EP2972753A1 - Interface utilisateur pour imprimante d'étiquettes - Google Patents

Interface utilisateur pour imprimante d'étiquettes

Info

Publication number
EP2972753A1
EP2972753A1 EP14710283.4A EP14710283A EP2972753A1 EP 2972753 A1 EP2972753 A1 EP 2972753A1 EP 14710283 A EP14710283 A EP 14710283A EP 2972753 A1 EP2972753 A1 EP 2972753A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
label
image
user
dimension
user interface
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP14710283.4A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Inventor
Bram Boot
Ron Jacobs
Stephen Charles Gohde
Stephen Spencer
Latha Airodi
Nancy Elaine Taylor
Jr. David G. NESFEDER
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Sanford LP
Original Assignee
Sanford LP
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Sanford LP filed Critical Sanford LP
Publication of EP2972753A1 publication Critical patent/EP2972753A1/fr
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/12—Digital output to print unit, e.g. line printer, chain printer
    • G06F3/1201—Dedicated interfaces to print systems
    • G06F3/1202—Dedicated interfaces to print systems specifically adapted to achieve a particular effect
    • G06F3/1203—Improving or facilitating administration, e.g. print management
    • G06F3/1208—Improving or facilitating administration, e.g. print management resulting in improved quality of the output result, e.g. print layout, colours, workflows, print preview
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J3/00—Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed
    • B41J3/407—Typewriters or selective printing or marking mechanisms characterised by the purpose for which they are constructed for marking on special material
    • B41J3/4075—Tape printers; Label printers
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
    • G06F3/048—Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI]
    • G06F3/0484—Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] for the control of specific functions or operations, e.g. selecting or manipulating an object, an image or a displayed text element, setting a parameter value or selecting a range
    • G06F3/04847—Interaction techniques to control parameter settings, e.g. interaction with sliders or dials
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/01—Input arrangements or combined input and output arrangements for interaction between user and computer
    • G06F3/048—Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI]
    • G06F3/0487—Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] using specific features provided by the input device, e.g. functions controlled by the rotation of a mouse with dual sensing arrangements, or of the nature of the input device, e.g. tap gestures based on pressure sensed by a digitiser
    • G06F3/0488—Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] using specific features provided by the input device, e.g. functions controlled by the rotation of a mouse with dual sensing arrangements, or of the nature of the input device, e.g. tap gestures based on pressure sensed by a digitiser using a touch-screen or digitiser, e.g. input of commands through traced gestures
    • G06F3/04883—Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] using specific features provided by the input device, e.g. functions controlled by the rotation of a mouse with dual sensing arrangements, or of the nature of the input device, e.g. tap gestures based on pressure sensed by a digitiser using a touch-screen or digitiser, e.g. input of commands through traced gestures for inputting data by handwriting, e.g. gesture or text
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/12—Digital output to print unit, e.g. line printer, chain printer
    • G06F3/1201—Dedicated interfaces to print systems
    • G06F3/1223—Dedicated interfaces to print systems specifically adapted to use a particular technique
    • G06F3/1237—Print job management
    • G06F3/1253—Configuration of print job parameters, e.g. using UI at the client
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/12—Digital output to print unit, e.g. line printer, chain printer
    • G06F3/1201—Dedicated interfaces to print systems
    • G06F3/1223—Dedicated interfaces to print systems specifically adapted to use a particular technique
    • G06F3/1237—Print job management
    • G06F3/1253—Configuration of print job parameters, e.g. using UI at the client
    • G06F3/1256—User feedback, e.g. print preview, test print, proofing, pre-flight checks
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/12—Digital output to print unit, e.g. line printer, chain printer
    • G06F3/1201—Dedicated interfaces to print systems
    • G06F3/1278—Dedicated interfaces to print systems specifically adapted to adopt a particular infrastructure
    • G06F3/1284—Local printer device

