JP2000341509A - Method and device for printing image for tape printing device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To obtain a method and device for printing images on tape by which dividedly printed images can be joined together by hardly causing gaps, etc., even when the images are printed on a plurality of tapes by providing excessive print avoiding areas having a prescribed print avoiding width on both edges of a tape in the width direction so that a label, etc., which is adaptive to a preset magnifying scale can be prepared. SOLUTION: In order to print enlarged images in a printing area, having a printing width (p) (p=Tw-2d) of an arbitrary tape with excess print avoid areas having a prescribed print avoiding width (d) on both edges in the width direction, the tape is set and the print avoiding width (d) and a printing width (p) are decided. Then an arbitrary magnifying scale (m) (m: a real number >=1) is decided, and the m-fold of the original printing width of the tape is decided as a label width Lw. Thereafter, an enlarged image having a label width Lw is prepared from the original image and the enlarged image is printed by adding one or more kinds of marks indicating the boundary lines between useful portions and useless portions to the image on the basis of the widths Lw, d, and p.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a method and an apparatus for printing an image on a tape printing apparatus for printing a print image on a tape.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, various tape printing apparatuses for printing on tapes having different tape widths are known. In this type of tape printing apparatus, printing is performed on a tape by mounting a tape cartridge containing tapes having different tape widths, and the tape after printing is cut to a desired length (arbitrary length). A label or the like having a width and an arbitrary length according to the tape width can be created. There is also known a tape printing apparatus that can print a print image (enlarged print image) obtained by enlarging a base print image (basic print image) by setting an arbitrary (for example, an integer multiple) enlargement ratio. In this type of tape printing apparatus, when printing an enlarged print image as it is cannot print the tape width of the attached tape, the enlarged print image is divided and printed on a plurality of tapes. For this reason, the user can create a label or the like on which an enlarged print image exceeding the tape width is printed by joining a plurality of divided print images (divided print images) adjacently to each other by bonding them together.

[0003]

However, for example, in the case of a thermal type tape printing apparatus, it is practically impossible to print completely up to both ends in the width direction of the tape. That is, in order to print completely to both ends, it is necessary to generate heat by making the heating width of the heating element of the thermal head (the application width of print image data) completely match the width of the tape.
It is impossible to completely match the thermal head due to error factors such as the position and posture of mounting the thermal head, the mounting position of the tape cartridge, the storage position of the tape in the tape cartridge, and the running path (meandering) of the tape. In addition, printing to both ends by printing exceeding the width of the tape (protruding) may cause damage to the platen, etc. due to the heat of the protruding portion, or may cause excess ink to adhere and cause stains on each part, resulting in printing. Since this causes a decrease in quality, it is not preferable in terms of structure. For these reasons, at both ends in the width direction of the tape, there is conventionally provided a margin portion (super-width print avoidance region) for avoiding printing exceeding the tape width. Further, there is a tape printing apparatus including only a print head (thermal head) smaller than the maximum tape width by the width of the super-wide print avoidance area (print avoidance width).

[0004] However, if enlarged printing is performed with the super-width printing avoidance area provided and the divided print images are pasted together as they are, a gap (margin, etc.) as an image is generated at the junction of the divided print images. That is, since there is a margin corresponding to the print avoidance width in both of the adjacent divided print images, it is not possible to join them exactly as they are. In this case, a method is conceivable in which both print avoidance widths are cut and bonded adjacently, or one print avoidance width is cut and the other print avoidance width is overlapped as a margin for bonding. However, even when trying to cut the print avoidance width, the various conventional tape printers described above do not consider the print avoidance width, and thus have no standard for cutting. In addition, if the cut is performed by the unit of the interval, the cut may be excessive or insufficient, and there may be a problem that a gap or a step is formed in the image of the joined portion, or a non-aligned margin remains (see FIG. 10). Conversely, if the connection between adjacent divided print images is weak as an image, gaps (including margins) and steps are difficult to form, but there is no standard for the distance between them, that is, there is no standard for cutting. It is difficult to create a label having a width suitable for the enlargement ratio due to an excessive or insufficient glue margin (see FIG. 11).

According to the present invention, even if an enlarged print image obtained by enlarging a basic print image is divided and printed on a plurality of tapes by providing a super-width print avoidance region having a predetermined print avoidance width at both ends in the width direction of the tape, It is an object of the present invention to provide an image printing method of a tape printing apparatus and an image printing method thereof, in which a gap or the like hardly occurs when joining divided print images, and which can create a label or the like that matches a set enlargement ratio.

[0006]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image printing method, wherein a super-wide print avoidance region for avoiding printing exceeding a tape width Tw of a tape to be printed is provided. The print target width p (p = Tw−2d) is set at both ends in the width direction so as to have a predetermined print avoidance width d, and a portion of the tape width Tw other than the print avoidance width d is set as a print target width p (p = Tw−2d). An image printing method of a tape printing apparatus for printing an enlarged print image obtained by enlarging a basic print image at an arbitrary enlargement ratio in a print target area having a width p, wherein a tape mounting step of mounting an arbitrary tape as the print target A print target width determining step of determining the print avoidance width d and the print target width p of the attached tape; and an arbitrary enlargement factor m
(M is a real number equal to or greater than 1), and a label width for determining a print width corresponding to m times the print width of the basic print image as a label width Lw according to the set enlargement ratio m A determining step, an enlarged print image creating step of creating an enlarged print image of the label width Lw by enlarging the basic print image m times, the label width Lw, the print avoidance width d, and the print target width a boundary mark adding step of adding, to the enlarged print image, one or more boundary marks indicating a boundary between a useful part and a useless part of the tape as a result of printing; A printing step of printing the added enlarged print image on the tape,
It is characterized by having.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the image printing apparatus according to the first aspect of the present invention, wherein the super-wide print avoidance areas for avoiding printing exceeding the tape width Tw of the tape to be printed are provided at both ends in the width direction of the tape. And a printing width p (p = Tw−2d) of a portion of the tape width Tw other than the printing avoidance width d is provided as a printing width p (p = Tw−2d). An image printing apparatus of a tape printing apparatus that prints an enlarged print image obtained by enlarging a basic print image at an arbitrary magnification rate in a target area, wherein a tape mounting unit that mounts an arbitrary tape as the print target is mounted. A print target width determining means for determining the print avoidance width d and the print target width p of the tape, and an arbitrary enlargement factor m (m is 1
Enlargement ratio setting means for setting the above real number), label width determination means for determining a print width corresponding to m times the print width of the basic print image as the label width Lw according to the set enlargement ratio m, An enlarged print image creating unit that creates an enlarged print image of the label width Lw by enlarging the basic print image by m times, based on the label width Lw, the print avoidance width d, and the print target width p. A boundary mark adding means for adding at least one type of boundary mark indicating a boundary between a useful part and a useless part of the tape as a result of printing to the enlarged print image; And printing means for printing a print image on the tape.

In this image printing method and apparatus, a super-wide print avoidance area having a predetermined print avoidance width d is provided at both ends in the width direction of the tape having a tape width Tw, and a print target width p (p = T
An enlarged print image obtained by enlarging the basic print image by an arbitrary enlargement factor is printed in the print target area of w-2d). Specifically, an arbitrary tape is mounted as a print target, and a print avoidance width d and a print target width p of the mounted tape are determined, while an arbitrary enlargement factor m (m is a real number of 1 or more) is set. And
The print width m of the basic print image according to the set enlargement factor m
The print width corresponding to the double is determined as the label width Lw, and the basic print image is enlarged by m times to create an enlarged print image of the label width Lw. Further, based on the label width Lw, the print avoidance width d, and the print target width p, one or more types of boundary marks indicating a boundary between a useful portion and a useless portion of the tape of the print result are added to the enlarged print image. First, an enlarged print image to which one or more boundary marks are added is printed on a tape.

In this case, the label width Lw and the printing avoidance width d
Based on the print target width p, at least one type of boundary mark indicating the boundary between the useful part and the useless part is added to the enlarged print image and printed, so that the tape is lengthened based on the printed boundary mark. It can be easily cut in the direction. Further, when it is necessary to perform divided printing on a plurality of tapes according to the label width Lw, it is possible to easily join a plurality of divided printed images based on the printed boundary marks. Therefore, even if an enlarged print image is printed by providing a super-wide print avoidance area of a predetermined print avoidance width at both ends in the width direction of the tape, it is possible to create a label or the like equivalent to the case where the super-wide print avoidance area is not provided, Further, even when the enlarged print image is divided and printed on a plurality of tapes, a gap or the like hardly occurs when the divided print images are joined, and the print width (label width) Lw suitable for the set enlargement ratio m is set. Labels can be created. Conventionally, the enlargement ratio m is generally an integer (integer multiple) for the convenience of printing and joining the divided print images to the full width of the tape. Alternatively, for example, a decimal number of 1 or more may be used.

Further, in the image printing method according to the first aspect,
The printing avoidance width d and the printing target width p are determined corresponding to the tape width Tw, and the printing target width determining step includes a tape width detecting step of detecting a tape width Tw of the attached tape; It is preferable to include a print target width setting step of setting a predetermined print avoidance width d and a print target width p corresponding to the detected tape width Tw.

Further, in the image printing apparatus according to the present invention, the print avoidance width d and the print target width p are determined corresponding to the tape width Tw, and the print target width determining means is mounted. It is preferable to include a tape width detecting unit that detects a tape width Tw of the tape, and a print target width setting unit that sets a predetermined print avoidance width d and a print target width p corresponding to the detected tape width Tw. .

In this image printing method and apparatus, the print avoidance width d and the print target width p are determined corresponding to the tape width Tw, and the tape width Tw of the attached tape is detected. A predetermined print avoidance width d and a print target width p corresponding to Tw are set. That is, the print avoidance width d and the print target width p are determined in correspondence with the tape width Tw. And it can be easily set by determining the print target width p.

Further, in the image printing method according to claim 1 or 2, when one of both ends in the tape width direction of the tape is a reference end and the other is a set end, the boundary mark adding step includes the step of adding the boundary mark of the enlarged print image. It is preferable that a first boundary mark adding step of adding a first boundary mark indicating a boundary between the inside and the outside of the label width Lw as one type of the boundary mark is provided at an end on the set end side.

16. The image printing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein when one of both ends in the tape width direction of the tape is set as a reference end and the other is set as a set end, the boundary mark adding unit sets the boundary mark on the enlarged print image. It is preferable that a first boundary mark adding means for adding a first boundary mark indicating a boundary between the inside and the outside of the label width Lw as one type of the boundary mark is provided at an end on the set end side.

In this image printing method and apparatus, when one of both ends in the tape width direction of the tape is set as the reference end and the other is set as the set end, the inside of the label width Lw is set at the set end of the enlarged print image. A first boundary mark indicating a boundary line with the outside is added as one type of boundary mark. That is, when the enlarged print image is printed, the first boundary mark is printed at the end of the enlarged print image on the set end side. Processing such as cutting can be easily performed. In addition, this first
Since the boundary mark indicates a boundary between the inside and the outside of the label width Lw, a label having a label width Lw that matches the set enlargement factor m can be created by cutting or the like.

Further, in the image printing method according to claim 3,
In the printing step, when there is a blank area having a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d on the reference end side of the enlarged print image, the print avoidance width d on the reference end side of the enlarged print image is deleted. A partially enlarged print image creating step of creating a partially enlarged print image having a print width Pw = Lw-d, and aligning a reference end side end of the partial enlarged print image with the reference end end of the print target area. A partial image printing step of printing the partial enlarged print image instead of the enlarged print image.

Further, in the image printing apparatus according to the present invention, when the printing means has a margin area having a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d on the reference end side of the enlarged print image,
A partially enlarged print image creating means for creating a partially enlarged print image of a print width Pw = Lw-d by deleting the print avoidance width d on the reference end side of the enlarged print image; It is preferable that the image forming apparatus further includes a partial image printing unit that prints the partial enlarged print image instead of the enlarged print image by aligning an end of the partial enlarged print image with an end of the partial enlarged print image at a reference end side.

When printing is performed without providing a super-wide print avoidance area, the margins at both ends in the width direction of the enlarged print image are the margins at both ends in the width direction of the label. On the other hand, when the super-wide print avoidance area is provided, if printing is performed as it is, the margins at both ends in the width direction of the label are added to the margins at both ends in the width direction of the enlarged print image by the print avoidance width d. . That is, the margin is increased by the print avoidance width d, which causes a problem that the margins at both ends in the width direction of the created label do not have a desired width. In this image printing method and apparatus, when there is a blank area having a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d on the reference end side of the enlarged print image, the print avoidance width d on the reference end side of the enlarged print image is deleted. Print width Pw = L
A partial enlarged print image of wd is created, and the reference enlarged end of the partial enlarged print image is aligned with the reference end of the print target area, and the partial enlarged print image is printed instead of the enlarged print image. In this case, the margin on the reference end side of the print result is increased by the print avoidance width d. However, since the margin by the print avoidance width d is deleted before printing, the margin on the reference end side of the original enlarged print image is removed. Can be matched. The actual print width Pw to be printed is the print width Pw = Lw-d, but since there is a margin for the print avoidance width d on the reference end side of the tape, the super-width print avoidance area is When the enlarged print image of the print width Pw = Lw is printed as it is without providing, an equivalent print result is obtained.

Further, in the image printing method according to claim 4,
A relationship of Lw> p + d holds for the label width Lw, the print target width p, and the print avoidance width d, and
When there is a margin area having a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d on the reference end side of the enlarged print image, the print width Pw = Lw
−d is divided into n (n is an integer of 2 or more) divided print widths Pi (0
≦ Pi ≦ p, where i = 1 to n, where the sum ΣPi
= Pw), and further includes an enlarged print image dividing step of dividing the partially enlarged print image of the print width Pw into n divided enlarged print images having each divided print width Pi (i = 1 to n), The boundary mark adding step includes adding the reference end of each divided enlarged print image to n-1 divided enlarged print images having a divided print width Pj (j = 2 to n) of the n divided enlarged print images. Adding a third boundary mark indicating a side edge as one type of the boundary mark; and a divided print width P of the n divided enlarged print images.
In the n-1 divided enlarged print images having k (k = 1 to n-1), a fourth boundary mark indicating the end on the set end side of each divided enlarged print image is set as one type of the boundary mark. Adding a fourth boundary mark adding step, wherein the partial image printing step includes the step of sequentially or arbitrarily printing one of the n divided enlarged print images in the print target area. It is preferable to have a print image printing step.

The image printing apparatus according to claim 17, wherein a relationship of Lw> p + d is established for the label width Lw, the print target width p, and the print avoidance width d, and the reference of the enlarged print image is provided. When there is a margin area having a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d on the end side, the print width Pw =
Lw-d is divided into n (n is an integer of 2 or more) divided print widths Pi
(0 ≦ Pi ≦ p, where i = 1 to n, where sum Σ
Pi = Pw), and further includes an enlarged print image dividing unit that divides the partial enlarged print image of the print width Pw into n divided enlarged print images having each divided print width Pi (i = 1 to n), The boundary mark adding means is configured to output a divided print width Pj (j = 2 to n) of the n divided enlarged print images.
A third boundary mark adding means for adding, as a kind of the boundary mark, a third boundary mark indicating the end on the reference end side of each of the divided enlarged print images to the n-1 divided enlarged print images, The end on the setting end side of each divided enlarged print image is added to (n-1) divided enlarged print images having the divided print width Pk (k = 1 to n-1) of the n divided enlarged print images. And a fourth boundary mark adding unit that adds a fourth boundary mark shown as one of the boundary marks, wherein the partial image printing unit includes one of the n pieces in the print target area. It is preferable to have a divided enlarged print image printing means for sequentially or arbitrarily printing the divided enlarged print images.

In this image printing method and apparatus, the relationship of Lw> p + d is established for the label width Lw, the print target width p, and the print avoidance width d, and the print avoidance width d is provided on the reference end side of the enlarged print image. When there is a blank area having the above width, the print width Pw = Lw-d is divided into n (n is an integer of 2 or more) divided print widths Pi (0 ≦ Pi ≦ p, where i = 1).
To n, where the sum ΣPi = Pw), and the partially enlarged print image of the print width Pw is assigned to each divided print width Pi (i = 1 to
(n) into n divided enlarged print images. In this case, the divided print width Pi of each of the n divided enlarged print images is:
Since 0 ≦ Pi ≦ p, it is possible to print on the print target area having the print target width p. Further, in this case, the n-1 divided enlarged print images having the divided print widths Pj (j = 2 to n) of the n divided enlarged print images are added to the end on the reference end side of each divided enlarged print image. Is added as one type of boundary mark, and n-1 divided enlarged prints having a divided print width Pk (k = 1 to n-1) of the n divided enlarged print images are added. A fourth boundary mark indicating an end on the set end side of each divided enlarged print image is added to the image as one type of boundary mark, and one of the n divided enlarged print images is printed in the print target area. Print sequentially or arbitrarily. In this case, when the j-th divided enlarged print image is printed, the third boundary mark of the divided enlarged print image indicates the boundary with the (j-1) th. Similarly, when the k-th divided enlarged print image is printed, the fourth boundary mark indicates the boundary with the (k + 1) -th print image, so that the outside (setting end side) is a useless portion.

