JP2000099291A - Print controller, data processing method for the same and storage medium storing computer readable program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To improve the print processing efficiency of an entire system in a printing request by performing switching control by judging whether print information is to be stored in a first or second storage area, based on the processing state of print information stored in the first storage area. SOLUTION: A CPU 12 performs storage processing by executing a control program stored in a ROM 13, an external memory 14 or a hard disk(HD) 23. When print data are transferred from a host computer 3000 and the presence of a space larger than the specified one in a reception buffer secured on a RAM 19 is judged, a print JOB is fetched into the reception buffer. When there is no enough space in the reception buffer, the print JOB is fetched into a spool area on the HD 23. Then the print JOB spooled on the HD 23 waits for the print end a print JOB on the reception buffer and at the time point when a printer is turned into printable state, the print processing of the spool JOB is started.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a print control apparatus, a print control method, and a computer which can control a storage destination of print information received by a printing apparatus which can communicate with a data processing apparatus via a predetermined communication medium. The present invention relates to a storage medium storing various programs.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in a print control apparatus for controlling this type of printing apparatus, when print information is received from a data processing apparatus such as a host computer via a predetermined communication medium, it is constituted by a RAM or the like. It can be stored in a first storage unit called a reception buffer, or can be stored in a second storage unit called a spooler composed of a hard disk or the like.

In this case, which one of the first and second storage means is used is designated by a user, or the host computer (printer driver) according to print settings on the host computer. Was specified.

[0004]

However, in the above-mentioned conventional example, usually, a large amount of print data is designated to store the received print data in, for example, a reception buffer of the first storage means. If the printing process is temporarily stopped due to no paper or paper jam, the receiving buffer becomes full, and there is a problem that data transfer from the host computer to the printing apparatus becomes impossible.

In addition, there is a problem that the receiving buffer becomes full due to a print job including a large amount of data or a print job that takes a long time to process, so that data transfer becomes impossible.

As a result, there is also a problem that the processing efficiency of the entire system is reduced, for example, the host computer is not released, or another host computer on the network is kept waiting for the transfer processing. there were.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems. It is an object of the present invention to provide a storage destination for storing print information received from a data processing device and a data processing state of the printing device. First according to the free space of memory resources
In this case, the print information sequentially transferred from the data processing devices on the network can be accumulated without delay, and the communication with the data processing device can be released. A print control device, a data processing method of the print control device, and a storage medium storing a computer-readable program capable of freely preparing a print processing environment for improving the print processing efficiency of the entire system at the time of printing is there.

[0008]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a print control apparatus for controlling a printing apparatus capable of communicating with a data processing apparatus via a predetermined communication medium. A first storage unit that stores print information to be received in a first storage area; and a first storage unit that can sequentially store print information received from the data processing device in a second storage area different from the first storage area. Storage means for storing print information received from the data processing apparatus based on a processing state of the print information stored in the first storage area in one of the first storage area and the second storage area Determining means for determining whether or not to cause the print information to be received from the data processing apparatus based on a determination result by the determining means;
And control means for switching and controlling the accumulation processing of the first and second accumulation means so as to accumulate the data from the storage area to the second storage area.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, the first storage area is a reception buffer area secured in a volatile memory resource, and the second storage area is secured in the volatile memory resource. This is configured as a specific spool area.

In a third aspect of the present invention, the first storage area is a reception buffer area secured in a volatile memory resource, and the second storage area is secured in a nonvolatile memory resource. This is configured as a specific spool area.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the determining means determines a processing state of print information based on whether the printing apparatus is in a printing stopped state.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the determination means determines the processing state of the print information based on whether or not there is a free area in which the print information can be stored in the first storage area.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the print information received from the data processing device is stored in a second storage area from a first storage area.
After storing the print information in the storage area, the developing unit expands the stored print information into raster image data that can be printed by the printing apparatus. Expansion control means for controlling the execution of expansion to raster image data.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a data processing method for a printing control apparatus for controlling a printing apparatus capable of communicating with a data processing apparatus via a predetermined communication medium, the method comprising receiving from the data processing apparatus. A first storage step of storing print information in a first storage area; and a second storage step of sequentially storing print information received from the data processing device in a second storage area different from the first storage area. A storage step, and in which of the first storage area and the second storage area the print information received from the data processing device is stored based on the processing state of the print information stored in the first storage area A determining step of determining whether the print information received from the data processing device is based on a determination result of the determining step.
And a switching step of switching the storage processing of the first and second storage steps so that the storage processing is performed from the storage area to the second storage area.

In an eighth aspect according to the present invention, the first storage area is a reception buffer area secured in a volatile memory resource, and the second storage area is secured in the volatile memory resource. This is configured as a specific spool area.