Definitions

  • the present application relates to a user interface for a label printer, and aspects associated with the user interface.
  • EP-A-322918 and EP-A-322919 (Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha) and EP-A-267890 (Varitronic).
  • the label printing apparatuses each include a cassette receiving bay for receiving a cassette or tape holding case.
  • the tape holding case houses an ink ribbon and a substrate tape, the latter comprising an upper image receiving layer secured to a backing layer by an adhesive.
  • the tape holding case houses an ink ribbon, a transparent image receiving tape and a double sided adhesive tape which is secured at one of its adhesive coated sides to the image tape after printing and which has a backing layer peelable from its other adhesive coated side.
  • the image transfer medium (ink ribbon) and the image receiving tape (substrate) are in the same cassette.
  • the image receiving tape passes in overlap with the ink ribbon to a print zone consisting of a fixed print head and a platen against which the print head can be pressed to cause an image to transfer from the ink ribbon to the image receiving tape.
  • a print zone consisting of a fixed print head and a platen against which the print head can be pressed to cause an image to transfer from the ink ribbon to the image receiving tape.
  • direct thermal tapes are used, in which an image is created directly onto the direct thermal tape without the interposition of an ink ribbon cassette. Elements of a print head are heated, and the heat causes chemicals within the direct thermal tape to react and produce an image in or on the tape.
  • the apparatuses of the type described above are provided with a keyboard which enables a user to enter characters, symbols and the like to form an image to be printed by the tape printer.
  • the keyboard usually has text character keys and number keys for entering letters and numbers respectively, plus some function keys which, among other things, operate menus and allow printing attributes to be set.
  • “Stand-alone” label printers can be distinguished from “label printer systems", which comprise a printer connected to a PC or other computing device.
  • label printer systems which comprise a printer connected to a PC or other computing device.
  • a user creates or edits a label for printing using a PC, and then sends print data to a printer to cause the printer to print the print data onto a label medium.
  • the user will view a display of the PC to create a label, rather than a display of the printer.
  • the label-editing software used for creating the label will be stored and run on the PC, rather than the printer.
  • stand-alone label printers are operable independently of a PC or other computer to create and print a label. Although some stand-alone printers are connectable to a PC or other computer to receive some data, they are nevertheless operable independently of the PC or other computer to create a label for printing, since label-editing software used for creating the label is stored and run on the label printer itself. Stand-alone label printers thus usually include an integral display via which the user can view an interface of the label- editing software.
  • a method comprising: providing a first image on a label printer user interface, wherein said first image is representative of a label to be printed or an object to which a label is to be applied; and providing a second image on said user interface associated with said first image, said second image representative of a dimension of said first image; enabling a user to modify a dimension of said second image; wherein as said dimension of said second image is modified, said dimension of said first image is correspondingly updated.
  • a numerical value of said dimension of said second image is displayed on said user interface, and wherein said numerical value is correspondingly updated as said dimension of the second image is modified.
  • said numerical value is displayed adjacent said second image.
  • said numerical value is displayed in a toolbar region of said user interface.
  • said dimension of said first image comprises one of a length and width of the label to be printed or object to which a label is to be applied.
  • said dimension of said first image comprises a distance between labels to be printed or objects to which a label is to be applied.
  • said second image comprises an arrow.
  • Preferably modifying a dimension of said second image comprises selecting and dragging an end of said second image.
  • Preferably modifying said second image comprises selecting an end of said second image at a first position on said user interface, and subsequently selecting a second position on said user interface.
  • a computer program comprising computer program code means adapted to perform the method described above when said program is run on a computer.
  • an apparatus comprising a controller configured: to output, to a display driver, data for causing the display driver to drive a display to display a first image on a label printer user interface, wherein said first image is representative of a label to be printed or an object to which a label is to be applied; and to display a second image on said user interface associated with said first image, said second image representative of a dimension of said first image; said controller being configured to enable a user to modify a dimension of said second image; wherein as said dimension of said second image is modified, said controller is configured to cause said dimension of said first image to be correspondingly updated.
  • said controller is configured to output data for causing the display to display a numerical value of said dimension of said second image on said user interface, and wherein said numerical value is correspondingly updated as said dimension of the second image is modified.
  • said controller is configured to cause said numerical value to be displayed adjacent said second image.
  • said controller is configured to cause the numerical value to be displayed in a toolbar region of said user interface.
  • said dimension of said first image comprises one of a length and width of the label to be printed or object to which a label is to be applied.
  • said dimension of said first image comprises a distance between labels to be printed or objects to which a label is to be applied.
  • said second image comprises an arrow.
  • said controller is configured to cause said modifying a dimension of said second image responsive to an operation of selecting and dragging an end of said second image.
  • said controller is configured to cause said modifying said dimension of said second image responsive to an operation of selecting an end of said second image at a first position on said user interface, and subsequently selecting a second position on said user interface.
  • a method comprising: providing, on a display, a user interface for a label printer; displaying on said user interface a first screen associated with a label creation process; and in response to selecting, with a selector, a first position on said display and moving said selector to a second position on said display, displaying on said user interface a second screen associated with said label creation process, wherein said second screen is different from said first screen.
  • said selector comprises a user-controlled pointer on said display.
  • said display comprises a touch-screen
  • said selector comprises one of a user's finger and a stylus.
  • said second point is vertically disposed from said first point.
  • said second point is horizontally disposed from said first point.
  • a content of the second screen displayed on said user interface is dependent on a direction in which said selector is moved on said display.
  • said user interface advances to a subsequent step of the label creation process.
  • said user interface moves to a previous step of the label creation process.
  • said label creation process comprises a label creation wizard.
  • said user interface comprises an indicator for indicating to a user their progress in the label creation process.
  • said indicator automatically updates in response to moving from said first screen to said second screen.
  • a computer program comprising computer program code means adapted to perform the method described above when said program is run on a computer.
  • an apparatus comprising a controller configured: to output, to a display driver, data for causing the display driver to drive a display to display a user interface for a label printer; and to display on said user interface a first screen associated with a label creation process; and in response to detecting selection of a first position on said display by a selector and movement of said selector to a second position on said display, said controller configured to cause said display to display on said user interface a second screen associated with said label creation process, wherein said second screen is different from said first screen.
  • said selector comprises a user-controlled pointer on said display.
  • said display comprises a touch-screen
  • said selector comprises one of a user's finger and a stylus.
  • said second point is vertically disposed from said first point.
  • said second point is horizontally disposed from said first point.
  • a content of the second screen displayed on said user interface is dependent on a direction in which said selector is moved on said display.
  • said controller is configured to cause the user interface to advance to a subsequent step of the label creation process.
  • said user interface moves to a previous step of the label creation process.
  • said label creation process comprises a label creation wizard.
  • said controller is configured to cause the user interface to display an indicator for indicating to a user their progress in the label creation process.
  • said controller is configured to cause the indicator to automatically update in response to movement from said first screen to said second screen.
  • a method comprising: displaying on a user interface an error-counter associated with a number of errors in a label creation process; enabling a user to cycle through each error of the error-counter; wherein an error associated with a displayed error number of the error counter is displayed in a preview region of the user interface.
