CN1467992A - Image printing system - Google Patents

Abstract

An image printing system includes a digital camera, which is an electronic camera, including a first connecting unit for connecting to an image printer, a recording medium for recording image data, a decompressing unit for decompressing data recorded in the recording medium to data for printing, a data transfer unit for transferring an output of the decompressing unit to the printer, and a secondary battery for supplying power source, and a printer including a second connecting unit for connecting to the first connecting unit, a printing engine to print in accordance with printing data, a power supply unit for feeding power to the digital camera and for charging to the secondary battery, and a print start switch for generating a start instruction signal for a print operation. When the print start switch is turned on because the first and second connecting units are connected, the data for printing is transferred to the printer side. In response to this, the print engine starts the print operation and controls to start an operation for charging to the secondary battery after the print operation. According to this system, an image printing system with better and simpler operation and usability can be provided.

Description

Image print system

Technical field

The present invention relates to a kind of image print system, relate in particular to by obtaining and the Electrofax of recorded electronic view data and the image print system formed according to the image printer of the image of the view data printout correspondence that obtains by this Electrofax.

Background technology

At present, by can be with by optical image being carried out electronic image data that opto-electronic conversion obtains as the Electrofax and the image print system (being also referred to as the image print system) the image printer of correspondence image printout on printing paper formed according to the view data that obtains by this Electrofax practicability of digital data record on the recording medium of regulation.

In this existing image print system, as follows by the general sequence of the image printer output image corresponding with the view data that obtains by Electrofax.

At first, the user of this Electrofax uses Electrofax that the subject of hope is carried out shooting operation.Obtain the view data of the regulation of the subject that expression wishes by this shooting operation, with this Imagery Data Recording in the recording mediums such as memory card that can be arranged on this Electrofax with freely plugging.

Then, the user will be recorded in that the view data corresponding with the image of wishing printout sends the external equipments of for example being made up of minicom etc. such as image processing apparatus in the view data in the recording medium.Have as the data transfer scheme that is used for this situation: for example take out and record the record image data medium from Electrofax, attach it to then on the position or equipment of recording medium interface, be sent to image processing apparatus by this position or equipment with regulation; Perhaps the stube cable by regulation is electrically connected Electrofax and image processing apparatus and carries out the data transmission.

Promptly, in the prior art, have as being used between Electrofax and image processing apparatus, carrying out the scheme that data transmit: for example, the position that can plug same recording medium all is set in Electrofax and image processing apparatus and has the function that the recording medium that is installed on this position is write and reads; Perhaps have the function of the view data of reading and recording in recording medium and write the function of view data to this recording medium, the recording medium read-write external equipment that is prepared in advance and is independent of image print system shifts the view data that has been recorded in the recording medium by this external equipment.

Perhaps, except these schemes, also has following proposal: the splicing ear of regulation that for example in Electrofax and image processing apparatus, is provided for being connected the stube cable of regulation, and the communicator be used for realizing the regulation of data communication between Electrofax and image processing apparatus is set respectively, when carrying out the view data transmission, connect Electrofax and image processing apparatus by stube cable.By using aforesaid various data link, can will be sent to the image processing apparatus side from the electrofax pusher side by the obtained view data of the shooting operation of Electrofax.

Image processing apparatus receives this view data, and the signal processing that the view data that receives is put rules into practice for example generates after the processing etc. of view data of the most suitable printing, uses the image printer that is connected to this image processing apparatus to print output.

In such conventional images print system, because prerequisite is to utilize external equipment such as image processing apparatus, therefore, when output image, required various operations and work are more numerous and diverse.Thereby, exist the general user of the operation be unfamiliar with image processing apparatus etc. to be difficult to easily utilize the problem of this system.

Therefore, in the prior art, the system that has proposed to omit the image processing apparatus in the above-mentioned image print system and constituted and this system be practicability, promptly Electrofax and image processing apparatus are electrically connected by stube cable, can in Electrofax or image printer, carry out shirtsleeve operation, thereby obtain the printout of image.

But, when in such image print system, carrying out the printout of image, connect operations such as Electrofax and image printer owing to be attended by by stube cable, therefore still feel cumbersome sometimes.

On the other hand, in the prior art,, the form of assemble compact printer in Electrofax self and this technology practicability has been proposed as the device that obtains the printout of correspondence image according to the view data that obtains by Electrofax.But, if like this with Electrofax with image printer is integrated constitutes, when then existing the inevitable volume of camera itself to become big problem, the problem that also exists unavoidable manufacturing cost to rise.

Based on above-mentioned viewpoint, in the image print system of forming by Electrofax that constitutes respectively and image printer, past has proposed the image print system of following formation: do not use external equipments such as minicom and stube cable and guarantee electrical connection between Electrofax and the image printer, carry out the printout of image based on the view data that is obtained by Electrofax.

For example, open in the disclosed image print system such as flat 11-155120 communique opening flat 11-008792 communique, spy by No. 2606340 communique of special permission and spy, directly do not connect Electrofax and image printer by stube cable, carry out the data transmission and carry out printout, can also carry out charging operations to the rechargeable battery that is arranged on the electrofax pusher side in addition.

In addition, open the disclosed image print system of flat 11-254764 communique by the spy and connect Electrofax and image printer by stube cable, and by the recording medium installation portion is set, reads image data any one of Electrofax that can connect from cable or the recording medium that is installed in the recording medium installation portion and can obtain the printout of image.It discloses in this case, when the recording medium that is installed in the recording medium installation portion reads in view data and carry out the printout of image, and the scheme of the printing control information of additional regulation on recording medium (for example, printing supplementary etc.).

In addition, open the spy that disclosed device is the system of following structure in the 2000-143006 communique: be provided with can be freely the recording medium installation portion of the configuration recording medium identical with the recording medium of Electrofax with plugging, the recording medium that will take out from Electrofax is installed in this recording medium installation portion, from this recording medium, read view data, carry out the printout of image based on this view data.In this system, when holding the selector button on the box of printing paper in operation setting, subsidiary image information in the view data of control circuit reference record in recording medium, optionally print image corresponding to operation promptly be recorded in all images data (all photos) in the recording medium have the view data of type information (residue photo) not or the view data (photo of up-to-date shooting) of newest date information in any image.

Yet, open by above-mentioned special permission No. 2606340 communique, spy that flat 11-008792 communique, spy are opened flat 11-155120 communique, the spy opens disclosed existing image print systems such as flat 11-254764 communique and mostly is the scheme of managing to come by shirtsleeve operation the carries out image printout greatly, but the device of the image that selection will be printed is after using Electrofax end photography, by the user electronic data of taking is preestablished whether want printed information, print based on this information and executing image.

Thereby such device has increased the operation that the user must carry out, and for example, will take good all images data in hope and carry out as object under the situation of image printout, exists the user to bear big problem.

Promptly, when obtaining the image printout based on the view data of using Electrofax to take, for example, take out from Electrofax after the recording medium and be installed in it in image printer, use stube cable to connect the image of Electrofax and image printer etc. or the hope that selection will be printed Electrofax has carried out shooting operation after and the information that will print is carried out predetermined operation and various operations such as added, these operations are more numerous and diverse for the user.

In addition, open the disclosed scheme of 2000-143006 communique according to above-mentioned spy, except must from Electrofax, taking out recording medium and attaching it to the operation in the image printer, because the printing of image printer control self is the independent control of printer side, therefore follow and use when going up difficulty, because image printer constitutes as specific installation, we can say that therefore aspect the reduction manufacturing cost, also there is further room for improvement in this system.