In a ninth aspect according to the present invention, the first storage area is a reception buffer area secured in a volatile memory resource, and the second storage area is secured in a nonvolatile memory resource. This is configured as a specific spool area.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the determining step, the processing state of the print information is determined based on whether the printing apparatus is in a printing stopped state.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the determining step, the processing state of the print information is determined based on whether or not there is a free area in the first storage area where the print information can be stored.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the print information received from the data processing device is stored from a first storage area to a second storage area, and the stored print information is stored in the printing apparatus. Comprises a developing step of developing the raster image data into printable raster image data, and a determining step of determining the free space of the second storage area and determining whether or not the raster image data can be developed by the developing step. is there.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a storage medium storing a computer-readable program for controlling a printing apparatus capable of communicating with a data processing apparatus via a predetermined communication medium. A first storage step of storing print information received from the device in a first storage area; and a print information received from the data processing apparatus can be sequentially stored in a second storage area different from the first storage area A second storage step, and printing information received from the data processing device based on a processing state of the printing information stored in the first storage area in one of the first storage area and the second storage area. A determination step of determining whether to accumulate
A switching unit that switches storage processing of the first and second storage units so that print information received from the data processing device is stored in the second storage area from the first storage area based on the determination result in the determination step And a computer readable program stored in a storage medium.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the first storage area is a reception buffer area secured in a volatile memory resource, and the second storage area is secured in the volatile memory resource. A computer-readable program that is configured as a specific spool area is stored in a storage medium.

In a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the first storage area is a reception buffer area secured in a volatile memory resource, and the second storage area is secured in a nonvolatile memory resource. A computer-readable program that is configured as a specific spool area is stored in a storage medium.

According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, in the determining step, a computer-readable program for determining a processing state of print information based on whether the printing apparatus is in a printing stopped state is stored in a storage medium. is there.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, in the determining step, the computer that determines the processing state of the print information based on whether there is a free area in the first storage area where the print information can be stored can be read. Is stored in a storage medium.

According to an eighteenth aspect of the present invention, the print information received from the data processing device is stored in the second storage region from the first storage region, and the stored print information is stored in the printing device. Has a developing step of developing raster image data into printable raster image data, and a determining step of determining the free space of the second storage area and determining whether or not the raster image data can be developed by the developing step. A readable program is stored in a storage medium.

[0026]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Before describing the configuration of this embodiment, a configuration of a laser beam printer suitable for applying this embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. The printer to which this embodiment is applied is not limited to a laser beam printer, and it goes without saying that a printer of another printing method may be used.

FIG. 1 is a sectional view showing a configuration of an output device to which the present invention can be applied, for example, a case of a laser beam printer (LBP).

Referring to FIG. 1, reference numeral 1500 denotes an LBP main body, which inputs and stores print information (character codes and the like), form information, macro instructions, and the like supplied from an externally connected host computer, and stores the information. , A corresponding character pattern, form pattern, or the like is created, and an image is formed on a recording medium such as recording paper.

Reference numeral 1512 denotes a switch for scanning and L
An operation panel 1501 on which an ED display and the like are arranged is a printer control unit, which controls the entire LBP body 1500 and analyzes character information and the like supplied from the host computer. The printer control unit 1501 mainly converts character information into a video signal of a corresponding character pattern and outputs the video signal to a laser driver 1502.

The laser driver 1502 is the semiconductor laser 1
A circuit for driving the laser beam 503 switches on / off a laser beam 1504 emitted from the semiconductor laser 1503 according to an input video signal. Laser light 15
Numeral 04 is rotated left and right by a rotary polygon mirror 1505 to scan and expose an electrostatic drum 1506. As a result, an electrostatic latent image of a character pattern is formed on the electrostatic drum 1506. This latent image is developed by a developing unit 1507 arranged around the electrostatic drum 1506,
Transferred to recording paper.

A cut sheet is used as the recording paper, and the cut sheet recording paper is stored in a paper cassette 1508 mounted on the LBP main body 1500, and is taken into the apparatus by a paper feed roller 1509 and transport rollers 1510 and 1511. And supplied to the electrostatic drum 1506.
The LBP body 1500 is provided with at least one or more card slots (not shown) so that an optional font card and a control card (emulation card) having a different language system can be connected in addition to the built-in fonts.

[First Embodiment] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a printing system to which a print control apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention can be applied. Here, a laser beam printer (FIG. 1) will be described as an example. Further, if the function of the present invention is executed, even if it is a single device or a system including a plurality of devices,
It goes without saying that the present invention can be applied to a system in which processing is performed via a network such as a LAN.

Referring to FIG. 3, reference numeral 3000 denotes a host computer which executes document processing in which graphics, images, characters, tables (including spreadsheets) and the like are mixed based on a document processing program or the like stored in a program ROM of the ROM 3. CP
The CPU 1 controls the devices connected to the system bus 4 as a whole. 2000 is a data processing unit.

The program ROM of the ROM 3
Stores a control program of the CPU 1, a font ROM of the ROM 3 stores font data and the like used in the document processing, and a data ROM of the ROM 3 uses the font and the like for performing the document processing and the like. Various data (for example, various page description language programs, font rasterizing data, and the like) are stored.