Therefore, the user can easily perform processing such as cutting unnecessary portions with reference to the third boundary mark and the fourth boundary mark. Also, if all the n divided enlarged print images are printed and all unnecessary portions indicated by the third and fourth boundary marks are cut and pasted together,
Or if the useful part is overlaid on the adjacent unnecessary part, n
The divided enlarged print images can be joined exactly. Also,
The sum of the divided print widths PiΣPi = Pw, and the print width Pw
= Lw-d, a margin corresponding to the print avoidance width d is added to the reference end side of the divided enlarged print image of the divided print width P1 of i = 1, so that the total width of the joining result matches the label width Lw. In other words, when the divided enlarged print image is printed up to both ends in the width direction of each tape without being provided with the super-wide print avoidance area and is pasted adjacent to each other, an equivalent print result is obtained, and the same setting is obtained as a result of joining. Label width Lw conforming to the enlargement factor m
Label can be created.

Further, in the image printing method according to claim 3,
The boundary mark adding step includes, when the width of the marginal area on the reference end side of the enlarged print image is smaller than the print avoidance width d, forming a second boundary mark indicating the end of the enlarged print image on the reference end side. , A second added as one of the boundary marks
A boundary mark adding step, wherein the printing step includes aligning an end on the reference end side of the enlarged print image with an end on the reference end side of the print target area, and forming the enlarged print image having a print width Pw = Lw. It is preferable to have a whole image printing step for printing.

17. The image printing apparatus according to claim 16, wherein said boundary mark adding means is configured to output the enlarged print image when a width of a margin area on the reference end side of the enlarged print image is smaller than the print avoidance width d. A second end of the reference end
A second boundary mark adding unit that adds a boundary mark as one type of the boundary mark, wherein the printing unit includes a reference end side edge of the enlarged print image at the reference end side edge of the print target area; It is preferable to have an all-image printing means for printing the enlarged print image having a print width Pw = Lw.

As described above, in the case where the super-width printing avoidance area is provided, if the printing is performed as it is, the margins at both ends in the width direction of the label are provided at both ends in the width direction of the enlarged print image. In addition, a margin corresponding to the print avoidance width d is added, and the margin becomes large, so that the margin at both ends in the width direction of the created label does not have a desired width. In the image printing method and the image printing apparatus, when the width of the marginal area on the reference end side of the enlarged print image is smaller than the print avoidance width d, the second boundary mark indicating the reference end side of the enlarged print image is replaced with the boundary mark. The enlarged print image having the print width Pw = Lw is printed by aligning the reference end of the enlarged print image with the reference end of the print target area. That is, when the enlarged print image is printed, the second boundary mark indicating the end on the reference end side of the enlarged print image is printed, and the user refers to the second boundary mark to perform processing such as cutting. Can be easily performed. Also, the second boundary mark has a label width L
Since the boundary between the inside and the outside of w is shown, it is possible to create a label having a label width Lw that matches the set enlargement factor m by cutting or the like.

Further, in the image printing method according to claim 6,
Regarding the label width Lw and the print target width p, L
When the relation w> p is satisfied and the width of the marginal area on the reference end side of the enlarged print image is smaller than the print avoidance width d, the print width Pw is set to n (n is an integer of 2 or more). ) Is assigned to the divided print width Pi (0 ≦ Pi ≦ p, where i = 1 to n, where the sum ΣPi = Pw), and the partially enlarged print image of the print width Pw is assigned to each divided print width Pi (i = 1 to n), and further includes an enlarged print image dividing step of dividing the image into n divided enlarged print images, wherein the boundary mark adding step includes a divided print width Pj (j) of the n divided enlarged print images.
= 2 to n), a third boundary mark for adding a third boundary mark indicating the end on the reference end side of each of the divided enlarged print images as one type of the boundary mark to the n-1 divided enlarged print images A mark adding step, and setting of each of the divided enlarged print images into n-1 divided enlarged print images having a divided print width Pk (k = 1 to n-1) among the n divided enlarged print images. The fourth boundary mark indicating the end on the side of the end is defined as one of the boundary marks.
A fourth boundary mark adding step of adding as a seed, wherein the partial image printing step sequentially or arbitrarily prints one of the n divided enlarged print images in the print target area. It is preferable to have a divided enlarged print image printing step.

20. The image printing apparatus according to claim 19, wherein a relationship of Lw> p is established for the label width Lw and the print target width p, and a margin area on the reference end side of the enlarged print image is defined. When the width is smaller than the print avoidance width d, the print width Pw is n (n is an integer of 2 or more).
Divided print width Pi (0 ≦ Pi ≦ p, where i = 1 to
n, where the sum ΣPi = Pw), and the partial enlarged print image of the print width Pw is divided into the divided print widths Pi (i = 1
To an enlarged print image dividing means for dividing the print image into n divided enlarged print images having the following configuration, wherein the boundary mark adding means includes a divided print width Pj (j = 2) of the n divided enlarged print images. To a (n-1) divided enlarged print image, a third boundary mark indicating the end of the divided enlarged print image on the reference end side as one type of the boundary mark. Means, and n-1 divided enlarged print images having a divided print width Pk (k = 1 to n-1) among the n divided enlarged print images are added to the setting end side of each divided enlarged print image. A fourth boundary mark adding means for adding a fourth boundary mark indicating the end of the mark as one type of the boundary mark;
It is preferable that the partial image printing unit further include a divided enlarged print image printing unit that sequentially or arbitrarily prints one of the n divided enlarged print images in the print target area.

In this image printing method and apparatus, the relationship of Lw> p is established for the label width Lw and the print target width p, and the width of the marginal area on the reference end side of the enlarged print image is the print avoidance width d. Is smaller than n, the print width Pw is divided into n (n is an integer of 2 or more) divided print widths Pi (0 ≦ Pi ≦
p, where i = 1 to n, where sum ΣPi = Pw)
And the partial enlarged print image having the print width Pw is divided into n divided enlarged print images each having the divided print width Pi (i = 1 to n). Each of the divided enlarged print images can be printed in a print target area having a print target width p. Also, the divided print width Pj (j = 2
-N), a third boundary mark indicating the reference end side of each divided enlarged print image is added to the n-1 divided enlarged print images, and the divided print width Pk (k = 1 to n-1) N- having
A fourth boundary mark indicating an end on the set end side of each divided enlarged print image is added to one divided enlarged print image, and the divided enlarged print image is sequentially or arbitrarily printed on a print target area. The third boundary mark of the print image indicates a boundary with the (j-1) -th print image, and the fourth boundary mark of the k-th divided enlarged print image is k +
In order to indicate the boundary with the first, processing such as cutting unnecessary portions can be easily performed with reference to them. Also, n
Print the divided enlarged print image of the third boundary mark and the fourth
All unnecessary portions indicated by the boundary mark can be cut and adjoined, or a useful portion can be overlapped with an adjacent unnecessary portion and stuck and joined exactly. Since the sum ΣPi = Pw = Lw,
The sum of the widths of the joining results matches the label width Lw. In other words, when the divided enlarged print image is printed to both ends in the width direction of each tape without adhering to the super-wide print avoidance area and pasted adjacently,
An equivalent print result is obtained, and a label having a label width Lw conforming to the same set enlargement factor m can be created as a result of joining.

In the image printing method according to claim 6 or 7, it is preferable that the second boundary mark is a cut mark for cutting the tape in a longitudinal direction after printing.

[0030] In the image printing apparatus according to claim 19 or 20, it is preferable that the second boundary mark is a cut mark for cutting the tape in a longitudinal direction after printing.

In this image printing method and apparatus, the second boundary mark is a cut mark for cutting the tape in the longitudinal direction after printing. This second boundary mark is
It shows the edge on the reference end side of the enlarged print image, that is, the boundary line between the inside and the outside of the label width Lw, and is printed when the enlarged print image is printed.
By cutting with reference to the boundary mark, a label having a label width Lw conforming to the set enlargement factor m can be created.

Further, in the image printing method according to claim 5 or 7, it is preferable that the third boundary mark and the fourth boundary mark are cut marks for cutting the tape in a longitudinal direction after printing.

Preferably, the third boundary mark and the fourth boundary mark are cut marks for cutting the tape in a longitudinal direction after printing the tape.

In this image printing method and apparatus, the third boundary mark and the fourth boundary mark are cut marks for cutting the tape in the longitudinal direction after printing. As described in claims 5, 7, 18 or 20, the third boundary mark of the j-th divided enlarged print image indicates the boundary with the (j-1) -th, so that the outside (reference end side) Since it becomes a useless part and the fourth boundary mark of the k-th divided enlarged print image indicates the boundary with the (k + 1) -th part, the outside (setting end side) becomes a useless part. For this reason, the user can cut the unnecessary part of the adjacent enlarged print image by cutting the unnecessary part with reference to the third boundary mark and the fourth boundary mark.
A label having a label width Lw conforming to the set enlargement factor m can be created.

In the image printing method according to the fifth or seventh aspect, the third boundary mark is one of a cut mark for cutting the tape in a longitudinal direction after printing and a margin mark for overlapping. Preferably, the fourth boundary mark is the other of the cut mark and the margin mark.

The image printing apparatus according to claim 18 or 20, wherein the third boundary mark is one of a cut mark for cutting the tape in the longitudinal direction after printing and a margin mark for overlapping. Preferably, the fourth boundary mark is the other of the cut mark and the margin mark.

In this image printing method and apparatus, the third boundary mark is one of a cut mark for cutting the tape in the longitudinal direction after printing and a glue allowance mark for overlapping, and the fourth boundary mark is , Cut mark and glue mark. In the ninth and twenty-second aspects, as described above, the outside of the third boundary mark on the reference end side is a useless portion, and the outside of the fourth boundary mark on the set end side is a useless portion. Part and fourth
Unnecessary portions indicated by the boundary marks are adjacent portions when arranged as labels. Therefore, if one side is cut with reference to a cut mark, the adjacent side is referred to as a margin mark, and the cut end is overlaid on top of the margin margin mark, the adjacent divided enlarged print The images can be joined exactly, whereby a label having a label width Lw conforming to the set enlargement factor m can be created.

Further, in the image printing method according to any one of claims 4 to 10, in the first boundary mark adding step, the print width Pw is determined by Pw = h × p + d (where h is an arbitrary integer of 1 or more). ) Is satisfied, and when there is a blank area having a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d on the set end side of the enlarged print image, the addition of the first boundary mark is omitted, and in the printing step, Print width Pw = h × p +
d is satisfied, and when there is a margin area having a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d on the set end side of the enlarged print image, the print avoidance width d on the set end side of the enlarged print image is It is preferable to print the deleted image instead of the enlarged print image.

The image printing apparatus according to any one of claims 17 to 23, wherein the first boundary mark adding means determines that the print width Pw is Pw = h × p + d (where h is an arbitrary integer of 1 or more). ) Is satisfied, and when there is a blank area having a width equal to or larger than the printing avoidance width d on the set end side of the enlarged print image, the addition of the first boundary mark is omitted, and the printing unit performs the printing. Print width Pw = h × p + d
Is satisfied, and when there is a margin area having a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d on the set end side of the enlarged print image, the print avoidance width d on the set end side of the enlarged print image is deleted. The printed image is preferably printed instead of the enlarged print image.

In this image printing method and apparatus, Pw = h × p + d (where h is 1) for the print width Pw.
When the above arbitrary integer is satisfied and there is a margin area having a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d on the set end side of the enlarged print image, the addition of the first boundary mark is omitted, and the enlarged print image is set. The image from which the print avoidance width d at the end has been deleted is printed instead of the enlarged print image. Here, the print width Pw = h × p + d
The case where h is an arbitrary integer of 1 or more is satisfied when the print width Pw is larger than the sum h × p of the print target widths p of the h tapes by the print avoidance width d. Unlike the case where the printing is performed without providing the super-width printing avoidance area as described above, the margins at both ends in the width direction of the label are provided when the printing is performed as it is. Is increased by the print avoidance width d. For this reason, if printing is performed for the print width h × p (that is, only for Pw−d), the print avoidance width d is added thereto, which is equivalent to printing the print width Pw as it is without providing a super-wide print avoidance area. become. Also, in this case, there is a margin area having a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d on the setting end side of the enlarged print image.
There is no problem even if the print avoidance width d is replaced with the margin of the print avoidance width d. Also, in this case, since the boundary line to be indicated by the first boundary mark coincides with the set end of the tape,
There is no need to perform processing such as cutting. Therefore, in this image printing method and apparatus, the addition and printing of the first boundary mark can be omitted, the processing such as cutting can be omitted, and a printing result equivalent to the case where the super-wide print avoidance area is not provided can be obtained. .

In the image printing method according to any one of claims 3 to 11, it is preferable that the first boundary mark is a cut mark for cutting the tape in a longitudinal direction after printing.

In the image printing apparatus according to any one of claims 16 to 24, the first boundary mark is preferably a cut mark for cutting the tape in a longitudinal direction after printing.

In this image printing method and apparatus, the first boundary mark is a cut mark for cutting the tape in the longitudinal direction after printing. This first boundary mark is
It shows an end on the set end side of the enlarged print image, that is, a boundary line between the inside and the outside of the label width Lw, and is printed when the enlarged print image is printed.
By cutting with reference to the boundary mark, a label having a label width Lw conforming to the set enlargement factor m can be created.

In the image printing method according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects, it is preferable that the tape printing apparatus is a thermal type tape printing apparatus.

In the image printing apparatus according to any one of claims 14 to 25, the tape printing apparatus is preferably a thermal type tape printing apparatus.

In this image printing method and apparatus, the tape printing apparatus is a thermal type tape printing apparatus. As described above, in the tape printing apparatus of the thermal type, the super-width printing avoiding area is provided.
By making use of the various advantages described above in Nos. 12 or 14 to 25, it is possible to create a label or the like having a label width Lw conforming to the set enlargement factor m, which is equivalent to the case where the super-wide print avoidance area is not provided.

[0047]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An image printing method according to an embodiment of the present invention and a tape printing apparatus to which the apparatus is applied will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. First, FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a control system of the tape printer.

The tape printer 1 converts a print image created on the basis of a desired character or the like entered by a key into a tape T.
Color printing by thermal method, and the tape T
Is cut to form a label.

The tape T is composed of a base tape, an adhesive layer applied to the back surface of the base tape, and a release paper tape attached to the adhesive layer. The base tape is paper or paper having a coat layer,
Alternatively, it is made of a material that can sufficiently absorb ink, such as a film having a coat layer. The adhesive layer is for attaching a printing tape as a label to an object to be attached such as a file, and the release paper tape is for preventing dust and the like from adhering to the adhesive layer. Various types of tapes T having a tape width of about 4.5 mm to 48 mm are prepared and provided in a state of being housed in the tape cartridge 5, respectively, and have a resolution of about 24 to 1024 dots in the width direction depending on the tape width. The print image is printed. In addition, these tapes T are prepared from materials of different materials and materials having a ground color other than white. At least several tens of types can be used, including those used in the future. I have.

As shown in FIG. 1, the tape printer 1
As a basic configuration, an operation unit 11 having a keyboard 3 and a display 4 to interface with a user, and a tape cartridge 5
The printing unit 12 that prints on the tape T, the tape T after printing
A cutting unit 13 for cutting various parts, a detecting unit 14 having various sensors to perform various detections, a driving unit 270 having various drivers to drive each circuit, an external memory (file pack)
280, power supply unit 290,
And a control unit 2 for controlling each unit in the tape printer 1
00 is provided. For this reason, the printing unit 1 is provided inside the apparatus.
2, cutting unit 13, detection unit 14, external memory mounting unit 280
In addition, a circuit board (not shown) is housed. In addition to the power supply unit 290, the drive unit 270 and the control unit 2
00 are mounted. The power supply unit of the power supply unit 290 is connected to a battery such as an AC adapter connection port or a detachable NiCd battery from the outside.
Power is supplied to each part inside.

Although not shown in detail, first, the printing unit 12
Then, the tape cartridge 5 is configured to house the tape T and the ink ribbon R inside the cartridge case, and is formed with a through-hole for insertion into a head unit provided in a pocket of the printing unit 12, A tape reel inserted into the positioning pin of the pocket and a ribbon take-up reel inserted into the take-up drive shaft of the pocket are housed, and a print head built in the head unit is provided at a portion where the tape T and the ink ribbon R overlap. A platen roller inserted into the platen drive shaft of the pocket is accommodated corresponding to the (thermal head) 7.

The tape cartridge 5 is provided with a plurality of small holes on the back surface so as to be able to identify the types of the built-in tape T such as different widths. A tape identification sensor such as a switch is provided so that the type of the tape T can be detected. Also, in the pocket,
An ambient temperature sensor such as a thermistor that detects and reports an environmental (ambient) temperature is provided. Further, a head surface temperature sensor such as a thermistor is provided in close contact with the surface of the print head 7, and detects the surface temperature of the thermal head 7 and reports it to the control unit 200. The device case is formed with a tape outlet for communicating the pocket with the outside of the device, and a tape cutter for cutting the fed tape T faces the tape outlet.

When the tape cartridge 5 is mounted in the pocket, the head unit has a through hole of the tape cartridge 5, a positioning pin has a tape reel, a platen drive shaft has a platen roller, and a winding drive shaft has a ribbon take-up reel. Respectively, and the tape T and the ink ribbon R can be fed. Further, in this state, the print head 7 abuts on the platen roller with the tape T and the ink ribbon R sandwiched therebetween, thereby enabling printing. The tape T is fed out from the tape reel, and the ink ribbon R is fed out from the ribbon reel.
Wound on a ribbon take-up reel. That is, when the platen roller and the ribbon take-up reel rotate in synchronization with each other, the tape T and the ink ribbon R are simultaneously sent, and the print head 7 is driven in synchronization with these, thereby performing printing. .