  • a visual indicator is displayed adjacent to the displayed error.
  • an image of an object or label containing the error is centred in the preview region.
  • a label number indicator is provided informing a user which label of a series of labels said displayed error is associated with.
  • the error counter comprises a pop-up window which at least partially overlays said preview region.
  • the error counter comprises at least one associated icon which, when activated by a user, causes the count of the error counter to increase.
  • the error counter comprises at least one associated icon which, when activated by a user, causes the count of the error counter to decrease.
  • a computer program comprising computer program code means adapted to perform the method described above when said program is run on a computer.
  • an apparatus comprising a controller configured: to output, to a display driver, data for causing the display driver to drive a display to display on a user interface an error-counter associated with a number of errors in a label creation process; said controller configured to enable a user to cycle through each error of the error- counter; and wherein said controller is configured to cause an error associated with a displayed error number of the error counter to be displayed in a preview region of the user interface.
  • the controller is configured to cause a visual indicator to be displayed adjacent to the displayed error.
  • the controller is configured to cause an image of an object or label containing the error to be centred in the preview region.
  • the controller is configured to cause a label number indicator to be displayed informing a user which label of a series of labels said displayed error is associated with.
  • the error counter comprises a pop-up window which at least partially overlays said preview region.
  • the error counter comprises at least one associated icon, and wherein in response to activation of said icon by a user, the controller is configured to cause the count of the error counter to increase.
  • the error counter comprises at least one associated icon, and wherein in response to activation of said icon by a user, the controller is configured to cause the count of the error counter to decrease.
  • a method comprising: controlling a label printer user interface to display, in a first region, a preview of a label to be printed; and to display, in a second region, at least one icon associated with a plurality of options for creating a label; and wherein, following selection of said at least one icon by a user, said plurality of options are displayed to said user, such that said displayed plurality of options at least partially overlays said first region.
  • said first region further displays an image of an object associated with said label to be printed.
  • a size of said first region remains constant.
  • Preferably said plurality of options is displayed as a list.
  • said plurality of options is displayed as a menu.
  • said displayed plurality of options does not overlay said second region.
  • said displayed plurality of options comprises an indicator pointing to said selected icon.
  • a plurality of icons are displayed in said second region, and following selection of a second icon a plurality of options associated with said second icon are displayed.
  • said indicator points to said second icon.
  • a computer program comprising computer program code means adapted to perform the method described above when said program is run on a computer.
  • an apparatus comprising a controller configured: to output, to a display driver, data for causing the display driver to drive a display to display in a first region of a user interface a preview of a label to be printed; and to display, in a second region, at least one icon associated with a plurality of options for creating a label; and wherein, following selection of said at least one icon by a user, said controller is configured to cause said plurality of options to be displayed to said user, such that said displayed plurality of options at least partially overlays said first region.
  • said controller is further configured to cause an image of an object associated with said label to be printed to be displayed in said first region.
  • said controller is configured to cause a size of said first region to remain constant.
  • said controller is configured to cause said plurality of options to be displayed as a list.
  • said controller is configured to cause said plurality of options to be displayed as a menu.
  • said controller is configured to display said plurality of options such that said plurality of options does not overlay said second region.
  • said controller is configured to provide said displayed plurality of options with an indicator pointing to said selected icon.
  • said controller is configured to cause a plurality of icons to be displayed in said second region, and following selection of a second icon said controller is configured to cause a plurality of options associated with said second icon to be displayed.
  • said controller is configured to cause said indicator to point to said second icon.
  • Figure 1 is a plan view showing certain parts of one type of label printing system
  • Figure 2 is a plan view showing certain parts of another type of label printing system
  • Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of certain parts of a label printing system
  • Figure 4 shows a user interface according to an embodiment
  • Figure 5 shows a user interface according to an embodiment
  • Figure 6 shows a progression of the user interface of Figure 5
  • Figure 7 shows a progression of the user interface of Figure 6;
  • Figure 8 shows a user interface according to a further embodiment
  • Figure 9 shows a progression of the user interface of Figure 8
  • Figure 10 shows a user interface according to a further embodiment
  • Figure 11 shows a progression of the user interface of Figure 10
  • Figure 12 shows a progression of the user interface of Figure 11
  • Figure 13 shows a progression of the user interface of Figure 12
  • Figure 14 shows a user interface according to a further embodiment
  • Figure 15 shows a progression of the user interface of Figure 14;
  • Figure 16 shows a user interface according to a further embodiment;
  • Figure 17 shows a progression of the user interface of Figure 16;
  • Figure 18 shows a progression of the user interface of Figure 17;
  • Figure 19 shows a user interface according to a further embodiment;
  • Figure 20 is a progression of the user interface of Figure 19;
  • Figure 21a shows the selection of a first type of cable and Figure 21 b shows the selection of a second type of cable;
  • Figure 22a shows the selection of a first pipe label standard and Figure 22b shows the selection of a second pipe label standard;
  • Figure 23a shows some available patch panel standards or templates,
  • Figure 23b shows the selection of a first template and
  • Figure 23c shows the selection of a second template.
  • Figure 24a shows a selection of a first number of poles for a breaker and Figure 24b shows the selection of a second number of poles for a breaker;
  • Figure 25a shows the selection of one label for all ports of a patch panel and Figure 25b shows the selection of one label for each group of ports of a patch panel; Figures 26a to 26c show some examples of information displayed for pipe marking labels.
  • Figure 1 shows in plan view a first label printer which has two cassettes arranged therein.
  • this label printer 1 is powered by batteries at least part of the time.
  • the label printer may be mains powered.
  • the upper cassette is located in a first cassette receiving portion 26 and contains a supply of image receiving tape 4 which passes through a print zone 3 of the label printer 1 to an outlet 5 of the label printer 1.
  • the image receiving tape 4 comprises an upper layer for receiving a printed image on its upper surface and has its other surface coated with an adhesive layer to which is secured a releasable backing layer.
  • the upper cassette 2 has a recess for accommodating a platen 8 of the label printer 1 , and guide portions 22 and 24 for guiding the tape through a print zone 3.
  • the platen 8 is mounted for rotation within a cage moulding 10. Alternatively the platen could be mounted for rotation on a pin.
  • the image receiving tape may be provided with a plurality of die cut labels.
  • the lower cassette 11 is located in the second cassette receiving portion 28 and contains a thermal transfer ribbon 12 which extends from the supply spool 30 to a take-up spool 32 within the cassette 11.
  • the thermal transfer ribbon 12 extends through the print zone 3 in overlap with the image receiving tape 4.
  • the cassette 11 has recess 14 for receiving a print head 18 of the label printer 1 and guide portions 34 and 36 for guiding the thermal transfer ribbon 12 through the print zone 3.
  • Print head 18 is moveable between an operative position shown in Figure 1 , in which it is in contact with the platen 8 and holds the thermal transfer ribbon 12 and the image receiving tape 4 in overlap between a print head 18 and the platen 8, and an inoperative position in which it is moved away from the platen 8 to release thermal transfer ribbon 12 and image receiving tape 4.
  • the platen 8 In the operative position, the platen 8 is rotated to cause the image receiving tape 12 to be driven past print head 18 and the print head 18 is controlled to print an image on the image receiving tape 4 by thermal transfer of ink from the ribbon 12, Each of the printing elements on the print head 18 may be activatable separately and is activated in accordance with the desired image to be printed.
  • the label printer 1 has a lid (which is not shown) which is hinged along the rear of the cassette receiving portions 26 and 28 and which covers both cassettes when in place.
  • a DC motor 7 continuously drives the platen 8.
  • the platen is arranged to drive the image receiving tape 4 through the print zone 3 by the actuation of its own rotation.
  • transport of the image receiving tape across the print head can be done by other means, such as by a separate driven roller of the printer or of the cassette, or by a pair of cooperating rollers positioned on opposite sides of the tape, or by other means.