Reference numeral 2 denotes a RAM that can be extended by an option RAM or the like, and functions as a main memory, a work area, and the like of the CPU 1. 5 is a keyboard controller (KBC),
It controls key input from a keyboard 9 or a pointing device (not shown).

Reference numeral 6 denotes a CRT controller (CRTC).
The display of the CRT display (CRT) 10 is controlled.
Reference numeral 7 denotes a disk controller (DKC) for controlling access to an external memory 11 such as a hard disk (HD) for storing a boot program, various applications, font data, user files, and editing files, and a floppy disk (FD).

Reference numeral 8 denotes a printer controller (PRTC)
A predetermined bidirectional interface (interface)
21 and is connected to the printer 1500 to execute communication control processing with the printer 1500. Note that the CPU 1
Executes a rasterization process of an outline font in a display information RAM area set on the RAM 2, for example, to enable WYSIWYG on the CRT 10.

The CPU 1 opens various registered windows based on commands specified by a mouse cursor or the like (not shown) on the CRT 10 and executes various data processing. A hard disk 30 stores applications, system programs, and user files.

In the printer 1500, reference numeral 12 denotes a printer CPU (CPU).
M or the external memory 1
4 to control overall access to various devices connected to the system bus 15 based on a control program and the like stored in the printer 4 and output to a printing unit (printer engine) 17 connected via a printing unit interface 16. An image signal as information is output.

The program ROM of the ROM 13
Stores control programs and the like that can be executed by the CPU 12 as shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. Further, the font ROM of the ROM 13 stores font data (including outline font data) used when generating the output information, and the like.
The data ROM has an external memory 1 such as a hard disk.
In the case of a printer without the printer 4, the host computer 30
00, etc., are stored.

The CPU 12 can communicate with the host computer 3000 via the input unit 18.
The information and the like in the printer 1500 are transferred to the host computer 30.
00 is configured to be notified.

Reference numeral 19 denotes a RAM, which mainly functions as a main memory, a work area, and the like of the CPU 12, and is configured so that the memory capacity can be expanded by an optional RAM connected to an additional port (not shown). A hard disk 23 stores font data, form data, and the like. Reference numeral 24 stores printer setting information set in a nonvolatile memory.

The RAM 19 has an output information development area,
Used for environmental data storage area, NVRAM, and the like. The access to the external memory 14 such as a hard disk (HD) and an IC card is controlled by a disk controller (DKC) 20. The external memory 14 is connected as an option, and includes font data (including font data downloaded from the host computer 3000), an emulation program (including an emulation program downloaded from the host computer 3000), and form data (including the host computer 3000). Etc.) are stored.

Reference numeral 1512 denotes the operation panel described above.
Switches and LED indicators for operation are arranged.

The external memories 11 and 14 described above
Not limited to one, at least one or more may be configured so that a plurality of external memories storing an optional font card and a program for interpreting a printer control language of a different language system can be connected in addition to the built-in fonts. Further, an NVRM (not shown) is provided.
May be stored for each user and each group.

Hereinafter, a characteristic configuration of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

A printing control device for controlling a printing device (printer 1500) capable of communicating with a data processing device (host computer 3000) via a predetermined communication medium (including a network and an interface) configured as described above. A first storage unit (the CPU 12 stores the print information received from the data processing device in a first storage area (a reception buffer secured on the RAM 19)).
13, the control program stored in the external memory 14, the hard disk 23, etc., and the storage processing is performed), and the print information received from the data processing device is stored in a second storage area (a different storage area from the first storage area). Second storage means (the CPU 12 executes a control program stored in the ROM 13, the external memory 14, the hard disk 23, or the like to perform storage processing) which can be sequentially stored in the spool area different from the reception buffer secured on the RAM 19) And determining whether to store the print information received from the data processing apparatus in the first storage area or the second storage area based on the processing state of the print information stored in the first storage area. Judgment means for judging (CPU 12 is ROM 13, external memory 1
4, executing a control program stored in the hard disk 23 or the like to perform the determination processing), and print data received from the data processing apparatus based on the determination result by the determination means from the first storage area to the second storage area. Control means for switching and controlling the accumulation processing of the first and second accumulation means so as to accumulate in the area (the CPU 12 executes the control program stored in the ROM 13, the external memory 14, the hard disk 23 and the like to perform the switching control). And the first
Even if a situation where the reception of print information to the storage area is delayed occurs, the storage destination of the received print information is automatically switched to the second storage area, and the processing state of the print information in the printing apparatus changes. In addition, the print information can be continuously taken in from the data processing device, and the communication with the data processing device at the time of a print request can be promptly released, so that the data processing efficiency of the entire system can be significantly improved.

The first storage area is a reception buffer area secured in a volatile memory resource (RAM 19), and the second storage area is a volatile memory resource (RA
M19), it is configured as a specific spool area, so even if the processing state of the print information in the printing apparatus fluctuates and, for example, the first storage area cannot be used, the same volatile memory resource is used. It is possible to continue taking print information into a specific spool area secured inside,
Communication with the data processing device at the time of a print request can be quickly released, and the data processing efficiency of the entire system can be significantly improved.