In the tape printer 1, after the user mounts the tape cartridge 5 in the pocket of the printing unit 12,
Information of a print image such as a desired character (character, numeral, symbol, graphic, etc.) is input by the keyboard 3, and at the same time, the input result is confirmed and edited by the display 4. After that, when printing is instructed via the keyboard 3,
The tape feeding unit of the printing unit 12 is driven to feed out the tape T from the tape cartridge 5, and at the same time, the print head 7
Drives to perform desired printing on the tape T. Then, the printed portion of the tape T is sent out from the tape outlet at any time in parallel with the printing operation. In this way, when the desired printing is completed, the rotation of the platen roller (the ribbon take-up reel also rotates synchronously) is continued for a predetermined time, so that the feeding of the tape T is continued, and the tape T is adjusted to the tape length including the margin. The predetermined cutting position is sent to the position of the tape cutter.

The tape feeding section of the printing section 12 rotates the platen drive shaft and the winding drive shaft by using a tape feed motor (TF motor) disposed on the side of the pocket as a power (drive) source. And is disposed in a space extending from the side of the pocket to the bottom. The tape feed unit includes a TF motor, a platen drive shaft, a take-up drive shaft,
It includes a reduction gear train that transmits the power of the F motor to each drive shaft, and a chassis that supports them.

Note that the TF motor in the present embodiment is
The printing unit 12 is constituted by a DC motor,
An encoder for detecting the number of rotations of a TF motor (DC motor) is further provided. The encoder has detection openings formed at four locations in a disk-shaped circumferential direction, and is fixed to a tip of a main shaft of the DC motor. This rotation speed sensor includes a photosensor facing the detection opening of the encoder described above, and a sensor circuit board that supports the photosensor and performs photoelectric conversion therebetween. In the photo sensor, a light emitting element and a light receiving element are arranged to face each other, and the light of the light emitting element passes through the detection opening of the rotating encoder (in the circumferential direction of the disk) and is received by the light receiving element, thereby rotating the DC motor. The number (number of pulses) is detected. That is, the blinking of the light received by the light receiving element is photoelectrically converted by the sensor circuit board and output to the control unit 200 as a pulse signal. Of course, the above-mentioned TF motor is constituted by a stepping motor (pulse motor) and the above-mentioned encoder and rotational speed sensor are omitted so that the step control can be easily stepped by a predetermined number of steps (pulses) by the pulse control signal. You can also.

In FIG. 1, for convenience of description of the control system, the detecting unit 14 is provided with the above-described tape identification sensor, ambient temperature sensor,
It is provided with a head surface temperature sensor and a rotation speed sensor. Here, the detection unit 14 reports various detection signals detected by these sensors to the control unit 200. In addition, according to the actual situation, other sensors such as a voltage sensor which is connected to a power supply unit of the power supply unit 290 that supplies power to each unit of the tape printing apparatus 1 and detects a potential change thereof can be provided. When the TF motor is a pulse motor, the rotation speed sensor is omitted.
A configuration in which a part is omitted may be adopted.

Next, the cutting section 13 includes a tape cutter and a cutter motor for operating the tape cutter. For this reason, in the case of automatic cutting at the time of fixed-length printing or the like, the printing is completed, the tape is fed by a margin, and at the same time, the cutter motor is driven to cut the tape T. In the tape printer 1, a cut key is provided so that the cutting operation by the cutter can be performed manually.
It is possible to switch between automatic and manual depending on the mode setting. For this reason, in the case of manual cutting during printing of an arbitrary length or the like, when the printing is completed, the user presses the cut key, the tape cutter operates, and the tape T is cut to a desired length.

The driving section 270 includes a display driver,
The display driver includes a head driver and a motor driver. The display driver controls the display 4 of the operation unit 11 in accordance with an instruction based on a control signal output from the control unit 200.
Drive. Similarly, the head driver controls the control unit 200.
In accordance with the instruction, the print head 7 of the printing unit 12 is driven. The motor driver includes a TF motor driver that drives the TF motor of the printing unit 12 and a cutter motor driver that drives the cutter motor of the cutting unit 13, and drives each motor according to an instruction from the control unit 200.

Next, in the tape printer 1, the user
As an auxiliary storage of the RAM 240 described later, an external memory (hereinafter, “file pack”) 281 capable of storing a large number of document files and the like can be detachably mounted. The file pack 281 is configured by mounting one or more (for example, two) SRAMs, and is backed up by a battery or the like so that stored data is retained even when the SRAM is removed from the tape printer 1. Also, when the file pack 281 is mounted in the pocket of the external memory mounting unit 280, the file pack 281 functions as a part of the storage area of the RAM 240 (for example, one directory) and is used as a work area for control processing. .

The operation unit 11 has a keyboard 3 and a display 4. The display 4 has a display screen 41 capable of displaying, for example, 198 dots × 64 dots of display image data inside a rectangular shape of about 8 cm in the horizontal direction (X direction) × 4 cm in the vertical direction (Y direction). Inputs data from the keyboard 3 and outputs letters, numbers, symbols,
Creates and edits character string images in which characters such as simple figures (hereinafter, these are referred to as "characters" and are used in the meaning of characters), and matrix data representing print images containing them. It is used when visually checking the result or the like, or when inputting various commands, selection instructions, and the like from the keyboard 3.

The keyboard 3 includes an alphabet key group 311 (not shown), a symbol key group 312,
Numeric key group 313, kana key group 31 such as hiragana and katakana
4 and a character key group 31 including an external character key group 315 for calling and selecting an external character, and a function key group 32 for designating various operation modes and the like.

The function key group 32 includes a power key 32 (not shown).
1. A print key 322 for instructing a printing operation, a selection key 323 for confirming data at the time of text input and line feed and for instructing selection of various modes on a selection screen, and a print color of print image data and an intermediate color (mixed color) thereof. A color designation key 324 for designating, a color setting key 325 for setting a character color and a background color, and upper (“↑”), lower (“↓”), left (“←”), right ( Four cursor keys 330 (330U, 330D, 33) for moving the cursor in the “→” direction and moving the display range of the display screen 41.
0L, 330R: Hereinafter “cursor“ ↑ ”key 330U”
And so on. However, it is referred to as “cursor key 330” when it is represented as a representative. ) Is included.

The function key group 32 further includes a cancel key 326 for canceling various instructions, a shift key 327 used for changing the role of each key, correcting drawing registration image data and external character registration image data, and a text. Input screen and selection screen and print image data display screen (image screen)
Key 328 for switching between the two modes, a ratio change (zoom) key 329 for changing the size ratio between print image data and display image data displayed on the image screen, and a style for setting various styles. Key 331, a file key 332 for file operation, an illustration key 333 for selecting a background image, a cut key 340 for manually cutting the tape T, an external character key 341 for an external character registration operation, various types of kana-kanji conversion, etc. A conversion key 342 for a conversion operation; a pack key 343 for initializing the file pack 281 or changing its settings;
Format key 3 for formatting such as copy-forgery-inhibited pattern printing and fixed length printing
44, and an enlarged print key 345 for instructing enlarged print for enlarging and printing a base print image at an arbitrary enlargement factor
Is included.

As a matter of course, similarly to a general keyboard, these key inputs may be input by providing individual keys for each key input, or a smaller number may be used in combination with the shift key 327 or the like. You may input using a key. Here, in order to facilitate understanding, description will be made assuming that there are keys corresponding to the above.

As shown in FIG. 1, the keyboard 3 inputs various commands and data as described above to the control unit 200.

The control unit 200 includes a CPU 210 and a ROM 2
20, character generator ROM (CG-ROM)
230, RAM 240, input / output control circuit (IOC) 25
0 and are connected to each other by an internal bus 260.

The ROM 220 includes a control program area 221 for storing a control program to be processed by the CPU 210, a kana-kanji conversion table (dictionary), a color conversion table,
It has a control data area 222 for storing control data including a character modification table and the like. CG-ROM 230
Stores font data of characters and the like prepared in the tape printer 1, and outputs code data corresponding to the code data specifying the characters and the like.

The RAM 240 is backed up so as to retain stored data even when the power is turned off by operating the power key 321, and various registers 241 used as various flags and the like. 3, a text data area 242 for storing text data such as characters input from 3; a display image data area 243 for storing display image data of the display screen of the display 4;
A print image data area 244 for storing print image data,
A drawing registration image data area 245 for storing drawing registration image data, an external character registration image data area 246 for storing external character registration image data, and a background image data area for storing background image data as background image candidates and corresponding character color data 2
47, various buffer areas 24 such as a character development buffer, a color conversion buffer, an arrangement buffer for each basic color, and a print buffer
8 and is used as a work area for control processing.

The IOC 250 includes a logic circuit for supplementing the functions of the CPU 21 and handling interface signals with various peripheral circuits, such as a gate array and a custom LSI.
It is constituted by and incorporated. For example, a timer or the like for performing various timings is incorporated as a function in the IOC 250. For this reason, the IOC 250 is connected to the various sensors of the detection unit 14 and the keyboard 3 and the detection unit 1
4 and various commands and input data from the keyboard 3 as they are or processed and taken into the internal bus 260, and in conjunction with the CPU 210, data and control signals output from the CPU 210 and the like to the internal bus 260. , As it is or processed to drive unit 2
70.

The IOC 250 is connected to the external memory mounting unit 280, and controls the input / output of data that actually accesses the file pack 281 among the accesses to the RAM 240, whereby the file pack 281 is mounted. Sometimes, from the user's point of view (for handling files and the like), the RAM 240 is added (RA2
40 memory capacity). Therefore, hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, the RAM 24
0 includes the memory capacity of the file pack 281 and R
The description will be made assuming that the data stored in the file pack 281 exists in the AM 240 (illustrated as a file pack area 249 for easy understanding, but in practice, a part or all of each area described above may be shared. ).

Then, with the above configuration, the CPU 210 executes the IOC according to the control program in the ROM 220.
Various signals, data, and the like are input from each unit in the tape printer 1 via the printer 250, and font data from the CG-ROM 230, RAM 240 (as described above, including the file pack area 249 (for the file pack 281)). By processing various data and the like, and outputting various signals and data to each unit in the tape printing apparatus 1 via the IOC 250, control of the printing position, display control of the display screen 41, and the like are performed. , And prints on the tape T under predetermined printing conditions, and controls the entire tape printing apparatus 1.

Next, the processing flow of the overall control of the tape printer 1 will be described with reference to FIG. Power key 3
When the process starts by pressing 21 (power on),
As shown in the figure, first, in order to return the tape printer 1 to the state at the time of the previous power-off, initial settings such as restoring the saved control flags are performed (S1).
The previous display screen is displayed as an initial screen (S2). The subsequent processing in FIG. 2, that is, the determination branch (S3) for determining whether or not a key input is made and the various interrupt processing (S4) are processing conceptually shown. Actually, in the tape printer 1, when the initial screen display (S2) ends, the key input interrupt is permitted, and the state is maintained until a key input interrupt occurs (S3: No). When any key input interrupt occurs (S3: Yes), the process shifts to each interrupt process (S4), and when the interrupt process ends, the state is maintained again (S3: No).

As described above, in the tape printing apparatus 1, the main processing is performed by the interrupt processing. Therefore, if the print image creation and printing are ready, the user can press the print key 322 at any time. As a result, a print processing interrupt occurs, the print processing is started, and a print image can be printed based on the print image data. That is, the user can arbitrarily select an operation procedure up to printing.

For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the state of the text editing screen display after inputting the character string "ABCDE" on the first line (screen T10: hereinafter, display 4
The display state of the display screen 41 is represented by a screen Txx, and the reference number is indicated only by Txx. The cursor position is indicated by a cursor K. ), The user sets the print key 3
When the button 22 is pressed, the message being printed is displayed, and the character string image of the character string "ABCDE" is printed as a print image (T11). When the printing is completed, the screen returns to the original text editing screen (T12: same as T10). ). However, printing of this type of character string image is the same as that of the related art, and a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

Note that, to be precise, the displayed image and the printed image are
Refers to the displayed image itself or the printed image itself,
The apparatus handles display image data representing a display image and print image data representing a print image. In other words, the image data to be processed, created, modified, registered, etc. in the apparatus is the image data, not the image itself. Similar to the image itself, it is called "-image".

By the way, for example, in the case of an ink jet type tape printing apparatus, it is possible to perform printing beyond the width of the tape to completely print (total printing) up to both ends in the width direction of the tape. That is, by appropriately processing the ink in the portion exceeding the tape width, the entire surface can be printed to both ends in the width direction of the tape without any particular problem. On the other hand, as described above, for example, in the case of a thermal type tape printing apparatus, the position and posture of mounting the thermal head, the mounting position of the tape cartridge, the storing position of the tape in the tape cartridge, the tape traveling path (meandering, etc.)
There is a possibility of causing error factors such as damage to the platen and the like, and adhesion of excess ink to cause stains and the like in each part, which may cause a decrease in print quality.
Printing completely to both ends of the tape in the width direction is practically
Impossible.

Since the tape printer 1 of the present embodiment is also of the thermal type, a margin (a super-wide print avoidance area) for avoiding printing exceeding the tape width is provided at both ends in the width direction of the tape as in the related art. ) Is provided. For this reason,
Conventionally, the margins at both ends in the width direction of a created label do not have a desired width, and a gap (margin, etc.) as an image occurs at a joint portion when divided printing and joining are performed. However, in the tape printing apparatus 1, the super-wide print avoidance area is provided at both ends in the width direction of the tape T while the print image is printed by providing the super-wide print avoidance area of the predetermined print avoidance width d. Arbitrary width (label width) equivalent to no case
Lw labels and the like can be created. Hereinafter, this point will be described in detail.

As shown in FIG. 4, when the format key 344 is pressed (operated) by the user in a state where the same text editing screen as described above is displayed (T10), as shown in FIG. Then, a first-level selection screen of “Format” for selecting and setting various formats is displayed (T20).
In the tape printing apparatus 1, the user can cancel various instructions by key input with the cancel key 326, and from the state of the first hierarchy (T20), the cancel key 326.
By pressing, the original text edit screen display (T1
0) (below, unless otherwise noted, the operation of the cancel key 326 is the same, and the description is omitted).

On this selection screen (T20), as options of “format”, for example, “copy-forgery-inhibited pattern printing”, “label width”,
Display options such as "fixed length printing". The user operates the cursor key 330 to display one of these options in reverse video or blinking (shown by dot shading), and presses the select key 323 to display the option displayed in reverse video or blinking. Can be selected and specified. Immediately after transitioning to each selection screen, the most recently selected (accessed) option (if there is no option, the option selected by default by default) is highlighted, and the user operates the cursor key 330 to select other options. Is displayed,
Since it is not the most recently selected option, it flashes. The option displayed in reverse or blinking on the selection screen of the tape printer 1 is the selection key 32 in that state.
Since it is an option selected by the operation of 3, the following "selection display"
That. Further, in the following description, it does not matter whether or not the latest selection has been made.
And

In the above state (T20), the cursor “↓” key 330D or the cursor “→” key 3
When 30R is pressed, "fixed length printing" is selected and displayed. On the other hand, when the cursor “↑” key 330U or the cursor “←” key 330L is pressed, “printing in copy-forgery-inhibited pattern” is selected and displayed. However, here,
Since the user wants to set the label width Lw, the user selects and displays “label width” and presses (operates) the selection key 323. When the user presses the selection key 323 in a state where the "label width" is selected and displayed (T20), the "label width" is selected, and the screen transitions to a selection screen of the second hierarchy (T21).

On the selection screen of “label width” of the second hierarchy, for example, “auto”,
"6mm", ..., "9mm", ..., "12mm",
... (these illustrations are omitted), "22 mm", "23 m
m ”,... are displayed. The user operates the cursor key 330 to select and display one of these options, and presses the select key 323 to display
The selected option can be selected and specified. Also, on the "label width" selection screen, by pressing (operating) the numeric key group 313, the label width can be directly input (directly set) by a number.

Here, the option of "automatic" is an option to set the label width Lw to the tape width Tw of the mounted tape T, that is, the tape width Tw detected by the tape identification sensor of the detection unit 14. In the tape printer 1, since this "automatic" is a default option when nothing is designated as the "label width", the label width Lw when the label width is not set is the tape width of the mounted tape T ( Detected tape width) Tw, that is, Lw = Tw
Becomes On the other hand, for example, the user
Is operated and “22 mm” is selected and displayed (T2
When the selection key 323 is pressed in 1), “22 mm” is selected as the “label width”, that is, the label width Lw =
22 mm is set, and the screen transitions to a selection screen for “slit printing” (T22).

On this “slit printing” selection screen,
As options of “slit line printing”, for example, options such as “cut-out line”, “width matching line”, “both”, and “none” are displayed. The user operates the cursor key 330 to select and display one of these options, and presses the select key 323 to select and specify the option that is selected and displayed. Here, for example, when the selection key 323 is pressed in a state where the “width adjustment line” is selected and displayed (T22), “print only the width adjustment line” is selected, and then the screen returns to the original text editing screen (T23). : T1
0). In this state (T23), when printing is instructed in the same manner as described above with reference to FIG. 3 (when the print key 322 is pressed by the user), printing is performed according to the "label width" and "slit line printing" set above. Is performed.

The above-mentioned "cut-off line" and "width matching line" are a kind of boundary mark described later, and the boundary mark will be described in more detail as a more general concept. Specific examples will be given as they are in the expressions of “truncated line” and “width adjustment line”.