  • the image is printed by the print head 18 on the image receiving tape on a column by column basis with the columns being adjacent one another in the direction of movement of the tape 4.
  • FIG. 2 illustrates in plan view a cassette bay of a second label printer 1 ' which uses a one cassette system. Like reference numerals are used for those parts which are also shown in Figure 1.
  • the cassette bay is shown by the dotted line 40.
  • the cassette bay 40 includes a thermal print head 18 and a platen 8 which cooperate to define a print zone 3.
  • the print head 18 is pivotable about a pivot point so that it can be brought into contact with the platen 8 for printing and moved away from the platen 8 to enable the cassette to be removed and replaced as in the first embodiment.
  • the platen is pivotable so that it can be brought into contact with the printhead for printing and moved away from the printhead to enable the cassette to be inserted.
  • a cassette inserted into the cassette bay 40 is denoted generally by reference numeral 44.
  • the cassette 44 holds a supply spool 46 of image receiving tape 4.
  • the image receiving tape 4 is guided by a guide mechanism (which is not shown) through the cassette 44, past the print zone 3 and out of the cassette 44 through an outlet O to a cutting location C.
  • the same cassette 44 also has an ink ribbon supply spool 48 and an ink ribbon take up spool 50.
  • the ink ribbon 12 is guided from the ink ribbon supply spool 48 through the print zone 3 and taken up on the ink ribbon take up spool 50.
  • the image receiving tape 4 passes in overlap with the ink ribbon 12 through the print zone 3 with its image receiving layer in contact with the ink ribbon 12.
  • the platen of this second embodiment is also driven by a motor 7.
  • the motor rotates to drive continuously the image receiving tape through the print zone 3 during printing. In either of the embodiments, it is possible that the tape be driven in a step wise manner by a stepper motor.
  • An image is printed on the tape fed out from the print zone to the cutting location C which is provided at a location in a portion of the wall of the cassette 44 which is close to the print zone 3.
  • the portion of the wall on the cassette 44 where the cutting location C is defined is denoted by reference 52.
  • a slot 54 is defined in the wall portion 52 and the image receiving tape 4 is fed past the print zone 3 and out of the cassette 44 through an outlet 0 to the cutting location C where it is supported by facing wall portions on either side of the slot 54.
  • the second label printing device 1 ' includes a cutting mechanism 56 including a cutter support member 58 which carries a blade 60.
  • the blade 60 cuts the image receiving tape 4 and then enters the slot 54.
  • the first embodiment will usually also include a cutting mechanism.
  • label printers 1 and 1 ' may act as stand-alone printing devices including a controller for receiving inputs from a user and to alter what is displayed on a display of the printing devices. Furthermore, the label printers 1 and 1' may alternatively or additionally also be connectable or connected to a PC, in which case the PC also includes a controller to receive inputs from a user and to alter what is displayed on a display of the printer or of the PC.
  • controller or "control means” such as a micro controller unit (MCU) or processor
  • a non-volatile memory 602 which is for example a read only memory (ROM) or a flash type of memory.
  • ROM read only memory
  • a volatile memory comprising a random access memory RAM 604 and/or display RAM is also provided.
  • the MCU 600 is connected to receive label data input to it from a data input device such as a touch panel 608 of a touchscreen 612 via a touch panel controller 606.
  • the data input device may comprise one or more of a hardware keyboard including plural keys, a mouse, a digital pen or tracker ball, or any other means for enabling a user to send commands to the controller 600.
  • the touchscreen 612 is omitted.
  • the MCU 600 outputs data to drive the display 610 (which together with the touch panel 608 form the touchscreen 612) to display a label to be printed (or a part thereof) and/or a message for the user. Additionally, the MCU 600 also outputs data to drive the print head 18 so that the label data is printed onto the image receiving tape to form a label. Finally, the MCU 600 also controls the motor 7 for driving the platen.
  • the MCU 600 may also control the cutting mechanism 56 of Figure 2 or a cutting mechanism of the device shown in Figure 1 to allow a length of tape to be cut off. In alternative embodiments at least part of the cutting mechanism may be manually operated.
  • the label printer 1 or 1 ' is connected to an external apparatus such as a PC
  • the PC also contains similar components such as at least one memory and at least one processor to enable the PC to carry out the operations of creating a label to be printed.
  • a PC will also be connected to a display means such as a monitor.
  • the label printer may be connected to any other suitable device such as a tablet, or mobile phone.
  • labels may be created on either or both of the label printing apparatus itself or on an external apparatus such as a PC connected to the label printer. Accordingly, it shall be understood that hereafter terms such as “memory”, “processor” and “display” may refer to these components on either or both of a label printing apparatus and a PC.
  • the label printers are shown by way of example only. In other embodiments, the ink ribbon may be omitted. In some embodiments, the printer may use a different printing technique to thermal printing, for example ink jet printing or the like. In some embodiments the print head may be fixed and in other embodiments, the platen and print head may both be movable.
  • the user input device may be provided by any suitable device.
  • the input device may be provided by a keyboard and/or a touch screen.
  • Figure 4 generally shows a user interface 400 according to an embodiment.
  • the user interface 400 may be presented on a monitor of a PC or on a display of a label printing apparatus or a device to which the label printer is connected.
  • a user can navigate about the user interface 400 by known means. For example the user may operate a mouse or tracker- bal! and can select options on the user interface 400 by placing a mouse pointer over an icon and clicking on that icon to select it.
  • the user may directly touch the screen or display so as to select icons and enter information.
  • a user may also use a hardware keyboard or the like attached to a PC or directly attached to a label printer for navigating about the user interface.
  • a user has clicked on home icon 402, so that the user is now presented with home screen 401.
  • These label types include a general label 404, a cable wrap label 406, a 110-block label 408, a patch panel label 410, a horizontal breaker label 412, an asset tracking label 414, a heat shrink label 416, an arc flash label 418, a quick label 420, a flag label 422, a distribution panel label 424, a terminal block label 426, a vertical breaker label 428, a pipe marking label 430, a self-laminating cable wrap label 432, and a right-to-know label 434.
  • further label types may alternatively or additionally also be displayed on the home screen 401.
  • Other examples of label types may comprise safety labels and material management labels.
  • the display may display one or more label types.
  • Those label types may comprise one or more of the label types discussed previously and/or one or more other label types.
  • the heat shrink label 416, arc flash label 418, self-laminating cable wrap label 432, and right-to-know label 434 are each displayed with an exclamation mark adjacent their icon. This informs the user that these label types are not available in the given context. For example it may not be possible to print these label types on the selected type of label material.
  • the selected type of label material is shown at portion 436 of the user interface 400. It should be appreciated the label types may be displayed such that the available label types for a given selected label material and/or characteristics and/or size are displayed together. It should be appreciated the label types may be displayed such that the unavailable label types for a given selected label material and/or characteristics and/or size are displayed together. In the example shown in Figure 1.
  • the available label types may be displayed on the area of the display which is considered to be a first area to be viewed or an area which is considered to contain the most relevant or important information. In the case of a list, this may be at the top of the list. In the case where an left to right alphabet is used, the available options may be displayed on the left of the screen.
  • the label option types are presented to a user when they click on the "new label” icon 438.
  • the "new label” screen also doubles as the home screen.
  • user interface 400 Other options are also available to a user via user interface 400. These include an "open label” icon 439, By clicking on this icon the user can open a previously saved label. By clicking on "file management” icon 440 the user enters a further interface where the user can manage their saved files, such as renaming the file and transferring the files to and from a label printer. The user can also access a settings menu via icon 442 for changing settings of the user interface. For example the user can change the language setting and whether to use imperial or metric units.
  • the type of label printer selected may for example determine the types of label that are available to a user and/or formatting options available.
  • Icon 446 is a "quick print” icon which enables a user to quickly print a currently displayed label by clicking on icon 446. If a user is already in the process of preparing a label, and has exited the label editing screen for any reason, then they can quickly return to editing that label by clicking on "continue editing" icon 448.
  • FIG. 5 shows a user interface 500 associated with the preparation of a patch panel label. This screen may have been reached by selecting patch panel icon 410 (see Figure 4).