Further, the first storage area is a reception buffer area secured in a volatile memory resource (RAM 19), and the second storage area is a non-volatile memory resource (H
D23), it is configured as a specific spool area secured during the process. Therefore, even if the processing state of the print information in the printing apparatus changes and, for example, the first storage area cannot be used, the first storage area is used. The print information can be continuously captured in a specific spool area secured in a non-volatile memory resource different from the one above, and communication with the data processing device at the time of a print request is promptly released to improve the data processing efficiency of the entire system. It can be significantly improved.

Further, the determining means determines the processing state of the print information based on whether or not the printing apparatus is in the printing stopped state (determines according to the procedures of flowcharts shown in FIGS. 3 to 5 described later). By reliably determining that the printer has transitioned to the stop state where print information cannot be processed, print information can be continuously taken in from the data processing device. Processing efficiency can be significantly improved.

Further, the judging means judges the processing state of the print information based on whether or not there is a free area in which the print information can be stored in the first storage area (reception buffer) (see the flowchart of FIG. 3 described later). It is determined that the first storage area is full, and it is determined that the print information has not been continuously stored in the first storage area. The second
, The print information can be continuously taken in from the data processing device, communication with the data processing device at the time of a print request can be quickly released, and the data processing efficiency of the entire system can be significantly improved. .

After the print information received from the data processing device is stored from the first storage area to the second storage area, the stored print information is converted into raster image data printable by the printing apparatus. Expanding means for expanding (CPU 1
2 is a ROM 13, an external memory 14, and a hard disk 23
Executing the control program stored in the second storage area, etc.) and determining the free space of the second storage area (determining according to the procedure of the flowchart shown in FIG. 5) to raster image data by the developing means. Control means (the CPU 12 executes the control program stored in the ROM 13, the external memory 14, the hard disk 23, and the like to control the development), so that the print information received from the data processing device is When storing data from the first storage area to the second storage area, the free state of the second storage area is monitored, and the spooled print information is developed into a raster image printable by the printing apparatus and stored. The print processing time required from the start of printing of the spooled print information to the end of printing can be greatly reduced, thereby improving printing throughput. It can be.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing an example of a first data processing procedure in the print control apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to a procedure for automatically determining a storage destination of received print information (print JOB). Note that (1) to (6) indicate each step.

As shown in FIG. 2, the host computer 3
When the print data is transferred from 000, in step (1), it is determined whether or not there is a certain amount of free space in the receiving buffer, and it is determined that there is a certain amount of free space in the receiving buffer secured on the RAM 19. In this case, in step (5), the print job is fetched into the reception buffer,
In step (6), the CPU 12 analyzes the print job stored in the RAM 19, develops the print job into a printable raster image, and outputs a video signal based on the developed raster image for printing. The process is performed, and the process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (1) that there is not enough free space in the reception buffer, the print job is taken into a spool area secured on the hard disk (HD) 23 in step (2). In this way, the print job accumulation process is automatically switched based on the determination in step (1).

Next, in step (3), the print J0B spooled on the HD 23 is
When the printing device is ready for printing in step (4), the print job of the spool job is started, and the process ends.

In this embodiment, the case where the processing is switched in step (1) according to the free space of the receiving buffer has been described. However, the paper is out of paper, the paper jam occurs, the warming up of the LBP main body, the color density calibration, and the like. The processing may be switched depending on whether or not the print processing is temporarily interrupted, for example.

[Second Embodiment] In the first embodiment,
Print job to HD23 according to the free space of the receiving buffer
Has been described, but after that, before step (3), that is, before the print is awaited, the rasterization (R
The print processing time may be reduced by performing IP) processing. Hereinafter, the embodiment will be described.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the second data processing procedure in the print control apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to the procedure for automatically determining the storage destination of the received print information (print JOB). Note that (1) to (7) indicate each step.

As shown in FIG. 2, the host computer 3
In step (1), when the print data is transferred from the print buffer 000, it is determined whether the print buffer is ready for printing, that is, whether or not the reception buffer has a certain amount of free space.
If it is determined that there is a certain amount or more of free space in the reception buffer secured on the server 19, the print job is fetched into the reception buffer in step (6), and the CPU
12 analyzes the print job stored in the RAM 19,
The printer engine 17 develops the image into a printable raster image, outputs a video signal based on the developed raster image, performs print processing, and ends the processing.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (1) that there is not enough free space in the receiving buffer, the print job is taken into a spool area secured on the hard disk (HD) 23 in step (2). In this way, the print job accumulation process is automatically switched based on the determination in step (1).

Next, in step (3), the CPU 12
The print J0B spooled on D23 is analyzed, the printer engine 17 develops the raster image into a printable raster image, and the developed raster image is stored on the HD 23. Next, in step (4), the printer is ready to print, that is, waits for the end of printing the print job in the reception buffer.
The print process of the spool job, which has already been image-developed, is started, and the process ends.

