JP2003039765A - Printing method, printing system, program and memory medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a printing method capable of obtaining information for the network per user, executing storage and data administration suited for printing the obtained information, and distributing the printing data, a printing system, a program and a memory medium. SOLUTION: A file designated by an electronic mail is outputted to an adopter 106 as printing data without rendering.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a printing method, a printing system, a program and a storage medium.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Different from printing using a general personal computer, as a method of issuing a print instruction in a mobile environment, an application server for converting print data and print data received from the application server via a communication network are received. The present applicant proposes a printing system (printing system) including a printer adapter that converts received print data into a data format of a printer interface and a printer that prints print data sent from the printer adapter. Has been done.

In this print system, the application server that receives the e-mail converts the received content into print data suitable for the designated printer.

Further, the application server which has received the e-mail having the file attached starts the application program corresponding to the attached file and converts the content of the opened attached file into print data suitable for the designated printer. Convert. Then, the application server transmits the print data to the printer adapter of the designated printer using the communication network. The printer adapter performs protocol conversion on the sent print data, and the designated printer prints out.

[0005]

[Problems to be solved by the invention] In recent years,
Recently, a service for describing and delivering in ML (Hyper Text Make up Language) and a search service for searching for these news (contents) by keywords have become a hot topic.
Information (data) obtained using such services
Were usually stored on an individual's personal computer, managed by each user, and printed when needed.

However, since HTML has no concept of being stored in a paper frame, there is a problem in that the acquired and saved HTML differs from the viewed one in the printed result. Also, for printing, there are also provided contents to be output within the specified frame, but the number of output pages is unknown, or the margin margin is too large to prevent the data from protruding from the paper. However, there is an inconvenience that only poor printing can be performed.

[0007] Therefore, there is a demand for a service that provides centralized content acquisition, management of acquired information (data), conversion of the acquired data into a format suitable for printing, and a convenient printing environment for each user. There is.

Further, in the print system as described above, the application server performs all print data creation processing such as generation of print image data and connection of print control data. As a result, the print data generated by the application server becomes large in size, and when the created print data is sent using the communication line,
There was a problem that the transmission time would be long.

In general, in order to shorten the transmission time, it is conceivable to compress the print data and then transmit the print data. However, the print data generated by the application server is not the print image data. Since the print control data and the print control data are mixed, there is a problem that a sufficient compression rate cannot be obtained even if the run length compression which is an existing compression method is performed.

Further, generally, in order to shorten the transmission time, the image data is compressed and then transmitted, the image data is decompressed by an adapter or a printer, and then the compressed data is processed to obtain the print image data. There is a problem in that in this case, since the adapter or the printer needs to have the same image processing function as that of the personal computer, the price of the adapter or the printer increases.

The present invention has been made in order to solve the above-mentioned problems of the prior art, and the first purpose thereof is to acquire information for a network in a network for each user, and to acquire the information. A printing method that enables storage / data management and print data distribution adapted to printing of information,
A printing system, a program, and a storage medium are provided.

A second object of the present invention is to provide a printing method, a printing system, which can obtain a sufficient compression ratio and can shorten the transmission time without increasing the price of the adapter or the printer. To provide a program and a storage medium.

[0013]

In order to achieve the first object, the printing method according to claim 1 of the present invention is a printing information saving / rearranging method for saving / rearranging as printing information suitable for printing. A rearrangement step, a transmission step of transmitting the print information as an electronic mail, a first conversion step of receiving the electronic mail and converting it into print data, the first conversion step
The second conversion step of converting the print data converted by the conversion step into the data format of the interface of the printer, and the printing step of printing the print data converted by the second conversion step by the printer. It is characterized by

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 2 of the present invention is a printing information storage / relocation unit that stores and rearranges printing information suitable for printing, a transmission unit that transmits the printing information as an electronic mail, and the electronic First conversion means for receiving the mail and converting it into print data; second conversion means for converting the print data converted by the first conversion means into a data format of the interface of the printer; and the second conversion means. And a printing unit that prints the print data converted by the conversion unit.

In order to achieve the first object,
The printing method according to claim 3 of the present invention is a printing method in which a printing process is performed by a printing system including a computer connected to a network, an application server that collects data and generates print data, and a printer. The information collecting step of collecting arbitrary information on the network according to the instruction, the data converting step of converting the collected information collected by the information collecting step into print data, and the print data converted by the data converting step. It has a data transmitting step of transmitting to the printer, and a first control step of controlling the print data to be printed by the printer.

Further, in order to achieve the first object,
The printing method according to claim 4 of the present invention is the printing method according to claim 3, further comprising a category selecting step of selecting a category, and the information relating to the category selected by the category selecting step is the information collecting step. Is collected on the network according to.

In order to achieve the first object,
A printing method according to a fifth aspect of the present invention is the printing method according to the third aspect, further comprising an information selecting step of selecting information from the collected information collected by the information collecting step,
A selection information storage step of storing the selection information selected by the information selection step.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A printing method according to a sixth aspect of the present invention is the printing method according to the third aspect, further comprising a first collected information storage step of storing the collected information in a format including layout information suitable for printing. Is characterized by.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing method according to claim 7 of the present invention is the printing method according to claim 6, further comprising a selection layout information storage step of storing the selection layout information separately from the collection information, wherein the collection and storage information is repeated. The feature is that the layout can be changed.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing method according to claim 8 of the present invention is the printing method according to claim 6 or 7, characterized by further comprising a layout information selecting step of selecting the layout information.

Further, in order to achieve the first object,
A printing method according to a ninth aspect of the present invention is the printing method according to the sixth or seventh aspect, further comprising a layout information changing step of changing the layout information.

Further, in order to achieve the above first object,
The printing method according to claim 10 of the present invention is the printing method according to any one of claims 6 to 9, characterized by further comprising a display step of displaying a print content of the collected information accompanied by the layout information. To do.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing method according to claim 11 of the present invention is the printing method according to claim 3, further comprising a second collection information storage step of storing the collection information in a format including print setting information. To do.

In order to achieve the above first object,
According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, in the printing method according to the eleventh aspect, the print setting information is print sheet information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the printing method according to the eleventh aspect, the print setting information is print mode information.

In order to achieve the first object,
A printing method according to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention is the printing method according to the eleventh aspect, wherein the print setting information is printer cartridge information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A printing method according to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention is the printing method according to the eleventh aspect, further comprising a setting change / save step of changing / storing a setting relating to a printer as a delivery destination according to an instruction from the computer. Characterize.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A printing method according to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention is the printing method according to the third aspect, further comprising a delivery step of delivering the print information to a designated printer by an instruction from the computer.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A printing method according to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention is the printing method according to the sixteenth aspect, further comprising a delivery result display step of displaying a delivery result of the delivery step.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A printing method according to claim 18 of the present invention is the printing method according to claim 3, further comprising: a first print setting information storing step of storing print setting information in association with the collection information and the layout information; A search step of searching the information collected and stored by the first print setting information storing step for each of the print setting information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, in the printing method according to the eighteenth aspect, the print setting information is print sheet information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, in the printing method according to the eighteenth aspect, the print setting information is print mode information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A printing method according to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention is the printing method according to the eighteenth aspect, wherein the print setting information is printer cartridge information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A printing method according to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention is the printing method according to the third aspect, further comprising a second print setting information storage step of storing print setting information in association with the collection information and the layout information, A second control step of controlling to collectively print the information collected and saved by the second print setting information saving step for each paper type.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A printing method according to a twenty-third aspect of the present invention is the printing method according to the twenty-second aspect, wherein the print setting information is print sheet information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
According to a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention, in the printing method according to the twenty-third aspect, the print setting information is print mode information.

In order to achieve the above-mentioned first object,
A printing method according to a twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention is the printing method according to the twenty-third aspect, wherein the print setting information is printer cartridge information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A printing system according to a twenty-sixth aspect of the present invention is a printing system including a computer connected to a network, an application server that collects data and generates print data, and a printer. Information collecting means for collecting arbitrary information by means of data, data converting means for converting the collected information collected by the information collecting means into print data, and data transmission for transmitting the print data converted by the data converting means to the printer Means and a first control means for controlling the print data to be printed by the printer.

In order to achieve the first object,
The printing system according to claim 27 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 2.
In the printing system described in Item 6, there is provided a category selecting means for selecting a category, and the information collecting means collects information about the category selected by the category selecting means on the network.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 28 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 2.
The printing system according to Item 6, further comprising: an information selection unit that selects information from the collection information collected by the information collection unit; and a selection information storage unit that stores the selection information selected by the information selection unit. And

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 29 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 2.
In the printing system described in Item 6, there is provided a first collection information storage unit that stores the collection information in a format including layout information suitable for printing.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 30 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 2.
The printing system described in Item 9 is characterized in that it has selection layout information storage means for storing the selection layout information separately from the collection information, and the collection storage information can repeatedly change the layout.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 31 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 2.
The printing system described in Item 9 or 30 is characterized by further comprising layout information selecting means for selecting the layout information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 32 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 2.
The printing system described in Item 9 or 30 is characterized by including a layout information changing step of changing the layout information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 33 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 2.
In the printing system according to any one of 9 to 32,
It is characterized by further comprising display means for displaying a print content of the collected information accompanied by the layout information.

In order to achieve the first object,
The printing system according to claim 34 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 2.
In the printing system described in Item 6, there is provided a second collection information storage unit that stores the collection information in a format including print setting information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 35 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 3.
In the printing system described in Item 4, the print setting information is print sheet information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 36 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 3.
In the printing system described in Item 4, the print setting information is print mode information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 37 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 3
In the printing system described in Item 4, the print setting information is printer cartridge information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 38 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 2.
In the printing system described in Item 6, there is provided a setting changing / storing unit that changes / saves a setting relating to a printer as a delivery destination according to an instruction from the computer.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 39 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 2.
In the printing system described in Item 6, there is provided a delivery unit that delivers the print information to a designated printer according to an instruction from the computer.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 40 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 3.
The printing system described in Item 9 is characterized by further comprising delivery result display means for displaying a delivery result by the delivery means.