  • the patch panel user interface 500 comprises three general regions: an options or toolbar region 502; a label preview region 504; and a data entry region 506.
  • a user can modify aspects of the label and/or object to which the label is to be applied.
  • the user is preparing a patch panel label, and therefore the options relate to the patch panel and/or the associated label.
  • the user can change the number of ports of the patch panel. In this example the number of ports has been set to 12. This number can be adjusted by the user in any known way. For example if the user hovers a mouse pointer over the "number of ports" option 508, then up and down arrows may appear which enable a user to increment or decrease the number of ports.
  • the user can adjust the centre on centre distance between ports of the patch panel. As shown at 512 the user can adjust the number of ports per group.
  • the user has selected six ports per group.
  • the user is also presented with an option for adjusting the group clearance i.e. the distance between groups of ports. In this example the user has set the group clearance at a quarter of an inch.
  • the user has an option for adjusting the label setup. This provides the user with a drop down menu enabling the user to choose between separate and continuous labels. With "separate" labels there is a separate label per patch panel group. With “continuous” labels there is provided a single label to cover all of the patch panel groups. In this example the user has selected separate labels for each patch panel group.
  • Label preview region 504 displays an image of the label to be printed 518, and an image of the object 520.
  • the object is a patch panel 520.
  • the properties of the patch panel 520 match the properties entered in the toolbar 502 e.g. the patch panel comprises 12 ports with 6 ports in each group.
  • FIG. 522 is indicative of the length of the first group of ports of the patch panel 520.
  • the patch panel 520 comprises a first group of ports 521 , and a second group of ports 523.
  • the arrow 522 is representative of the length of the first group of ports 521. The value of this length is shown adjacent the label at 526. In this example the overall length of the first group of ports is displayed to be 3 and 5/8 of an inch. The distance between the port groups 521 and 523 is displayed at 528 i.e. adjacent arrows 524.
  • the distance between the groups is a quarter of an inch, which matches the group clearance set at 514.
  • the means for indicating the dimensions of the patch panel can take other forms, and that the use of arrows is one example only. For example a bar or a line with no arrowheads could be used. It will also be appreciated that the arrows or other means can be used for representing or indicating any dimension of the object 520 or label 518. For example the dimension could be a length, width, depth, corner to corner dimension etc.
  • Data input region 506 enables a user to enter information into data grid 536.
  • Data in the data grid 536 can either be automatically mapped to the label 518, or dragged and dropped into the label 518. Alternatively the user can directly enter data into label 518 by clicking on the label 518 and then entering the necessary data.
  • a user can modify parameters of the label 518 and/or object 520, as shown in Figure 6. One way of changing the parameters is in the toolbar region 502, as previously discussed.
  • a user can also change dimensions of the label 518 and/or object 520 by changing the lengths of the arrows 522 and 524. For example shortening arrow 522 will result in a corresponding shortening of the length of first port group 521. Likewise lengthening arrow 522 will result in a corresponding lengthening of first port group 521.
  • the arrow 522 can be lengthened and/or shortened by "grabbing" an end of the arrow with, for example, a mouse pointer, and then dragging and dropping the end of the arrow until the desired new length is reached.
  • the user has increased the length of arrow 522 which has resulted in a corresponding increase in the length of first port group 521.
  • the user has selected or "grabbed" the right hand most arrowhead of arrow 522 by clicking on or selecting in any other way the rightmost arrowhead, and then dragging the arrowhead to the desired length.
  • the length has increased to 4 and 3/4 inches from the length of 3 and 5/8 inches as shown in Figure 5.
  • the length displayed adjacent the arrow at 526 dynamically updates (i.e. in real time) as the length of the arrow is changed. This way the user can easily see the change in length during the dragging operation.
  • Increasing the overall length of the patch panel groups 521 and 523 also result in an increase in the centre on centre distance between the ports.
  • This value 510 in the toolbar 502 may also dynamically update during the action of modifying the length of arrow 522.
  • dynamically is meant that the value changes in real time or simultaneously with the changing arrow length.
  • the "dragging and dropping" operation of changing the arrow length can be carried out a number of ways.
  • the user may hold down a mouse button while the arrow length is being changed.
  • the user may click a mouse button once to start the operation, and then click the mouse button again to end the operation.
  • the user may select the end of the arrow with their finger and then drag their finger across the screen to change the arrow length, or alternatively touch the screen in a different position to select the new position for the end of the arrow.
  • a user can also modify the distance between port groups 521 and 523 in a similar manner.
  • the arrow 524 has been lengthened, which has resulted in a corresponding lengthening between the port groups 521 and 523.
  • the arrow maybe lengthened in the same or similar manner to the arrow 522 as described above.
  • the value 528 has updated to show the increase of the group clearance from a quarter of an inch as shown in Figure 6 to 1 inch as shown in Figure 7. Again, the displayed value may change in real time or "dynamically" as the arrow is lengthened.
  • the value 514 in toolbar 502 has also been updated to reflect the increase of the group clearance to 1 inch. This value in the toolbar may also change in real time as the arrow 524 is lengthened.
  • adjusting the values in the toolbar region 502 may also result in real-time corresponding adjustment of the values in the preview region 504.
  • adjustment of the length of the arrows 522 and 524 may result in real-time adjustment of the image of the label 518 and image of the object 521 , and not just real-time adjustment of the displayed values.
  • Figures 8 and 9 show adjustment of a "general label".
  • a general label can be prepared by first clicking or selecting general label icon 404 on user interface 400. The user is then presented with a user interface screen 1600 as shown for example in Figure 8.
  • User interface 1600 comprises a toolbar area 1602, a label preview area 1604, and a data input area 1606.
  • the toolbar region 1602 provides a user with a number of options. These include enabling a user to switch the orientation of the label between portrait and landscape mode. As shown at 1608, in this example the user has selected the landscape mode. As shown at 1610 the user can use the toolbar to change the label length by using "stepper" 1611. In option box 1612 the user can change some layout options of the label e.g. whether to provide borders on the label and whether to match trailer and leader lengths etc. The user can also click on "set as default" option 1614 to store the current settings as new default settings.
  • the label preview is shown at 1618, in label preview area 1604.
  • an arrow adjacent the label 1618 the arrow 1622 be indicative of the length of label 1618.
  • a numerical value of the length of label 1618 is shown at 1626. In the example of Figure 8 the label length is 2 inches. This matches the label length shown at 1610 in the toolbar 1602.
  • the length of arrow 1622, and accordingly the length of label 1618 can be lengthened or shortened by adjusting the length of arrow 1622, in the same or similar manner to that discussed with respect to Figures 5 to 7. That is the user can select an end of the arrow 1622 and move it to a new position so as to set a new length.
  • the user has increased the length of arrow 1622, and accordingly the length of label 1618 from 2 inches as shown in Figure 8 to 3 inches as shown in Figure 9.
  • the image of the label 1618 may update in real time or "dynamically" as the length of the arrow 622 is adjusted.
  • the label length displayed at 1610 is also updated in real time. It will also be appreciated that if the label length is changed in option box 1610 by a user, then the image of the label 1618 and the image of the arrow 1822 is updated in real time or "dynamically" in the label preview area 1604.
  • Some embodiments may enhance user friendliness since the user can at any time in a label or object modification procedure see the current length of the dimension being modified. Providing the update in real time is useful to a user as it enables them to make adjustments in a one step process. Furthermore by providing the arrow (or other suitable image) adjacent to the label or object being modified, then there is no need to select the image of the label or object itself to carry out the modification. This means that a user does not have to obscure the image of the label or object during the modification procedure with a pointer or the like. This enhances the user experience since it improves the view of the label and/or object.
  • a method for creating a patch panel label has been discussed in relation to Figures 5 to 7, and a method for creating a general label has been discussed with respect to Figures 8 and 9.
  • the options available to a user e.g. label and/or object parameters
  • the user interface simultaneously, for example in a toolbar region 502 and 1602.
  • the user can adjust options available in the toolbar in any order that they so wish.
  • Figures 10 to 13 show an alternative method for preparing a patch panel label. It should however be noted that this is by way of example only, and that the principles can apply to the preparation of any other label type e.g. the types of labels shown in Figure 4.