[Third Embodiment] In the second embodiment,
A case has been described in which, after spooling in the HD 23, rendering to a print image is always performed in a print processing waiting state.
If the free space in D23 is equal to or more than a certain
P) Perform processing; if not, expand (RIP)
The processing may be controlled not to be performed, and the expansion (RIP) processing may be switched according to the storage capacity of the HD 23.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a third data processing procedure in the print control apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to a procedure for automatically determining a storage destination of received print information (print JOB). (1) to (8) indicate each step.

As shown in FIG. 2, the host computer 3
In step (1), when the print data is transferred from the print buffer 000, it is determined whether the print buffer is ready for printing, that is, whether or not the reception buffer has a certain amount of free space.
If it is determined that there is a certain amount of free space in the reception buffer secured on the server 19, the print job is fetched into the reception buffer in step (7), and the CPU is executed in step (8).
12 analyzes the print job stored in the RAM 19,
The printer engine 17 develops the image into a printable raster image, outputs a video signal based on the developed raster image, performs print processing, and ends the processing.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (1) that there is not enough free space in the reception buffer, the print job is taken into a spool area secured on the hard disk (HD) 23 in step (2). In this way, the print job accumulation process is automatically switched based on the determination in step (1).

Next, in step (3), it is determined whether or not the free space of the HD 23 is equal to or more than a certain value. If it is determined that the free space of the HD 23 is not less than a certain value, step (4) is performed.
The CPU 12 prints the spooled job on the HD 23
And the printer engine 17 develops the raster image into a printable raster image, stores the developed raster image on the HD 23, and proceeds to step (5) and subsequent steps.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (3) that the free space of the HD 23 is not equal to or larger than the predetermined value, the process proceeds to step (5), and waits for the end of printing of the print job on the reception buffer. Then, when the printing apparatus is ready for printing, the printing process of the spool job, which has already been image-developed, is started, and the process ends.

In the above embodiment, step (3)
Has described the case where the RIP execution of the spool job is switched depending on whether or not the free space of the HD 23 is equal to or more than a certain value. It is also effective to use (complexity, resolution, image size) as a reference, or to combine them in combination.

Hereinafter, the characteristic configuration of each embodiment will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS.

A data processing method of a printing control device for controlling a printing device capable of communicating with a data processing device via a predetermined communication medium (including a network and an interface) configured as described above, or A storage medium storing a computer readable program for controlling a printing apparatus capable of communicating with a data processing apparatus via a communication medium, wherein print information received from the data processing apparatus is stored in a first storage area. The first storage step (step (5) in FIG. 3, step (6) in FIG. 4, step (7) in FIG. 5) and print information received from the data processing apparatus are stored in the first storage area. A second accumulation process (step (2) in FIGS. 3 to 5) that can sequentially accumulate in different second storage areas and a processing state of print information accumulated in the first storage area. Determining whether the print information received from the data processing device is to be stored in the first storage area or the second storage area (step (1) in FIGS. 3 to 5); A switching step of switching the storage processing of the first and second storage steps so that print information received from the data processing device is stored in the second storage area from the first storage area based on the determination result in the determination step (Steps (1) to (2) in FIGS. 3 to 5 or steps (1) to (5) in FIG. 3, steps (1) to (6) in FIG. 4, and steps (1) to (6) in FIG. 7)), even if the reception of print information in the first storage area is delayed, the storage destination of the received print information is automatically switched to the second storage area, and the printing apparatus Processing status of print information fluctuates Even allows uptake continue print information from the data processing device, communication with the data processing device at the time of print request to open quickly, the data processing efficiency of the entire system can be remarkably improved.

Further, the first storage area is a reception buffer area secured in a volatile memory resource (RAM 19), and the second storage area is a volatile memory resource (RA
M19), it is configured as a specific spool area, so even if the processing state of the print information in the printing apparatus fluctuates and, for example, the first storage area cannot be used, the same volatile memory resource is used. It is possible to continue taking print information into a specific spool area secured inside,
Communication with the data processing device at the time of a print request can be quickly released, and the data processing efficiency of the entire system can be significantly improved.

Further, the first storage area is a reception buffer area secured in a volatile memory resource (RAM 19), and the second storage area is a non-volatile memory resource (H
D23), it is configured as a specific spool area secured during the process. Therefore, even if the processing state of the print information in the printing apparatus changes and, for example, the first storage area cannot be used, the first storage area is used. The print information can be continuously captured in a specific spool area secured in a non-volatile memory resource different from the one above, and communication with the data processing device at the time of a print request is promptly released to improve the data processing efficiency of the entire system. It can be significantly improved.

In the determination step (step (1) in FIG. 4 and step (1) in FIG. 5), the processing state of the print information is determined based on whether the printing apparatus is in the printing stopped state. By reliably determining that the print information has transitioned to a stop state in which the print information cannot be processed, the print information can be continuously taken in from the data processing device, communication with the data processing device at the time of a print request is promptly released, and the entire system is Data processing efficiency can be significantly improved.