For example, the tape width Tw of the mounted tape T
= 18 mm, the set label width Lw = 14 mm, and the same character string "ABCDE" as described above is printed with "Slit line" selected and set as "Width matching line" or "Both". As shown in FIG. 5, a desired label R0 in FIG.
, A width adjustment line C1, that is, a slit line (dotted line) C1 for width adjustment is printed. The diagonal lines in the figure indicate unnecessary parts (unnecessary parts) as a printing result, and do not mean that diagonal lines are actually printed but become blank areas. Then, in this case, if the tape T is cut in the longitudinal direction along the width adjustment line C1, the label R0 shown in FIG. Note that the same applies to the following description, but in the corresponding drawings, parts that are important for the description are slightly exaggerated in order to facilitate understanding. For example, in the above example, the width of the hatched portion of the unnecessary portion is Tw−Lw = 4.
mm, which is actually smaller than the illustration for the tape width Tw = 18, but is slightly exaggerated.

Next, the above-mentioned "cut-off line" is mainly used when the label width Lw set to be larger than the tape width Tw is larger (more precisely, as will be described later), that is, the relation of tape width Tw <label width Lw is satisfied. Used when For example, with the tape width Tw of the mounted tape T = 18 mm, the set label width Lw = 22 mm, and “both” selected and set as the “slit line”, as shown in FIG. When the user instructs printing (when the print key 322 is pressed) in a state where the character string "ABCDE" is prepared (T10), for example, as shown in FIG. The label R2 is divided and printed on two tapes T as shown in FIGS.

Then, as shown in FIG. 7, when the print key 322 is pressed in a state where the above-mentioned character string "ABCDE" is prepared (T10), the fact that the division printing is to be performed and the number of divisions n ( In the example of FIG. 8, since n = 2, a message for confirming (shown in this example) is displayed (T30). Here, when it is desired to further increase the number of divisions n (for example, n = 3), the user can input and set the number of divisions (for example, 3) using the numeric key group 313. On the other hand, when the displayed division number n (= 2) is sufficient,
As shown, by pressing the selection key 323, the displayed division number n (= 2) can be set as it is.

When the user presses the selection key 323 in a state where the above confirmation message is displayed (T30), a selection screen of "print position" is displayed next (T3).
1). In this selection screen, for example, when the division number n = 2,
The options of “all”, “first sheet” and “second sheet” are displayed. The user operates the cursor key 330 to select and display one of these options.
By pressing 23, the displayed option can be selected and designated. Here, when the user selects, for example, the “first sheet” option, the original print image is changed to n (here, n =
Only the (i =) first divided print image divided into 2) is printed. For example, in the example of FIG. 8, (i =) 1 in FIG.
Only print the second divided print image. Similarly, when the “second sheet” option is selected, only the (i =) second divided print image, for example, only the (i =) second divided print image in FIG. 8C is printed. Further, as shown in the figure, when the user presses the selection key 323 in a state where the “all” option is selectively displayed (T31), the “all” option is selected. In this case, for example, in the example of FIG. 8, the (i =) first and second divided print images in (b) and (c) of FIG. 8 are sequentially printed.

When the selection key 323 is pressed by the user in a state where the “all” option is selectively displayed (T 31), a message indicating that the first and second sheets are being printed is displayed together with the first sheet. The first divided print image (i =) is printed on the tape T, and (i =) 2 on the second tape T.
The second divided print image is printed (T32 to T33), and when printing is completed, the screen returns to the original text edit screen (T3).
4: Same as T10). Thus, for example, in the example of FIG. 8, the (i =) first and second divided print images of FIGS. 8B and 8C are sequentially printed. If the user presses the cancel key 326 in the middle of printing (T32 to T33), printing is terminated at that point and the screen returns to the original "print position" selection screen (T31). Even during printing, the printing can be stopped at any time.

In the case of the example of FIG. 8 described above, (i) of FIG.
=) A cutout line C4, that is, a slit line (dotted line) for cutting off the print avoidance width d of the super-wide print avoidance area at the lower end is provided at the lower end (the end on the set end side) of the first tape T. C4 is printed. The illustrated dot-hatched decoration indicates an unnecessary portion (unnecessary portion) as a printing result, and the dot-hatched decoration is not printed but is a blank area. Similarly, (i =) 2 in FIG.
A cut-out line C3, that is, a slit line (dotted line) C3 for cutting off the print avoidance width d of the super-wide print avoidance area at the upper end is printed on the upper end portion (end portion on the reference end side) of the second tape T. Is done. The width adjustment line C1 described above with reference to FIG. 5B is printed on the second tape T (i =). And in this case, the above-mentioned cut-off line C
4. If the tape T is cut in the longitudinal direction along the cut-off line C3 and the width adjustment line C1 and pasted adjacently, the desired label R2 in FIG. The alternate long and short dash line shown is a virtual line indicating the boundary C0 when the first (i =) and second (i =) tapes T are cut and pasted,
It is not an actual printed line.

In this case, the cut-off line C
Reference numeral 3 denotes a boundary line between a useful portion and a useless portion of the tape T as a print result, and at the same time, the original print image is divided into n = 2 (i =) second divided print images. It shows the upper end (the end on the reference end side). It also shows the boundary line C0 after cutting, in other words (i =) 1
9 shows a boundary line with the second divided print image. Similarly, the above-described truncation line C4 indicates the boundary between the useful portion and the useless portion of the tape T as a result of printing, and at the same time, divides the original print image into n = 2 (i =) first. This indicates the lower end (the end on the set end side) of the divided print image, and indicates the boundary C0 after cutting, that is, the boundary with the (i =) second divided print image.

Therefore, a principle description will be added to the above-mentioned contents as a more general concept. In addition,
In the above-described example, the cut-off line and the width adjustment line are lines for cutting, that is, cut lines. However, as a guide for cutting, the cut lines are not limited to lines (lines). ), The marks at both ends in the longitudinal direction may be used. Hereinafter, as a broader concept, a mark serving as a guide for cutting is referred to as a cut mark. Further, when the divided print images are joined as described above with reference to FIG. 8, not only are both ends (boundary lines C0) of the adjacent divided print images cut, but also, for example, as shown in FIG. This mark may be used as a margin margin mark, and both the cut mark and the margin margin mark indicate a boundary line as an image (for cutting and superimposing). Therefore, these are integrated and called a boundary mark as a broader concept.

As described above, and as shown in FIGS. 5, 6, 8 and 9 (the same applies to FIG. 12 and thereafter), in the tape printing apparatus 1, in the width direction of the tape T of the tape width Tw. An ultra-wide print avoidance area having a predetermined print avoidance width d is provided at both ends, and a print image is printed in a print object area having a print object width p (p = Tw−2d). For this reason, conventionally, when the super-width printing avoidance area is provided, the margins at both ends in the width direction of the created label do not have the desired width, or the image is formed as an image at the joining portion in the case of joining by division printing. Problems such as the occurrence of gaps (margins) may have occurred, but the tape printing apparatus 1 solves these problems as follows.

First, as a whole, the tape printing apparatus 1 mounts an arbitrary tape T as a print target, determines a print avoidance width d and a print target width p of the mounted tape T, and sets an arbitrary label width. Lw is set, and based on the label width Lw, the print avoidance width d, and the print target width p, one or more types of boundary marks indicating a boundary between a useful portion and a useless portion of the tape T in the print result are printed on the print image. To
The printed image to which one or more types of boundary marks have been added
Print on In this case, the set arbitrary label width Lw
Also, based on the print avoidance width d and the print target width p, one or more types of boundary marks indicating the boundary between the useful part and the unnecessary part are added to the print image and printed. To cut the tape T in the longitudinal direction,
A plurality of tapes T that have been divided and printed can be joined. Therefore, an arbitrary width (label width) equivalent to the case where the super-wide print avoidance area is not provided while printing a print image by providing a super-wide print avoidance area of a predetermined print avoidance width d at both ends in the width direction of the tape T. An Lw label or the like can be created.

More specifically, in the tape printing apparatus 1, the print avoidance width d and the print target width p are determined in correspondence with the tape width Tw. The width Tw is detected, and a predetermined print avoidance width d and a print target width p corresponding to the detected tape width Tw are set. That is, the print avoidance width d and the print target width p are determined in correspondence with the tape width Tw. d
And it can be easily set by determining the print target width p.

In FIG. 5, as described above (FIGS. 6 and 8)
And the same in FIG. 9), when one end (upper end in the illustrated example) of both ends in the tape width direction of the tape T is a reference end and the other (lower end in the illustrated example) is a set end, A first boundary mark (a width matching line in FIG. 5 or the like) C1 indicating a boundary between the inside and the outside of the label width Lw is added to the end on the set end (lower end) side as one type of the boundary mark. That is, when this print image is printed, the first boundary mark C1 is printed at the end on the set end (lower end) side of the print image, so that the user refers to the first boundary mark C1. Processing such as longitudinal cutting can be easily performed. Further, since the first boundary mark C1 indicates a boundary line between the inside and the outside of the label width Lw, a label conforming to the set label width Lw can be created by cutting or the like.

Note that, contrary to the illustration, the lower end may be set as the reference end and the upper end may be set as the set end. In such a case, similarly, the first boundary mark C1 is placed at the set end (upper end) side of the print image. Since printing is performed, the user can easily perform processing such as cutting in the longitudinal direction with reference to the first boundary mark C1, and the first boundary mark C1 is a boundary between the inside and the outside of the label width Lw. Since the line is shown, a label conforming to the set label width Lw can be created by cutting or the like. If one of the upper end and the lower end is the reference end and the other is the setting end, whichever is the reference end (or the setting end), the same is true. Therefore, the following description will be made with the upper end as the reference end and the lower end as the setting end. The description of the case is omitted.

When printing is performed as it is without providing the super-wide print avoidance area, the margins at both ends in the width direction of the print image are the margins at both ends in the width direction of the label. On the other hand, when the super-wide print avoidance area is provided, if printing is performed as it is, the margins at both ends in the width direction of the label are added to the margins at both ends in the width direction of the print image by the print avoidance width d. That is, the margin is increased by the print avoidance width d,
As a result, as described above, there occurs a problem that the margins at both ends in the width direction of the created label do not have a desired width.

Therefore, in the tape printer 1, as shown in FIG. 5, the print avoidance width d is set at the reference end (upper end) of the print image.
When there is a margin area having the above width, the print avoidance width d on the reference end side of the print image is deleted to create a partial print image with the print width Pw = Lw-d, and the print end area is set on the reference end side. The partial print image is printed instead of the print image by aligning the end of the reference print side of the partial print image with the end of the partial print image. In this case, the margin on the reference end side of the printing result is increased by the print avoidance width d, but since it is deleted by the print avoidance width d before printing, it matches the margin on the reference end side of the original print image. Can be done. The actual print width Pw to be printed is the print width Pw
= Lw-d, but there is a margin for the print avoidance width d on the reference end side of the tape, so that the print image of the print width Pw = Lw is printed as it is without providing the super-wide print avoidance area. And equivalent print results can be obtained.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 6, when the width of the margin area on the reference end side of the print image is smaller than the print avoidance width d, the second boundary mark C2 indicating the end on the reference end side of the print image is A print image having a print width Pw = Lw is printed by adding the mark as one type of boundary mark and aligning the reference end of the print image with the reference end of the print target area having the print target width p. That is, when this print image is printed, the second boundary mark C2 indicating the end on the reference end side of the print image is printed, and the user refers to the second boundary mark C2 to perform processing such as cutting. Can be easily performed. Also, this second
Since the boundary mark C2 indicates a boundary between the inside and the outside of the label width Lw, the label width L set by cutting or the like is set.
The label R1 conforming to w can be created.

For example, the tape width T of the mounted tape T
Printing avoidance width d = 3 mm specified for w = 40 mm
Then, the print target width p = Tw−2d = 40−6 = 34
mm. In this case, the set label width Lw = 30
mm, and there is a margin area having a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d, for example, 5 mm on the reference end (upper end) side of the print image, as described above with reference to FIG. The print width Pw = Lw−d = 30−3 after deleting d.
= 27mm partial print image is created and the print target width p = 3
The reference print end of the partial print image is aligned with the reference end of the 4 mm print target area, and the partial print image is printed instead of the print image. In this case, the margin on the reference end side of the printing result is increased by the print avoidance width d = 3 mm, but is deleted by the print avoidance width d = 3 mm before printing, so that the reference end side of the original print image is deleted. Can be matched with the margins of
The actual print width Pw to be printed is the print width P
Although w = Lw−d = 27 mm, since there is a margin for the print avoidance width d = 3 mm on the reference end side of the tape T, the print width Pw = Lw = 30 mm without the super-wide print avoidance area. A print result equivalent to that obtained when the print image is printed as it is is obtained. In this case, the setting end (lower end) of the print image
A first boundary mark C1 indicating a boundary between the inside and outside of the label width Lw (in this example, a position 30 mm from the reference end) is added to the end on the side and printed.

On the other hand, as described above, the tape width Tw = 40
mm, print avoidance width d = 3 mm, print target width p = T
When w-2d = 34 mm, a label width Lw = 24 mm is set in order to print a print image having a character string of the same size and a small margin, for example, 2 mm. Is smaller than the print avoidance width d, that is, 2 mm, and therefore, as shown in FIG. 6, the end on the reference end side of the print image (ie, a position 3 mm from the reference end of the tape T).
Is added as one type of boundary mark, and the reference of the print image is set at the reference end side (the position 3 mm from the reference end of the tape T) of the print target area having the print target width p = 34 mm. Print width Pw = Lw = 2
Print a 4 mm print image. That is, when this print image is printed, the second boundary mark C2 indicating the end on the reference end side of the print image is printed. Therefore, the user refers to the second boundary mark C2 and refers to the print avoidance width d. = Processing such as cutting for 3 mm can be easily performed. Further, since the second boundary mark C2 indicates the boundary between the inside and the outside of the label width Lw, the label R1 conforming to the set label width Lw = 24 mm can be created by cutting or the like. In this case, a first boundary mark C indicating a boundary line between the inside and outside of the label width Lw (in this example, a position 27 mm from the reference end) is provided at an end on the set end (lower end) side of the print image.
1 is added and printed.

The same applies to the case of division printing. First, as shown in FIG.
w, print target width p and print avoidance width d, Lw>
When the relationship of p + d is satisfied and there is a margin area having a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d on the reference end side of the print image, the print width P
w = Lw-d is assigned to n (n is an integer of 2 or more) divided print widths Pi (0 ≦ Pi ≦ p, where i = 1 to n, where the sum ΣPi = Pw), and the print width Pw Is divided into n divided print images having each divided print width Pi (i = 1 to n). In this case, since the divided print width Pi of each of the n divided print images is 0 ≦ Pi ≦ p, it is possible to print on the print target area having the print target width p.

For example, the tape width T of the mounted tape T
Printing avoidance width d = 3 mm specified for w = 24 mm
Then, the print target width p = Tw−2d = 24−6 = 18
mm. In this case, the set label width Lw = 30
mm, and there is a margin area having a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d, for example, 5 mm on the reference end (upper end) side of the print image, as described above with reference to FIG. The print width Pw = Lw−d =
A partial print image of 30-3 = 27 mm is created, the reference print end of the partial print image is aligned with the reference end of the print target area having a print target width p = 34 mm, and the partial print image is printed. Print instead.

However, here, Lw (= 30 mm)>
Since the relationship of p + d (= 18 + 3 = 21) is established, for example, the print width Pw = Lw-d = 27 mm is divided into n (here, n = 2) divided print widths Pi (here, P1 and P2,
Here, P1 = 18 mm, P2 = 9 mm, and the sum ΣPi =
P1 + P2 = 27 = Pw), and the partial print image having the print width Pw has the divided print widths P1 and P2 (n =).
The print image is divided into two divided print images. In this case, the divided print widths P1 (i = 1) and P2 (i =
2) is 0 ≦ Pi ≦ p, that is, P1 = 18 mm, P2
= 9 mm, it is possible to print on a print target area with a print target width p = 18 mm. Note that the same applies to an example described later, but in this case, division allocation is arbitrary as long as the total sum ΣPi is the same, such as P1 = 15 mm and P2 = 12 mm. However, in the following description, Pi = p except for the last (i is the largest) divided print width Pi will be described for ease of understanding and processing.

In this case, n-1 divided print images having a divided print width Pj (j = 2 to n) of the n divided print images are added to the reference end side of each divided print image. A third boundary mark (the truncated line described above with reference to FIG. 8) C3
N- is added as one type of boundary mark and has a divided print width Pk (k = 1 to n-1) of n divided print images.
A fourth boundary mark (a truncated line described above with reference to FIG. 8) indicating an end on the set end side of each divided print image on one divided print image
4 is added as one type of boundary mark, and one of n divided print images is sequentially or arbitrarily printed in the print target area. That is, when “all” is selected as described above with reference to FIG. 7, all the divided print images are sequentially or “1”.
When an arbitrary divided print image such as "sheet" is selected, the arbitrarily selected divided print image is printed.

For example, in the above example, as shown in FIG.
(N =) divided print width Pj of two divided print images
(J = 1 to 2) having (j = 2 to n), that is, FIG.
A third boundary mark C3 indicating the end on the reference end side of the divided print image (that is, a position 3 mm from the reference end of the tape T) is added to one divided print image having the divided print width P2 Add as a seed. Further, among the n divided print images, n-1 divided prints having a divided print width Pk (k = 1 to n-1), that is, one divided print having a divided print width P1 in FIG. A fourth boundary mark C4 indicating an end on the set end side of the divided print image (that is, a position 3 mm from the set end of the tape T) is added to the image as one type of the boundary mark, and is added to the print target area (n = 2) One or two divided print images are sequentially or arbitrarily printed. For example, "all"
Is selected, the (i =) second (i =) second divided print image in FIG. (C) is printed following the (i =) first divided print image in FIG. (B). Of course, by selecting “first sheet”, only the (i =) first divided print image in FIG. 9B is selected, and by selecting “second sheet”, (i) in FIG. i =) Only the second divided print image can be arbitrarily printed.