  • Figures 10 to 13 shown a series of screens used to guide a user through a patch panel label creation process in a linear step-by-step fashion. In other words Figures 10 to 13 show a label creation "wizard".
  • Figure 10 shows a first screen 700 of the label creation wizard.
  • a bar 702 at the top of the screen displays to a user that they are in a patch panel mode.
  • a second bar 704 displays to a user information that requires entry, in this case "set port numbers". In some embodiments default values are provided which a user can then adjust.
  • an edit region 706 the user can enter required information.
  • the user in box 708 the user can enter the number of ports per row. In this case the user has selected 24.
  • the user can specify how many ports are to be contained in each group, and in this case the user has set a value of 6.
  • a preview of the patch panel according to the entered information is shown at 712.
  • An indicator is provided at 714 for indicating to a user how far through the label creation process they are.
  • FIG 10 it is shown at 714 by the highlighted circle that the user is at step 1 of 3. This information is also displayed at region 716 of display.
  • An image of a user's hand is displayed at 718.
  • this is an actual icon on the user interface which a user can move by means of a mouse or tracker pad or other similar means.
  • the "wizard" is displayed on a touch screen, and the image of the hand 718 is illustrative of a user's hand (or stylus or other means), and is not actually displayed on the screen.
  • the arrow 720 is indicative of a direction of movement of the user's hand, and is not actually displayed on the wizard screen.
  • a user can navigate through the wizard screens by means of contacting the touchscreen and moving the position of their hand on the touchscreen. In Figure 10 it may be considered that the user has initially contacted the screen at position 722.
  • a next step as shown in Figure 11 , the user drags their finger from position 722 to position 724.
  • This action of moving the user's finger from right to left on the screen causes a corresponding movement from right to left of the information displayed on the screen. That is the box 708 shown in Figure 10 has now moved to the left to an extent that it is no longer displayed on the screen 700, and as shown in region 726 at the far right of the screen, the next step of the wizard is beginning to appear on the screen 700.
  • a user may swipe from left to right to move to a subsequent screen, and swipe from right to left to return to a previous screen. Movement of the user's finger or stylus on the screen vertically may also be used to move between screens.
  • the user touches the screen in a first position and then maintains contact with the screen while moving their finger to a second position to progress or move back between wizard screens.
  • a user does not have to maintain contact with the screen i.e. the user can simply touch the screen at a first position and then touch the screen at a second position (without maintaining contact with the screen between these two positions) so as to move between wizard steps.
  • the next or previous wizard screen is not displayed until the user has released their contact from the screen.
  • the user interface updates to display one full wizard screen. If the user interface shows partial amounts of two wizard screens and the user releases contact, the screen which is subsequently displayed may be dependent upon the proportion of each screen displayed at the time the user removed contact from the screen. For example in Figure 11 if the user were to let go of the screen the user interface would revert to that shown in Figure 10, since only a minority of the subsequent screen is shown at region 726. Likewise when the user lets go of the screen at Figure 12 the user interface proceeds to display the second step of the wizard, since a majority of that screen was displayed at the time the user releases contact from the screen.
  • Figure 14 shows a user interface 800 for creating a label.
  • the user interface comprises an information area 802 giving the user information about a current process.
  • the information area in Figure 14 shows that the user is currently in the process of navigating labels.
  • the user is provided with information regarding which label of a series of labels they are currently viewing.
  • the user is provided with information that they are preparing the first label of a series of five labels.
  • Label preview area 804 provides a preview of a label to be printed 810. In this case, since the user is creating a patch panel label, a preview of the patch panel 812 is also provided.
  • an options area 806 at the bottom of the user interface the user can select between options.
  • the user can use "radio" buttons 814 and 816 to respectively navigate between labels and errors.
  • the user has currently selected to navigate between labels.
  • a label navigator "pop-up" or tool 818 is displayed on the user interface 800.
  • the label navigator tool 818 overlays a label preview area showing the label and object side by side in such a way that the label is visible and the object is still partly visible.
  • the human mind upon viewing the label preview area, will interpret the label preview area in such a way as if the overlaying window is not present.
  • more information can be provided to a user on a limited display size.
  • the label navigator tool 818 comprises a first region 820 which informs a user which label they are currently viewing (label number 1 in this case).
  • a numerical stepper 822 is also provided.
  • the numerical stepper 822 comprises a minus (-) button 824 and a plus (+) button 826.
  • the user can navigate through labels using the numerical stepper 822 by selecting either the minus icon 824 or the plus icon 826. As shown in Figure 15 the user has selected plus icon 826 and accordingly the label number in region 820 and in region 808 has updated to show that the label now being displayed is label 811 which is the second label in a series of five.
  • This concept can also be extended to the display of "errors" to a user. Errors may accidentally be created by a user during the label creation process, and these errors may be detected by the label creation program. As shown in Figure 16 the user has selected "errors" radio button 816. In response to this a pop-up or error navigation tool 828 is displayed on the user interface.
  • the error navigation tool 828 comprises a first region 830 which displays to a user which error number they are viewing. In this example the user is viewing error number 1.
  • the error navigation tool 828 also comprises a numerical stepper 832 comprising minus icon 834 and plus icon 836 which enables a user to navigate through the errors.
  • the first error is present in the first label. Accordingly region 808 of the display informs the user that the error is on the first label of a series of five labels.
  • the error is present in region 838 of label 810.
  • the region 838 is highlighted by means of a box 840 and a warning sign 842 comprising an exclamation mark to clearly display where in the label 810 the error is present. It will of course be appreciated that other ways of showing the error may be used e.g. by use of different colours, shading, a flashing background etc.
  • a warning sign 846 is also present in region 844 of the display. However this is not the currently selected error and therefore it is not highlighted by means of a box, as per region 838.
  • region 808 has updated to indicate this. Once the user has dealt with all errors, then the user can click the "done” button 856.
  • Figure 19 shows a user interface 900 for a label creation process.
  • the user interface 900 comprises an information area 902, a label preview area 904, and an options region or toolbar 906.
  • the information area 902 informs the user that they are in a patch panel mode.
  • the label preview area 904 comprises a preview of a label 908.
  • the information area 902 also informs the user that the label printer is connected to a PC with symbol 910, and symbol 912 shows a current battery charge level of the label printer.
  • the toolbar area 906 comprises an "undo" function 914 which allows a user to undo a previous action, and a "redo" function 916 which enables the user to redo an action which has been previously undone.
  • the magnifying glass icon 918 enables a user to zoom in and out of the label preview.
  • a maximise function 920 enables a user to maximise the user interface so as to fill a display.
  • Toolbar 906 also comprises selectable icons 922, 924, 926 and 928.
  • Icon 922 is a "properties” icon which enables a user to change properties of the label being created.
  • Icon 924 is an "insert” icon that provides a user with options that may be inserted into a label.
  • Icon 926 provides a user with a serialization function, and icon 928 provides a user with options for enabling a user to navigate between multiple labels.
  • the user has selected icon 922 causing a "properties" menu 930 to appear which pops up and partially overlays the label image 908.
  • a user is creating a patch panel label and therefore the properties available to the user are related to a patch panel label e.g. port numbers, label set up (number of labels per group), dimensions of the patch panel, and whether to show separator lines.
  • the properties menu 930 comprises a "close” button 932 in the form of an "x” and an indicator (in this case arrow 934) which points at properties icon 922 to display that the menu 930 is associated with that icon.
  • the user is in a general label mode, as indicated in information area 902.
  • FIG 20 the user has selected icon 924 which has opened up a new "insert" menu 936.
  • the insert menu 936 again partially overlays the label image 908'.
  • the insert menu gives the user options relating to items that can be inserted into the label, such as text 938, barcode 940, an image 942, or a shape 944.
  • the image 942 and shape 944 options each comprise arrows 946 and 948 respectively associated therewith. If a user selects either of these arrows 946 or 948 then a further options menu appears to the right of menu 936, again overlaying or partially overlaying label preview 908'.
  • the further options menu will provide for example a selection of images or shapes that can be inserted into the label.