Summary of the invention

In view of the above problems, the object of the present invention is to provide a kind of image print system, in the view data acquisition image printout of using Electrofax to photograph, by simplifying the operation that the user must carry out, can be easily and the image printout of promptly wishing based on the view data of hope, when possessing excellent operability, can realize the reduction of manufacturing cost.

The image print system of the present invention the 1st aspect, comprise Electrofax with can with the functional image printer that is connected of this Electrofax, it is characterized in that: described image printer has: printer controller, and it totally controls each function of this image printer; The 2nd jockey, it is used for obtaining being connected with the functional of described Electrofax; Printing mechanism, the data that it transmits by the 2nd jockey according to this Electrofax by functional connection, the printout image, described Electrofax has: controller of camera, it totally controls each function of this Electrofax; Video memory, it is used to store the photographic image data that carried out data compression process and printing experience information as the relevant image print processing of carrying out in the past of the attribute information of this view data; The 1st jockey, itself and functional connection of the 2nd jockey of described image printer are used for establishing functional connection the between this image printer and the Electrofax; Conveyer, it is used for sending described image printer to by the view data that the 1st jockey will be recorded in the described video memory; Updating device, it is used for upgrading printing experience information, above-mentioned controller of camera and printer controller cooperatively interact, be under the functional state that is connected at described the 1st jockey and the 2nd jockey, in case described image printer side begins to print action, just according to described printing experience information, order is printed at least to also unprinted view data till this time started, when the printing to this view data finishes, upgrade corresponding described printing experience information.

The image print system of the present invention the 2nd aspect is characterised in that: in the image print system aspect the present invention the 1st, described Electrofax has image display device, this image display device can be under the control of described controller of camera, demonstration is based on the mark of image that is recorded in the view data in the described video memory and the regulation relevant with this image, in case establishing described the 1st jockey is connected with the 2nd jockey is functional, described controller of camera and printer controller just cooperatively interact, and show to impel to begin to print the tutorial message of action and the condition relevant with this printing of setting etc. in described image display device.

The image print system of the present invention the 3rd aspect is characterised in that: in the image print system aspect the present invention the 1st, described Electrofax has image display device, this image display device can be under the control of described controller of camera, show information with the mark of regulation, in the view data corresponding, comprise the information of the information that experiences corresponding to described printing with offering image that this image display device shows based on image that is recorded in the view data in the described video memory and the regulation relevant with this image.

The image print system of the present invention the 4th aspect is characterised in that: in the image print system aspect the present invention the 3rd, under the control of described controller of camera, will as corresponding to the expression of described printing experience information in the past whether the print processing information of crossing this view data offer described image display device, described image display device represents whether carried out the demonstration of print processing in the past according to the information that is provided.

The image print system of the present invention the 5th aspect is characterised in that: in the image print system aspect the present invention the 3rd, under the control of described controller of camera, to represent that print processing in the past is after this view data several times or whether be once more that at least a information during print processing is specified offers described image display device as the information corresponding to described printing experience information with numeral or mark, described image display device is according to the information that is provided, to expression in the past print processing after this view data several times or whether be once more that the numeral or the mark of at least a information during print processing is specified shows.

The image print system of the present invention the 6th aspect is characterised in that: in the image print system aspect the present invention the 3rd, described controller of camera is handled described printing experience information as the information in the file header that should be included in a part that forms the data file that constitutes described view data.

The image print system of the present invention the 7th aspect is characterised in that: in the image print system aspect the present invention the 3rd, described controller of camera has such function: be recorded in video memory in relevant each of all images data printing experience information put together as independent file and come record.

The image print system of the present invention the 8th aspect is characterised in that: in the image print system aspect the present invention the 1st, described Electrofax also has and can rewrite described printing experience information and carry out the hand-operating device of print processing appointment once more, under the control of described controller of camera, the view data of carrying out once more print processing by this hand-operating device indication is carried out and the identical print processing of other view data of not carrying out the image print processing when making this indication.

The image print system of the present invention the 9th aspect is characterised in that: in the image print system aspect the present invention the 3rd, described printing experience information comprises once more the appointed information of print processing.

Description of drawings

Fig. 1 is the overall perspective view of the image print system overview of expression one embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 2 is the schematic configuration block diagram of Electrofax of the image print system part of expression pie graph 1.

Fig. 3 is the schematic configuration block diagram of image printer of the image print system part of expression pie graph 1.

Fig. 4 is the general flowchart that the main operating process of the Electrofax in the image print system of Fig. 1 is shown.

Fig. 5 is the general flowchart that the operating process of the print processing in the electrofax machine operation of relevant Fig. 2 is shown.

Fig. 6 is the general flowchart that the main operating process of the image printer in the image print system of Fig. 1 is shown.

Fig. 7 is the general flowchart of the operating process of the print processing in the image printer operation that illustrates among relevant Fig. 3.

Fig. 8 is the schematic diagram of detailed content that comprises the data file of the view data in the recording medium that is utilized in the image print system that is recorded in Fig. 1.

Fig. 9 is the schematic diagram of detailed content that expression comprises other data file example of the view data in the recording medium that is utilized in the image print system that is recorded in Fig. 1.

Figure 10 is the figure that is illustrated in the example of the display format in the display part that is presented at the Electrofax display unit in the implementation that the image printout carried out by the image print system of Fig. 1 handles.

Figure 11 is the figure that is illustrated in the example of the another kind of display format in the display part that is presented at the Electrofax display unit in the implementation that the image printout carried out by the image print system of Fig. 1 handles.

Figure 12 is the figure that is illustrated in the example of the another kind of display format in the display part that is presented at the Electrofax display unit in the implementation that the image printout carried out by the image print system of Fig. 1 handles.

Figure 13 is the figure that is illustrated in another different example of the display format in the display part that is presented at the Electrofax display unit in the image printout processing execution process of being carried out by the image print system of Fig. 1.

Embodiment

Below, the embodiment shown in illustrates the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Fig. 1 is the overall perspective view of the image print system overview of expression one embodiment of the invention.Fig. 2 is the schematic configuration block diagram that expression constitutes the Electrofax of this image print system part.Fig. 3 is the schematic configuration block diagram that expression constitutes the image printer of this image print system part.

As shown in Figure 1, constitute the image print system of present embodiment by Electrofax 10 and image printer 50, wherein Electrofax 10 can be obtained the subject of hope and its view data as prescribed form is come record as electronic image signal, and image printer 50 can come the printout image based on the view data that obtains record by this Electrofax 10.

On the upper surface of image printer 50, form the placement section 50d that places Electrofax 10.The printer side connector 54 that this image printer 50 can be linked to each other with Electrofax 10 with freely plugging is set on this placement section 50d (not to be illustrated among Fig. 1.With reference to Fig. 3, the 2nd jockey).Corresponding therewith, on the bottom surface of Electrofax 10 sides, be provided with the camera side-connector 34 of conduct the 1st jockey that this Electrofax 10 can link to each other with image printer 50 (is not illustrated among Fig. 1 with freely plugging.With reference to Fig. 2).

Camera side-connector 34 (the 1st jockey) and printer side connector 54 (the 2nd jockey) constitute can make these two devices carry out the part of the data link of data communication mutually, and plays the effect that electric power is offered the power supply generator of Electrofax 10 sides from image printer 50 sides.

In case Electrofax 10 is placed on the placement section 50d of image printer 50, then these two devices are electrically connected by above-mentioned the 1st jockey 34 and the 2nd jockey 54, thus the image print system in the formation present embodiment.

