmitted together, and the transmission efficiency can be improved.

According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, since the printer is provided with the function of analyzing the received print data, the print data sending side such as a workstation immediately sends the print data to the target printer. be able to. Therefore, there is no need to send part or all of the print data to a print control server, etc., to determine the necessary emulation, and to send the print data to the target printer again, thereby achieving efficient data transmission. It has the effect of doing.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram illustrating an outline of a print system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an outline of a circuit configuration of a network compatible printer used in the embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a plan view of a control panel used in the present embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a plan view showing an example of display contents of a liquid crystal display for selecting two emulation modes in the embodiment.

FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a hierarchical structure of a network used in the embodiment.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a data structure of a print request command used in the embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating an outline of a circuit configuration of a printer control server used in the present embodiment.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a structure of a table stored in a hard disk device used in the embodiment.

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing a data configuration when notifying a printer mode in the embodiment.

FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a part of data stored on the hard disk device of the printer control server in the first stage in the embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a first half of a flowchart for explaining an operation when the printer control server receives a print request in the embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a latter half of a flowchart for explaining an operation when the printer control server receives a print request in the present embodiment.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a part of data stored on the hard disk device of the printer control server in the second stage in the embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a timing chart showing how signals are exchanged between a workstation, a printer control server, and a network compatible printer in this embodiment.

FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing a part of data stored on the hard disk device of the printer control server in the third stage in the embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a timing chart showing a state of signal exchange when an emulation program corresponding to a printer control server is stored in a modification of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a timing chart showing signal exchange when an emulation program corresponding to the printer control server is not stored in this modification.

FIG. 18 is a system configuration diagram showing a general configuration of a conventional print system.

[Description of Signs] 21: Communication cable, 22: Network compatible printer, 23: Workstation, 24: Printer control server, 31, 61: CPU, 33, 63: ROM, 3
4, 64 RAM, 35 nonvolatile memory, 36, 65
... Network interface unit, 41 ... Control panel, 46 ... Engine unit, 67 ... Hard disk drive, 71 ... Management table, 72 ... Individual management table

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page (58) Field surveyed (Int.Cl. ⁶ , DB name) G06F 3/12 B41J 5/30 G06F 9/455 G06F 13/00 351

Claims (4)

(57) [Claims] A plurality of printers connected to a communication cable, a program storage unit connected to the communication cable and storing a plurality of emulation programs, and a request among emulation programs stored in the program storage unit. A printer control server having a transfer unit for transferring the data to a printer of a request destination. 2. A temporary storage unit connected to a communication cable for temporarily storing an emulation program, a data processing unit for performing data processing for printing using the emulation program stored in the temporary storage unit,
One or more first-class printers having a printing unit for printing using the processed data; a program storage unit connected to the communication cable and storing a plurality of emulation programs; A data processing unit for performing data processing for printing using the stored emulation program,
A second printing unit that includes a printing unit that performs printing using the processed data, and a transfer unit that transfers a requested emulation program among the emulation programs stored in the program storage unit to the requested first type printer. A print system comprising a seed printer. 3. A temporary storage unit connected to a communication cable for temporarily storing an emulation program, a data processing unit for performing data processing for printing using the emulation program stored in the temporary storage unit,
One or more printers having a printing unit for performing printing using the processed data, a program storage unit connected to the communication cable and storing a plurality of emulation programs, and a program storage unit stored in the program storage unit. A print system comprising: an emulation program transfer unit for transferring a requested one of the emulation programs to a requested printer; and a processing data sending unit for sending processed print data to a printer to be printed. . 4. An emulation program which analyzes received print data connected to a communication cable and processes the print data, determines one or a plurality of printers for performing printout using the determined emulation program. A program storage unit connected to the communication cable and storing a plurality of emulation programs; and transfer means for transferring a requested emulation program among the emulation programs stored in the program storage unit to a requested printer. And a printer control server.