  • the arrow 934' now points at "insert" icon 924, to display that the displayed menu 936 is associated with this icon.
  • Figures 21 a and b which shows the user interface displayed for the cable wrap mode, in one embodiment.
  • the user may have the option of selecting a particular cable type.
  • the user has selected the cable type CAT 5/6 as referenced 100a.
  • the user has selected the cable type AWG: 4/0 - 2/0 as referenced 100b.
  • the cable type can be any suitable cable type in addition to or instead of the two examples given.
  • the first cable type of Figure 21a has a cable diameter of 6 mm whilst the cable diameter of the type selected in Figure 21b has a cable diameter of 11.64 mm.
  • the image of the cable 102a shown in Figure 21a is correspondingly smaller than the image of the cable 102b shown in Figure 21 b.
  • the size of the label 104a for the cable of Figure 21 a is shorter than the corresponding label 104b for the cable of Figure 21 b.
  • the dimension of the cable is shown by the arrows 106a in Figure 21a and arrows 106b in Figure 21b. These arrows are provided adjacent the image of the cable. These illustrate the dimensions of the image of the cable which is displayed.
  • Figure 22a shows a first example of a label set up for pipe marking in accordance with standard ASME A13.1 04, referenced 110a whilst Figure 22b shows a different label setup which in this example is ASME A13.1 02 referenced 110b.
  • An image of the pipe in the two examples is shown in the user interface and is respectively referenced 112a in Figure 22a and 112b in Figure 22b.
  • the label 114a is shown wrapped around the pipe.
  • the diameter of the pipe is referenced 116a adjacent the image of the pipe 112 a.
  • the width of the label is referenced 118a adjacent the image of the label 114a on the pipe 112a.
  • the label 114b is shown extending along the length of the pipe 116b.
  • the image shows the label on the pipe.
  • the length of the label is referenced 118b and is adjacent to the image of the label 114b on the pipe.
  • the diameter of the pipe is shown adjacent the pipe and is referenced 116b.
  • a patch panel mode In the patch panel mode as illustrated in Figure 23a, the user is able to select a template option from a template menu 120. As can be seen, a number of different predefined templates are available for a user to select. These may reflect standards, different products, may be set up by a user and/or be default options.
  • Figure 23b the user has selected a first template and in Figure 23c, the user has selected a second template.
  • the selection of the first template is shown in Figure 23b which shows an image of the patch panel 122a with the image of the label 124a to be applied to the patch panel adjacent thereto.
  • the dimension of the patch panel is displayed adjacent the patch panel and is referenced 126a.
  • various options are displayed. In this example, the following options are shown: the number of ports 127; the centre to centre distance between ports 128; the number of ports in each group 129; and the distance between groups 130.
  • the currently selected value is displayed. In the example shown in Figure 23b, the number of ports is 16, the centre to centre distance is 26.46 mm, each group has 16 ports, and the group clearance is 6.35 mm.
  • the template which is displayed in Figure 23c has 24 ports, a centre to centre distance of 16.23 mm, with the ports arranged in groups of eight and with a group clearance of 6.35 mm.
  • the image of the patch panel and the label to be applied thereto is different to that shown in Figure 23b, reflecting the patch panel configuration.
  • the image shown reflects the currently selected values of the options.
  • the length of a group of ports is indicated by the dimension adjacent the ports and is reference 126b.
  • the distance between two adjacent groups of ports is shown in the user interface below the spacing between the two groups and is referenced 126c. This allows the user to see that changes in a template can cause the image which is displayed of the object (patch panel) to change and also may change characteristics of the label(s).
  • Figure 24a shows an example of a vertical breaker. It should be appreciated that the examples discussed are equally applicable to horizontal breakers.
  • the number of poles of the first breaker has been selected to be 1 whereas in Figure 24b, the number of poles selected for the first breaker is indicated to be 3.
  • a menu 140a is displayed which shows the number of poles selected for the first breaker, which in this example is 1.
  • the image 146a of the breaker shows the first breaker as having a single pole.
  • An image 142a of the label is displayed adjacent the image of the vertical breaker.
  • Dimensional information 144a is displayed adjacent the image of the labels.
  • the menu 140b shows that the first breaker has three poles. Accordingly, the image 46b of the breaker shows that the first breaker has three poles. The image of the label 142b has correspondingly been adjusted to show a single field adjacent the three pole breaker. Dimension information 144b is again displayed.
  • Figure 25a shows a label set up menu 150 for a patch panel.
  • This label set up menu gives the user the option of having one label for all the ports or one label per group.
  • Figure 25a shows the option where one label is selected for all the ports whereas
  • Figure 25b shows the selection of the option of one label for each group.
  • the image of the label shown respectively in Figures 25a and 25b reflect the option selected by the user.
  • the image of the patch panel is also displayed.
  • Figures 26a, 26b and 26c shows some examples of information messages which may be displayed to a user.
  • Figures 26a to c in the context of pipe marking, by way of example only.
  • the user has selected label option ASME A13.1 02.
  • a first information window 160 is shown which indicates that to be compliant with the ASME A13.1 standard for 12 mm labels, a minimum font size of 36 is to be selected.
  • a first information window 164 displayed to the user indicates that to be compliant with the ASME A13.1 standard 12mm labels, a minimum font size of 70 is to be selected.
  • a second information window 166 is displayed to the user which indicates to the user that to be compliant with the ASME A13.1 standard for mm labels, select a maximum pipe diameter of 30 mm.
  • Figure 26c shows the same first information window 164 as in Figure 26b and a further information window 168 indicating that the use of a marker larger than 2 inches is used for this size pipe diameter.
  • the number of windows displayed at the same time may be one or more.
  • the actual information displayed may be any suitable information.
  • different information may be provided to the user. In the examples shown in Figures 26a to c, the user is being encouraged to provide labels which are in accordance with a particular standard for pipe marking.
  • the information displayed can be applied to any of the different types of label and may be messages to encourage a user to be in compliance with a particular standard, or templates or even just to improve the usability of the label.
  • the information may be provided for any suitable type of label.
  • the label application may be used with one or more of the following objects: a pipe, a cable, a breaker, a wire, a patch panel, a distribution panel, a terminal block, and a 110, block.
  • These pop-ups or overlays help a user to efficiently create a label. Overlaying the label image as opposed to taking a user to an entirely new menu screen may speed up the label creation process and may also enables a user to more quickly select between separate options. For example if the user has properties menu 930 open and instead wants to select the insert menu 924, then all the user has to do is select insert icon 924. The user does not have to exit the previously opened properties menu before doing this. Accordingly a label can be created more quickly. Additionally, by maintaining at least some of the label image in the display then the user may remain aware of the label context as they navigate the displayed options. Furthermore, many items may be displayed in the pop-ups simultaneously which may reduce the amount of navigation required for a user.
  • Embodiments may be used with continuous tape or die cut labels. Die cut labels are provided on a continuous backing layer but are discrete, pre-cut labels. The tape or die cut labels may be provided in a cassette or simply on a roll.
  • a computer readable medium such as a CDROM or memory within a stand-alone printer
  • Embodiments may be used with continuous tape or die cut labels. Die cut labels are provided on a continuous backing layer but are discrete, pre-cut labels. The tape or die cut labels may be provided in a cassette or simply on a roll.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Human Computer Interaction (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Quality & Reliability (AREA)
  • User Interface Of Digital Computer (AREA)
  • Accessory Devices And Overall Control Thereof (AREA)
  • Record Information Processing For Printing (AREA)
  • Labeling Devices (AREA)
  • Printers Characterized By Their Purpose (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un procédé comprenant les étapes consistant à : fournir une première image sur une interface utilisateur d'imprimante d'étiquettes, ladite première image étant représentative d'au moins une étiquette à imprimer et/ou d'au moins un objet sur lequel une étiquette doit être appliquée ; et fournir une seconde image sur ladite interface utilisateur associée à ladite première image, ladite seconde image étant représentative d'une dimension de ladite première image ; permettre à un utilisateur de modifier une dimension de ladite seconde image ; ladite dimension de ladite première image étant mise à jour de façon correspondante alors que ladite dimension de ladite seconde image est modifiée.
EP14710283.4A 2013-03-15 2014-03-14 Interface utilisateur pour imprimante d'étiquettes Withdrawn EP2972753A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US201361787623P 2013-03-15 2013-03-15
PCT/EP2014/055171 WO2014140315A1 (fr) 2013-03-15 2014-03-14 Interface utilisateur pour imprimante d'étiquettes