Then, under this state, by the inner separately control device that has of these two devices, promptly (back will be described in detail for controller of camera 17 and printer controller 51.With reference to Fig. 2,3) cooperate and to control this two devices, thus carry out data transfer operation suitable between two devices, the printout operation of being undertaken by image printer 50 and the charging operations that Electrofax is carried out.

Here, at first use Fig. 1, Fig. 2 that the main composition parts of Electrofax 10 are described below.

On the externally mounted part of the Electrofax 10 of an image print system part that constitutes present embodiment, on the assigned position separately at the main surface thereon and the back side, the user who is provided with this Electrofax 10 carries out a plurality of functional units 25 (with reference to Fig. 1, Fig. 2) of operation when wishing operation.As shown in Figure 1, this functional unit 25 carries out the parts of the index signal of various settings in this Electrofax 10 and operation etc. for being used for producing indication, for example, it comprises: the release-push 25A that indication photography action begins to wait, select to switch the pattern of this Electrofax 10 pattern rotating disk 25B, be used for changing the zoom control lever 25C of the zoom rate of photographic optical system, open and close the 25E of print button once more of the camera power operation parts 25D of functional unit of (open, close) state and indication operation when printing once more etc. as Switching power.When operation any one in this functional unit 25, from switch portion 25a, the 25b of its interlock, 25c, 25d, 25e (with reference to Fig. 2.In Fig. 1, do not illustrate) produce the index signal of stipulating, this index signal transmits to controller of camera 17 by on-off controller (SW) 24 shown in Figure 2.Receive this signal, the control that controller of camera 17 puts rules into practice.The various piece of controller of camera 17 overall control Electrofaxs 10, and as hereinafter described, have the function that cooperates the action of controlling image print system of the present invention with printer controller 51.

In addition, at the back side of Electrofax 10, will be as the display surface of the display part of the display unit 30 of image display device towards being arranged on the assigned position peripherally.This display unit 30 is to show and the corresponding image display device of being obtained by this Electrofax 10 of picture signal, for example can be made of liquid crystal indicator (LCD:Liquid Crystal Display).

Near this display unit 30, be provided for observing and wish the subject taken etc., the auxiliary view finder 40 that carries out the setting of the composition that will take etc.The common view finder of this view finder 40 for for example constituting by a plurality of optical lenses etc.

On the upper surface of the externally mounted part of this Electrofax 10, be provided with the information display section 41 that shows with the form of visually confirming the setting item in this Electrofax 10.This information display section 41 for example can be made of small LCD etc.In addition, in Fig. 2, omit the diagram of relevant this information display section 41.

In addition, the internal structure of this Electrofax 10 is for as shown in Figure 2.That is, this Electrofax 10 is by constituting with the lower part: as the control device that the action of this Electrofax 10 is totally controlled, for example by by system LSI (Large Scale Integration: the CPU that large scale integrated circuit) forms (Central Processing Unit: the controller of camera of central processing unit) forming 17; Thereby converge the photographic optical system 11 that forms the subject picture of optics from the light beam of subject by what a plurality of optical elements were formed; Come the lens drive division 18 of Mechanical Driven photographic optical system 11 by the control of controller of camera 17; Be arranged on the optical axis of the light beam that sees through photographic optical system 11, regulate the shutter aperture 12 of the light quantity on the sensitive surface that is radiated at the imaging apparatus of describing later 13; Come the shutter aperture drive division 19 of Mechanical Driven shutter aperture 12 by the control of controller of camera 17; By the imaging apparatus 13 that photo-electric conversion elements such as CCD (charging coupled apparatus) transducer are formed, drive the imaging apparatus drive division 20 of this imaging apparatus 13; Transmit synchronizing signals etc. and control the timing controller 21 of the driving timing of imaging apparatus 13 to imaging apparatus drive division 20; The pre-process circuit 14 of the signal processing that receives the signal of telecommunication corresponding and put rules into practice with the subject picture of obtaining by imaging apparatus 13; Receive the output (analog signal) of this pre-process circuit 14 and be converted into the A/D convertor circuit 15 of digital signal; The digital processing circuit 16 of the Digital Signal Processing that receives the output (digital signal) of this A/D convertor circuit 15 and put rules into practice; The temporary transient Memory Controller 22 of preserving view data and various data etc. as the placeholder record device; Be used for printing that placeholder record generated frame memory 23 with view data (printing view data) under the control of controller of camera 17; Based on the view data that obtains by this Electrofax 10 or be recorded in view data in the recording medium 33 (back description), generate the most suitable demonstration of carrying out the form that image shows by the image display device image with the processing of picture signal etc. and the display control circuit 29 that shows relevant various signal processing; Display unit 30 as image display device with the display part that will be shown as image by the picture signal of this display control circuit 29 outputs; Between controller of camera 17 and recording medium described later 33 and bear the recording medium interface 31 that record transmits with the reception of view data; 10 that obtain by record by Electrofax, handle the recording medium 33 that the records that generated are formed with the semiconductor memory medium of view data and magnetic or optical recording media as record storage through specified signal; The recording medium installation portion 32 that between this recording medium 33 and recording medium interface 31, both is electrically connected; As the firmware 28 that writes down the memory of operation program etc. in this Electrofax 10 in advance; (read-only memory: Read Only Memory) 26 and RAM (random access storage device: Random Access Memory) 27 such as the ROM of the basic initial set value of relevant these Electrofax 10 actions of record in advance etc.; This Electrofax 10 can be connected to camera side-connector 34 on the image printer 50 with freely plugging; As a composition data conveyer part and between camera side-connector 34 and controller of camera 17, as the connecting interface 35 of the data link of the transmission action of being responsible for view data and various index signals etc.; As the main power source of Electrofax 10 and the TunePower 37 that constitutes by secondary cell; Receive the part (DC2) of the electric power that provides from the DC power supply control part 70 (aftermentioned is with reference to Fig. 3) of the image printer 50 that should link to each other by connector 34,54 with this Electrofax 10, and the charging control section 36 that TunePower 37 is charged; Provide the part (DC1) of electric power to control etc., provide the photograph pusher side power circuit 38 of required electric power by 34,54 pairs of connectors from the DC power supply control part 70 of image printer 50 to each circuit of this Electrofax 10; During shooting as the flash light emission device 40 of secondary light source.

Therefore, each circuit of these Electrofax 10 inside links to each other with controller of camera 17 by bus 39.Thus, between controller of camera 17 and each part, can carry out the reception and the transmission of view data mutually.

As mentioned above, the control device that controller of camera 17 conducts are totally controlled Electrofax 10, and under the state that connects Electrofax 10 and image printer 50, can control the integral body of this image print system.In this case, controller of camera 17 can be controlled to printer controller 51 (aftermentioned) the various index signals of transmission of being responsible for overall control image printer 50 and the view data of regulation etc.

In Electrofax 10, controller of camera 17 control imaging apparatuss 13 are also obtained the picture signal of representing subject, and control pre-process circuit 14, A/D convertor circuit 15, digital processing circuit 16 etc. carry out the picture signal that is obtained by imaging apparatus 13 is carried out the control that the view data of prescribed form was handled and generated to various picture signals.