In order to achieve the first object,
The printing system according to claim 41 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 2.
In the printing system according to 6, the first print setting information storage unit that stores the print setting information in association with the collection information and the layout information, and the information collected and stored by the first print setting information storage unit And a search means for searching for each print setting information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 42 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 4
In the printing system described in Item 1, the print setting information is print paper information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A printing system according to claim 43 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 4
In the printing system described in Item 1, the print setting information is print mode information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 44 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 4.
In the printing system described in Item 1, the print setting information is printer cartridge information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 45 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 2.
In the printing system described in Item 6, a second print setting information storage unit that stores the print setting information in association with the collection information and the layout information, and a sheet of information collected and stored by the second print setting information storage unit. It is characterized by having a second control means for controlling so as to collectively print by type.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 46 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 4.
In the printing system described in Item 5, the print setting information is print sheet information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 47 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 4.
In the printing system described in Item 5, the print setting information is print mode information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 48 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 4.
In the printing system described in Item 5, the print setting information is printer cartridge information.

In order to achieve the above second object,
A printing method according to claim 49 of the present invention is a computer connected to a network, an application server for collecting data and generating print data, and receiving print data from the application server via a communication network. Also, printing performed by a printing system including a printer adapter that converts the received print data into a data format of an interface of a connected printer, and a printer that prints the print data converted by the printer adapter and transmitted. In the method, there is provided a first print data generation step in which the print image data generation processing is performed by the application server, and a data connection processing step in which the print control data connection processing is performed by the printer adapter. .

In order to achieve the second object,
The printing method according to claim 50 of the present invention is the printing method according to claim 49, wherein a compression step of compressing the print image data generated by the first print data generation step, and the compression step. A first transmitting step of transmitting the print image data compressed by the above from the application server to the printer adapter via a communication network.

In order to achieve the above second object,
The printing method according to claim 51 of the present invention is the printing method according to claim 49, wherein print control data corresponding to the type of the printer is transmitted from the application server to the printer adapter via a communication network. It is characterized by having two transmission steps.

In order to achieve the above second object,
A printing method according to a 52nd aspect of the present invention is the printing method according to the 49th aspect, wherein a decompression step of decompressing print image data transmitted from the application server via a communication network, and a decompression step of the decompression step are performed. A second print data generation step of generating print data by linking the generated print image data with print control data transmitted from the application server via a communication network; and a generation processing by the second print data generation step. A third conversion step of converting the converted print data into a data format of a printer interface, and a third transmission step of transmitting the print data converted by the third conversion step to the printer. To do.

In order to achieve the second object,
A printing system according to claim 53 of the present invention is a computer connected to a network, an application server for collecting data and generating print data,
A printer adapter that receives print data from the application server via a communication network and converts the received print data into a data format of an interface of a connected printer, and print data converted and transmitted by the printer adapter In the printing system including a printer for printing, the print image data generation process is performed by the application server, and the print control data connection process is performed by the printer adapter.

In order to achieve the above second object,
The printing system according to claim 54 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 5.
In the printing system according to the third aspect, a compression unit that compresses print image data generated by the application server, and the printer adapter that compresses the print image data compressed by the compression unit from the application server via a communication network. And a first transmitting means for transmitting to.

In order to achieve the above second object,
The printing system according to claim 55 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 5.
The printing system according to the third aspect is characterized in that the printing system further comprises second transmitting means for transmitting print control data corresponding to the type of the printer from the application server to the printer adapter via a communication network.

Further, in order to achieve the second object,
The printing system according to claim 56 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 5.
In the printing system according to 3, the decompression unit that decompresses the print image data transmitted from the application server via the communication network, and the print image data decompressed by the decompression unit from the application server via the communication network. Print data generating means for generating print data by linking with the transmitted print control data, and print data generated by the print data generating means and converted by the printer adapter into a printer interface data format. It has a 3rd transmission means to transmit.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing method according to claim 57 of the present invention is a printing method for performing print processing by a printing system including a computer connected to a network, an application server that collects data and generates print data, and a printer. A category information notifying step of notifying specific category information selected by the user via a computer; a category information registering / storing step of registering / saving the specific category information notified by the category information notifying step; From the information collection start notification step for notifying the start of collection, the information collection step for collecting information on the specific category information selected by the user at the time of information collection on the Internet, and the information collected by the information collection step Select the information you need An information selecting step, a displaying step for displaying the information selected by the information selecting step, and an information saving step for saving the information selected by the information selecting step in a format including layout information and print setting information selected by a user. A search step of searching the information stored in the information storage step for each print setting information, a layout information changing step of changing the layout information of the information stored in the information storage step, and information stored by the user in the information storage step Printing start instructing step for instructing the start of printing, an information converting step for converting the information stored in the information storing step into print data, and the information converted in the information converting step is distributed to a printer designated in advance by the user. The distribution step and the distribution And having a transmission result display step of displaying a distribution result by-up.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A printing system according to a fifty-eighth aspect of the present invention is a printing system including a computer connected to a network, an application server that collects data and generates print data, and a printer. Category information notifying means for notifying the selected specific category information, category information registration / storing means for registering / saving the specific category information notified by the category information notifying means, and a user notifying start of information collection Information collection start notification means, information collection means for collecting information on the specific category information selected by the user at the time of information collection on the Internet, and information required by the user selected from the information collected by the information collection means The information selecting means to be selected and the information selecting means. Information displaying means for displaying the selected information, information saving means for saving the information selected by the information selecting means in a format including layout information and print setting information selected by the user, and printing the information saved by the information saving means. Search means for searching by setting information, layout information changing means for changing layout information of the information saved by the information saving means, and print start instructing means for instructing the user to start printing the information saved by the information saving means An information conversion unit that converts the information stored by the information storage unit into print data, a distribution unit that distributes the information converted by the information conversion unit to a printer designated in advance by a user, and a distribution result by the distribution unit. And a delivery result display means for displaying.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A printing system according to a fifty-ninth aspect of the invention is a printing system including a computer connected to a network, an application server that collects data and generates print data, and a printer, and receives an instruction from the computer. A receiving server, a data collection / management server that collects and manages data according to a category selected according to an instruction from the computer, and data converted by the data collection / management server into print information and the converted data To the printer.

Further, in order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 60 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 5.
In the printing system described in Item 9, the receiving server is
Instruction waiting means for waiting for a user's instruction via the computer, category selecting means for allowing the user to select a category, and data collection requesting means for charging the data collection / management server for data collection according to the category selected by the user And category notifying means for notifying the data collection / management server of the category selected by the user,
Information notifying means for notifying the user of the information acquired from the data collection / management server, data selecting means for allowing the user to select the collected data, data notifying means for notifying the user of the data selected by the user, and the user The present invention is characterized by having a storage method selection means for selecting a storage method and a print instruction method selection means for allowing a user to select a print instruction method.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 61 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 6.
In the printing system described in item 0, the data notification unit notifies the user of the data selected by the user as a preview screen.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 62 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 6.
0. In the printing system according to item 0, the data collection / management server includes an instruction waiting unit that waits for an instruction from the receiving server, an information collecting unit that collects information according to a category notified from the receiving server, and the information collecting unit. It is characterized by comprising an information providing means for providing the information collected by the above to the receiving server, a layout means for laying out the information collected by the information collecting means, and a print instruction means for giving a print instruction to the print server.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 63 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 6.
0, the print server,
It is characterized in that it has a print data generating means for generating print data according to the designated print information and a distributing means for distributing the print data generated by the print data generating means to a specific printer.

In order to achieve the first object,
The printing system according to claim 64 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 6.
In the printing system described in No. 0, there is provided a print start instruction means for instructing the print server to start printing by using an electronic mail.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 65 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 6.
In the printing system according to item 0, the application server and the printer are connected via a telephone line.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 66 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 6.
In the printing system described in Item 5, the telephone line is wired.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The printing system according to claim 67 of the present invention is the printing system according to claim 6.
In the printing system described in Item 5, the telephone line is wireless.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A program according to claim 68 of the present invention is a computer-readable program for controlling a printing system including a computer connected to a network, an application server for collecting data and generating print data, and a printer. A print information storing / rearranging step of storing / rearranging as print information suitable for printing, a transmitting step of transmitting the print information as an e-mail, and a step of receiving the e-mail and converting it into print data. A first converting step, a second converting step of converting the print data converted by the first converting step into a data format of an interface of the printer, and a print data converted by the second converting step. A printing step for printing the Characterized in that it consists of program modules for.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A program according to claim 69 of the present invention is a computer-readable program for controlling a printing system including a computer connected to a network, an application server for collecting data and generating print data, and a printer. An information collecting step of collecting arbitrary information on the network according to an instruction of the computer; a data converting step of converting the collected information collected by the information collecting step into print data; and a data converting step of converting the collected information. And a program module for causing a computer to execute a data transmission step of transmitting the generated print data to the printer and a first control step of controlling the print data to be printed by the printer. .

In order to achieve the above first object,
A program according to claim 70 of the present invention is the program according to claim 69.
The program according to claim 1, further comprising a program module for causing a computer to execute a category selection step of selecting a category, and collecting information about the category selected by the category selection step on the network by the information collecting step. Is characterized by.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A program according to claim 71 of the present invention is the program according to claim 69.
In the program described in (3), a computer is caused to execute an information selecting step of selecting information from the collected information collected by the information collecting step, and a selection information storing step of storing the selection information selected by the information selecting step. It is characterized by having a program module.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A program according to claim 72 of the present invention is the program according to claim 69.
The program described in (4) is characterized by including a program module for causing a computer to execute a first collected information storing step of storing the collected information in a format including layout information suitable for printing.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The program according to claim 73 of the present invention is the program according to claim 72.
In the program described in (3) above, a program module for causing a computer to execute a selection layout information storage step of storing the selection layout information separately from the collection information, and the layout of the collection and storage information can be repeatedly changed.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The program according to claim 74 of the present invention is the program according to claim 72.
Alternatively, the program described in Item 73 has a program module for causing a computer to execute the layout information selection step of selecting the layout information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A program according to claim 75 of the present invention is the program according to claim 72.
Alternatively, the program described in Item 73 has a program module for causing a computer to execute the layout information changing step of changing the layout information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The program according to claim 76 of the present invention is the program according to claim 72.
75. The program according to any one of 1 to 75, further comprising a program module for causing a computer to execute a display step of displaying a print content of the collected information accompanied by the layout information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A program according to claim 77 of the present invention is the program according to claim 69.
The program described in (1) above is characterized by including a program module for causing a computer to execute a second collected information storing step of storing the collected information in a format including print setting information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The program according to claim 78 of the present invention is the program according to claim 77.
In the program described in [3], the print setting information is print paper information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A program according to claim 79 of the present invention is the program according to claim 77.
In the program described in [3], the print setting information is print mode information.