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2972753A1 true EP2972753A1 (fr) 2016-01-20

Family

ID=50280400

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP14710283.4A Withdrawn EP2972753A1 (fr) 2013-03-15 2014-03-14 Interface utilisateur pour imprimante d'étiquettes

Country Status (4)

Country Link
EP (1) EP2972753A1 (fr)
JP (1) JP2016517560A (fr)
CN (1) CN105431812B (fr)
WO (1) WO2014140315A1 (fr)

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
JP6447076B2 (ja) * 2014-12-11 2019-01-09 セイコーエプソン株式会社 ラベル作成装置およびラベル作成システム

Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20110286012A1 (en) * 2008-09-26 2011-11-24 Dymo Label printer

Family Cites Families (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US7554521B1 (en) * 2004-04-15 2009-06-30 Apple Inc. User interface control for changing a parameter
US8092104B2 (en) * 2007-04-05 2012-01-10 Dymo Tape printing apparatus
CN107656712B (zh) * 2009-04-24 2021-06-15 桑福德有限合伙公司 打印设备及其控制器
US8766928B2 (en) * 2009-09-25 2014-07-01 Apple Inc. Device, method, and graphical user interface for manipulating user interface objects
CN102262772A (zh) * 2010-05-27 2011-11-30 鸿富锦精密工业（深圳）有限公司 具有图片编辑功能的打印机及其图片打印的方法
JP2012033058A (ja) * 2010-07-30 2012-02-16 Sony Corp 情報処理装置、情報処理方法及び情報処理プログラム

Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20110286012A1 (en) * 2008-09-26 2011-11-24 Dymo Label printer

Non-Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Title
See also references of WO2014140315A1 *

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
WO2014140315A1 (fr) 2014-09-18
JP2016517560A (ja) 2016-06-16
CN105431812A (zh) 2016-03-23
CN105431812B (zh) 2019-04-19

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US9444955B2 (en) Method of creating a label, a printing apparatus, and a computer-readable medium
US9586415B2 (en) Label printing apparatus
US20160041800A1 (en) User interface for label printer
US9361549B2 (en) User interface for a label printer
AU2008235476B2 (en) Tape printing apparatus and method with displaying features
US20160170615A1 (en) User Interface for a Label Printer
US9141888B2 (en) Method and apparatus for generating labels
JP2013528508A (ja) ラベルプリンタ
EP2972753A1 (fr) Interface utilisateur pour imprimante d'étiquettes

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20150925

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Extension state: BA ME

RIN1 Information on inventor provided before grant (corrected)

Inventor name: SPENCER, STEPHEN

Inventor name: TAYLOR, NANCY ELAINE

Inventor name: GOHDE, STEPHEN CHARLES

Inventor name: AIRODI, LATHA

Inventor name: BOOT, BRAM

Inventor name: JACOBS, RON

Inventor name: NESFEDER, JR., DAVID G.

DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)
STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: EXAMINATION IS IN PROGRESS

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 20180907

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: THE APPLICATION HAS BEEN WITHDRAWN

18W Application withdrawn

Effective date: 20181219