Further, in the determination step (step (1) in FIG. 3), the processing state of the print information is determined based on whether or not there is a free area in the first storage area where the print information can be stored. It is determined that the storage area of the first storage area has become full and the print information has continuously transitioned to a state where it cannot be stored in the first storage area.
, The print information can be continuously taken in from the data processing device, communication with the data processing device at the time of a print request can be quickly released, and the data processing efficiency of the entire system can be significantly improved. .

After the print information received from the data processing apparatus is stored in the first storage area in the second storage area, the stored print information is converted into raster image data printable by the printing apparatus. An expansion step (step (3) in FIG. 4 and step (4) in FIG. 5) for expanding, and determining whether or not the raster image data can be expanded by the expansion step by determining the free space in the second storage area. Since the print information received from the data processing apparatus is stored in the second storage area from the first storage area, the determination step (step (3) in FIG. 5) is performed. Since the spooling print information can be developed and stored in a printable raster image by the printing apparatus by monitoring the vacant state of the area, a mark required from the start of printing to the end of printing of the spooled print information can be obtained. Processing time can be greatly shortened, thereby improving the printing throughput.

Hereinafter, the configuration of a data processing program that can be read by a printing system to which the print control apparatus according to the present invention can be applied will be described with reference to a memory map shown in FIG.

FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining a memory map of a storage medium for storing various data processing programs which can be read by a printing system to which the print control apparatus according to the present invention can be applied.

Although not shown, information for managing a group of programs stored in the storage medium, for example, version information, a creator and the like are also stored, and information dependent on the OS or the like on the program reading side, for example, a program is stored in the storage medium. An icon or the like for identification display may also be stored.

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

The functions shown in FIGS. 3 to 5 in this embodiment may be performed by a host computer by a program installed from the outside. And in that case, CD-ROM, flash memory, FD
The present invention is applicable even when a group of information including a program is supplied to an output device from a storage medium such as the above or from an external storage medium via a network.

As described above, the storage medium storing the program codes of the software for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to the system or the apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MP) of the system or the apparatus is supplied.
It goes without saying that the object of the present invention is also achieved when U) reads and executes the program code stored in the storage medium.

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

Examples of the storage medium for supplying the program code include a floppy disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, and C
DR, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, RO
M, EEPROM and the like can be used.

Further, when the computer executes the readout program code, not only the functions of the above-described embodiment are realized, but also the OS (Operating System) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. ) And the like perform part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

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

[0087]

As described above, the first embodiment according to the present invention is described.
According to the invention, there is provided a print control device for controlling a printing device capable of communicating with a data processing device via a predetermined communication medium, wherein print information received from the data processing device is stored in a first storage area. A first storage unit, a second storage unit that can sequentially store print information received from the data processing device in a second storage area different from the first storage area, Determining means for determining whether to store the print information received from the data processing device in a first storage area or a second storage area based on a processing state of the stored print information; and the determination means. A control means for switching and controlling the accumulation processing of the first and second accumulation means so as to accumulate print information received from the data processing device from the first storage area to the second storage area based on the determination result by Therefore, even if the reception of print information to the first storage area is delayed, the storage destination of the received print information is automatically switched to the second storage area, and the print information in the printing apparatus is changed. Even if the processing state of the printer changes, the print information can be continuously taken in from the data processing apparatus, and the communication with the data processing apparatus at the time of a print request is promptly released, thereby significantly improving the data processing efficiency of the entire system. Can be.

According to the second invention, the first storage area is a reception buffer area secured in a volatile memory resource, and the second storage area is a specific buffer secured in the volatile memory resource. Therefore, even if the processing state of the print information in the printing apparatus fluctuates and, for example, the first storage area cannot be used, a specific spool secured in the same volatile memory resource is used. Printing information can be continuously taken into the area, communication with the data processing device at the time of a printing request can be quickly opened, and the data processing efficiency of the entire system can be significantly improved.

According to the third invention, the first storage area is a reception buffer area secured in a volatile memory resource, and the second storage area is a specific buffer area secured in a nonvolatile memory resource. Therefore, even if the processing state of the print information in the printing apparatus fluctuates and, for example, the first storage area cannot be used, a non-volatile memory resource different from the first storage area is used. In this case, the print information can be continuously taken into a specific spool area secured in the system, and the communication with the data processing device at the time of a print request can be promptly released, thereby significantly improving the data processing efficiency of the entire system.

According to the fourth aspect, the determination means determines the processing state of the print information based on whether the printing apparatus is in the printing stopped state, and thus the printing apparatus has transitioned to the stopped state in which the printing apparatus cannot process the printing information. , The print information can be continuously taken in from the data processing device, and communication with the data processing device at the time of a print request can be promptly released, thereby significantly improving the data processing efficiency of the entire system. .

According to the fifth aspect, the determining means determines the processing state of the print information based on whether there is a free area in the first storage area where the print information can be stored. When it is determined that the area is full and the print information has continuously transitioned to a state in which the print information cannot be stored in the first storage area, the storage destination of the print information is switched to the second storage area, and data processing is performed. Printing information can be continuously taken in from the apparatus, and communication with the data processing apparatus at the time of a print request can be promptly released, so that the data processing efficiency of the entire system can be significantly improved.