In order to achieve the first object,
The program according to claim 80 of the present invention is the program according to claim 77.
In the program described in [3], the print setting information is printer cartridge information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A program according to claim 81 of the present invention is the program according to claim 69.
In the program described in (1), the program module has a program module for causing a computer to execute a setting change / save step of changing / storing a setting relating to a delivery destination printer according to an instruction of the computer.

In order to achieve the above-mentioned first object,
A program according to claim 82 of the present invention is the program according to claim 69.
In the program described in (3), the program module includes a program module for causing a computer to execute a distribution step of distributing the print information to a designated printer by an instruction of the computer.

Further, in order to achieve the above first object,
A program according to claim 83 of the present invention is the program according to claim 82.
The program described in (1) above has a program module for causing a computer to execute a distribution result display step for displaying a distribution result by the distribution step.

Further, in order to achieve the above first object,
A program according to claim 84 of the present invention is the program according to claim 69.
Storing the print setting information in association with the collection information and the layout information.
And a program module for causing the computer to execute the print setting information storing step and the searching step for searching the information collected and stored by the first print setting information storing step by the print setting information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A program according to claim 85 of the present invention is the program according to claim 84.
In the program described in [3], the print setting information is print paper information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A program according to claim 86 of the present invention is the program according to claim 84.
In the program described in [3], the print setting information is print mode information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A program according to claim 87 of the present invention is the program according to claim 86.
In the program described in [3], the print setting information is printer cartridge information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A program according to claim 88 of the present invention is the program according to claim 69.
In the program according to item 2, the print setting information is stored in association with the collection information and the layout information.
A program module for causing a computer to execute the print setting information storing step of 1. and a second control step of controlling to collectively print the information collected and stored by the second print setting information storing step for each paper type. It is characterized by having.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A program according to claim 89 of the present invention is the program according to claim 88.
In the program described in [3], the print setting information is print paper information.

In order to achieve the above first object,
A program according to claim 90 of the present invention is the program according to claim 88.
In the program described in [3], the print setting information is print mode information.

In order to achieve the above-mentioned first object,
A program according to claim 91 of the present invention is the program according to claim 88.
In the program described in [3], the print setting information is printer cartridge information.

In order to achieve the second object,
A program according to claim 92 of the present invention is a computer connected to a network, an application server for collecting data and generating print data, and receiving print data from the application server via a communication network. A computer for controlling a printing system including a printer adapter for converting the received print data into a data format of an interface of a connected printer, and a printer for printing the print data converted and transmitted by the printer adapter. A computer, which is a readable program, including a first print data generation step in which the print image data generation processing is performed by the application server, and a data connection processing step in which the print control data connection processing is performed by the printer adapter. To Characterized in that it consists of program modules for causing the row.

Further, in order to achieve the above second object,
A program according to claim 93 of the present invention is the program according to claim 92.
In the program according to item 1, the compression step of compressing the print image data generated by the first print data generation step, and the print image data compressed by the compression step from the application server via a communication network. First to send to the printer adapter
And a program module for causing a computer to execute the transmitting step.

In order to achieve the second object,
A program according to claim 94 of the present invention is the program according to claim 92.
In the program according to Item 2, the print control data corresponding to the printer type is transmitted from the application server to the printer adapter via a communication network.
And a program module for causing a computer to execute the transmitting step of.

Further, in order to achieve the above second object,
The program according to claim 95 of the present invention is the program according to claim 92.
In the program according to, the decompression step of decompressing the print image data transmitted from the application server via the communication network, and the print image data decompressed by the decompression step are transmitted from the application server via the communication network. A second print data generating step of generating print data by connecting the print control data with the print control data, and a third step of converting the print data generated by the second print data generating step into a data format of an interface of the printer. It is characterized by comprising a program module for causing a computer to execute the converting step and the third transmitting step of transmitting the print data converted by the third converting step to the printer.

In order to achieve the above first object,
The program according to claim 96 of the present invention is a computer-readable program for controlling a printing system including a computer connected to a network, an application server for collecting data and generating print data, and a printer. A category information notifying step of notifying specific category information selected by the user via the computer, and a category information registering / storing step of registering / saving the specific category information notified by the category information notifying step And an information collection start notification step in which the user notifies the start of information collection, an information collection step in which information on specific category information selected by the user at the time of information collection is collected on the Internet, and information collected in the information collection step. Inside The information selection step of selecting information required by the user, the display step of displaying the information selected by the information selection step, and the layout information and print setting information selected by the user of the information selected by the information selection step are included. An information saving step of saving in a format, a search step of searching the information saved by the information saving step for each print setting information, a layout information changing step of changing the layout information of the information saved by the information saving step, and a user A print start instructing step for instructing to start printing the information stored in the information storing step, an information converting step for converting the information stored in the information storing step into print data, and a user converting the information converted in the information converting step. Will deliver to the printer specified in advance And a distribution step,
It is characterized by comprising a program module for causing a computer to execute a distribution result display step of displaying a distribution result by the distribution step.

Further, in order to achieve the first and second objects, the storage medium according to claim 97 is the storage medium according to claim 68.
To 96 are stored.

[0110]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Hereinafter, each embodiment of the present invention will be described.
A description will be given with reference to the drawings.

(First Embodiment) First, the first embodiment of the present invention
The embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 26.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a printing system (network printing system) according to the first embodiment of the present invention. This printing system is a terminal that can send and receive e-mail and display its contents (hereinafter,
Described as PDA, including personal computers) 101
And communication line network 1 such as public telephone line, ISDN, satellite communication network, etc.
02 (in the present embodiment, a public network including a wireless network) and the Internet 103 that is a logical space.
External provider 1 that mediates between the communication network 102 and
04, a printer 105, which is a printing device, and a printer 1.
05 and the communication line network 102
And a mobile communication terminal 107 that connects the adapter 106 to the adapter 106, and an application server 108 that communicates with the printer 105 using a predetermined protocol.

The PDA 101 can access the external provider 104 and the application server 108.

The external provider 104 provides a dial-up connection service for the PDA 101, and manages and operates a user account for Internet connection including a mail account. The external provider 104 communicates with the PDA 101 according to a predetermined protocol, and the PDA 10
By the control of 1, it is possible to perform browsing and sending / receiving of mail data.

The application server 108 stores and manages contents (HTML, related files, keywords, etc.) such as information distribution (news) to users. Further, the application server 108 has an engine for searching the stored / managed information, acquires the information according to the instruction of each user, and stores and manages the acquired information for each user. Also, setting information is managed for each user (registration, personal information, print data, etc.), and a layout suitable for the printer is performed. In addition, the application server 108
Manages and manages various unique information such as an account, a telephone number, the type of the printer 105, and the like associated with each of the plurality of printers. Furthermore, the application server 108
Can also provide dial-up service for PDA 101. Further, the application server 108 is a PD via the communication network 102 or the Internet 103.
A print instruction with the A101 and a print target are converted into information suitable for a designated printer (for example, the printer 109), and the connection with the adapter 106 (Internet connection depending on the state, telephone call to the communication network 102). , Incoming call from the communication network 102), authentication, exchange of print data, error processing of the adapter 106 and the printer 105, and the like. Further, the application server 108 performs control such as requesting immediate transfer of print data to the adapter 106 and waiting for a call from the adapter 106.

The adapter 106 judges the connected printer,
Printer 1 by interface with printer 105
Application server 1 that recognizes the error status of 05, status of the printer 105, communication status, etc.
08, control of the mobile communication terminal 107, call to the application server 108 according to a user's operation, incoming call from the application server 108 and automatic call according to the instruction, authentication with the application server 108, predetermined The transmission processing of the received print data to the printer 105 according to the protocol is performed.

Next, the adapter 106 in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the adapter 106.

The adapter 108 in the printing system according to this embodiment is connected to the mobile communication terminal 107 via the communication terminal interface (I / F) 2101, and the communication terminal interface 2101 is connected to the internal bus 2103. The communication terminal interface 2101 absorbs a difference in electrical characteristics when connecting different communication terminals and connects to the internal bus 2103.

The printer 105 uses the internal bus 210 of the adapter 106 via the printer interface 2104.
Connect to 3. In the present embodiment, the adapter 106 and the printer 105 are connected by the IEEE1284 interface. IEEE128 of the printer interface 2104
The printer 105 to the adapter 106 can acquire the printer ID (identifier) by the negotiation of No. 4.

The internal bus 2103 stores a microcomputer (microcomputer) 2102 for controlling the entire operation, an internal operation program, and setting contents.
A ROM (Read Only Memory) 2105, a program execution area and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 2106 for temporarily storing transmission / reception data, a power supply 2107 for operating the adapter 106, a user interface for user operation and display to the user. A U / I 2108 is connected.

The U / I 2108 includes a switch SW (1) 2109 for controlling the power source, the printer 105 and the portable communication terminal 1.
SW (2) 2110 and SW (3) 21 that control 07
11, three-color LED (1) to notify the status of the adapter 106
2112 and LED (2) 2113 are provided.

The ROM 2105 is a rewritable memory, and software can be added and changed. The external interface unit provided in the mobile communication terminal 107 controls outgoing, incoming, disconnection, etc. from the communication line network 103 by the adapter 106 from the outside via the communication terminal interface 2101. Then, the microcomputer 210
Reference numeral 2 controls the mobile communication terminal 107 via the communication terminal interface 2101 such as making, receiving, and disconnecting. The mobile communication terminal 107 also outputs its own telephone number, incoming call information of the telephone (RING information, incoming call telephone number, status of the mobile communication terminal 107), and print-related data to the communication terminal interface 2101. As a result, the adapter 106 can acquire various information such as the telephone number of the communication terminal 107.

The mobile communication terminal 107 and the application server 108 are both connected to the communication line network 103. When the mobile communication terminal 107 is a wireless communication terminal, it is connected to the communication network 103 via a wireless base.

The adapter 106 performs a process of calling the mobile communication terminal 107 via the communication terminal interface 2101 to the telephone number of the communication terminal on the application server 108 side. The mobile communication terminal 107 is the communication network 103
Attempt to connect with the above-mentioned telephone number.

The establishment of the connection here follows the method of the communication network 103.

When the communication terminal on the application server 108 side receives the call from the mobile communication terminal 107, the connection on the communication line network 103 is completed.

The ROM 2105 downloads new software via the interfaces 2101 and 2104 and rewrites the internal program. Also, the ROM 2105 has a telephone number required for connection,
The adapter ID etc. are also stored and can be changed in the same way.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration of software installed in the adapter 106 and the application server 108.