In this case, when the j-th divided print image is printed, the third boundary mark C3 of the divided print image indicates the boundary with the (j-1) -th print image. When the k-th divided print image is formed, the fourth boundary mark C4 becomes k
Since it indicates the boundary with the + 1st, the outside (the setting end side) is a useless portion. That is, in the above example,
As described above, the third boundary mark (the above-described truncated line) C3 of the (j =) second divided print image in FIG.
This indicates the boundary between the useful part and the useless part of the tape T in the print result, and at the same time, the original print image is divided into n = 2
(I = j =) indicates the upper end (end on the reference end side) of the second divided print image, indicates the boundary C0 after cutting, and (i = j-1 =) the first divided print image. It shows a boundary line between the two. Similarly, the fourth boundary mark (the above-described truncated line) C4 of the (k =) first divided print image is:
At the same time as indicating the boundary between the useful part and the useless part of the tape T in the print result, the lower end (set end) of the first divided print image obtained by dividing the original print image into n = 2 (i = k =) Side edge), and the boundary line C0 after cutting, that is, (i = k
+ 1 =) indicates a boundary line with the second divided print image. For this reason, the user may input the third boundary mark C3 or the fourth boundary mark C3.
Processing such as cutting unnecessary portions can be easily performed with reference to the boundary mark C4.

Here, if we review the conventional problems,
For example, as shown in FIG. 10A, when a super-width print avoidance area is provided and divided printing is performed, even if the divided print images are pasted together as they are, the print avoidance width d as shown in FIG. Even if the parts are overlapped and bonded (the end of the superposed tape T on the back side is virtually shown by a dashed line), a gap (a blank space or the like) as an image is generated at the junction of the divided print images. That is, since there is a margin corresponding to the print avoidance width d in both of the adjacent divided print images, it is not possible to join them exactly as they are.

In this case, as shown in FIG. 11C, both print avoidance widths d are cut and bonded together, or one of the print avoidance widths d is cut as shown in FIG. For example, there is a method in which the other print avoidance width d is overlapped as a margin for bonding, and the conventional tape printing apparatus also considers the print avoidance width d in order to cut the print avoidance width d. Because there is no, there is no indication of the cut. For this reason, it is inevitable to cut by the unit of an eye, and excessive or insufficient cutting occurs, and a gap or a step is formed in the image of the joint (see FIG. (C)), and a margin that does not match remains (see FIG. d)). Further, as shown in FIG. 11A, when the connection as an image between adjacent divided print images is thin, a gap (including a blank) or a step is difficult to be formed, but a measure of the distance between them, that is, Since there is no standard for the cut, there is an excess or deficiency in the cut and the glue allowance, which makes it difficult to create a label that fits the set label width Lw when joining as shown in FIG. there were.

On the other hand, in the example described above with reference to FIG. 8, for example, as described above, the third boundary mark C3 of the j-th (the second in this example) divided print image is the (j-1) -th (first)
Outside (reference end side)
Is a useless portion, and the fourth boundary mark C4 of the kth (first in this example) divided print image is the (k + 1) th (second)
Outside the border (setting end side)
Becomes useless part. Therefore, if the third boundary mark C3 and the fourth boundary mark C4 are cut marks for cutting the tape T in the longitudinal direction after printing the tape T, the user can
With reference to the third boundary mark C3 and the fourth boundary mark C4,
In other words, by using these as a guide for cutting, by cutting unnecessary portions, unnecessary portions of adjacent portions of each divided print image can be cut, and by pasting these adjacently, adjacent divided images can be cut as shown in FIG. Printed images can be joined exactly. The same applies to the case where the third boundary mark C3 is one of a cut mark and a margin mark, and the fourth boundary mark is the other. Refer to and paste the cut end on top with the glue margin mark,
Adjacent divided print images can be joined exactly.

Also, since the sum of the divided print widths Pi (P1, P2) （Pi (= P1 + P2 = 18 + 9 = 27) = Pw and the print width Pw = Lw-d (= 30−3 = 27), i = 1 By adding a margin for the print avoidance width d to the reference end side of the divided print image having the divided print width P1, the total width of the joining result becomes the label width Lw (= Pw + d = 27 + 3 = 3).
0). That is, when the divided print image is printed up to both ends in the width direction of each tape without providing the super-wide print avoidance area, the same print result is obtained as when the adjacent prints are attached, and the same desired label is obtained as a result of joining. Width Lw (= 30mm)
Can be created. In this case, the end on the set end (lower end) side of the print image, that is, (i) in FIG.
=) A first boundary indicating a boundary line between the inside and outside of the label width Lw (in this example, 9 + 3 = 12 mm from the reference end of the second sheet) at the set end side of the second divided print image. Since the mark C1 is added and printed, the user can make a desired label width Lw by cutting with reference to the first boundary mark C1.

Next, the same as the relationship between FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 described above is also applied to the case of division printing. That is,
For example, as shown in FIG. 9, when a relationship of Lw> p is established for the label width Lw and the print target width p, and the width of the margin area on the reference end side of the print image is smaller than the print avoidance width d, The print width Pw is divided into n (n is an integer of 2 or more) divided print widths Pi (0 ≦ Pi ≦ p, where i = 1 to n, where
Since the print image having the print width Pw is divided into n divided print images each having the divided print width Pi (i = 1 to n), as in the example described above with reference to FIG. n
Each of the divided print images can be printed in a print target area having a print target width p.

For example, similarly to FIG. 8, the print avoidance width d = 3 mm and the print target width p = Tw−2d = 24-6 with respect to the tape width Tw = 24 mm of the attached tape T.
In the case of = 18 mm, a label width Lw = 24 mm is set in order to print a print image having a character string of the same size and a small margin of, for example, 2 mm. Less than the print avoidance width d, that is, 2 mm
Therefore, as described above with reference to FIG. 6, the second boundary mark C2 indicating the end on the reference end side of the print image (that is, the position 3 mm from the reference end of the first tape T) is added as one type of the boundary mark. The print width Pw = Lw by aligning the reference end of the print image with the reference end (position 3 mm from the reference end of the tape T) of the print target area having the print target width p = 18 mm.
= Print a 24 mm print image. The second boundary mark C2 is a cut mark for cutting the tape T in the longitudinal direction after printing the tape T, as in the example described above with reference to FIG. Indicates the boundary between the image and the outside, and is printed when a print image is printed.
By making a cut with reference to 2, a label R3 conforming to the set label width Lw can be created.

However, in the example of FIG. 9, the label width Lw
= 24 mm and print target width p = 18 mm, L
Since the relationship of w (= 24 mm)> p (= 18 mm) is established, for example, the print width Pw = 24 mm is n (here, n
= 2) divided print width Pi (here, P1 and P2, where P1 = 18 mm, P2 = 6 mm, sum ΣPi = P
1 + P2 = 18 + 6 = 24 = Pw), and the print image of the print width Pw has the divided print widths P1 and P2 (n
=) Divide into two divided print images. In this case, since P1 = 18 mm and P2 = 9 mm in the same manner as in the above-described example in FIG.

In this case, as in the example of FIG. 8, (n
=) The divided print width Pj (j =
2 to n), that is, one divided print image having the divided print width P2 in FIG. 9C is added to the end on the reference end side of the divided print image (that is, from the reference end of the tape T). 3
mm position) is added as one type of boundary mark, and the divided print width Pk (k = 1 to n−
1), that is, one divided print image having the divided print width P1 shown in FIG. 2B is added to the end on the set end side of the divided print image (that is, 3 mm from the set end of the tape T).
Is added, and one divided print image of (n =) 2 is sequentially or arbitrarily printed in the print target area. Also, j-th (in this example, 2
The third boundary mark C3 of the (th) divided print image indicates the boundary with the (j-1) th (first), and the fourth boundary mark C4 of the kth (first in this example) divided print image is the (k + 1) th ( In order to indicate the boundary with (second), it is possible to easily perform processing such as cutting unnecessary parts by referring to the boundary.

Further, (n =) two divided print images are printed and all unnecessary portions indicated by the third boundary mark C3 and the fourth boundary mark C4 are cut to be adjacent to each other. , And can be pasted and joined exactly,
Sum ΣPi (= P1 + P2 = 18 + 6 = 24) = Pw =
Since it is Lw, the sum of the widths of the joining results matches the label width Lw. That is, when the divided print image is printed up to both ends in the width direction of each tape without providing the super-wide print avoidance area, the same print result is obtained as when the adjacent prints are attached, and the same desired label is obtained as a result of joining. Label R of width Lw (= 24 mm)
3 can be created. In this case, the inner side of the label width Lw is set at the end on the set end (lower end) side of the print image, that is, the end on the set end side of the (i =) second divided print image in FIG. Since the first boundary mark C1 indicating the boundary line with the outside (in this example, 6 + 3 = 9 mm from the reference end of the second sheet) is added and printed, the user refers to the first boundary mark C1. By cutting the label, the desired label width Lw can be obtained.

Next, for example, a print avoidance width d = a prescribed tape width Tw = 20 mm of the mounted tape T is obtained.
Assuming 3 mm, the print target width p = Tw−2d = 20−6
= 14 mm. In this case, for example, as shown in FIG. 12, the label width L set as the width of the desired label R4
When w = 48 mm and there is a margin area having a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d, for example, 8 mm on the reference end (upper end) side of the print image, as described above with reference to FIGS. Side, the print avoidance width d = 3 mm is deleted, and the print width Pw
= Lw−d = 48−3 = 45 mm to create a partial print image, and align the reference end of the partial print image with the reference end of the print target area having a print target width p = 14 mm, and perform partial print. Print the image instead of the print image.

In this case, similarly to the examples of FIGS. 5 and 8, Lw
(= 48 mm)> p + d (= 14 + 3 = 17), so that the print width Pw = Lw, for example, as described above.
−d = 45 mm is divided into n (here, n = 3) divided print widths Pi (here, P1, P2, P3, and P4, where
P1 = P2 = P3 = 14 mm, P4 = 3, sum ΣPi =
P1 + P2 + P3 + P4 = 45 = Pw), and the print image having the print width Pw = 45 is divided into the divided print widths P1, P2,
It is also possible to divide into four (n =) divided print images having P3 and P4 and print them (another method will be described later). In this case, the end on the set end (lower end) side of the print image,
That is, (i =) the boundary between the inside and outside of the label width Lw (in this example, 3 + 3 = 6 mm from the reference end of the fourth sheet) is shown at the end of the fourth divided print image on the set end side. The first boundary mark C1 is added and printed. As described above, the first boundary mark C1 is a cut mark for cutting the tape T in the longitudinal direction after printing, and the end on the set end side of the print image, that is, the label width Lw (= 48 m)
m) indicates the boundary line between the inside and the outside, and is printed when a print image is printed. Therefore, the user refers to the first boundary mark C1 and cuts the label to set the label. A label conforming to the width Lw (= 48 mm) can be created.

In the above example, the last (i = fourth) divided print width P4 matches the print avoidance width d, and P4 =
d. That is, for the print width Pw, Pw
= H × p + d (where h is an arbitrary integer of 1 or more). In addition, as is apparent from FIG. 12, in this example, a blank area having a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d similar to the blank area (8 mm width) on the reference end side is also provided on the set end side of the print image. Therefore, the i = fourth divided print image is a blank image. In the examples of FIGS. 5, 6, 8 and 9 described above, the first boundary mark indicating the boundary between the inside and the outside of the label width Lw is provided at the end on the set end (lower end) side of the print image. Although printing is performed with C1 added, in the case described above, the tape printing apparatus 1 sets the print avoidance area of the divided print width d on the set end side immediately before (i = 3 in the above example) at the end (i.e., i =
Substitute for the divided print image of 4), and the addition of the first boundary mark C1 is omitted. That is, in the tape printer 1, for the print width Pw, Pw = h × p + d (where h is 1
When any of the above integers is satisfied, and there is a margin area having a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d on the set end side of the print image, the addition of the first boundary mark C1 is omitted, and the set end of the print image is omitted. The image from which the print avoidance width d on the side has been deleted is printed instead of the print image. Here, the print width Pw = h × p + d (however,
h is an arbitrary integer greater than or equal to 1), the print avoidance width d is calculated from the sum h × p of the print target widths p of the h tapes.
This is a case where the printing width Pw is larger than the printing width Pw.

For example, in the case of FIG. 12, the print width Pw
(= 45) = h (h = 3 here) × p (= 14) + d
(= 3) = 42 + 3 holds, so the first boundary mark C
1 is omitted, and the print avoidance width d on the set end side of the print image is omitted.
Print the image with the minutes removed instead of the print image. For this reason, the print image in this case is the print avoidance width d on the set end side.
Image with the minute removed, ie, print width Pws = Pw-d =
45-3 = 42 mm image. As shown in FIG. 13, n print widths Pws = 42 mm (here, n = h =
3) divided print width Pi (here, P1, P2 and P
3, where P1 = P2 = P3 = 14 mm, sum ΣPi
= P1 + P2 + P3 = 42 = Pws), and the partial print image of the print width Pws is divided into the divided print widths P1, P2, P
3 (n =) is divided into three divided print images. In this case, the divided print width P1 (i =
1), P2 (i = 2) and P3 (i = 3) are 0 ≦ Pi ≦
Since p, that is, P1 = P2 = P3 = 14 mm, printing can be performed on a print target area with a print target width p = 14 mm.

Further, as described above, unlike the case where printing is performed without providing a super-wide print avoidance area, when the super-wide print avoidance area is provided and printing is performed as it is, the margins at both ends in the width direction of the label are reduced. , The print avoidance width d. Therefore, only the print width Pws = h × p (that is, Pw−
d), the printing avoidance width d is added to it,
This is equivalent to printing the print width Pw as it is without providing the super-wide print avoidance area. Further, in this case, since there is a margin area having a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d on the set end side of the print image, there is no problem even if the print avoidance width d is replaced with the margin of the print avoidance width d. In this case, since the boundary line to be indicated by the first boundary mark C1 coincides with the set end of the tape T, there is no need to perform processing such as cutting. Therefore, in the example described above with reference to FIGS. 12 to 14, the addition and printing of the first boundary mark C1 can be omitted, the processing such as cutting can be omitted, and the printing equivalent to the case where the super-wide printing avoidance area is not provided is provided. The result is obtained.

In this example, the same margin area is provided on both the reference end side and the setting end side. 6 and FIG. 9 except that the print width Pw is equal to Lw, that is, the first boundary mark C1 can be omitted. Further, in this example, the number of h is plural, but the same applies to the case where printing can be performed on one (T = 1) tape T.

On the other hand, in the case of the above example, as shown in FIG. 14, similarly to the examples of FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, the divided print width Pj (j = 2 to n), that is, two (n-1 =) divided print images having the divided print widths P2 and P3 in FIGS. The end at the end (ie, the tape T
(The position 3 mm from the reference end of the third line)
Is added as one type of boundary mark. Further, the divided print width Pk (k = 1 to n-1) of the n divided print images
, I.e., two (n-1 =) divided print images having the divided print widths P1 and P2 in FIGS. 7A and 7B, respectively, at the end on the set end side of the divided print image. A fourth boundary mark C4 indicating (ie, a position 3 mm from the set end of the tape T) is added as one type of boundary mark. Then, one of the (n =) three divided print images is sequentially or arbitrarily printed in the print target area. For this reason, the user can easily cut unnecessary portions or the like with reference to the third boundary mark C3 and the fourth boundary mark C4.

In this case, (n =) three divided print images may be printed, and all unnecessary portions indicated by the third boundary mark C3 and the fourth boundary mark C4 may be cut and pasted together. Then, for example, as shown in FIG. 15, the third boundary mark C3 of the second (i =) and the third (i =) is cut, and the fourth boundary mark C4 of the (i =) first is cut. The (i =) second sheet may be pasted as a paste margin mark, and the (i =) third sheet may be pasted as the (i =) second border mark C4 as a paste margin mark. Further, if the third boundary mark C3 on the reference end (upper end) side is cut and superimposed on the set end (lower end) side, there is a situation where dust or dirt easily accumulates.
Conversely, for example, as shown in FIG. 16, the (i =) first boundary mark (C = 4) and the (i =) second boundary mark C4 are cut, and the (i =) third boundary mark C3 The (i =) second sheet may be superimposed and pasted using C3 as a margin margin mark, and the (i =) second sheet may be superimposed as the (i =) second boundary mark C3 as a margin margin mark. Further, the (i =) second boundary mark C3 and the fourth boundary mark C4 on the second sheet are cut, and the fourth boundary mark C4 and (i) on the (i =) first sheet are respectively cut.
=) The third boundary mark C3 of the third sheet may be overlapped and pasted as a margin mark, or conversely, the (i =) fourth boundary mark C4 of the first sheet and the (i =) third boundary mark of the third sheet 3 boundary mark C
3 may be cut, and the (i =) second boundary mark C3 and the fourth boundary mark of the second sheet may be overlapped and pasted as margin marks.

In any of these cases, all unnecessary portions can be cut to be adjacent to each other, or a useful portion can be overlapped with an adjacent unnecessary portion so that they can be stuck and joined exactly, thereby avoiding printing on the reference end side. Width d (= 3) + sum Σ Pi
(= P1 + P2 + P3 = 42) + the avoidance width d (= 3) = 48 = Lw on the set end side, so that the total width of the joining result matches the label width Lw (= 48). That is, when the divided print image is printed up to both ends in the width direction of each tape without providing the super-wide print avoidance area, the same print result is obtained as when the adjacent prints are attached, and the same desired label is obtained as a result of joining. A label R4 having a width Lw (= 48 mm) can be created. That is, since the tape printer 1 is a thermal tape printer, a super-wide print avoidance area is provided.
As described above with reference to FIGS. 4 to 16, a set arbitrary width (label width) Lw equivalent to the case where the super-wide print avoidance area is not provided.
You can create a label.