According to the sixth aspect, after the print information received from the data processing device is accumulated from the first storage area to the second storage area, the printing apparatus prints the accumulated print information. The data processing means for developing the raster image data into possible raster image data; and developing control means for determining the free space of the second storage area and controlling execution of raster image data by the developing means. When accumulating print information received from the apparatus from the first storage area to the second storage area, the printing apparatus monitors the empty state of the second storage area and prints spooled print information by the printing apparatus. Since the rasterized image can be developed and stored, the print processing time required from the start to the end of printing of the spooled print information can be greatly reduced, and the print throughput can be improved. Can.

According to the seventh and thirteenth aspects, there is provided a data processing method for a printing control device for controlling a printing device capable of communicating with a data processing device via a predetermined communication medium, A storage medium storing a program readable by a computer that controls a printing apparatus capable of communicating with the data processing apparatus via the first storage area, wherein print information received from the data processing apparatus is stored in a first storage area. An accumulation step, a second accumulation step of sequentially accumulating print information received from the data processing device in a second storage area different from the first storage area, and accumulation in the first storage area The print information received from the data processing device is stored in a first storage area and a second storage area based on a processing state of the print information.
A storage area for storing the print information received from the data processing apparatus in the second storage area from the first storage area based on the determination result of the determination step. And a switching step of switching the storage processing of the first and second storage steps so that the reception of the print information in the first storage area is delayed even if the reception of the print information to the first storage area is delayed. When the print information is automatically switched to the second storage area, even if the processing state of the print information in the printing apparatus changes, the print information can be continuously taken in from the data processing apparatus, and the communication with the data processing apparatus at the time of a print request is quickly performed. And the data processing efficiency of the entire system can be significantly improved.

According to the eighth and fourteenth aspects, the first storage area is a reception buffer area secured in a volatile memory resource, and the second storage area is secured in the volatile memory resource. The processing state of the print information in the printing apparatus fluctuates,
For example, even if the first storage area cannot be used, print information can be continuously taken into a specific spool area secured in the same volatile memory resource, and communication with the data processing apparatus at the time of a print request is made. , And the data processing efficiency of the entire system can be significantly improved.

According to the ninth and fifteenth aspects, the first storage area is a reception buffer area secured in a volatile memory resource, and the second storage area is secured in a nonvolatile memory resource. The processing state of the print information in the printing apparatus fluctuates,
For example, even when the first storage area cannot be used, print information can be continuously taken into a specific spool area secured in a non-volatile memory resource different from the first storage area. , Communication with the data processing device can be quickly released, and the data processing efficiency of the entire system can be significantly improved.

According to the tenth and sixteenth aspects, in the determining step, the processing state of the print information is determined based on whether the printing apparatus is in the printing stopped state. Make sure that you have done
The print information can be continuously taken in from the data processing device, and the communication with the data processing device at the time of a print request can be promptly released, thereby significantly improving the data processing efficiency of the entire system.

According to the eleventh and seventeenth aspects, the judging step judges the processing state of the print information based on whether or not there is a free area in the first storage area where the print information can be stored. It is determined that the storage area of the first storage area has become full and the print information has not been continuously stored in the first storage area, and the storage destination of the print information is switched to the second storage area. In addition, the print information can be continuously taken in from the data processing device, and the communication with the data processing device at the time of a print request can be promptly released, thereby significantly improving the data processing efficiency of the entire system.

According to the twelfth and eighteenth aspects, after the print information received from the data processing device is stored from the first storage area to the second storage area, the stored print information is stored in the print area. Since the apparatus has a developing step of developing the image into printable raster image data, and a determining step of determining the free space of the second storage area and determining whether or not the raster image data can be developed by the developing step. When accumulating print information received from the data processing device from a first storage area to a second storage area, the printer monitors the free state of the second storage area and prints spooled print information. Can be developed and stored in a printable raster image, so that the print processing time required from the start of printing of the spooled print information to the end of printing can be greatly reduced, and the print throughput can be reduced. It is possible to above.

Therefore, the storage destination for storing the print information received from the data processing device is switched from the first storage area to the second storage area in accordance with the data processing state of the printing apparatus and the free space of the memory resources to be stored. Is possible,
The print information sequentially transferred from the data processing devices on the network can be accumulated without any delay, and the communication with the data processing devices can be released, and the print processing environment that improves the print processing efficiency of the entire system at the time of a print request can be freely adjusted. It has effects such as maintenance.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration of an output device to which the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a printing system to which a print control device according to the first embodiment of the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first data processing procedure in the print control apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second data processing procedure in the print control apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a third data processing procedure in the print control device according to the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by a printing system to which the print control device according to the present invention can be applied.