In the figure, the application server 1
08 includes an application 2201, a TCP / IP protocol group 2202, a communication carrier protocol 2203, H
/ W2204 is installed. In the figure, the adapter 106 on the right side is physically connected to the mobile communication terminal 107.
A communication carrier protocol 2207 that establishes a connection with a communication terminal is installed above the H / W 2208. In reality, since it is connected to the communication line network 103 via the mobile communication terminal 107, the communication carrier protocol 2207
Mainly controls calling, receiving, disconnecting, etc. connected to the communication network 103.

A TCP / IP protocol group 2206 is installed above the communication carrier protocol 2207. In this embodiment, PPP (Point to Point Protocol) and TCP
(Transmission Control Protocol) / IP (Internet P
rotocol) and FTP (File Transfer Protocol). The application 2205 is in charge of application function control between the adapter 106 and the application server 108, initialization, and adapter function control such as IEEE1284 control, and communicates with the communication network 103 via the TCP / IP protocol group 2206. .

Since the communication carrier protocol 2207, the TCP / IP protocol group 2206, and the application 2205 are implemented by software in the adapter 106, the various functions of the adapter 106 are the microcomputer 2102, RO
It is realized by M2105, RAM2106 and the like.

Next, the operation of the printing system according to this embodiment will be described by taking the case where data communication is performed between the adapter 106 and the application server 108 as an example.

The microcomputer 2102 uses the interface 2
Outgoing and incoming calls to the mobile communication terminal 107 via 101,
Controls such as cutting. The adapter 106 can also acquire the telephone number of the connected communication terminal and use this to reject the connection when the telephone numbers are different. The call may be sent from either the adapter 106 or the application server 108.

[0135] Further, the callback telephone number is received as data from the application server 108, and after disconnection, the application server 108 is called back using the telephone number (acquired telephone number or a predetermined number). Call back to the phone number).

The mobile communication terminal 107 and the application server 108 are both connected to the communication line network 103. When the mobile communication terminal 107 is of a wireless type, it is connected to the communication line network 103 via a wireless base.

The adapter 106 performs a process of calling the mobile communication terminal 107 via the communication terminal interface 2101 to the telephone number connected to the application server 108. The mobile communication terminal 107 is the communication line network 1
Attempt to connect to 03 with the above-mentioned telephone number. The establishment of the connection here follows the method of the communication network 103.

When the communication terminal on the application server 108 side receives the call from the mobile communication terminal 107, the connection on the communication line network 103 is completed. When the telephone number of the calling communication terminal is not registered, the connection is authenticated by a protocol higher than the communication network 103.

The connection to the application server 108 is authenticated using "adapter authentication". The information used for this is prepared as an “authentication packet” and transmitted from the adapter 106 to the application server 108 at the time of connection.

The authentication packet includes the following information. -Adapter ID-Adapter Tel Number-iPrinter ID The iPrinter ID is acquired by the connection negotiation described above, and is used for authentication as well as selection of a data creation driver and the like.

In the state where the connection is established and the communication between the protocols is established, the communication state is established in each layer as shown in FIG.
When the communication is established and the authentication is successful and the data communication can be started, the adapter 106 determines that the application server 1
The processing is executed on the data transmitted from 08. Further, the adapter 106 transmits the status of the connected printer 105 and the status of itself to the application server 108. The application server 108 uses this status to change the format of data to be transmitted, and divides the transmission size and performs processing such as compression.

Further, error information such as running out of paper or running out of ink in the printer 105 is also notified to the application server 108 as a status.

At a layer higher than the protocol, the data itself sent from the application server 108 is acquired, and the data includes a command for controlling the printer 105 or a command for controlling the adapter 106. In the present embodiment, all the data is passed to the printer 105, and this printer 105 prints out the data.

For example, the data including the printer command in the application server 108 is sent to the adapter 1
Printing is performed by outputting data to the printer 105 without changing the data.

<Server Configuration> FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the internal configuration of the application server 108 shown in FIG.

In the figure, reference numeral 3101 denotes a firewall server (Fire Wall Server), which has functions such as intrusion from the outside and blocking of attacks, and is used for safely operating a server group on the intranet in the application server 108. To do. 3102 is a switch
Then, it is for configuring an intranet in the application server 108. A communication server (Communication Server) 3103 supports connection by PIAFS, analog modem, ISDN (Integrated Service Digital Network), and has a firewall and Radius client function. A network print server 3104 relates to a network print service and creates print data according to the purpose, generates a print job, and communicates with the adapter 106.
Reference numeral 3105 is a Radius Server related to the Radius system which is an industry standard dial-up connection user authentication system. Radius server 3105
Receives an authentication request from the communication server 3103 having the RADIUS client function, and determines whether the authentication is possible (the PDA 10 that has directly dialed up).
1 and the adapter 106). A mail server 3106 receives a print request mail. A WWW server 3107 has a home page for a network print service. Also,
A user home page is provided for each user, and each user has a CG
Make information (content) search, print instructions, print services, etc. available using I (Computer Graphics Interface). 3108 is a public line network (PSTN
/ PHS / PDC). 3109 is the Internet (Inter
net), 3110 is a file server (File Server)
Stores and manages contents such as information distribution (news) (HTML, related files, keywords, etc.).

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the configuration of software modules in the application server 108. still,
The network print server 3104 is shown in FIG.
Will be described later.

In FIG. 5, User of WWW server 3107
The HTML Page object 3203 is a Web Page generated for each user, and has user information such as a scrapbook that summarizes collected content information and a print preview, a content category, a default printer, and the like. Also, the following control is performed using CGI.・ Edit request message of file server 3110
Search for content by sending to File Manager 3207, edit control, and email with the file you want to print attached.
And create an Email Manager 32 for the mail server 3106
Print request control by sending to 01-Reflecting print status Function to reflect print status on the home page of the user of this printing system upon request from "Printer Manager object 3214 (described later in FIG. 6)"-Printer Driver Print job control by sending a job control message to the object 3215 (described later in FIG. 6) -Functions such as changing user settings by reflecting data received by HTTP in the Printer DB 3213 (described later in FIG. 6) HTML Page 3204 is the home page of the domain that constitutes this printing system. Has functions such as user registration. User DB 3209 and Pr of file server 3110
Request creation of inter DB 3213.

File Manager of File Server 3110
3207 receives the request from the User HTML Page object 3203, and searches the content keyword in the User DB 3209 and the detection result for the file server 3
It is acquired from the User Data 3208 of 110 or reflected. Also, the File Manager of the file server 3110
3207 controls the editing, and outputs the result to the WWW server 3
It has a function of notifying the User HTML Page object 3203 of 107.

User DB 320 of the file server 3110
Reference numeral 9 stores each user information for the WEB application, and provides access means from the File Manager 3207. The information of each user includes the following, which is set for each user when registering the WEB application. -WEB User ID (user name when registering web application) -Category List (scrapbook category name registered by user) -User File Name (scrapbook file name registered by user) -Web User Password (web application registration User password at the time) -Web Printer ID (user password at the time of WEB application registration) -User ID (for Printer DB3213, which will be described later with reference to FIG. 6) Further, User DB3209 of the file server 3110 is
It stores content information for WEB applications and provides access means from File Manager 3207. These are set for each content supplier when the web application is registered, and the information includes the following. -Web Vender ID (user name of content supplier) -Category List (category name of content) -User File Name (file name of content) User Data 3208 of the file server 3110 contains Us.
The file group registered in the er DB 3209 is stored, and the access means from the File Manager 3207 is provided.

The email manager 3201 physically exists in the mail server 3106. email Manager320
1 has an IMAP server function, interprets multi-part MIME, and notifies a mail arrival IMAP client (the Email object 3212 in the case of the present embodiment, the details of which will be described later with reference to FIG. 6). I do.

The Radius Server 3205 corresponds to the Radius Server 3105 in FIG.

The Port Master 3206 corresponds to the communication server 3103 in FIG.

The PDA 3210 corresponds to the PDA 101 of FIG. 1 and has an HTML browsing function.

The Adapter 3211 is the adapter 10 of FIG.
Equivalent to 6.

The Printer 3212 is the printer 10 of FIG.
Equivalent to 5.

Although the PDA 3210 and the Adapter 3211 are physically connected to the printing system via a communication terminal such as PHS, the communication terminal is not shown.

FIG. 6 shows the network print server 31.
It is a figure which shows the structure of the software module in 04.

In the figure, an email object 3212 is data to be printed and a user ID.
(In this case an email address). Also emai
The l object 3212 has an IMAP client function, and even for mail such as multipart MIME, from the IMAP server (Email Manager 3201 in this embodiment).
Individual parts can be retrieved according to MIME type. In addition, the email object 3212 is Printer Ma
It has a function of passing print target data to the nager object 3214.

The Printer DB 3213 stores information of each user, and the Printer Manager object 3214, Us
er Provides a database access means for HTML Page 3203, HTML Page 3204, etc. The information of each user is as follows.

User ID (user name when registering this printing system) User Password (password of user when registering this printing system) User Tel Number (phone number of user when registering this printing system) Adapter ID (unique to the adapter ID) Adapter Tel Number (telephone number connected to the adapter) Printer ID (printer model ID acquired via IEEE1284) These are set for each user when this printing system is registered.

Printer Manager object 3214
Has the ID of the Printer Driver object 3215, and uses the management functions (creation, deletion, count, stop, etc.) of the Printer Driver object 3214 and the user ID (in this case, the e-mail address) as keys to the Printer DB3.
213 search function, Printer ID obtained from Printer DB3213
It has the function of creating an er object and passing the data to be printed. To create a Printer Driver object, select the printer driver corresponding to the printer,
Is to start.

Printer Driver object 3215
Is generated for each printer according to the Printer ID. P
rinter Manager object 3214 is Printer DB3
Adapter Tel according to the user ID obtained from 213
Holds Number, Adapter ID, and Printer ID, and converts the print target data into a format understood by a specific printer. When printing an attached file, the application type is determined from the MIME type and the corresponding application is started and converted.

The Print Job object 3216 is the Prin
It is generated for each ter Driver object 3215. Adapter Tel Numb according to the user ID obtained at the time of generation
er, Adapter ID, Printer ID, and print data generated by the Printer Driver object 3215,
Function to queue print data and Adapter TelNu
It has a function of outputting to the adapter 106 based on mber.

The Web Browser object 3217 is WW
With W browsing function. Specify U by the HTML acquisition message from Printer Driver object 3215
It has a function of acquiring information created in HTML from RL and rendering it.

Next, the mail print function of the application server 108 configured as shown in FIG. 4 will be described.