In the examples described above with reference to FIGS. 3 to 16, the arbitrary width is directly set as the label width Lw, and the label width Lw is set.
In the above example, the label w is created.
In the same manner as in the conventional tape printing apparatus, an enlargement printing function capable of printing a print image (enlarged print image) obtained by enlarging a base print image (basic print image) by setting an arbitrary enlargement ratio is provided. ing. Also, regarding this enlarged printing, conventionally, the margin at both ends in the width direction of the created label does not have the desired width because the super-width printing avoidance area is not considered, or when the divided label is printed and joined. In some cases, a gap (a blank space or the like) as an image is generated at the joint portion of, so that a label having a label width matching the set enlargement ratio cannot be created.

Therefore, in the tape printing apparatus 1, a super-wide print avoidance area having a predetermined print avoidance width d is provided at both ends in the width direction of the tape T by the same processing as in the case where an arbitrary label width Lw is directly set. Even if the enlarged print image obtained by enlarging the basic print image is divided and printed on a plurality of tapes T, a gap or the like hardly occurs when the divided print images are joined, and the label width conforms to the set enlargement factor m. Lw labels and the like can be created. Hereinafter, this point will be described as a second embodiment. In addition, a case where the above-described arbitrary label width Lw is set corresponding to this is referred to as a first embodiment. In the following, in the case of the enlargement ratio m, it is assumed that the magnification is m times both in the width direction and in the long width direction.

As shown in FIG. 17, first, similarly to FIG. 3 and the like, the character string "123A" on the first line (here, the number of divisions will be described in conjunction with the above example in FIG. 12). When the user presses the enlargement print key 345 (operates) in the text editing screen display state (T40) after the input of the "enlargement print" corresponding to the setting of the enlargement factor m, as shown in FIG. Is displayed on the first hierarchy selection screen for setting various formats (T41). On this selection screen (T41),
As an option, the enlargement ratio m = 1 is “not used”, and the enlargement ratio m =
2 (in the display and its illustration, "deka" is expressed as "deka 2"), enlargement factor m = 3 "three-time", and enlargement factor m = 4 "four-time" ,
Display options such as…. The user operates the cursor key 330 to select and display one of these options (illustrated by dot shading), and presses the select key 323 to select and specify the selected option.

Here, for example, when the selection key 323 is pressed by the user in a state where “3 times at the magnification factor m = 3” is selected and displayed (T42), “3 times at the magnification factor” is selected. Screen transition to a two-level selection screen (T
43). On the screen for selecting the enlargement ratio m, the user presses (operates) the numeric key group 313 to set the enlargement ratio m.
Can be directly input (directly set) by a number. In this case, a title such as “enlargement ratio 2.5” is displayed on the second hierarchy selection screen instead of a title such as “3 times in katakana”. Is done.

Next, on the selection screen of "3 times larger", the selection screen of the divided print image to be printed is displayed (T
43). In this selection screen, for example, when the number of divisions n = 3, “3/3” corresponding to the above “all”, “1/3” corresponding to the “first sheet” in FIG. "1
“2/3” options corresponding to “sheet” and “second sheet” (that is, up to the second sheet) are displayed. Of course, the display may be the same as described above. Then, the user can operate the cursor key 330 to select and display any one of these options, and press the select key 323 to select / designate the selected option. Here, as shown in the drawing, for example, when the selection key 323 is pressed by the user in a state where the option of “3/3” (that is, “all”) is selected and displayed (T43), “3/3” is displayed. The option is selected, and the screen transitions to a selection screen for selecting the presence / absence of a third-layer boundary mark (T44: common to FIG. 18).
On this selection screen, either "enter" to print with a boundary mark added or "no" to print without a boundary mark can be selected (T44). of course,
As shown in the screen of T22 in FIG. 4, the type of the boundary mark may be set.

As shown in FIG. 18, when the selection key 323 is pressed by the user in a state where the above-mentioned “insert” option is selected and displayed (T44), a confirmation message “print execution?” Is displayed ( T45) In this state, if the selection key 323 is pressed by the user, the message “Enlarged printing” is displayed (T46) and the first tape T is displayed.
Prints the (i =) first divided print image (divided enlarged print image), prints the (i =) second divided print image on the second tape T, and prints the third tape T Has (i =)
When the third divided print image is printed and printing is completed,
Return to the original text editing screen (T47: T40 in FIG. 17)
Same as). In this way, for example, in the example of FIG. 12, the (i =) first to third divided print images of FIGS. 14A to 14C are sequentially printed. In addition, like FIG. 7 described above,
Along with printing the first, second, and third sheets,
A message indicating that the second and third sheets are being printed may be displayed. Similarly, even when the user is in the process of “enlarged printing”, the user can cancel the printing at any time by pressing the cancel key 326
Can be canceled by

Next, as in the case of setting the above-described arbitrary label width Lw, the principle of the enlarged printing will be further explained as a more general concept. In the tape printing apparatus 1, a super-wide print avoidance area having a predetermined print avoidance width d is provided at both ends in the width direction of the tape T having a tape width Tw, and a print target width p is provided.
An enlarged print image obtained by enlarging the basic print image by an arbitrary enlargement factor is printed in the print target area (p = Tw−2d).
For this reason, various problems described above have occurred in the related art, but the tape printer 1 has solved the following problems.

First, as a whole, in the tape printing apparatus 1, an arbitrary tape T is mounted as a print target, and the print avoidance width d and the print target width p of the mounted tape T are determined. m (m is a real number of 1 or more), and a print width corresponding to m times the print width of the basic print image is determined as the label width Lw according to the set enlargement factor m,
By enlarging the basic print image m times, the label width L
Create an enlarged print image of w. In addition, the label width L
Based on w, the print avoidance width d, and the print target width p, one or more types of boundary marks indicating a boundary between a useful part and a useless part of the tape T of the print result are added to the enlarged print image, The enlarged print image with the boundary mark of
Print on

In this case, the label width Lw and the printing avoidance width d
Further, based on the print target width p, one or more types of boundary marks indicating the boundary between the useful part and the unnecessary part are added to the enlarged print image and printed, so that the tape T is printed based on the printed boundary marks. It can be easily cut in the longitudinal direction. Further, when it is necessary to perform divided printing on a plurality of tapes T according to the label width Lw, it is possible to easily join a plurality of divided printed images based on the printed boundary marks. .

Therefore, even if an enlarged print image is printed by providing a super-wide print avoidance area with a predetermined print avoidance width d at both ends in the width direction of the tape T, a label equivalent to the case where the super-wide print avoidance area is not provided is provided. Even if the enlarged print image is divided and printed on a plurality of tapes T, a gap or the like hardly occurs when the divided print images are joined, and the set enlargement ratio m
A label or the like having a printing width (label width) Lw conforming to the above can be created. Conventionally, the enlargement ratio m is generally an integer (integer multiple) for the convenience of printing and joining the divided print images to the full width of the tape. Alternatively, for example, a decimal number of 1 or more may be used. However, even if the enlargement ratio m is a decimal, the enlargement ratio m
In the sense that a label having a label width Lw conforming to the above is created, the enlargement ratio m is the same as the case of an integer. Therefore, in order to simplify the description, an integer is mainly used as the enlargement ratio m.

Then, as described above, the enlarged print image is created, and the label width Lw suitable for the set enlargement factor m is determined. Thereafter, the enlarged print image is used as the print image described above. By setting the set label width Lw to the set label width Lw described above, basically, the same processing as when the above-described arbitrary label width Lw is set (first embodiment) is performed, and the same operation is performed.・ Effects can be obtained. For this reason, in the following, only the points of the configuration, the function, and the like, and the description of the operation, effects, and the like thereof will be listed, and as specific examples, only the various examples described above will be referred to, and the detailed description will be duplicated. Omitted.

First, in the tape printing apparatus 1, even in the case of enlarged printing, the print avoidance width d and the print target width p are determined corresponding to the tape width Tw, and the tape width Tw of the mounted tape T is determined. The detected print avoidance width d and the print target width p corresponding to the detected tape width Tw
Set. That is, since the print avoidance width d and the print target width p are determined corresponding to the tape width Tw, by detecting the tape width Tw of the mounted tape T,
The corresponding predetermined values are determined as the print avoidance width d and the print target width p and can be easily set.

When one of both ends in the tape width direction of the tape T is set as a reference end and the other is set as a set end, a boundary between the inside and outside of the label width Lw is formed at the set end of the enlarged print image. The first boundary mark C1 shown is added as one type of boundary mark (see FIGS. 5, 6, 8, and 9). That is,
When the enlarged print image is printed, a first boundary mark C1 is printed at an end on the set end side of the enlarged print image,
In the present embodiment, since the first boundary mark C1 is a cut mark for cutting the tape T in the longitudinal direction after printing, the user can easily and accurately cut the tape T with reference to the first boundary mark C1. Thereby, the labels R0 to R of the label width Lw conforming to the set enlargement factor m
3 etc. can be created.

As described above, unlike the case where the super-wide print avoidance area is not provided, when the super-wide print avoidance area is provided, printing can be performed in the margins at both ends in the width direction of the enlarged print image by printing as it is. Since the margin for the width d is added, the margin is increased by the print avoidance width d, and the margin at both ends in the width direction of the created label does not have a desired width. In the tape printing apparatus 1, when there is a margin area having a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d on the reference end side of the enlarged print image, the print avoidance width d on the reference end side of the enlarged print image is deleted, and the print width Pw = Lw-d, and the reference end of the partial enlarged print image is aligned with the reference end of the print target area, and the partial enlarged print image is printed instead of the enlarged print image. (See FIGS. 5, 8, and 14). In this case, the actual print width Pw = Lw-d to be printed, but since there is a margin for the print avoidance width d at the reference end of the tape T, the reference end of the original enlarged print image is provided. When the enlarged print image of the print width Pw = Lw is printed as it is without providing the super-wide print avoidance area,
An equivalent print result is obtained.

Further, a relation of Lw> p + d holds for the label width Lw, the print target width p, and the print avoidance width d.
Further, when there is a margin area having a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d on the reference end side of the enlarged print image, the print width Pw = Lw-d is divided into n (n is an integer equal to or larger than 2) divided print widths Pi (0 ≦ Pi ≦
p, where i = 1 to n, where sum ΣPi = Pw)
, And divides the partially enlarged print image having the print width Pw into n divided enlarged print images having each divided print width Pi (i = 1 to n) (see FIGS. 8 and 14). In this case, the divided print width Pi of each of the n divided enlarged print images is 0 ≦ Pi ≦ p
Therefore, printing can be performed on a print target area having a print target width p. Also, the divided print width Pj of the n divided enlarged print images
A third boundary mark C3 indicating an end on the reference end side of each divided enlarged print image is added to the n-1 divided enlarged print images having (j = 2 to n), among the n divided enlarged print images. The n-1 divided enlarged print images having the divided print widths Pk (k = 1 to n-1) are provided with a fourth boundary mark C4 indicating the end on the set end side of each divided enlarged print image, and As one type, one of n divided enlarged print images is sequentially or arbitrarily printed in the print target area.

In this case, when the j-th divided enlarged print image is printed, the third boundary mark C3 of the divided enlarged print image indicates the boundary with the (j-1) th, and similarly, the k-th divided enlarged print image Is printed, the fourth boundary mark C4 indicates the boundary with the (k + 1) th boundary mark.
By referring to the third boundary mark C3 and the fourth boundary mark C4, it is possible to easily perform processing such as cutting unnecessary portions. Further, all the n divided enlarged print images are printed, and all unnecessary portions indicated by the third boundary mark C3 and the fourth boundary mark C4 are cut and pasted adjacent to each other, or a useful portion adjacent to the unnecessary By overlapping and pasting the portions (see FIGS. 15 and 16), the n divided enlarged print images can be joined exactly. Also, the sum of the divided print widths PiΣPi = Pw,
Since the print width Pw = Lw-d, the divided print width P1 for i = 1
Is added to the reference end side of the divided enlarged print image of the width of the print avoidance width d.
matches w. In other words, when the divided enlarged print image is printed up to both ends in the width direction of each tape without being provided with the super-wide print avoidance area and is pasted adjacent to each other, an equivalent print result is obtained, and the same setting is obtained as a result of joining. A label having a label width Lw conforming to the enlarged magnification m can be created.

When the width of the margin area on the reference end side of the enlarged print image is smaller than the print avoidance width d, the second boundary mark C2 indicating the end on the reference end side of the enlarged print image is replaced with one of the boundary marks.
The enlarged print image having the print width Pw = Lw is printed by adding the seed as a seed and aligning the reference end of the enlarged print image with the reference end of the print target area (see FIGS. 6 and 9). In this case, when the enlarged print image is printed, a second boundary mark C2 indicating a reference line end of the enlarged print image, that is, a boundary line between the inside and the outside of the label width Lw is printed. Then, since the second boundary mark C2 is a cut mark for cutting the tape T in the longitudinal direction after printing,
The user can easily and accurately cut the label with reference to the second boundary mark C2, thereby creating a label having a label width Lw that matches the set enlargement factor m.

Also, in this case, when the relationship of Lw> p holds for the label width Lw and the print target width p, the print width Pw is set to n (n is an integer of 2 or more) divided print widths Pi (0 ≦ Pi ≦ p, where i = 1 to n, where
Is assigned to the total sum ΣPi = Pw), and the partially enlarged print image of the print width Pw is divided into n having each divided print width Pi (i = 1 to n).
Since the image is divided into the plurality of divided enlarged print images, each of the n divided enlarged print images can be printed in the print target area having the print target width p (see FIG. 9). Also, the divided print width Pj (j = 2 to n)
Is added to the (n-1) divided enlarged print images having the reference end edge on the reference end side of each divided enlarged print image, and has a divided print width Pk (k = 1 to n-1). n-1
A fourth boundary mark C4 indicating the end on the set end side of each divided enlarged print image is added to the divided enlarged print images, and the divided enlarged print images are sequentially or arbitrarily printed on the print target area. Since the third boundary mark C3 of the print image indicates the boundary with the j-1st, and the fourth boundary mark C4 of the k-th divided enlarged print image indicates the boundary with the k + 1th, the outside thereof is a useless portion. .

For this reason, for example, by setting both the third boundary mark C3 and the fourth boundary mark C4 as cut marks for cutting in the longitudinal direction after printing the tape T, the user can refer to them and make each Unnecessary portions of adjacent portions of the divided enlarged print image can be easily cut, and these portions can be stuck closely together. In addition, the unnecessary portion indicated by the third boundary mark C3 and the unnecessary portion indicated by the fourth boundary mark C4 are adjacent portions when arranged as labels, so that the third boundary mark C3 is formed after the tape T is printed. One of the cut mark for cutting in the direction and the margin mark for overlapping and pasting, and the fourth boundary mark C4 is cut as the other of the cut mark and the margin mark with reference to one of the cut marks as a cut mark. If the cut side is referred to as a margin mark and the cut end is overlapped and adhered to the margin mark, adjacent divided enlarged print images can be joined exactly. In these cases, since the sum ΣPi = Pw = Lw, the total width of the joining result matches the label width Lw, and the divided enlarged print image is printed to both ends in the tape width direction without providing the super-wide print avoidance area. The same printing result as when pasted together is obtained,
As a result of joining, a label having a label width Lw that conforms to the same set magnification ratio m can be created.

In the case of enlarged printing, Pw = h × p + d (where h is an integer of 1 or more) holds for the print width Pw, and the print avoidance width is set on the set end side of the enlarged print image. When there is a margin area having a width of d or more, the addition of the first boundary mark C1 is omitted, and an image in which the print avoidance width d on the set end side of the enlarged print image is deleted is printed instead of the enlarged print image ( See FIG. 14). As described above, when the super-wide print avoidance area is provided, the margins at both ends in the width direction of the label of the print result are increased by the print avoidance width d.
If printing is performed for xp (that is, for Pw-d), the printing avoidance width d is added to the printing, which is equivalent to printing the printing width Pw without providing a super-width printing avoidance area.
Further, since there is a margin area having a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d on the set end side of the enlarged print image, there is no problem even if the print avoidance width d is replaced with the print avoidance width d. Also,
Since the boundary line to be indicated by the first boundary mark C1 coincides with the set end of the tape T, there is no need to perform processing such as cutting.
Accordingly, the addition and printing of the first boundary mark C1 can be omitted, the processing such as cutting can be omitted, and a printing result equivalent to the case where the super-wide print avoidance area is not provided can be obtained.

Since the tape printing apparatus 1 is a thermal type tape printing apparatus, a super-wide print avoidance area is provided. However, as described above, the same as when no super-wide print avoidance area is provided. A label or the like having a label width Lw conforming to the set enlargement factor m can be created.

In FIGS. 5, 6, 8, 9, and 14, the boundary marks C1 to C4 are indicated by slit lines (dotted lines) (printed) in each of the above-described examples. As the mark, as shown in FIG. 19, various printing methods can be considered. That is, the solid line in FIG.
A dotted line (corresponding to each of the above examples in FIG. 5 and the like) shows the boundary line as an image as it is, or corresponds to the start point and end point of the boundary line as shown in FIGS. It may be shown only at the position (the both ends in the longitudinal direction of the portion of the tape T that will become the label). FIG.
Whichever of (e) is adopted, it is a guide for cut when used as a cut mark, and a guide for overlapping when used as a margin mark. FIGS. 9D and 9E can also be used as front and rear (left and right shown) alignment marks when pasting after cutting or pasting together as a glue allowance. Further, when indicated by a line such as a solid line or a dotted line in FIGS. 7A and 7B, it can be indicated (printed) so as not to overlap with a character portion as shown in FIG.