After the signal processing that puts rules into practice by 14 pairs of signals of obtaining by imaging apparatus 13 of pre-process circuit, digital processing circuit 16 is that object carries out various signal processing with the picture signal that is converted to digital signal by A/D convertor circuit 15, and the record that the record that for example generates the form be suitable for writing down most reads in from recording medium 33 described later with view data (for example view data of compressed format), decompression is with view data (packed data) and be converted into the signal of telecommunication etc. of prescribed form.In addition, digital processing circuit 16 also plays the effect of image signal compression means and decompressing device.

Then, the various forms of pictorial data that will be generated in digital processing circuit 16 output to display unit 30, output to Memory Controller 22, output to each component parts of stipulating such as recording medium 33 through recording medium interface 31 and recording medium installation portion 32 by display control circuit 29, and suitably export to image printer 50 by connecting interface 35 and photograph pusher side connecting interface 34 etc.

The image print system of aforesaid present embodiment is to constitute with the form that promptly take a picture by the jockey of regulation pusher side connecting interface 34 and printer side connecting interface 54 connect Electrofax 10 and image printer 50.

In this case, under Electrofax 10 and state that image printer 50 directly links to each other, between two devices except receive sending various information and index signal, control signal etc., also receive sending by signal processing is the view data etc. of prescribed form, and electric power is offered Electrofax 10 sides from image printer 50 sides.

When Electrofax 10 is operated separately, the electric power that charging control section 36 receives from TunePower 37, carry out the control of the power-supply system of Electrofax 10, provide required electric power (with reference to the symbol DC2 of Fig. 2, Fig. 3) to each circuit part (not illustrating among the figure) of this Electrofax 10.

In addition, when connecting Electrofax 10 and image printer 50 by two connectors 34,54, the DC power supply control part 70 of image printer 50 sides is electrically connected with the photograph pusher side power circuit 38 and the charging control section 36 of Electrofax 10 by two connectors 34,54.

When being in this state, the DC power supply control part 70 of image printer 50 sides plays as the function of being responsible for to the power supply of the entire image print system supply electric power that comprises Electrofax 10 and 50 two devices of image printer.

That is, under Electrofax 10 and state that image printer 50 links to each other, during the image print system action, the electric power that provides from the DC power supply control part 70 of image printer 50 sides will offer camera power circuit 38 by two connectors 54,34.Thereby thus, this image print system will move.In other words, the DC power supply control part 70 of image printer 50 plays the effect as the main power source of the image print system of present embodiment.

Meanwhile, when Electrofax 10 linked to each other with image printer 50, TunePower 37 will receive the electric power that the DC power supply control part 70 by image printer 50 sides provides by charging control section 36.That is, the DC power supply control part 70 of image printer 50 also plays the effect that the TunePower 37 to Electrofax 10 charges.

Secondly, the main composition parts of composing images printer 50 inside are described according to Fig. 1, Fig. 3 below.

The image printer 50 of the part of the print system of formation present embodiment is suitable for adopting for example printer of common printing type such as subliming type thermal transfer mode or ink jet type.In the present embodiment, be that example describes with printer with thermal printer head and black subliming type thermal transfer mode of being with.

As shown in Figure 1, image printer 50 has the carton 50d that can freely be loaded and unloaded on main part 50a, and this carton 50d is the overlapping printing paper 100 that many regulations that provide are provided when printing action.

In addition, in this image printer 50, be provided with ink ribbon cartridge (not illustrating among the figure) on the position of the regulation of the inside of main part 50a, reeling in this ink ribbon cartridge and holding has applied the China ink band that is used for above-mentioned printing paper 100 is carried out the dyestuff that required images print.

For this reason, on the assigned position of the main part 50a of this image printer 50, form corresponding to the box opening 50b of carton 50d and according to printing the outlet 50c that printed printing paper 100 (with reference to Fig. 1) that action will print uncommon phase image is discharged.In addition, though do not illustrate in the drawings, on the assigned position of this main part 50a, also be provided with the opening that is used for ink ribbon cartridge is contained in the accommodating chamber of main part 50a inside.

And, the assigned position on the outer dress face of the main part 50a of this image printer 50 be provided with as the printer power supply functional unit 67A of the functional unit of carrying out main power switch (open, close) operation and as a plurality of functional unit such as the beginning functional unit 67B that makes the functional unit of printing the action beginning 67 (with reference to Fig. 3.In addition, position outside the parts of bright note is not shown among Fig. 1, Fig. 3).These a plurality of functional units 67 are under this image printer 50 and state that above-mentioned Electrofax 10 is connected, by the parts of user's operation.

In addition, on the assigned position on the outer dress face of the main part 50a of this image printer 50, be provided with of being formed by a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LED) that are provided with for the state that shows this image printer 50 etc. 68.The control of this 68 by glimmering and changing color when luminous etc. shows the operating conditions of this image printer 50.

On the other hand, as shown in Figure 3, be provided with following parts: the printer controller 51 that cooperates overall this image printer 50 of control with the controller of camera 17 of above-mentioned Electrofax 10 in the inside of image printer 50; By link to each other with the camera connector 34 of Electrofax 10, as a part of between this image printer 50 and Electrofax 10, carrying out the data link of data communication, play the printer connector 54 as the 2nd jockey of effect that electric power is offered the power supply generator of Electrofax 10 sides from these image printer 50 sides as carrying out; As the circuit of the part of composition data conveyer and between printer connector 54 and printer controller 51, bear the connecting interface 55 of the transfer operation of view data and various index signals etc.; ROM (the read-only memory: Read Only Memory) 52 of the basic initial set value of the action of relevant this image printer 50 of record (for example, printer ID etc.) etc. in advance; The internal storage of the view data of the every row that sends by Electrofax 10 as placeholder record, the line buffer 53 that for example constitutes by semiconductor element etc.; Constitute a part with the print engine that receives view data, the mechanism by the dye transfer on the China ink band (not illustrating among the figure) being printed respective image on the printing paper of stipulating 100, as the printhead 63 of thermal printer head; By row read placeholder record in line buffer 53 view data and output to printhead 63 and printhead drive division 62 this printhead 63 of drive controlling, that constitute a print engine part; As detecting printhead 63 or near the thermistor (Thermistor) 64 of the measuring device of temperature it; The resistance value of this thermistor 64 is converted to the signal of telecommunication of prescribed form and sends the interface 65 of printer controller 51 to; Carry the China ink band drive division 56 of control based on carry out the China ink band from the index signal of printer controller 51; By the control of this China ink band drive division 56, suitably carry the black translator 57 that is contained in the China ink band in the ink ribbon cartridge (not illustrating among the figure); Supervision is arranged on the black belt sensor 58 of the state of the China ink band of image printer 50 inside and ink ribbon cartridge etc.; Based on the paper drive division 59 of printing paper 100 being carried control from the index signal of printer controller 51; By these paper drive division 59 controls,, suitably carry the paper pushing motor 60 of the printing paper 100 of ormal weight with the speed of regulation in the moment of regulation; The paper feed sensor 61 of the state of the printing paper of monitoring picture printer 50 inside etc.; Timer 66 as the time set (timing device) that official hour is carried out timing; Produce as functional unit 67 interlocks of forming with (with reference to Fig. 1) such as beginning functional unit 67B by printer power supply functional unit 67A and printer the index signal of regulation switch block, be installed in (not illustrating among the figure) in the circuit part of image printer 50 mains switch 67a, print beginning switch 67b or the like switches set; The electric power that provides by external power source (AC) is provided and is converted to the voltage of each circuit part (not illustrating among the figure) that is suitable for image printer 50 and when the control of these voltages suitably is provided, under image printer 50 and state that Electrofax 10 links to each other, be responsible for providing the DC power supply control part 70 of electric power to the entire image print system that comprises Electrofax 10 and 50 two devices of image printer; Of forming by a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LED) 68 of the state of display image printer 50 etc.