The user acquires the electronic mail account of the mail server 3106 in the application server 108 before receiving the service. By sending an e-mail to this account, the user can receive the e-mail printing service.

As for the electronic mail account, one different account is prepared for each service provided for one user. The file you want to print to this prepared email account "predetermined format (PD
Request to generate print data for the attached file by sending an e-mail with the information described in F, HTML, XML, etc.) attached.

When there is an information acquisition failure, the application server 108 informs the PDA 10 that there is an error.
Notify the user by email via 1.

The method of assigning a mail account in this printing system is as follows:
Call it "A". These are the application server 10
Register in the database of 8. In addition, at the time of registration, when an electronic mail is sent to this address, the telephone number of the mobile communication terminal 107 connected to the printer 105 used for printing is also registered in the database of the radius server 3105. Further, the model information of the printer 105 may be registered in the database of the radius server 3105.

For example, assume that the domain name of the mail server 3106 is mnp.co.jp and the user has acquired the account tama. At that time, the mail server 3106
As an email account “tamaA@mnp.co.jp”
Is automatically prepared.

The WEB application exists in the application server 108 and has an initial registration / change function (user registration function, user favorite information registration function, user favorite information confirmation function) and information storage function (content information collection / selection function). , A content automatic layout function, a scrapbook saving function) and a saved information list function (scrapbook browsing function, scrapbook print setting function) are software programs according to the present invention.

7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13,
14 and 15 are diagrams showing screens generated by the WEB application during the basic operation of the printing system according to the present embodiment and displayed on the image output device of the PDA 101.

FIG. 7 shows that when a user who uses the service accesses the WWW server 3107 via the terminal device, the WWW server 3107 is accessed.
It is a figure which shows an example of the main menu screen which an EB application produces / displays first.

In the figure, reference numeral 700 is a menu display area, 701 is a "save information" button for selecting an information storage function arranged in the menu display area, and 702 is a storage information list function for selecting a storage information list function arranged in the menu display area. A "stored information list" button, 703 is an "initial registration / change" button for selecting initial registration / change functions arranged in the menu display area, and 704 is a mouse cursor for selecting buttons.

The user can select the function by moving the mouse cursor on an arbitrary button in the menu display area and clicking the mouse button.

FIG. 8 is for registering the user information in the printing system when the user selects the “stored information list” button 702 for selecting the stored information list function in the state of the screen shown in FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of an initial registration screen generated / displayed by the WEB application.

In the figure, 800 is a menu display area, 801 is a registration item selection area, 802 is a "register" button for executing registration processing, and 803 is a "cancel" button for interrupting processing.

The registration item selection area 801 is composed of a menu of registration items, check boxes for inputting information by the user, an edit box, and selection of registration items. If the user looks at the menu of registration items in the registration item selection area 801, writes the registration information in the edit box, checks the check button for selecting the registration item, and then selects the "register" button 802, Information of each user is registered in the User DB 3209 (see FIG. 5) of the printing system.

At this time, the user can select a registration item by moving the mouse cursor to an arbitrary check button and clicking the mouse button. In addition, the user can input registration information by moving the mouse cursor to an arbitrary edit box, clicking the mouse button, and then inputting characters from a character input device such as a keyboard input device. is there.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a favorite information registration screen generated / displayed by the WEB application so that the user can register his / her own preference information.

In the figure, 900 is a menu display area, 901 is a favorite information category display area, 902 is a favorite information selection check box, 903 is a favorite information item, 904 is a "register" button for executing registration processing, and 905. Is a "clear" button for interrupting processing.

The user sees the menu of the favorite information category display area 901 and the favorite information item 903, and the favorite information selecting check box arranged at the head of the favorite information item 903 that each user desires to register. After checking 902, if the "register" button 904 is selected, then a favorite information confirmation screen is generated / displayed.

At this time, the user can select an arbitrary favorite information item 903 by moving the mouse cursor to an arbitrary check box and clicking the mouse button.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the favorite information confirmation screen generated / displayed by the WEB application so that the user can confirm his / her own preference information registered in the printing system.

In the figure, 1000 is a menu display area, 1001 is a registered favorite information category display area, 1002 is a registered favorite information item, 1003 is a "register" button for executing registration processing, and 1004 is favorite information. This is a "back" button for selecting a change function.

[0187] The user has registered registered favorite information category display area 1001 and registered favorite information item 1002.
After checking the registered information and checking the registered information, if the "register" button 1003 is selected, the preference information of each user is registered in the User DB 3209 (see FIG. 5).

FIG. 11 shows a list of content information and saves it to the user when the user selects the "save information" button 701 in the state of the screen shown in FIG.
It is a figure which shows an example of the information collection screen which a WEB application produces / displays in order to select the information which wants to print.

In the figure, 1100 is a menu display area, 1101 is a collected information display area, 1102 is a “select” button for executing information selection processing, 1103 is a “batch” button for executing information batch selection processing, 1104 is information. “Clear” button for clearing selection processing, 1105 is a content information category display area, 1106 is a content information selection check box, 1107 is content index information, 1108 is a selection information display area, 1109 is a “layout preview” for executing layout processing. "button,
Reference numeral 1110 denotes a “remove from scrap” button for executing the content information deselection processing, 1111 is a selected content selection check box, 1112 is selected content index information, and 1113 is selected content detailed information.

The WEB application is File Manager3
By controlling 207 (see FIG. 5), the content information suitable for the preference information of each user is collected and displayed as a list in the collected information display area 1101. The user looks at the content information category display area 1105 and the content index information 1107, determines the information desired to be stored / printed, and clicks the content information selection check box 1106 arranged before the arbitrary content index information 1107. Check and select the "Select" button 1102.

Then, the WEB application processes the content information checked in the content information selection check box 1106 as selected information,
It is displayed in the selection information display area 1108.

The user selects the selected content index information 11 displayed in the selection information display area 1108.
12 and the selected content detail information 1113,
If there is information you want to deselect,
After checking the selected content information selection check box 1111 arranged before the arbitrary selected content index information 1112, the "remove from scrap" button 11101 is selected.

When the selected content information exists,
When the user selects the "layout preview" button 1109, the layout process of the selected content information is started.

FIG. 12 shows a layout selection generated / displayed by the WEB application in order to display the layout selected by the user from the arbitrary layouts on the information selected on the information collection screen and save the layout under the arbitrary name. It is a figure which shows an example of a screen.

In the figure, reference numeral 1200 is a menu display area, 1201 is a preview screen area, 1202 is a layout selection instruction area, 1203 is a default normal A area.
"Normal selection" button to select 4 layouts, 12
Reference numeral 04 is a “select with image” button for selecting a layout including images in the collection information including images, 1205 is a “newspaper-like” button for selecting a column layout such as a newspaper, 120
6 is a “normal 2” button for selecting a layout in which the default normal A4 is in the horizontal direction, 1207 is a “customize” button that can be customized when changing the prepared layout with the buttons 1203 to 1206, and 1208 is to decide An edit box 1209 is provided so that the user can name an arbitrary file name when saving the layout, and 1209 is a "save as this layout" button for the user to decide the layout.

An image image of each format is added to the top of each layout button, and at the same time when each layout is selected, the above-mentioned collected information is regenerated in the selected layout in the preview screen area 1201 according to the selected layout. Preview things. The user can easily grasp and change the print result by selecting the layout while viewing this preview.

In the state of FIG. 12, the user can select and display the layout by moving the mouse cursor to any check button and clicking the mouse button. In addition, the user can input registration information by moving the mouse cursor to an arbitrary edit box, clicking the mouse button, and then inputting characters from a character input device such as a keyboard input device. is there.

FIG. 13 shows a list of the scrap information stored by the user, which is generated / displayed by the WEB application in order to confirm the scrapbook, print the scrapbook, and rearrange the scrapbook. It is a figure which shows an example of an information list screen.

In the figure, 1300 is a menu display area, 1301 is a display area of a saved name input in the edit box 1208 of FIG. 12, or a file name automatically generated by the server, 1302 is a selected layout format type display area, Reference numeral 1303 denotes a recording / display area of presence / absence of print output, reference numeral 1304 denotes a “print” button for printing each storage information, and reference numeral 1305 denotes a “change” button for changing / resaving the layout.

In the state of FIG. 13, the user can select "print" or "change layout" by moving the mouse cursor to any check box and clicking the mouse button. is there.

FIG. 14 shows a screen generated / displayed by the WEB application in order to allow the user to perform various settings related to printing when the user selects the print execution of arbitrary scrap information in the state of the screen shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of a print setting screen.

In the figure, 1400 is a menu display area, 1401 is a thumbnail display area of layout information to be printed out, 1402 is a printer selection list for selecting an output destination printer, 1403 is a print start time designation for selecting a print start time. A region 1404 is a "print execution" button for determining print execution, and 1405 is a "return" button for returning to the stored information list screen of FIG.

In the print start time designation area 1403, three items are prepared, and a plurality of items cannot be selected.

In the state shown in FIG. 14, the user moves the mouse cursor to an arbitrary check box and clicks the mouse button to select "printer",
It is possible to select "time designation", "print", or "return".

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the layout customization screen generated / displayed by the WEB application in order to allow the user to perform various settings related to the layout when the user selects the customized layout in FIG. .

In the figure, reference numeral 1500 is a menu display screen, 1501 is a changeable item list display area for customizing the layout, and 1502 is a "layout layout" for displaying what the print result will be according to the set items. A “preview” button 1503 is a “return” button for returning to the layout selection screen of FIG. 12 without customization.

The layout base, which is the basis of the customized layout, changes the margin and the like based on the currently specified format type.

When the user decides to save in the currently displayed layout, it can be saved by selecting the "save in this layout" button 1209 shown in FIG. At this time, the customized setting information is saved, and the saved customized setting becomes the default when the next customization is selected.

In the state of FIG. 15, the user moves the mouse cursor over an arbitrary check box and clicks the mouse button to select "change change item", "layout preview", or "return". It is possible to select.

Next, the operation of the printing system according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 16 to 26.

16 to 26 are flowcharts showing the operation flow of the printing system according to the present embodiment.

<Initial Registration> The initial registration processing operation in the printing system according to the present embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS.
This will be described with reference to FIGS. 10, 16 and 17.

The user must perform initial registration in order to receive the service of the printing system according to this embodiment.

The user uses the PDA 1 to perform initial registration.
01 to access the WWW server 3107.