In these cases, as shown in FIG. 20A, one or more types of boundary marks, for example, a boundary mark C4
On the other hand, when one of the characters is printed extra, and one of the characters is superimposed and pasted as a margin (see FIG. 10D: in this case, the characters on the back (lower) side are printed extra).
It is possible to suppress the generation of a margin that does not match. In FIG. 20, small circles “的 に” indicate dots of printing ink in an image (simulation).

In FIGS. 19 (a) to 19 (f), the various boundary marks described above indicate the boundary of the image by the center or center line as in the conventional case. Alternatively, a boundary line of an image may be indicated by an inner (useful portion side) edge, and a boundary mark may be added outside (unnecessary portion) so as to have a predetermined width (print width: boundary width) q. In addition, the above-described concept of FIG. 11F may be combined so as to be shown (added and printed) so as not to overlap with the character portion. FIG. 20 (b) shows an image of this case as an image. For example, the boundary mark C4 has a predetermined printing width (boundary width) q so as to be conspicuous as a guide for cutting and overlapping, and Is added so that the end on the upper end side (reference end side) indicates the boundary of the image (that is, for example, the center line indicates the same boundary as the virtual boundary mark CL indicating the boundary of the image). be able to.

By the way, when the tape T is cut in the longitudinal direction using the above-mentioned various boundary marks as a guide for cutting, or when the above-mentioned various boundary marks are superimposed and pasted using the above-mentioned various boundary marks as a guide for the glue margin, the cut or glue margin ( In order to make a label of overlapping width), that is, in order to form a label of a desired width by accurately cutting or pasting, the boundary mark needs to be conspicuous to some extent. On the other hand, if a part of the boundary mark remains after cutting or overlapping, the created label does not look good. Conventionally, as this kind of boundary mark, for example, a boundary mark such as a dotted line that draws a boundary line between a useful part and a useless part of the tape T as a print result has been adopted. Line) is the boundary line, so if you draw with a thin line (if you print), it will not be noticeable as a measure of cut and glue allowance, but if you draw with a thick line (if you print), after cutting or overlapping There is a problem that a part of the boundary mark remains after pasting, and the appearance is poor.

[0153] For this reason, in FIG. 19, it is easy to stand out as a guide for cutting or pasting, and it is difficult to leave a boundary mark after cutting or pasting.
It can be said that the above-mentioned boundary mark in (g) or FIG. 20 (b) is preferable. Therefore, hereinafter, in a case where this concept is adopted, that is, one or more types of boundary marks indicating a boundary between a useful portion and a useless portion of the tape T on which a print image is printed are suitable as a guide when cutting or overlapping. Image printing method (and its device) that can be printed so as to be hardly left after cutting or overlapping and pasting
Is applied to the tape printer 1 as a third embodiment. However, in the above-described first and second embodiments, specific examples such as the role of each boundary mark have been described, and therefore, a basic description will be given below as a general concept from the beginning.

First, in the tape printing apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, a print image is printed on the tape T as a printing object as a whole, and a boundary between a useful portion and a useless portion of the tape T as a print result is shown. One or more types of boundary marks are added to the print image and printed. One or more types of boundaries having a predetermined print width and a boundary width q (q> 0) are adjacent to the print image in the tape width direction. The mark is printed, and the edge of the boundary mark having the boundary width q on the printed image side indicates the boundary between the useful part and the unnecessary part. Conventionally, for example, a boundary mark such as a dotted line has its center line coincident with the boundary between the useful part and the useless part, but the boundary mark here is printed with a predetermined boundary width (print width) q, In addition, the edge on the print image side indicates a boundary line. Therefore, if the boundary width q is increased to some extent, it becomes more conspicuous. Further, when cutting or overlapping, by cutting the entire boundary mark or using the entire boundary mark as a margin, it is possible to prevent the label from remaining after creation. Therefore, one or more kinds of boundary marks indicating the boundary between the useful part and the useless part of the tape T on which the print image is printed are stuck so as to be suitable as a guide when cutting or overlapping, and after or after cutting. Can be printed so that it does not easily remain after printing.

In this case, the tape printer 1 mounts an arbitrary tape T as a print target, and sets the width of the print target area for printing a print image in the tape width Tw of the mounted tape T. A print target width p and a border width q are determined, an arbitrary label width Lw is set (see FIGS. 4 and 17), and one or more types are determined based on the label width Lw, the print target width p, and the border width q. Is added to the print image, and the print image to which one or more types of boundary marks have been added is printed on the tape T.

For example, in the case described above with reference to FIG. 4, at least one type of boundary mark indicating a boundary between a useful part and an unnecessary part based on the set arbitrary label width Lw, print target width p and boundary width q. Is added to the print image with the boundary width q and printed.
Therefore, for example, in FIG. 5, in the above-described example, the boundary of the image is indicated by the center line of the first boundary mark C1, but here, instead, the boundary of the image is set to the print image side (reference end side: A boundary mark having a boundary width q indicated by an end (upper side in the drawing) is printed as a first boundary mark C1 (in the present embodiment). That is, in this case, the first boundary mark C1 having the boundary width q is printed outside the boundary line of the image (set end side: lower end side in the drawing). Similarly, in an example corresponding to the example of FIG. 6, a first boundary mark C1 and a second boundary mark C2 having a boundary width q are printed outside the boundary of the image.
The same applies to the examples corresponding to the examples of FIGS. 8, 9, and 14. The first to fourth boundary marks C1 to C4 having the boundary width q are:
It is added to the outside of the boundary of the image and printed. When the super-wide print avoidance region is provided, the definition of the super-wide print avoidance region and the definition of the print avoidance width d are different. This point will be further described later as an example corresponding to the example of FIG.

As described above, in the tape printer 1 of the present embodiment, the boundary between the useful portion and the unnecessary portion is determined based on the set arbitrary label width Lw, the print target width p and the boundary width q. Since one or more types of boundary marks shown are added to the print image with a boundary width q for printing, the tape T is cut in the longitudinal direction, or a plurality of divided tapes T are printed using the printed boundary marks as a guide. Can be easily joined, whereby a label having a desired arbitrary label width Lw can be created. Further, since the edge of the boundary width q on the printed image side indicates the boundary line, the label can be cut or overlapped. Is difficult to remain after the boundary mark.

Here, in the case of the enlargement printing described above with reference to FIG. 17 and the like, since the label width Lw can be set via an arbitrary enlargement factor m, it is included in the concept of setting an arbitrary label width Lw. For this reason, in the enlarged printing, similarly to the case where an arbitrary label width Lw is directly set, a boundary mark in which the edge of the boundary width q on the print image side indicates a boundary line can be applied. In this case, an arbitrary enlargement factor m (m is a real number of 1 or more) is set, and the print width m of the base image is set according to the set enlargement factor m.
Since the print width corresponding to the print width is determined as the label width Lw, the label width Lw can be easily set, and the print image of the label width Lw is created by enlarging the base image by m times. Not only the printed image
A print image having a label width Lw can be easily created based on a base image. That is, it can be applied not only to normal printing but also to enlarged printing. In this case, the tape T can be cut in the longitudinal direction using the printed boundary mark as a guide, or a plurality of divided and printed tapes T can be used. It can be easily joined, a label having a label width Lw suitable for the set enlargement factor m can be created, and the edge of the border image on the print image side of the border width q indicates the border line. Boundary marks hardly remain after pasting.

In these cases, in the tape printer 1, the print target width p and the boundary width q are determined corresponding to the tape width Tw, and the tape width T of the mounted tape T is determined.
w, and a predetermined print target width p and boundary width q corresponding to the detected tape width Tw are set. That is, since the print target width p and the boundary width q are determined in correspondence with the tape width Tw, by detecting the tape width Tw of the attached tape T, a predetermined corresponding print target width p is printed. And the boundary width q can be easily set.

When one of both ends in the tape width direction of the tape T is a reference end and the other end is a set end, the end on the reference end side has a boundary width q and the boundary between the inside and the outside of the label width Lw. A first boundary mark C1 indicating a line is added as one type of boundary mark so as to be adjacent to the outside of the set end side of the print image. In other words, when the print image is printed, the first image is arranged so as to be adjacent to the outside of the set end side of the print image.
The boundary mark C1 is printed.
Since the boundary mark C1 is a cut mark for cutting the tape T in the longitudinal direction after printing, the user needs the first mark.
The cutting in the longitudinal direction can be easily and accurately performed with reference to the boundary mark C1. The first boundary mark C
1 indicates the boundary line between the inside and outside of the label width Lw by the end on the reference end side of the boundary width q, so that a label conforming to the label width Lw set by cutting can be created, and the entire first boundary mark C1 , So that it does not remain as part of the label thereafter.

Also in this embodiment, the label width L
When the relationship Lw> p holds for w and the print target width p, the print width Pw of the print image is set to n (n is an integer of 2 or more) divided print widths Pi (0 ≦ Pi ≦ p, where , I
= 1 to n, where the sum ΣPi = Pw), and the print image of the print width Pw is divided into the divided print widths Pi (i = 1 to n).
Is divided into n divided print images. This allows
Each of the n divided print images can be printed in a print target area having a print target width p. Further, n having a divided print width Pj (j = 2 to n) of n divided print images when one of both ends in the tape width direction of the tape T is a reference end and the other is a set end.
A third boundary having a boundary width q such that the end on the set end side indicates the end on the reference end side of each divided print image so as to be adjacent to the outside of the reference end side of one divided print image The mark C3 is similarly set to an n− mark having a divided print width Pk (k = 1 to n−1).
A fourth boundary mark having a boundary width q and having an end on the reference end side indicating an end on the set end side of each divided print image so as to be adjacent to the outside of the set end side of one divided print image. C4 is added as one type of boundary mark, and one of n divided print images is sequentially or arbitrarily printed in the print target area.

In this case, the third boundary mark C3 of the j-th divided print image is set to j-1 by the end on the set end side of the boundary width q.
Border (end on the reference end side of the j-th divided print image)
And the fourth boundary mark C4 of the k-th divided print image
Indicates the boundary between the reference end of the boundary width q and the (k + 1) th end (the end on the set end side of the k-th divided print image)
By referring to them, processing such as cutting unnecessary portions can be easily performed, and the entire boundary width q is subjected to the cutting or the like, so that the boundary width q does not remain after the cutting or the like. It is possible to create a label that conforms to the set label width Lw.

That is, the third boundary mark C3 and the fourth
By using both of the boundary marks C4 as cut marks for cutting the tape T in the longitudinal direction after printing, the user can cut the entirety of the third boundary mark C3 and the fourth boundary mark C4 having the boundary width q. As it can be easily cut, the whole is cut so that it does not remain afterwards. Further, the reference end side including the third boundary mark C3 is a useless portion, and the set end side including the fourth boundary mark C4 is a useless portion. The unnecessary part indicated by the fourth boundary mark C4 is an adjacent part when arranged as a label. Therefore, the third boundary mark C3 is used as one of a cut mark and a margin mark for cutting in the longitudinal direction after printing the tape T, and the fourth boundary mark C4 is used as the other by referring to one as a cut mark. Cut, and refer to the adjacent one as the glue allowance mark.
Adjacent divided print images can be joined exactly, and also in this case, the entire boundary mark is cut or overlapped, so that it does not remain as a part of the label. Further, in these cases, the total sum of the unnecessary portions is cut and adjacent, or the useful portion is overlapped with the adjacent unnecessary portion, and the whole is て Pi = Pw = Lw, and the total width of the joining result is This corresponds to the label width Lw, whereby a label having a desired label width Lw can be created.

By the way, the above description in the present embodiment can be applied to the case where the super-width printing avoidance area is provided or not, unlike the case of the first and second embodiments. For example, in the example corresponding to FIG. 5, if the width of the unnecessary portion of Tw−Lw is equal to or larger than the boundary width q, that is, if Tw ≧ q, the first boundary mark of the boundary width q is set regardless of the presence or absence of the print avoidance width d. Applicable because it can be printed. The example corresponding to FIG. 6 is the same as the example corresponding to FIG. 5 unless the printing avoidance width d is provided in the first place. Further, in the example corresponding to FIG. 8, the first boundary mark C1 is the same as that in FIG. 5 and the like, and the setting end side (lower end side) and FIG.
If a boundary width q is provided instead of the printing avoidance width d on the reference end side (upper end side) of the third boundary mark C3 having the boundary width q
And the fourth boundary mark C4 can be added for printing.
The present invention can be applied to a case where the super-wide print avoidance area is not provided. FIG.
Is the same as the example corresponding to FIG. 8 unless the print avoidance width d is provided in the first place. In the example described above with reference to FIG. 14, FIG. 13 shows a state in which each boundary mark is not added. As is apparent from FIG. The present invention can also be applied to the case where the width print avoidance area is not provided.

Therefore, hereinafter, as in the first and second embodiments, the case where the super-width printing avoidance area is provided will be described with reference to FIG. 14 among the above examples. That is, an image printing method (and apparatus) described below.
Is provided such that a super-wide print avoidance region for avoiding printing exceeding the tape width Tw of the print image has a predetermined print avoidance width d at both ends in the width direction of the tape T.
Is the print target width p (p = Tw−
As 2d), the present invention can be applied to a tape printing apparatus that prints a print image on a print target area having a print target width p of the tape T, and, of course, can be applied to the tape printing apparatus 1 of the present embodiment of a thermal system.

However, here, as shown in FIG.
The print avoidance width for avoiding the influence of the above-mentioned error factors is the total print avoidance width f for avoiding printing of both the print image and one or more types of boundary marks, and in addition, the print image is avoided. On the other hand, an additional print width e (e ≧ q) that does not avoid printing of one or more types of boundary marks is provided, and a print avoidance width d = e + f is set as a print avoidance area. That is, the super-wide print avoidance area of the print avoidance width d here avoids printing of a print image, but does not avoid printing of one or more types of boundary marks. And a total print avoidance area of a total print avoidance width f (f = de) for avoiding printing of both the print image and one or more types of boundary marks. Thereby, the boundary mark can be added without using a part of the print target width p, and in the tape printing apparatus 1 having the super-wide print avoidance area, the various advantages described above by adding the boundary mark of the boundary width q are provided. Can be obtained. That is, one or more types of boundary marks indicating the boundary between the useful portion and the useless portion of the tape T on which the print image is printed are pasted so as to be suitable as a guide for cutting or overlapping and after cutting or overlapping. Can be printed so that it does not easily remain after printing.

The example of FIG. 21 described above is the same as that of FIG.
5, 8 and 14, there is a blank area with a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d on the reference end side of the print image. In this case, the reference end The print avoidance width d on the side is deleted to create a partial print image of the print width Pw = Lw−d, and the reference print end of the partial print image is aligned with the reference print end of the print target area. The partial print image is printed instead of the print image. In this case, although the actual print width Pw = Lw-d to be printed, since there is a margin for the print avoidance width d on the reference end side of the tape T,
The margin can be matched with the margin on the reference end side of the original print image, and the same print result can be obtained as when the print image of the print width Pw = Lw is printed as it is without providing the super-wide print avoidance area.

Of course, corresponding to the examples of FIGS. 6 and 9 described above, the present invention can also be applied when the width of the margin area on the reference end side of the print image is smaller than the print avoidance width d. That is, when one of the two ends of the tape T in the tape width direction is set as the reference end and the other is set as the set end, the width of the margin area on the reference end side of the print image is the print avoidance width d.
Is less than the second boundary mark C2, which has a boundary width q and whose end on the set end side indicates the end on the reference end side of the print image, as one type of the boundary mark. The print width Pw = L is added so as to be adjacent to the outside of the edge, and the edge on the reference edge side of the print image is aligned with the edge on the reference edge side of the print target area.
Print the print image of w. Therefore, when this print image is printed, the second boundary mark C2 is printed so as to be adjacent to the outside of the reference end side of the print image. Here, in the present embodiment, as in the above-described embodiment, the second boundary mark C2 is a cut mark for cutting the tape T in the longitudinal direction after printing. The second boundary mark C2 indicates an end on the reference end side of the print image, that is, a boundary line between the inside and the outside of the label width Lw, and is printed when the print image is printed. By cutting with reference to the second boundary mark C2, a label conforming to the set label width Lw can be created, and the entire boundary width q is targeted, so that it does not remain in a part of the label.

In the example of FIG. 21 described above, the last print avoidance width d (at the setting end (lower end) side of (c) of i = 3 in FIG. 21) corresponds to FIG. Can be used as a part of the margin on the set end (lower end) side of the first boundary mark C
Since the first boundary mark C1 is not added, the first boundary mark C1 is not added. However, if the example corresponding to FIGS. 5, 6, 8 and 9 is shown, the first boundary mark C1 is similarly added and printed. Will be done. Even in these cases, the first boundary mark C1 indicates the end on the set end side of the print image, that is, the boundary between the inside and the outside of the label width Lw, and is printed when the print image is printed. Therefore, the user can create a label conforming to the set label width Lw by cutting with reference to the first boundary mark C1. Since the boundary line with the outside is shown, by cutting the entire first boundary mark, it does not remain as a part of the label thereafter.