So, the various block structures that must be provided with usually in the conventional images printer have been omitted in the structure of this image printer 50, for example, will be converted to the data conversion module of the printing of the form that is suitable for printing most by the view data (RGB data) that Electrofax 10 is obtained with view data (cmy data), the decompression module that is used for the view data of the compressed format of decompressed records on recording medium 33, be used for the video memory module of the one or more printings of placeholder record with view data, the image display or the like that comprises the display image device that shows the image corresponding and control the display control circuit of these devices with the view data of print object.

Use image printer 50 to carry out the image of wishing and print when moving, connect this image printer 50 and Electrofax 10.In this state, control operation is carried out in controller of camera 17 cooperations of the printer controller 51 of image printer 50 and Electrofax 10.

Subsequently, send the printing that Electrofax 10 adnations become to image printer 50 with view data (cmy data) by each delegation or each multirow, the printer controller 51 of image printer 50 receives these data, control of stipulating and the printing of carries out image action.

Thereby the image printer 50 that is applied to the print system of present embodiment moves with the form that links to each other with above-mentioned Electrofax 10.

Printer controller 51 plays as receiving the index signal that sent by Electrofax 10 and view data etc. by photograph pusher side connecting interface 35 and connector 34 and printer side connector 54 and connecting interface 55 and controlling the effect of control device of the printing action of image printer 50 based on these signals.

In addition, printer controller 51 monitor according to the main part 50a that is arranged on image printer 50 in the corresponding various index signals of each switch block of functional unit 67 (67A, 67B etc.), carry out the control to the corresponding drive circuit of the operation of functional unit 67 etc. with the user.

For example, user operation is during as one in the functional unit 67 that has in the image printer 50 printer power supply functional unit 67A, and mains switch 67a and its interlock work.So produce the index signal that indicating image printer 50 power supplys open or close (opening or closing), and send this index signal to printer controller 51.Then, printer controller 51 receives the drive controlling that this signal is stipulated.

In addition, for example, when user's operation began functional unit 67B as one printer in the functional unit 67 that has in the image printer 50, printing beginning switch 67b etc. worked with its interlock.So produce the index signal of the regulation should begin to print action, and send this index signal to printer controller 51.

That is, operate in the predetermined operation parts 67 of image printer 50 by the user, produce the index signal of regulation by the switch block of correspondence.Printer controller 51 receives this signal and carries out each control corresponding.Thereby can carry out the desirable image of user and print action.

The following describes the effect of the print system of the present embodiment that constitutes as mentioned above.

Fig. 4, Fig. 5 illustrate the flow chart of the action of Electrofax in the image print system of present embodiment.Wherein, Fig. 4 illustrates the general flowchart of the main motion flow of Electrofax.Fig. 5 illustrates the general flowchart of the motion flow relevant with the print processing in this Electrofax action.

Fig. 6, Fig. 7 illustrate the flow chart of the action of image printer in the image print system of present embodiment.Wherein, Fig. 6 illustrates the general flowchart of the main motion flow of this image printer.Fig. 7 illustrates the general flowchart of the motion flow relevant with the print processing in the action of this image printer.

At first, use Fig. 4 that the main motion flow of Electrofax 10 in this image print system is described.

The user operates the camera power operation parts 25D of Electrofax 10, and the power supply status of this Electrofax 10 is switched to out state (opening).So, send this index signal to controller of camera 17 by switch portion 25d, on-off controller (SW) 24.In step S1 shown in Figure 4, controller of camera 17 receives this signal, carries out the initialization process of the regulation in this Electrofax 10.Finish to enter next procedure S2 after this initialization process.

In step S2, controller of camera 17 confirms whether this Electrofax 10 links to each other with image printer 50.It for example can be by connecting camera side-connector 34 and printer 50 side-connectors 54 that this affirmation is handled, and confirms that two are installed the processing whether each controller of 10,50 17,51 can communicate by each connecting interface 34,55.

Here, in case confirm that Electrofax 10 links to each other with image printer 50, just enter next procedure S3.On the other hand, if Electrofax 10 does not link to each other with image printer 50, and when being confirmed to be the state of independent startup, just enter step S7, in this step S7, this Electrofax 10 is transferred to the conventional camera mode of the action of can photographing and is handled (processing of step S7).

Then, in the conventional camera mode processing procedure of carrying out this step S7, Electrofax 10 for example in accordance with regulations time monitoring and repeats to be confirmed to be and has not connected image printer 50 from the output of connecting interface 35.At this moment, connected under the situation of image printer 50, directly entered into the processing of step S3 in affirmation.

In step S3, controller of camera 17 is carried out the print processing (along the processing of the flow process of Fig. 5) of the regulation of photograph pusher sides.The back will be described the print processing of relevant photograph pusher side in detail.Subsequently, enter the processing of step S4.

In step S4, controller of camera 17 confirms whether the print processing of regulation finishes.Here, finish, just enter the processing of next step S5 in case confirmed print processing.In addition, do not finish, then return the processing of above-mentioned steps S3, repeat subsequent treatment if confirmed print processing.

In step S5, controller of camera 17 is carried out the charging process of the regulation in the photograph pusher side.The charging process of relevant photograph pusher side is the conventional treatment that has now in the Electrofax, therefore omits detailed description thereof.Then, enter into the processing of next step S6.

In step S6, controller of camera 17 monitors charge controller 36, confirms whether TunePower 37 is the charging done state of regulation.Here, confirming that under the situation of TunePower 37 for the charging done state, the index signal that finishes charging sends to after the print control unit 51 of image printer 50, finishes a series of processing.In addition, also not confirming to turn back to the processing of above-mentioned steps S5 under the situation of charging done state, continue subsequent treatment and become the charging done state up to TunePower 37.

Secondly, the detailed content of the photograph pusher side print processing (processing of step S3 among Fig. 4) in the relevant Electrofax 10 is described by Fig. 5.

In the step S2 of aforesaid Fig. 4, be in connection status in case confirm Electrofax 10 and image printer 50, the controller of camera 17 of this Electrofax 10 is carried out the (processing of step S3 among Fig. 4 of photograph pusher side print processing.The sequence of Fig. 5).

In case transfer to photograph pusher side print processing, at first in the step S11 of Fig. 5, controller of camera 17 transmits printer ID by 35,55 and two connectors 34,54 of two interfaces to printer controller 51 requests.Respond this request, printer controller 51 reads the printer ID of regulation from be recorded in the initial set value the ROM52 in advance, sends it to controller of camera 17 (with reference to the processing of step S61 among Fig. 7).Then, enter the processing of next step S12.

Here, so-called printer ID is to determine the intrinsic information of the type of this image printer 50, for example, the various forms of information of total line number of print resolution (dot/line), manageable view data, look correction data, gamma correction data or the like.

That is, in the image print system of present embodiment, can make a specific electron camera 10 select to connect the image printer 50 of different types of machines and the printing action of carries out image.For this reason, Electrofax 10 must be specified the type of the image printer 50 that links to each other with oneself when carrying out the printing action, thereby generates the printing view data of the specification that meets this image printer 50.

For this reason, Electrofax 10 confirmed with image printer 50 between be connected and during the printing of carries out image action, can from the image printer 50 that connects, obtain printer ID in the initial period of print processing.

Owing to can carry out such processing,, also can constitute no problem image print system, and often be to obtain good print result even therefore change the combination of Electrofax 10 and image printer 50.