Then, in step S1600 of FIG. 16, the WEB application generates / displays the main menu screen shown in FIG. Next, step S1601.
At, the user selects the “initial registration / change” button 703 arranged in the menu display area 700 of FIG. 7 with the mouse 704. Then, the process proceeds to step S1603, and the printing system starts the user registration process. Then, the process proceeds to the process of FIG. 17 via step S1606.

In step S1700 of FIG. 17, the WEB application requests the user to input the ID and password. Here, if the user inputs the ID and password for initial registration, the WEB application executes U in step S1701.
By referring to ser DB3209 (see FIG. 5), the ID and password input by the user are verified to determine whether or not the initial registration is performed. If it is determined that the registration is initial registration, the process advances to step S1702, and the WEB application executes the process illustrated in FIG.
Generate / display the initial registration screen shown in. Next, in step S1703, the user responds to the menu of registration items displayed in the registration item selection area 801 of FIG.
Fill in the required fields and registration information in the edit box, or check the check button for selecting registration items.
Next, when the user selects the "Cancel" button 803 in FIG. 8 in step S1704, step S1
Proceeding to 712, this initial registration processing operation ends.

On the other hand, when the user selects the "register" button 802 in FIG. 8 in step S1704, the WEB application is the application server 1
The electronic mail account of the mail server 3106 (see FIG. 4) in 08 (see FIG. 1) is acquired, and the user is notified of this account. At this time, the WEB application generates a user ID and password for each user and notifies the user. And the WEB application is Use
After registering each user's information in the rDB 3209, the process proceeds to step S1705.

In step S1705, the WEB application generates / displays the favorite information registration screen shown in FIG. 9 in order to allow the user to register his / her own preference information.
Next, in step S1706, the user looks at the menus of the preference information category display area 901 and the preference information item 903 in FIG. 9, and is placed at the head of the preference information item 903 that each user desires to register. The preference information is selected by checking the preference information selection check box 902 with a mouse. Next, step S101.
If the user selects the "register" button 904 in FIG. 9 in step S7, the process advances to step S1709, and the WEB application is shown in FIG. 10 in order to allow the user to check his or her preference information registered in the printing system. Generate and display the favorite information confirmation screen.

On the other hand, if the user selects the "clear" button 905 in FIG. 9 in step S1707, the flow advances to step S1708 to clear all the current preference information selections and check all preference information selections. The box 9202 is unchecked.

Thereafter, the processing is again carried out at the step S170.
Returning to step 6, the user selects the favorite information again.

Next, in step S1710, the user looks at the registered favorite information category display area 1001 and the registered favorite information item 1002 in FIG.
After confirming the registered information, the user clicks the "Back" button 1
If 004 is selected, the process returns to step S and the user selects the favorite information again.

On the other hand, if the user selects the "register" button 1003 in FIG. 10 in step S1710, the process advances to step S1711, and the WEB application registers the preference information of each user in the User DB 3209. After that, the process advances to step S1712, and the main registration processing operation ends.

<Registration Change> Next, the registration change processing operation in the printing system according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
This will be described with reference to FIGS.

In order to receive the service of the printing system according to the present embodiment, the user has to change the registration when the user information is changed.

[0225] The user must use the PDA 10 to change the registration.
1 to access the WWW server 3107. Then, in step S1600 of FIG. 16, the WEB application generates / displays the main menu screen shown in FIG. 7. Next, in step S1601, the user
The “Initial registration /
A “change” button 703 is selected with the mouse 704. Then, the process proceeds to step S1603, and the printing system starts the user registration process. Next, the process proceeds to step S1700 in FIG. 17 via step S1606.

In step S1700, the WEB application requires the user to input the ID and password. Here, the user is the ID of each user notified at the time of initial registration.
And enter the password. Then, the WEB application refers to the User DB 3209 in step S1701 and verifies the ID and password input by the user to identify the user.

If it is determined in step S1701 that the registration is not initial registration (registration change), step S1
Proceeding to 705, the WEB application generates / displays the favorite information registration screen shown in FIG. 9 in order to allow the user to re-register his / her own preference information.

At this time, the WEB application is User DB
By referring to 3209, the saved preference information of the identified user is acquired and displayed on the screen as the selected item.

Next, in step S1706, the user looks at the menu of the favorite information category display area 901 and the favorite information item 903 in FIG. 9 and arranges them at the head of the favorite information item 903 that each of them desires to register. The favorite information is selected again by checking the selected favorite information selection check box 902 with the mouse. Next, in step S1707, the user clicks the “register” button 90.
If 4, is selected, the process advances to step S1709, and the WEB application generates and displays the favorite information confirmation screen shown in FIG. 10 in order to allow the user to confirm the individual preference information registered in the printing system.

On the other hand, if the user selects the "clear" button 905 in step S1707, the flow advances to step S1708 to clear all the current preference information selections and select all preference information check boxes 9
02 is unchecked. After that, the process returns to step S1706 again, and the user selects the favorite information again.

Next, in step S1710, after the user looks at the registered favorite information category display area 901 and the registered favorite information item 902 in FIG. 10 and confirms the registered information, the user "returns". Button 904
If is selected, the process returns to step S1706,
The user again selects the favorite information again.

On the other hand, if the user selects the "register" button 903 in step S1710, the process advances to step S1711, and the WEB application registers the preference information of each user in the User DB 3209. At this time, the WEB application acquires the electronic mail account of the mail server 3106 in the application server 108 and notifies the user of this account. After that, the process advances to step S1712, and the main registration processing operation ends.

<Selection of Content Information> Next, the content information selection processing operation in the printing system according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 7, 11, 16 and 18.

The user uses the PDA 101 to use the scrapbook creation / storing / printing service in the printing system according to the present embodiment, and uses the WWW server 31.
Access 07. Then, step S16 of FIG.
At 00, the WEB application generates / displays the main menu screen shown in FIG. Next, step S1
In 601 the user clicks the “save information” button 701 located in the menu display area 700 with the mouse 704.
Select with. Then, the process proceeds to step S1602, and the printing system starts the content information collection process. Next, the process proceeds to step S1800 in FIG. 18 via step S1605.

In step S1800, the WEB application requests the user to input the ID and password. Here, the user is the ID of each user notified at the time of initial registration.
And enter the password. Then, the WEB application, in the next step S1801, User DB3209
Refer to to verify the ID and password entered by the user and identify the user.

If the ID and password are incorrect (if the user cannot be identified), then step S180 described above is performed.
Returning to 0, the web application asks the user to re-enter the ID and password.

On the other hand, in step S1801 the ID
If the password is correct (if the user can identify it), the process advances to the next step S1802, and the WEB application generates / displays the information collection screen shown in FIG.

At this time, in step S1803, the WEB application sets the preference information of the identified user to User.
With reference to the DB 3209, the File Manager 3207 is controlled to collect content information matching the user's preference information from the file server 3110 (see FIG. 4) and display it as a list in the collected information display area 1101 in FIG. 11.

Next, in step S1804, the user looks at the content information category display area 1105 and the content index information 1107 in FIG. 11 and determines the information desired to be saved / printed as a scrapbook,
Content information selection check box 11 arranged before arbitrary content index information 1107
Check 06 and select the collected information.

Next, when the user selects the "collective" button 1103 in FIG. 11 in step S1805, the process advances to step S1806, and the WEB application is displayed in the collected information display area 1101 in FIG. The content information selection check box 1106 arranged before all the content index information 1107 is checked. Then, the step S18
Returning to 04, the user selects the collected information again.

On the other hand, if the user selects the "clear" button 1104 in FIG. 11 in step S1805, the flow advances to step S1807, and the WEB application is displayed in the collected information display area 1101 in FIG. All content index information 1107
The check of the content information selection check box 1106 arranged in front of is cleared. Then, the process returns to step S1804, and the user selects the collected information again.

On the other hand, when the user selects the "select" button 1102 in FIG. 11 in step S1805, the process advances to step S1808, and the WEB application checks whether or not the collection information is selected. If it is determined that the collected information has not been selected, the process returns to step S1804, and the user selects the collected information again.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1808 that the collected information is selected, step S
Proceeding to step 1809, the WEB application collects the content information in which the content information selection check box 1106 arranged before the content index information 1107 displayed in the collected information display area 1101 in FIG. 11 is collected. , Generate scrap information.

Next, proceeding to step S1810, the WEB application displays the scrap information generated at step S1809 as a scrap selection result list in the selection information display area 1108 in FIG.

Next, in step S1811, the user looks at the selected content index information 1112 and the selected content detail information 1113 displayed in the selected information display area 1108, and if he / she wants to cancel the selection, he / she selects Selected content index information 11
The selected content information selection check box 1111 arranged before 12 is checked to select scrap information.

Then, in the next step S1812, the user selects the "remove from scrap" button 1110 in FIG.
When is selected, the process proceeds to step S1813, and the WEB application checks whether scrap information is selected. If it is determined that the scrap information has not been selected, the process returns to step S1811.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1813 that scrap information has been selected, the flow advances to step S1814, and the WEB application deletes the scrap information selected in step S1811, from the scrap information, and deletes the scrap information. Recreate. Then, the process returns to step S1808.

In step S1812, the user selects the "layout preview" button 1 shown in FIG.
When 109 is selected, the process proceeds to step S1815 and WE
The B application saves scrap information temporarily. Then, the process proceeds to the layout selection process shown in FIGS.

<Layout Selection / Layout Customization> Next, the layout selection / layout customization processing operation in the printing system according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 12, 15, 20 and 21.

The user needs to decide the layout for printing before saving the collected information.

In step S2000 of FIG. 20, the information collected in the normal A4 format format, which is the default layout format, is displayed as a preview in the layout display area 1201 on the layout selection screen shown in FIG. Next, the user selects the layout format for saving the collected information from the layout selection buttons 1203 ...
When the selection is made at 1206 or the normal A4 is to be saved, the layout saving process is performed as it is. Next, in step S2001, determination processing of the button selected in step S2000 is performed.

The processing when each layout is selected by the layout selection buttons 1203 to 1206 in step S2001 will be described below.

If the "normal" button 1203 is selected, the normal A4 layout is displayed in the layout display area 1201 of the preview screen in step S2002 of FIG. 21, and the next selection event is waited for. Next, proceeding to step S2006, it is determined whether another layout selection button has been selected. Then, when it is determined that another layout selection button is selected, the process proceeds to step S2001 in FIG. 22 and the layout is displayed according to each layout process.