In the case of the divided printing in the first to third embodiments described above, printing is performed by adding both the third boundary mark C3 and the fourth boundary mark C4, and one of them is used as a cut mark. An example was given in which cutting was performed and the other was used as a margin mark as a guide for overlapping.However, if one cut can be executed accurately and the margin can be clearly understood from the relationship between the character string printing result etc. Alternatively, the addition and printing of the boundary mark on the side serving as the paste margin mark may be omitted. For example, in the case of the above-described example of FIG. 21, as shown in FIG. 22, even if the addition of the fourth boundary mark C3 and the printing thereof are omitted, the fourth boundary mark C4 side is clear, so that it is easy to cut accurately.
In addition, any of the character strings “123A” is subject to division,
Since the boundary line can be easily and relatively accurately imaged as shown by the third boundary mark (glue margin mark in this case) C3 in FIG. 21, the addition of the third boundary mark and its printing are performed as shown in FIG. May be omitted. In such a case, the additional print width e on the side where the boundary mark is omitted (the reference end (upper end) side in the example of FIG. 22) is omitted, and printing of both the print image and one or more types of boundary marks is avoided. For example, as in the first and second embodiments, the print target width p can be increased by the omitted additional print width e only with the entire print avoidance width f, that is, as in the first and second embodiments. .

Since the tape printing apparatus 1 is a thermal type tape printing apparatus, a super-wide print avoidance area is provided. However, as described above, the same as when no super-wide print avoidance area is provided. A label or the like having a label width Lw that is arbitrarily set (or matches an arbitrarily set enlargement factor m) can be created.

In the above-described embodiment, an example of a thermal type tape printing apparatus has been described. However, other types of tape printing apparatuses provided with a super-wide print avoidance area can be similarly applied. Of course, other modifications can be made as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0173]

As described above, according to the image printing method and apparatus of the tape printing apparatus of the present invention, a super-wide print avoidance area having a predetermined print avoidance width is provided at both ends in the width direction of the tape. Even if the enlarged print image obtained by enlarging the print image is divided and printed on a plurality of tapes, a gap or the like hardly occurs when the divided print images are joined, and a label or the like that matches the set enlargement ratio can be created. And so on.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a control system of a tape printing apparatus 1 to which an image printing method and an image printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention are applied.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating a conceptual process of overall control of the tape printing apparatus in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a display screen for printing an image and a typical operation on the display screen.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram similar to FIG. 3, illustrating an example of an operation for setting a label width.

FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a relationship between a label to be created and a printing result of image printing for the label.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory view similar to FIG. 5, showing another example.

FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram similar to FIG. 3, illustrating an example of a print instruction operation in the case of divided printing.

FIG. 8 shows still another example corresponding to FIG. 7,
It is explanatory drawing similar to.

FIG. 9 shows still another example corresponding to FIG. 7,
It is explanatory drawing similar to.

FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a conventional problem.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram similar to FIG. 10, showing an example of still another problem.

FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing another example of a label to be created.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a problem in a print result of image printing for creating the label in FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a print result of a divided print image for solving the problem of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a conceptual explanatory view for creating a label by partially overlapping and pasting the divided print images of the print result of FIG. 13;

FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram similar to FIG. 15, but showing another example.

FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram similar to FIG. 3, showing an example of an operation for setting an enlargement ratio in the case of enlarged printing.

FIG. 18 is an explanatory view similar to FIG. 17, following FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram showing various examples of boundary marks.

FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram conceptually illustrating an example of a relationship between a character portion and a boundary mark.

FIG. 21 is an explanatory view similar to FIG. 14, but showing still another example using the boundary marks of FIG. 19 (g).

FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram similar to FIG. 21, but showing still another example.

[Explanation of symbols]

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Tape printer 3 Keyboard 4 Display 5 Tape cartridge 7 Print head 11 Operation part 12 Printing part 13 Cutting part 14 Detecting part 41 Display screen 200 Control part 210 CPU 220 ROM 230 Character generator ROM (CG-RO)
M) 240 RAM 250 Input / output control circuit (IOC) 260 Internal bus 270 Drive unit 280 External memory mounting unit 290 Power supply unit T Tape

 ────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuation of front page (72) Inventor Hideyuki Tsukuda 3-3-5 Yamato, Suwa-shi, Nagano F-term in Seiko Epson Corporation (reference) 2C055 CC00 CC01 CC03 CC05 5C076 AA21 AA36 BA02 BB13 BB42 CA06

Claims (26)

[Claims] 1. A tape width Tw of a tape to be printed.
A super-wide print avoidance region for avoiding printing exceeding the width is provided at both ends in the width direction of the tape so as to have a predetermined print avoidance width d, and a portion of the tape width Tw excluding the print avoidance width d. Is a print target width p (p = Tw−2d), image printing of a tape printing apparatus that prints an enlarged print image obtained by enlarging a basic print image at an arbitrary enlargement factor in a print target area of the tape print target width p. A tape mounting step of mounting an arbitrary tape as the print target; a print target width determining step of determining the print avoidance width d and the print target width p of the mounted tape; An enlargement ratio setting step of setting a ratio m (m is a real number of 1 or more); and determining a print width corresponding to m times the print width of the basic print image as a label width Lw according to the set enlargement ratio m. Label width determination And an enlarged print image creating step of creating an enlarged print image of the label width Lw by enlarging the basic print image m times. The label width Lw, the print avoidance width d, and the print target width p. A boundary mark adding step of adding one or more boundary marks indicating a boundary between a useful part and a useless part of the tape as a print result to the enlarged print image, and the one or more boundary marks are added. And a printing step of printing the enlarged print image on the tape. 2. The print avoidance width d and the print target width p are determined in correspondence with the tape width Tw, and the print target width determining step includes detecting a tape width Tw of the attached tape. 2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: a width detection step; and a print target width setting step of setting a predetermined print avoidance width d and a print target width p corresponding to the detected tape width Tw. An image printing method for a tape printer. 3. When one of both ends in the tape width direction of the tape is a reference end and the other is a set end, the boundary mark adding step includes the step of adding the label width to an end of the enlarged print image on the set end side. The tape printing according to claim 1, further comprising a first boundary mark adding step of adding a first boundary mark indicating a boundary between an inner side and an outer side of Lw as one of the boundary marks. Image printing method for the device. 4. The printing step according to claim 1, wherein, when there is a margin area having a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d on the reference end side of the enlarged print image, the print avoidance width on the reference end side of the enlarged print image is provided. d, and delete the print width P
a partially enlarged print image creating step of creating a partially enlarged print image of w = Lw-d, and aligning an end of the partial enlarged print image on a reference end side with an end of the print target area on the reference end side; The image printing method according to claim 3, further comprising: a partial image printing step of printing an enlarged print image instead of the enlarged print image. 5. A relation of Lw> p + d is established for the label width Lw, the print target width p, and the print avoidance width d, and the print avoidance width d is greater than or equal to the print avoidance width d on the reference end side of the enlarged print image. When there is a blank area having a width of n, the print width Pw = Lw-d is divided into n (n is an integer of 2 or more) divided print widths Pi (0 ≦ Pi ≦ p, where i = 1 to n, However, the enlarged print image dividing step of allocating the partial enlarged print image having the print width Pw to the n divided enlarged print images having the divided print widths Pi (i = 1 to n) is performed. The boundary mark adding step further includes: a divided print width Pj of the n divided enlarged print images.
The n-1 divided enlarged print images having (j = 2 to n) have a third end indicating the end on the reference end side of each divided enlarged print image.
A third boundary mark adding step of adding a boundary mark as one type of the boundary mark, and a divided print width Pk of the n divided enlarged print images
A fourth boundary mark indicating the end on the set end side of each divided enlarged print image is added as one type of the boundary mark to the n-1 divided enlarged print images having (k = 1 to n-1). And a fourth boundary mark adding step of: performing the partial image printing step, wherein the partial image printing step sequentially or arbitrarily prints one of the n divided enlarged print images in the print target area. 5. The image printing method according to claim 4, further comprising an image printing step. 6. The boundary mark adding step indicates an end of the enlarged print image on the reference end side when a width of a margin area on the reference end side of the enlarged print image is smaller than the print avoidance width d. A second boundary mark adding step of adding a second boundary mark as a kind of the boundary mark, wherein the printing step includes: a reference end side of the enlarged print image at an end of the print target area on the reference end side The image printing method for a tape printing apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising: a full image printing step of printing the enlarged print image having a print width Pw = Lw by aligning the edges of the images. 7. A relationship Lw> p is established between the label width Lw and the print target width p, and the width of the marginal area on the reference end side of the enlarged print image is smaller than the print avoidance width d. When the print width Pw is divided into n (n is an integer of 2 or more) divided print widths Pi (0 ≦ Pi ≦ p, where i
= 1 to n, where sum ΣPi = Pw), and the partial enlarged print image of the print width Pw is divided into the divided print widths Pi.
An enlarged print image dividing step of dividing the image into n divided enlarged print images having (i = 1 to n), wherein the boundary mark adding step includes a divided print width Pj of the n divided enlarged print images.
The n-1 divided enlarged print images having (j = 2 to n) have a third end indicating the end on the reference end side of each divided enlarged print image.
A third boundary mark adding step of adding a boundary mark as one type of the boundary mark, and a divided print width Pk of the n divided enlarged print images
A fourth boundary mark indicating the end on the set end side of each divided enlarged print image is added as one type of the boundary mark to the n-1 divided enlarged print images having (k = 1 to n-1). And a fourth boundary mark adding step of: performing the partial image printing step, wherein the partial image printing step sequentially or arbitrarily prints one of the n divided enlarged print images in the print target area. The image printing method according to claim 6, further comprising an image printing step. 8. The image printing method according to claim 6, wherein the second boundary mark is a cut mark for cutting the tape in a longitudinal direction after printing the tape. 9. The method according to claim 5, wherein the third boundary mark and the fourth boundary mark are cut marks for cutting the tape in a longitudinal direction after printing.
Or the image printing method of the tape printing apparatus according to 7. 10. The third boundary mark is one of a cut mark for cutting the tape in a longitudinal direction after printing and a glue margin mark for pasting the tape, and the fourth boundary mark is the cut mark. The image printing method of a tape printing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the image is the other of the glue margin mark. 11. In the first boundary mark adding step, Pw = h × p + d (where h is an arbitrary integer of 1 or more) is satisfied for the print width Pw, and the setting of the enlarged print image is performed. When there is a margin area having a width equal to or larger than the printing avoidance width d on the end side, the addition of the first boundary mark is omitted, and in the printing step, the printing width Pw = h × p + d is satisfied, and When there is a margin area having a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d on the set end side of the enlarged print image, an image obtained by deleting the print avoidance width d on the set end side of the enlarged print image is the enlarged print image. The image printing method of a tape printing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein printing is performed instead of printing. 12. The image of a tape printing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the first boundary mark is a cut mark for cutting the tape in a longitudinal direction after printing the tape. Printing method. 13. The image printing method for a tape printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said tape printing apparatus is a thermal type tape printing apparatus. 14. A tape width T of a tape to be printed.
The super-wide print avoidance area for avoiding printing exceeding w
The print avoidance width d is provided at both ends in the width direction of the tape so as to have a predetermined print avoidance width d.
The portion excluding is set as the print target width p (p = Tw−2d),
An image printing apparatus of a tape printing apparatus for printing an enlarged print image obtained by enlarging a basic print image at an arbitrary enlargement ratio in a print target area of a print target width p of the tape, wherein an arbitrary tape is used as the print target. A tape mounting means to be mounted; a print target width determining means for determining the print avoidance width d and the print target width p of the mounted tape; and an enlargement for setting an arbitrary enlargement factor m (m is a real number of 1 or more). Rate setting means, label width determining means for determining a print width corresponding to m times the print width of the basic print image as a label width Lw according to the set enlargement factor m, and m times the basic print image An enlarged print image creating means for creating an enlarged print image of the label width Lw by enlarging; and a print result table based on the label width Lw, the print avoidance width d, and the print target width p. Boundary mark adding means for adding, to the enlarged print image, at least one type of boundary mark indicating a boundary between a useful part and a useless part, and an enlarged print image to which the one or more type of boundary mark has been added, to the tape An image printing apparatus for a tape printing apparatus, comprising: printing means for printing on a tape. 15. The print avoidance width d and the print target width p are determined corresponding to the tape width Tw, and the print target width determining means detects the tape width Tw of the attached tape. 15. The printing apparatus according to claim 14, further comprising: a width detection unit; and a print target width setting unit that sets a predetermined print avoidance width d and a print target width p corresponding to the detected tape width Tw. Image printing device for tape printing devices. 16. When one of both ends in the tape width direction of the tape is a reference end and the other is a set end, the boundary mark adding means adds the label width to an end of the enlarged print image on the set end side. The tape printing according to claim 14, further comprising a first boundary mark adding unit that adds a first boundary mark indicating a boundary between the inside and the outside of Lw as one type of the boundary mark. 17. Device image printing device. 17. The printing device according to claim 17, wherein the print avoidance width on the reference end side of the enlarged print image is provided when there is a margin area having a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d on the reference end side of the enlarged print image. d, and delete the print width P
a partially enlarged print image creating unit for creating a partially enlarged print image of w = Lw-d; and a reference end side of the partial enlarged print image aligned with an end of the print target area on the reference end side. 17. The image printing apparatus according to claim 16, further comprising: a partial image printing unit that prints an enlarged print image instead of the enlarged print image. 18. The label width Lw and the print target width p
When the relationship Lw> p + d is satisfied for the print avoidance width d and there is a margin area having a width equal to or greater than the print avoidance width d on the reference end side of the enlarged print image, the print width Pw = Lw-d is assigned to n (n is an integer of 2 or more) divided print widths Pi (0 ≦ Pi ≦ p, where i = 1 to n, where sum ΣPi = Pw), and the print width Pw
Of the partially enlarged print image is divided into print widths Pi (i = 1 to n)
Further comprising an enlarged print image dividing means for dividing the image into n divided enlarged print images, wherein the boundary mark adding means comprises: a divided print width Pj of the n divided enlarged print images.
The n-1 divided enlarged print images having (j = 2 to n) have a third end indicating the end on the reference end side of each divided enlarged print image.
A third boundary mark adding means for adding a boundary mark as one type of the boundary mark, and a divided print width Pk of the n divided enlarged print images
A fourth boundary mark indicating the end on the set end side of each divided enlarged print image is added as one type of the boundary mark to the n-1 divided enlarged print images having (k = 1 to n-1). And a fourth boundary mark adding unit, wherein the partial image printing unit sequentially or arbitrarily prints one of the n divided enlarged print images in the print target area. The image printing apparatus according to claim 17, further comprising an image printing unit. 19. The boundary mark adding unit indicates an end of the enlarged print image on the reference end side when a width of a margin area on the reference end side of the enlarged print image is smaller than the print avoidance width d. A second boundary mark adding unit that adds a second boundary mark as one type of the boundary mark, wherein the printing unit is provided at a reference end side of the enlarged print image at an end of the print target area on the reference end side. 17. The image printing apparatus according to claim 16, further comprising: a full-image printing unit that prints the enlarged print image having a print width Pw = Lw. 20. A relationship Lw> p is established for the label width Lw and the print target width p, and the width of the marginal area on the reference end side of the enlarged print image is smaller than the print avoidance width d. When the print width Pw is divided into n (n is an integer of 2 or more) divided print widths Pi (0 ≦ Pi ≦ p, where
i = 1 to n, where sum ΣPi = Pw)
The partial enlarged print image of the print width Pw is divided into each divided print width Pi.
The apparatus further includes an enlarged print image dividing unit that divides the image into n divided enlarged print images having (i = 1 to n), wherein the boundary mark adding unit includes a divided print width Pj of the n divided enlarged print images.
The n-1 divided enlarged print images having (j = 2 to n) have a third end indicating the end on the reference end side of each divided enlarged print image.
A third boundary mark adding means for adding a boundary mark as one type of the boundary mark, and a divided print width Pk of the n divided enlarged print images
A fourth boundary mark indicating the end on the set end side of each divided enlarged print image is added as one type of the boundary mark to the n-1 divided enlarged print images having (k = 1 to n-1). And a fourth boundary mark adding unit, wherein the partial image printing unit sequentially or arbitrarily prints one of the n divided enlarged print images in the print target area. 20. The image printing apparatus according to claim 19, further comprising an image printing unit. 21. The image printing apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the second boundary mark is a cut mark for cutting the tape in a longitudinal direction after printing. 22. The tape printing according to claim 18, wherein the third boundary mark and the fourth boundary mark are cut marks for cutting the tape in a longitudinal direction after printing. Device image printing device. 23. The third boundary mark is one of a cut mark for cutting the tape in the longitudinal direction after printing and a glue margin mark for pasting the tape, and the fourth boundary mark is the cut mark. 21. The image printing device of a tape printing device according to claim 18, wherein the image is the other of the glue margin mark. 24. The first boundary mark adding means, wherein, for the print width Pw, Pw = h × p + d (where h is an arbitrary integer of 1 or more) is satisfied, and the setting of the enlarged print image is performed. When there is a margin area having a width equal to or larger than the printing avoidance width d on the end side, the addition of the first boundary mark is omitted, and the printing unit satisfies the printing width Pw = h × p + d, and When there is a margin area having a width equal to or larger than the print avoidance width d on the set end side of the enlarged print image, an image obtained by deleting the print avoidance width d on the set end side of the enlarged print image is the enlarged print image. The image printing apparatus of a tape printing apparatus according to any one of claims 17 to 23, wherein printing is performed in place of (i). 25. The image of a tape printing apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the first boundary mark is a cut mark for cutting the tape in a longitudinal direction after printing. Printing device. 26. The tape printer according to claim 14, wherein the tape printer is a thermal tape printer.
26. The image printing device of the tape printing device according to any one of items 25 to 25.