Subsequently, in step S12, controller of camera 17 is obtained the information such as printing experience information of view data sum and relevant each view data by a plurality of view data in the recording medium 33 of recording medium interface 31 search records on being installed in recording medium installation portion 32.Enter into the processing of step S13 thereafter.

Here, so-called printing experience information is meant relevant each view data information of utilizing situation in the past that write down, whether for example pass by by image printer 50 carried out " printing " information of printout, under the situation about having printed " date printed " information, " printing times " information, added once more " specify once more and print " information under the printout indication situation or the like, the incidental attribute information of each view data.

Here, Fig. 8 is the schematic diagram of detailed content that the data file of the view data that is write down in the recording medium that is utilized in the image print system that is included in present embodiment is shown.

In the image print system of present embodiment, in the employed recording medium, shown in Fig. 8 (A), a plurality of data files that comprise view data have been write down.And each data file is made of following part shown in Fig. 8 (B): the file header of the information that the record sheet registration begins according to file; Record is by the sketch map view data portion of the data of the downscaled images that is included in the represented image of view data in this data file; The view data portion of recording image data main body; And represent EOF (End Of File) portion of this end of data file information etc.

Shown in Fig. 8 (C), will be for example camera producer (manufacturer) name and camera type name, file make date etc. and follow the various information of DPOF standard for example and other independent printing experience information etc. and encode and be recorded in the file header.

On the other hand, Fig. 9 illustrates the detailed content schematic diagram that expression comprises another data file example of the view data in the recording medium that is utilized in the image print system that is recorded in present embodiment.

In this example, printing experience information is recorded (with reference to Fig. 9 (A)) as comprising the single data file that the data file that is recorded in a plurality of view data in the recording medium separates with record, will be respectively in this printing experience information be recorded in this recording medium on the corresponding printing experience information of a plurality of data files put together and write down (with reference to Fig. 9 (B)).

Be recorded in this recording medium in printing experience information that will be corresponding in as data file with this view data with each view data, when the printout of the view data that at every turn puts rules into practice by image printer, upgrade this printing experience information by the recording medium interface 31 of controller of camera 17 controls.Thereby in this case, recording medium interface 31 plays the effect of the updating device that upgrades printing experience information.

Get back to Fig. 5, in step S13, controller of camera 17 is used to specify the setting of the image that print based on the information that is obtained by above-mentioned steps S12.This setting can be set at according to above-mentioned printing experience information, also not have the view data of printing till order is printed when printing beginning.Afterwards, enter into step S14.

In step S14, controller of camera 17 is controlled display unit 30 by display control circuit 29, the demonstration of the printing menu that the display part of use display unit 30 is stipulated.This printing menu is the menu of operating according to the display message that is recorded in the regulation among ROM26 for example or the RAM27 in advance, be the demonstration that impels the tutorial message of beginning printing and the condition relevant of setting etc., for example show for " please by printing start button ", " the photograph print sequence number is the image of n " or the like with this printing.Afterwards, enter into the processing of step S15.

Get back to Fig. 5, in step S15, controller of camera 17 monitors that the printing that begins the operation interlock of functional unit 67B from the printing with image printer 50 begins the index signal of the regulation of switch 67b etc., promptly be used to refer to the index signal of printing beginning (below, be called and print the beginning index signal).Here, controller of camera 17 standbies are up to having confirmed this printing beginning index signal, in case confirmed the processing that this index signal just enters step S16 subsequently.

In step S16, the view data of controller of camera 17 by reading a photo the recording medium 33 of recording medium interface 31 on being installed in recording medium installation portion 32.Here, with the view data placeholder record of reading in Memory Controller 22.Then, enter the processing of step S17.

In step S17, controller of camera 17 control display control circuits 29, to handle the signal processing that the view data read is stipulated by above-mentioned steps S16, promptly carry out conversion process so that view data becomes the view data (display image data) of the form that 30 pairs of images corresponding with this view data of the most suitable use display unit show.Then, in display unit 30 display parts, carry out the demonstration of correspondence image according to the picture signal that generates.Afterwards, enter the processing of step S18.

Here the image of carrying out show be with the corresponding image of view data on overlap and show the forms such as mark that experience the regulation of information based on the printing of relevant this image.Figure 10-Figure 13 is the example of display format in this case.

Figure 10 is the state that only shows the image of regulation in the display part of display unit 30.This display format is illustrated in and exists expression to carry out the situation of " printing " information of printout action in the past in the printing experience information corresponding with this view data.

Figure 11 shows the image of stipulating in the display part of display unit 30, and shows the state of representing " printing " mark 101 (using " ★ " expression among the figure) with this doubling of the image ground on the assigned position in picture.This display format does not once print demonstration under the information state of " printing " of output function in the past for there is expression in the printing experience information corresponding with this view data yet.

Figure 12 is the state that shows specified image and show the mark 102 (using " 3 " expression among the figure) of expression " printing times " on the assigned position with this doubling of the image ground in the display part of display unit 30 in picture.This display format is in the printing experience information corresponding with this view data, and this show state was carried out demonstration under " printing times " information state of the operation of printout several times in the past for there being expression.The demonstration of " printing times " information of being somebody's turn to do is to use numeral to represent, in the example of Figure 12, the situation of 3 print processing was carried out in expression in the past.

Figure 13 is for to show specified image in the display part of display unit 30, and in picture on the assigned position except with the mark 102 of this doubling of the image ground expression " printing times " (among the figure with " 3 " expression) also show the state of the box notation 103 that surrounds this " printing times " mark 102.This demonstration form was carried out " printing times " information of 3 printouts operation in the past for there is expression in the printing experience information corresponding with this view data, and operated demonstration under additional information (the so-called printing provisioning information) situation of wishing printout once more of the 25E of print button once more in the functional unit 25 in the Electrofax 10 by the user.By this print button 25E once more as hand-operating device, under the control of controller of camera 17 and printer controller 51, carry out and the identical print processing of other view data of not carrying out the image print processing making the view data that this indication carries out once more print processing to indication.

Get back to Fig. 5, in step S18, controller of camera 17 generates to print according to signal processing that read in the processing of above-mentioned steps S16, that the view data of placeholder record in Memory Controller 22 puts rules into practice uses view data, with its placeholder record in frame memory 23.In addition, the signal processing of carrying out here for example can be that data decompression processing, color conversion process, gamma are set, line length conversion process or the like performed general signal processing during according to the view data print image.Afterwards, enter into the processing of step S19.

In step S19, the set point that controller of camera 17 is carried out the linage-counter (not illustrating among the figure) that own inside is had is carried out initialized processing.This linage-counter plays the effect that the view data that will print sends employed counter in the image printer 50 line by line to.Then, wait for the transmission request instruction (processing of the step S62 of reference Fig. 7 described later) of using view data from the printing of printer controller 51.In case receive the transmission request instruction of this printing, then enter into the processing of step S20 with view data.

In step S20, controller of camera 17 is read the view data that the printing that temporarily is stored in the Frame memory 23 uses 1 of view data to go, by connecting interface 35,55 and connector 34,54, its (delegation's view data) sent to the printer controller 51 of image printer 50, in addition, here, printer controller 51 receives the data of transmission, it is stored in temporarily (detailed content will be described in the back in the line buffer 53.Step S63 with reference to Fig. 7).Afterwards, enter into the processing of step S21.