On the other hand, if the "save button" is selected in step S2006 of FIG. 21, the process proceeds to the next step S2010, the save process of saving in the normal layout is started, and the process proceeds to the next step S2016.
Judge whether the file name has been entered. Then, the file name edit box 1208 in FIG.
If it is determined that nothing has been input in step S3, or if it is determined that an unspecified character that has been input but cannot be used in the file name has been detected, both are determined in step S201.
Proceed to step 8 and save the information collected with the save file name automatically generated by the Web application in the normal layout.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S2016 that a file name has been entered in the file name edit box 1208 shown in FIG. 12, the flow advances to step S2017 to collect the file with the entered file name. Save information in normal layout. This saved data is saved in the file server 3110 described above. Step S2018 and Step S2017
After the information is saved in, the process proceeds to the process of FIG. 19 to display the saved information list screen.

[0256] Also, the "with image" button 12 in FIG.
If 04 is selected, step S2003 of FIG.
To the layout display area 120 of the preview screen.
The layout with an image is displayed in step 1, and the next step S20
In step 07, it is determined whether another layout selection button has been selected. If it is determined that another layout selection button has been selected, step S in FIG.
A transition is made to 2001, and the layout is displayed according to each layout process.

On the other hand, in step S2007,
When the "save" button 1209 in FIG. 12 is selected, the process advances to the next step S2011 to start the save process of saving the layout with image. Next, step S
In step 2016, it is determined whether a file name has been input. If it is determined that nothing has been input in the file name edit box 1208 in FIG. 12, or if an unspecified character that has been input but cannot be used in the file name is detected, both are performed in step S2.
Proceeding to 018, the information collected by the save file name automatically generated by the Web application is saved in the layout with image.

On the other hand, in step S2016,
When it is determined that the file name is input in the file name edit box 1208 in FIG. 12, the process proceeds to step S2017, and the information collected with the input file name is saved in the layout with image. This saved data is saved in the file server 3110 described above.

[0259] Steps S2017 and S2
After saving the information in 018, the process proceeds to the process of FIG. 19 to display the saved information list screen.

[0260] Also, the "newspaper-like" button 120 in FIG.
If No. 5 is selected, the flow advances to step S2004 in FIG. 20 to layout the preview screen layout display area 1201.
The newspaper layout is displayed on the screen, and the next step S2008
Go to. In step S2008, it is determined whether another layout selection button has been selected. When it is determined that another layout selection button is selected, the process transitions to "F" and the layout is displayed according to each layout process.

On the other hand, in step S2008,
If it is determined that the "save" button 1209 in FIG. 12 is selected, the process proceeds to step S2012 to start the save process of saving in a newspaper layout, and proceeds to step S2016 in FIG. 21 to input the file name. Determine whether or not If it is determined that nothing has been input in the file name edit box 1208 in FIG. 12 or if an unspecified character that has been input but cannot be used in the file name is detected, step S in FIG.
Proceeding to 2018, the information collected by the save file name automatically generated by the Web application is saved in the newspaper layout.

Also, in the step S2016,
When it is determined that the file name is input in the file name edit box 1208 in FIG. 12, the process proceeds to the next step S2017, and the information collected by the input file name is saved in the newspaper layout. . This saved data is saved in the file server 3110 described above. Step S2017 and Step S2018
After the information is stored in, the stored information list screen is displayed, and therefore the process proceeds to the process in FIG. 19.

[0263] Also, the "normal 2" button 1 in FIG.
If 206 is selected, step S200 in FIG.
Go to step 5, and display the layout display area 12 of the preview screen.
The normal 2 layout is displayed on 01, and the next step S
Proceed to 2009. In step S2009, it is determined whether another layout selection button has been selected. When it is determined that another layout selection button is selected, the process transitions to "F" and the layout is displayed according to each layout process.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S2009 that the "save button" 1209 in FIG. 12 has been selected, the process advances to the next step S2013 to start the save process of saving in the normal 2 layout, and in FIG. In step S2016, it is determined whether a file name has been input. Then, when nothing is input in the file name edit box 1208 in FIG. 12,
Or, if it is determined that an unspecified character that has been input but cannot be used in the file name is detected, the process proceeds to step S2018, and the information collected by the saved file name automatically generated by the Web application is converted to the normal 2 layout. And save.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S2016 that the file name is input in the file name edit box 1208, step S2017.
Proceed to and save the collected information with the input file name in the normal 2 layout. This saved data is
It is stored in the file server 3110 described above.

[0266] Steps S1207 and S1
After saving the information in 208, the process proceeds to the process of FIG. 19 in order to display the saved information list screen.

When the "customize" button 1207 in FIG. 12 is selected, the layout customize screen 1500 shown in FIG. 15 is displayed.

[Customize] button 120 in FIG.
The layout selection customization by 7 can be performed by the format frame (each button 1203 to 120) already prepared.
In 6), if the expected layout result cannot be obtained, the user can make adjustments.

On the layout customization screen 1500, a list of changeable items for customizing the layout is displayed, and the checked items 1501 are reflected in the change.

If the "preview layout" button 1502 of FIG. 15 is selected in step S2014 of FIG. 20, the process proceeds to step S2015, and the layout including the changed layout condition (change item) is processed. , And after being displayed in the layout display area 1201 of FIG. 12, the display transits to “E”.

If the user sees the preview display and makes further adjustment (change), the layout can be repeatedly changed by selecting the "customize" button 1207 in FIG. 12 again.

When the "return" button 1503 in FIG. 15 is selected in step S2014, the state where the setting selected on the layout customization screen 1500 remains unchanged is returned.

<Saved Information List, Print Settings> Next, the saved information list and print setting processing operations will be described with reference to FIGS.
4 and FIG. 19.

First, in step S1900, a list of user information stored in the file server 3110 is displayed.

On the save information list screen 1300 shown in FIG. 13, a "print" button 1304 for each save file name,
A “change” button 1305 is prepared, and printing and layout format change can be selected.

In the next step S1901, the judgment of the "print" button 1304 and the "change" button 1305 in FIG. 12 is performed. If it is determined that the “change” button 1305 has been selected, the process transitions to the process of FIG. 20, and the layout is changed again on the layout selection screen shown in FIG.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1901 that the "print" button 1304 has been selected, the flow advances to step S1902 to display the print setting screen shown in FIG. On the print setting screen of FIG. 14, thumbnails of layouts to be output and printers to be output are displayed in the print setting display area 1400.

Next, in step S1903, the process shown in FIG.
If it is determined that the “return” button 1405 in 4 is selected, the process returns to step S19 to return to the stored information list.
Transition to 00.

On the other hand, in step S1903,
Printer selection 1402 and print start time setting 1 in FIG.
If it is determined that the change has been made to 403, the process advances to step S1904 to update the print settings, and then the process returns to step S1903.

The print start time setting 1403 in FIG.
By default, "Print now" is selected, but you can select time specified items and items saved in the server. The storage in the server is a mode in which the processing is stopped when the server generates print data and the user waits for connection / printing with the adapter 3122 (see FIG. 5).

If the "print" button 1304 in FIG. 13 is selected, the flow advances to step S1905 to execute print processing. When the “print” button 1304 is selected, the web application passes the data to the rendering server and performs rendering.

<Server Process> Next, the server process operation for realizing the print function in the print system according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 22 shows the application server 108.
2 is a flowchart showing a procedure of server processing when realizing a general print function in FIG.

First, in step S2200, the Mail Server
The 3106 has an SMTP server and an IMAP server function, waits for mail reception, and when received, uses the IMAP protocol to send an email.
Notify the object 3212.

[0285] Next, in step S2201, the Email object 3203 has the IMAP client function, and when the reception of the mail is notified, the MIME file type is specified to extract the attachment file part from the Mail Server 3106 and print the attachment file. A print function ID indicating that is added, and the printer manager 3214 is requested to perform processing (print instruction).

Next, in step S2202, Printer Man
Upon receiving the print instruction from the Email object 3212, the ager 3214 receives the print instruction from the User DB based on the User ID.
3213, User ID, User Tel Number, Use
r Password, Adapter ID, Adapter Tel Number, P
Get the print ID consisting of the printerID. And
Create a Printer Driver object indicated by Printer ID and pass the data to be printed. Details of this processing will be described later with reference to FIGS. 24 and 25.

Next, in step S2203, Printer Dri
ver object 3215 is Printer Manager321
The print data, its MIME type, print ID, and print function ID (text / attached file / URL) are passed from 4 and activated. Determine the file format based on the MIME type of the received mail. And image processing, color processing,
Generate Print Job object.

On the other hand, if the file format is not supported, an error occurs in Printer Manager 3214.
To notify the printer to stop printing (not shown).

The file format is, for example, Adobe
Systems Post Script, Microsoft WORD, JPEG,
Refers to a file that has already been converted to printer-specific print data using a GIF format or a Microsoft Windows application.

Next, in step S2204, the Print Job object 3216 attempts to output print data by connecting to the output destination adapter 108 based on the print ID. Details of this processing will be described later.

Next, the processing operation of the adapter 108 will be described with reference to FIG.
3 will be used for the explanation.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the adapter 108.

First, in step S2300, the adapter 10
8 connects to the printing system by itself or by a callback. When the connection is completed after performing the authentication processing with the RADIUS server 3105 (see FIG. 4), the next step S230
Printer Manager 321 of the server of this printing system
4 (see FIG. 6) to request transfer of the print job. Next, in step S2302, the transfer of the print job is waited, and when the print job is received, the next step S23 is performed.
In 03, the print data is transmitted to the printer 105 via the IEEE1284 or the like. At that time, the adapter 108 ends the present processing operation after handling the status such as an error from the printer 105.

[0294] Next, Printer Manag of the network print server 3104 in the application server 108.
The processing operation of the er3214 will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 24 and FIG. 25 show Printer Manager3.
14 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of 214.

First, in step S2400 of FIG. 24, Prin
ter Manager 3214 is an Email object 3212
Or waits for a message notification from Adapter 3211. Next, in step S2401, it is determined whether the message notification received in step S2400 is a message from the Adapter 3211. When it is determined that the message notification is a message from the Adapter 3211, the process proceeds to the next step S2402 and Adap
Obtain and confirm the ter ID and Printer ID. Next, in step S2403, Prin is sent according to the message type.
Sends a message to the ter Driver object 3215 to control the operation (stop, restart, delete, etc.). As a result, the print job is controlled (stopped, restarted, deleted, etc.). After finishing the process of step S2403, the process returns to step S2400.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S2401 that the message notification is not the message from Adapter 3211, the process advances to step S2404,
In step S2400, it is determined whether the received message notification is from the Email object 3203 and is a print instruction. And the message notification
If it is determined that it is from the Email object 3203 and is a print instruction, the process advances to the next step S2405 to obtain a User ID. Next, in step S2406, Pr
Search inter DB3213. The ID referenced here is U
ser ID, UserTel Number, User Password, Adapter
Print consisting of ID, Adapter Tel Number and Printer ID
It is an ID.