[Explanation of symbols]

 12 CPU 13 ROM 17 Printer Engine 19 RAM 23 HD 1500 Printer 1501 Printer Control Unit 3000 Host Computer

Claims (18)

[Claims] 1. A printing control device for controlling a printing device capable of communicating with a data processing device via a predetermined communication medium, the printing control device storing print information received from the data processing device in a first storage area. 1 storage means, second storage means capable of sequentially storing print information received from the data processing device in a second storage area different from the first storage area, and storage in the first storage area. Determining means for determining whether to store the print information received from the data processing device in the first storage area or the second storage area based on the processing state of the print information to be stored; A control means for switching and controlling the accumulation processing of the first and second accumulation means so as to accumulate print information received from the data processing device from the first storage area to the second storage area based on the determination result. Print control apparatus characterized by having, when. 2. The first storage area is configured as a reception buffer area secured in a volatile memory resource, and the second storage area is configured as a specific spool area secured in the volatile memory resource. The printing control device according to claim 1, wherein: 3. The first storage area is configured as a reception buffer area secured in a volatile memory resource, and the second storage area is configured as a specific spool area secured in a nonvolatile memory resource. The printing control device according to claim 1, wherein: 4. The printing control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the determining unit determines a processing state of the print information based on whether the printing apparatus is in a printing stopped state. 5. The print control according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit determines a processing state of the print information based on whether there is a free area in the first storage area where the print information can be stored. apparatus. 6. After storing print information received from the data processing apparatus from a first storage area to a second storage area, the stored print information is converted into raster image data printable by the printing apparatus. Expanding means for expanding, and the second
2. A print control apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a development control unit configured to determine a free space of the storage area and control execution of development into raster image data by the development unit. 7. A data processing method for a printing control device for controlling a printing device capable of communicating with a data processing device via a predetermined communication medium, wherein the printing information received from the data processing device is stored in a first storage area. A first storage step of storing print information received from the data processing device in a second storage area different from the first storage area; and a first storage step of sequentially storing print information in a second storage area different from the first storage area. A determining step of determining whether to store the print information received from the data processing device in the first storage area or the second storage area based on a processing state of the print information stored in the storage area; The storage process of the first and second storage processes is switched so that print information received from the data processing device is stored in the second storage region from the first storage region based on the determination result of the determination process. Data processing method of a print control apparatus and a step switch that, the. 8. The first storage area is configured as a reception buffer area secured in a volatile memory resource, and the second storage area is configured as a specific spool area secured in the volatile memory resource. 8. The data processing method for a print control device according to claim 7, wherein: 9. The first storage area is configured as a reception buffer area secured in a volatile memory resource, and the second storage area is configured as a specific spool area secured in a nonvolatile memory resource. 8. The data processing method for a print control device according to claim 7, wherein: 10. The data processing method for a print control device according to claim 7, wherein said determining step determines a processing state of print information based on whether the printing apparatus is in a printing stopped state. 11. The print control according to claim 7, wherein the determining step determines a processing state of the print information based on whether there is a free area in the first storage area where the print information can be stored. Device data processing method. 12. After storing print information received from the data processing device from a first storage area to a second storage area, the stored print information is converted into raster image data printable by the printing apparatus. A developing step for developing, and the second
8. A data processing method for a print control apparatus according to claim 7, further comprising: determining a free space in said storage area to determine whether or not to execute raster image data in said rasterizing step. 13. A storage medium storing a computer readable program for controlling a printing apparatus capable of communicating with a data processing apparatus via a predetermined communication medium, wherein print information received from the data processing apparatus is stored in a storage medium. A first storage step of storing print information in the first storage area, a second storage step of sequentially storing print information received from the data processing device in a second storage area different from the first storage area, It is determined whether the print information received from the data processing device is to be stored in the first storage area or the second storage area based on the processing state of the print information stored in the first storage area. Determining the print information received from the data processing device from the first storage area to the second storage area based on the determination result of the determination step; Storage medium having a computer, characterized in that and a step switch switches the accumulation process of accumulating process of storing readable program. 14. The first storage area is configured as a reception buffer area secured in a volatile memory resource, and the second storage area is configured as a specific spool area secured in the volatile memory resource. 14. The method according to claim 13, wherein
A storage medium storing the computer-readable program according to the above. 15. The first storage area is configured as a reception buffer area secured in a volatile memory resource, and the second storage area is configured as a specific spool area secured in a nonvolatile memory resource. 14. The method according to claim 13, wherein
A storage medium storing the computer-readable program according to the above. 16. The storage medium according to claim 13, wherein the determining step determines a processing state of print information based on whether the printing apparatus is in a printing stopped state. 17. The computer according to claim 13, wherein the determining step determines a processing state of the print information based on whether there is a free area in the first storage area where the print information can be stored. A storage medium storing a readable program. 18. After storing print information received from the data processing apparatus from a first storage area to a second storage area, the stored print information is converted into raster image data printable by the printing apparatus. A developing step for developing, and the second
14. A computer readable program according to claim 13, further comprising: a determination step of determining the free space of said storage area and determining whether or not to execute raster image data in said rasterizing step. Storage media.