In step S21, controller of camera 17 confirms whether be the value of the last row of expression with reference to the count value of linage-counter.Here, be last row in case confirmed the view data of current transmission, then enter into the processing of next procedure S23.In a single day not last column and confirm as, then enter into the processing of step S22, in this step S22, after the subtraction process of the count value of having carried out linage-counter, return the processing of above-mentioned step S20.Then, repeat later processing.

In step S23, the subtraction that controller of camera 17 is carried out the count value of linage-counter.That is, deduct 1, guarantee the information that the print processing corresponding with the view data of a photo finishes by count value with picture counter.Afterwards, enter into the processing of step S24.

In step S24, controller of camera 17 controlling recording Media Interface Connectors 31 are carried out the renewal of the printing experience information that is installed in the recording medium 33 in the recording medium installation portion 32 and are handled.Afterwards, enter into the processing of step S25.

In step S25, controller of camera 17 confirms by confirming the count value of picture counter whether the current image of carrying out print processing is final photo.Here, under the situation of the final photo that really admits a fault, return the processing of above-mentioned steps S16, repeat later processing and finish up to the print processing of final photo.In addition, having confirmed to finish a series of print processing, return the sequence (returning) of Fig. 4 here under the situation of final photo.

In addition, in image print system, finish after a series of printing actions as mentioned above, the TunePower 37 to Electrofax 10 carries out charging process automatically.Then, finish, then control Electrofax 10 power supply statuss own are switched to closed condition in case detect this charging process.

Secondly, use Fig. 6 illustrates the main operating process in the image printer 50.

When the user operates the printing power operation parts 67A of image printer 50, interlock therewith, the power supply status that produces this image printer 50 from mains switch 67a switches to the index signal of opening (opening) state, and this index signal is sent to printer controller 51.In step S41 shown in Figure 6, receive the initialization process of stipulating in the printer controller 51 carries out image printers 50 of this signal.After this initialization process finishes, the processing that enters next procedure S42.

In step S42, printer controller 51 confirms whether this image printer 50 links to each other with Electrofax 10.This is confirmed to be the identical processing of step S2 (with reference to Fig. 4) in the sequence of operation with above-mentioned Electrofax, for example be by camera side-connector 34 is connected with printer connector 54, the processing whether each controller 17,51 of confirming two devices 10,50 can communicate by each connecting interface 34,54.Here, repeat this affirmation, link to each other the processing that then enters next procedure S43 in case confirm these two devices 10,50 up to confirming that image printer 50 links to each other with Electrofax 10.

At this moment, the power supply status of Electrofax 10 sides is that all it doesn't matter for which kind of state.That is, the power supply status that does not rely on Electrofax 10 is the on off state of power operation parts 25D, image printer 50 confirm with being connected of Electrofax 10 after, begin to print and move and charging operations.

In step S43, printer controller 51 control timers 66, the timing operation that beginning is undertaken by this timer 66.Afterwards, enter the processing of step S44.

In step S44, whether printer controller 51 presses the affirmation of printing beginning functional unit 67B.Here the processing of Zhi Hanging is that printer controller 51 monitors from the printing that begins switch 67b etc. with the printing of printing beginning functional unit 67B interlock and begins index signal and confirm the processing of this index signal.Here, printer controller 51 can not confirm to print under the situation of beginning index signal the processing that then enters step S51.

Then, in step S51, printer controller 51 carries out whether surpassing the affirmation of the setting-up time (time is up) of timer 66.Here,, then return the processing of above-mentioned steps S44, repeat later processing if there is not overtime.And confirming under the situation that time is up, be judged as and do not print action, enter the processing of step S48, i.e. charging process.

Promptly, in this image print system, if image printer 50 is in interconnective state (step S42) with Electrofax 10, then begin to carry out timing operation (step S43) by timer 66, at this moment, (time is up), then control beginning charging process (step S48) under the situation of the regulation setting-up time of under not having to produce, setting above timer 66 from the index signal state of printing beginning switch 67b.

On the other hand, in above-mentioned steps S44, in a single day printer controller 51 has confirmed that the printing of regulation begins index signal, then enters into the processing of next procedure S45.

In step S45, printer controller 51 is carried out the print processing (detailed content is the processing along Fig. 7 flow chart) of the regulation of printer side.The detailed content that explanation relevant this printer prints in back is handled.Afterwards, enter the processing of step S46.

In step S46, printer controller 51 carries out the affirmation whether the regulation print processing has finished.Here, finish, then enter into the processing of next procedure S48 in case confirmed print processing.In addition, do not finish the processing that then enters step S47 if confirm print processing, in the processing of this step S47, print control unit 51 returns the processing of above-mentioned steps S45 after the timing once more (restarting) of having carried out timer 66 is handled, repeat later processing.

The setting-up time of the timer set once more here is set at for example than the required longer time of time of image of printing 1 photo.

In step S48, printer controller 51 is carried out the charging process (detailed) of the regulation of printer side.Then, enter the processing of next procedure S49.

In step S49, printer controller 51 has carried out whether transmitting the affirmation of representing the index signal that charging has finished from controller of camera 17, wait for up to receiving this index signal.Then, in case, confirm that the charging of the TunePower 37 of Electrofax 10 finishes, then enter into the processing of next procedure S50 by receiving this index signal.

In step S50, printer controller 51 control DC power supply control parts 70 block the processing (power-off processing) of own main power source, finish a series of processing (returning).

Secondly, the detailed content of the printer side print processing (processing of the step S45 of Fig. 6) in the relevant image printer 50 is described by Fig. 7.

As mentioned above, when Electrofax 10 is in connection status with image printer 50, in the step S44 of Fig. 6, print beginning functional unit 67B in case confirm operation, then printer controller 51 is carried out the (processing of the step S45 of Fig. 6 of printer side print processing.The sequence of Fig. 7).

When transferring to the printer side print processing, at first, printer controller 51 is in the step S61 of Fig. 7, response is from the transmission request of the printer ID of the controller of camera 17 of Electrofax 10 (with reference to the processing of the step S11 of Fig. 5), from ROM52, read the printer ID of regulation, send it to controller of camera 17.Subsequently, enter the processing of next procedure S62.

In step S62, the printing that printer controller 51 will ask to send the image that will print sends controller of camera 17 to the instruction of view data.Receive this instruction, as mentioned above, controller of camera 17 sends 1 this printing of row to printer controller 51 with view data in the step S20 of Fig. 5.Afterwards, enter the processing of step S63.

In step S63, printer controller 51 receives the 1 line printing view data that is transmitted by Electrofax 10.Afterwards, enter the processing of step S64.

In step S64, printer controller 51 confirms whether 1 received line printing is the view data of normal form with view data in above-mentioned steps S62 handles, and promptly carries out to receive the data detection processing.Afterwards, enter the processing of step S65.

Whether then, in step S65, exist unusually in the traffic operation that printer controller 51 is confirmed to carry out between image printer 50 and Electrofax 10, i.e. executive communication error checking is handled.Here, if do not find garble and confirm that the data detection result among the above-mentioned steps S64 is under the normal situation, the processing that enters next procedure S67.

On the other hand, in step S65, find that under the situation of garble, perhaps the data detection result in confirming above-mentioned steps S64 enters into the processing of step S66 for existing under the unusual situation in the data that receive.Then, in this step S66, printer controller 51 sends the instruction that request sends view data once more to controller of camera 17.Afterwards, return the processing of above-mentioned steps S63, repeat later processing.

Do not find wrong and processing that enter step S67 if do not note abnormalities in the data that receive and in traffic operation, then in this step S67,1 line printing that printer controller 51 will receive sends line buffer 53 to view data.Thus, the data of this reception are temporarily stored.Afterwards, enter the processing of step S68.

In step S68, printer controller 51 is carried out the processing that the count value of the buffer count device (not illustrating among the figure) that is arranged on own inside is set.This buffer count device plays the effect of the line number of the print image data that is used for counting reception.Afterwards, enter the processing of step S69.

Secondly, in step S69, printer controller 51 is controlled printhead 63 by printhead drive division 62, and begins to this printhead 63 switch on (the printhead energising is connected and handled).Afterwards, enter the processing of step S70.

In step S70,51 pairs of printheads of printer controller are confirmed for 63 conduction times, in case surpass official hour, the processing that then enters next procedure S71.

In step S71, printer controller 51 is controlled printheads 63 by printhead drive division 62, and stops the energising (processing is closed in the printhead energising) to printhead 63.Afterwards, enter the processing of step S72.

In step S72, the count value of 51 pairs of buffer count devices of printer controller is carried out subtraction process (1).Afterwards, enter the processing of step S73.

In step S73, printer controller 51 comes drive controlling China ink translator 57 by China ink band drive division 56, moves and the China ink band of 1 line printing with the corresponding quantity delivered of view data.Afterwards, enter the processing of step S74.

In step S74, whether printer controller 51 is the affirmation of the Counter Value of the final buffer of expression with reference to the count value of buffer count device.Here, not under the situation of final buffer in the view data of confirming current print processing, in order to prepare the print processing of next line view data, enter the processing of step S75.

Then, in step S75, printer controller 51 is by paper drive division 59 drive controlling paper pushing motors 60, and the paper that makes printing paper 100 only move 1 row is handled.Afterwards, return the processing of above-mentioned steps S62, in this step S62, transmit the instruction of request transmission next line view data to controller of camera 17.Afterwards, repeat follow-up processing.

On the other hand, in above-mentioned steps S74, be under the situation of final buffer in the view data of confirming current print processing, the print processing of judging specified image according to the print processing of 1 current row finishes, and enters the processing of step S76.

Then, in step S76, printer controller 51 carries out printing paper 100 is discharged to row's paper processing of image printer 50 outsides by paper drive division 59 drive controlling paper pushing motors 60.Afterwards, enter the processing of step S77.

Then, in step S77, whether the view data that printer controller 51 is carried out current print processing is the affirmation of the view data of final photo.Here, in case the view data of the final photo that really admits a fault is then returned the processing of above-mentioned steps S62, in this step S62, transmit the instruction that next opens the view data of the photo that will print to controller of camera 17 requests of transmitting.Then, repeat follow-up processing.

In addition, in step S77, be the view data of final photo in case confirmed to carry out the view data of current print processing, then finish a series of processing (returning).

According to aforesaid the foregoing description, the user is when the printout of wishing image, do not need to carry out the setting operation of trouble, as long as to record assigned position that the Electrofax of taking under good record image data medium 33 states 10 is placed on image printer 50 be after the placement section 50d by having installed, the printing of operation image printer 50 begins the special shirtsleeve operation of functional unit 67B, printout result that promptly can the desirable image of very fast acquisition printout.

That is, printing experience information that will be corresponding with each view data is carried out record, when image is carried out the printout processing, by print the control that output is handled according to this printing experience information, can reduce the operation that the user must carry out.Then, after carrying out the printout processing,, therefore always can keep up-to-date printing experience information together with corresponding view data owing to all print the renewal of experience information accordingly at every turn.Thereby, even under the situation of the image printer that uses different type of machines, also can always print processing according to up-to-date printing experience information.

In addition,, therefore do not need to increase structure member specially or change, obtain desirable effect easily owing to can control the printout processing based on the various information that are recorded on the recording medium 33.Thereby, owing to do not need to change manufacturing process, can reduce manufacturing cost.

According to aforesaid the present invention, can provide a kind of like this image print system: when obtaining the printout of image based on the view data of using Electrofax to take, owing to simplified the operation that the user must carry out, can easily and promptly wish the printout of image according to the view data of hope, therefore when having good operability, can realize the reduction of manufacturing cost.

Claims (9)

1. image print system, comprise Electrofax with can with the functional image printer that is connected of this Electrofax, it is characterized in that:

Described image printer has: printer controller, and it totally controls each function of this image printer; The 2nd jockey, it is used for obtaining being connected with the functional of described Electrofax; Printing mechanism, the data that it transmits by the 2nd jockey according to this Electrofax by functional connection, the printout image,

Described Electrofax has: controller of camera, and it totally controls each function of this Electrofax; Video memory, it is used to store the photographic image data that carried out data compression process and printing experience information as the relevant image print processing of carrying out in the past of the attribute information of this view data; The 1st jockey, itself and functional connection of the 2nd jockey of described image printer are used for establishing functional connection the between this image printer and the Electrofax; Conveyer, it is used for sending described image printer to by the view data that the 1st jockey will be recorded in the described video memory; Updating device, it is used for upgrading printing experience information,

Above-mentioned controller of camera and printer controller cooperatively interact, be under the functional state that is connected at described the 1st jockey and the 2nd jockey, in case described image printer side begins to print action, just according to described printing experience information, order is printed at least to also unprinted view data till this time started, when the printing to this view data finishes, upgrade corresponding described printing experience information.

2. image print system according to claim 1 is characterized in that:

Described Electrofax has image display device, this image display device can be under the control of described controller of camera, demonstration is based on the mark of image that is recorded in the view data in the described video memory and the regulation relevant with this image, in case establishing described the 1st jockey is connected with the 2nd jockey is functional, described controller of camera and printer controller just cooperatively interact, and show to impel to begin to print the tutorial message of action and the condition relevant with this printing of setting etc. in described image display device.

3. image print system according to claim 1 is characterized in that:

Described Electrofax has image display device, this image display device can be under the control of described controller of camera, show information with the mark of regulation, in the view data corresponding, comprise the information of the information that experiences corresponding to described printing with offering image that this image display device shows based on image that is recorded in the view data in the described video memory and the regulation relevant with this image.

4. image print system according to claim 3 is characterized in that:

Under the control of described controller of camera, will as corresponding to the expression of described printing experience information in the past whether the print processing information of crossing this view data offer described image display device, described image display device represents whether carried out the demonstration of print processing in the past according to the information that is provided.

5. image print system according to claim 3 is characterized in that:

Under the control of described controller of camera, to represent that print processing in the past is after this view data several times or whether be once more that at least a information during print processing is specified offers described image display device as the information corresponding to described printing experience information with numeral or mark, described image display device is according to the information that is provided, to expression in the past print processing after this view data several times or whether be once more that the numeral or the mark of at least a information during print processing is specified shows.

6. image print system according to claim 3 is characterized in that:

Described controller of camera is handled described printing experience information as the information in the file header that should be included in a part that forms the data file that constitutes described view data.

7. image print system according to claim 3 is characterized in that:

Described controller of camera has such function: be recorded in video memory in relevant each of all images data printing experience information put together as independent file and come record.

8. image print system according to claim 1 is characterized in that:

Described Electrofax also has and can rewrite described printing experience information and carry out the hand-operating device of print processing appointment once more, under the control of described controller of camera, the view data of carrying out once more print processing by this hand-operating device indication is carried out and the identical print processing of other view data of not carrying out the image print processing when making this indication.

9. image print system according to claim 3 is characterized in that:

Described printing experience information comprises once more the appointed information of print processing.

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