Next, in step S2407, it is determined whether the Printer ID in the print ID is the A printer. If it is determined that the Printer ID in the print ID is the A printer, the process advances to step S2408 to generate a Printer Driver object for the A printer, and then returns to step S2400.

On the other hand, in step S2404,
If it is determined that it is not the print instruction, step S240.
In step 9, the printer manager 3214 determines whether the received message is an error message.
If it is determined that the message received by the Printer Manager 3214 is not an error message, this processing operation is ended. Also, Printer Manager 3214
If it is determined that the received message is an error message, the process advances to step S2414 in FIG. 25 to send an error mail corresponding to the error type to the User ID. Next, proceeding to step S2415, an error is notified to the User HTML Page and the status is reflected on the user's home page. After the processing of step S2415 is completed, step S of FIG.
Return to 2400.

On the other hand, in step S2407,
If it is determined that the Printer ID in the print ID is not the A printer, the process advances to step S2410 in FIG. 25 to determine whether the Printer ID in the print ID is the B printer. If it is determined that the Printer ID in the print ID is the B printer, the next step S24
After proceeding to step 11 and generating a Printer Driver object for the B printer, the procedure returns to step S2400 in FIG.

On the other hand, in step S2410,
If it is determined that the Printer ID in the print ID is not the B printer, the process advances to step S2412 to print.
It is determined whether the Printer ID in the ID is the C printer. If it is determined that the Printer ID in the print ID is the C printer, the process advances to step S2413 to generate a Printer Driver object for the C printer, and then returns to step S2400 in FIG.

On the other hand, in step S2412,
If it is determined that the Printer ID in the print ID is not the C printer, the process advances to step S2414,
Send an error mail corresponding to the error type to UserID. Next, in Step S2415, User HT
Notify the ML Page of the error and have the user's homepage reflect the status. Step S241
After finishing the process of 5, the process returns to step S2400 of FIG.

Here, the A printer, B printer, and C printer are, for example, the A company inkjet printer, the B company laser beam printer, the C company thermal printer, and the like, and generate Printer Driver objects corresponding to these printers. (Select the corresponding driver and start it).

Next, Printe performed by the network print server 3104 in the application server 108.
The r Job object processing operation will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

First, in step S2600, Printer Jo
The b object 3216 waits for a print start message. Next, in step S2601, Printer D
When the processing by the river object 3206 is completed and the print start message arrives, Communication Server 31
Adapter 3211 via 03 Port Master 3206
Try to connect to. Next, in step S2602, it is determined whether or not the connection of the Adapter 3211 in step S2601 has succeeded. When it is determined that the connection of the Adapter 3211 is successful, the next step S2
Proceed to 603, and confirm the Printer ID of the Adapter 3211. Then, in step S2604, it is determined whether the PrinterIDs match. If it is determined that the Printer IDs match, the process advances to step S2605, and print data is adapted using a protocol such as LPR.
Send to er3211. At this time, judging from the Printer ID, in the case of a printer that does not have a paper tray, the print job may be divided into page units. After the processing in step S2605 ends,
This processing operation ends.

On the other hand, in Step S2602, Ad
If it is determined that the connection of the apter 3211 has failed, or if it is determined in step S2604 that the Printer IDs are different, both are performed in step S2.
Proceed to 606, and as an error to that effect, Printer Driver
The object 3206 is notified, and then this processing operation ends.

It should be noted that there are two types of cases in which the application server 108 makes a call to transfer print data and the adapter 106 makes a call.

When the adapter 106 makes a call, the adapter 106 (= 3211) calls the application server 10
Log in to 8. In this case, Adapter 3211 is Port
Call Master 3206, Adapter ID, Adapter Te
l Log in using the Number and Printer ID as authentication keys. The authentication key is Port Master3206 to RadiusSe.
It is sent to Printer DB 3213 via rver 3205 and checked by this Printer DB 3213. This login connection is TCP / IP connection, but PortMaster
The IP address given to Adapter 3211 by 3206 is a private address of this printing system.

[0309] Adap for which login is permitted in the above process
ter3211 is a Printer Manager object 321
4, a print data request message is sent. Printer Manager object 3214 that received this message
Is the AdapterID of Adapter3211, Adapter Tel Numb
er, the Printer Job object 3216 matching the Printer ID is specified, and a data transmission message is sent to the object. This message contains Adapter321
1 IP address is included.

The Printer Job object 3216 sends print data to the designated IP address, that is, the address of the Adapter 3211 by the LPR protocol or the like.

On the other hand, when the application server 108 makes a call, the Po request is made to call the Printer Tel Number of the Printer Job object 3216 itself.
Ask rtMaster3206.

[0312] The Port Master 3206 requests the Printer Job object 3216 to execute the Printer Tel.
The number is called, but at this time, the telephone number of this printing system is notified and the communication is temporarily disconnected. As a result, the adapter 106 obtains the telephone number of this printing system, and calls the obtained telephone number again. After this, the adapter 10
This is the same operation as the call from 6.

As described in detail above, according to the printing system of the present embodiment, it is possible to save as a document having a normal page concept on the network, which allows the document to be stored without being processed when a print request is made. It is possible to print the data as it is, and it is possible to output the data in the same layout as that viewed on the network without missing the data when printing the data. In addition, simple editing (layout change) and fine adjustment of print settings are possible on the network, and moreover, by continuously printing layout documents of the same type, convenience is improved.

Even if the present invention is applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices (eg, host computer, interface device, reader, printer, etc.), a device composed of one device (eg, copier, facsimile). Device).

Further, an object of the present invention is to supply a storage medium having a program code of software for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiment to a system or apparatus, and to supply a computer (or CPU or MP of the system or apparatus).
It is needless to say that (U, etc.) is also achieved by reading and executing the program code stored in the storage medium.

In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

A storage medium for supplying the program code is, for example, a floppy (registered trademark) disk, a hard disk, a magneto-optical disk, or a CD-RO.
M, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, DVD-
RAM, DVD-RW, DVD + RW, magnetic tape, non-volatile memory card, ROM, etc. can be used.

Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above embodiments are realized, but also the OS (operating system) operating on the computer based on the instructions of the program code. It goes without saying that this also includes the case where the above) performs a part or all of the actual processing and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written in the memory provided in the function expansion board inserted into the computer or the function expansion unit connected to the computer, based on the instruction of the program code, It goes without saying that the case where the CPU or the like included in the function expansion board or the function expansion unit performs some or all of the actual processing and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments is also included.

(Second Embodiment) Next, the second embodiment of the present invention will be described.
The embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 27 to 29.

Since the basic configuration of the printing system according to this embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment described above, the drawings of the first embodiment will be used as necessary. explain.

FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an example of an information collection screen (collective printing) in the printing system according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 27, reference numeral 2700 is a stored information list screen, 27.
01 is a “print” button, 2702 is a “change” button, 2
Reference numeral 703 is a check box, and 2704 is a “collective print” button.

FIG. 28 is a diagram showing a batch print display screen (1) in the printing system according to the present embodiment. In FIG. 28, 2800 is a batch print screen, 2801 is a recommended paper display section, and 2802 is a recommended ink. A display portion, 2803 is a “print order” button, 2804 is a setting instruction portion,
Reference numeral 2805 is a “print” button and 2806 is a “return” button.

FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a batch print display screen (2) in the printing system according to this embodiment. In FIG. 29, 2900 is a batch print screen, 2901 is a recommended paper display section, and 2902 is recommended ink. A display unit, 2903 is a "print order" button, 2904 is a setting instruction unit,
Reference numeral 2905 is a “print” button, and 2906 is a “return” button.

This embodiment will be described by providing a check box 2703 and a "batch print" button 2704 in FIG. 27 on the screen shown in FIG.

In FIG. 27, a check box 2703 is prepared for the information already stored in the DB, and after a plurality of selections or a single selection, a “batch print” button 2704 is entered to shift to the batch print mode.

On the batch print screen 2800 of FIG. 28 created by the Web application, a list of the stored information selected by the check box 2703 of the stored information list screen 2700 of FIG. 27 is displayed.

The selected information is arranged and displayed for each layout based on the layout information stored together with the storage information.

Further, the recommended paper display section 2801 and the recommended ink display section 2802 in FIG. 28 also display the printing conditions of the optimum printer settings. In the batch print screen 2800 of FIG. 28, the layout information with image has designation of high-quality paper and color ink, and the storage information of normal layout information has designation of plain paper and monochrome ink.

It is not always necessary to print in the displayed combination, but it goes without saying that an optimum print result can be obtained by following the specified settings.

Further, not only is the number of pages to be printed displayed for each piece of stored information, but the order in which the sheets should be prepared is displayed in the setting instructing section 2804 of FIG.
At this time, it is simply illustrated for easy understanding. When the "print" button 2805 is selected in this state, the printing process is started. Also, when the "return" button 2806 is selected, the state of the saved information list screen 2700 of FIG. 27 is restored, and the print target can be selected again.

The "print order" button 2803 in FIG.
With the selection button for changing the printing order, the layout designated second (normal here) is changed as the highest priority layout by one selection.

FIG. 29 shows a batch printing screen when the printing order is changed by selecting the "printing order" button 2803.

On the batch print screen 2900 shown in FIG. 29,
A list of stored information in which the printing order has been changed by selecting the "printing order" button 2803 in FIG. 28 is displayed.

On the previous screen (FIG. 28), the saved document of the layout with image is given the highest priority, but in this case, the order is changed to normal and with image. By selecting the "print order" button 2903 in FIG. 29 again, the state returns to the batch print screen 2800 in FIG.

The other configurations, operations and effects of the printing system according to this embodiment are the same as those of the first embodiment described above.

(Third Embodiment) Next, the third embodiment of the present invention will be described.
The embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 30 and 31.

Since the basic configuration of the printing system according to this embodiment is the same as that of the above-described first embodiment, the drawings of the first embodiment are used as necessary. Explain.

First, the print data generation / transmission processing in the printing system according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 30.

In FIG. 30, the application server 108 in the printing system according to this embodiment converts a print target into information suitable for a designated printer (for example, the printer 105), generates print image data, and then the adapter 106. 7 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing operations when transmitting to the Internet.

The application server 108 is a PDA via the communication network 102 or the Internet 103.
When receiving the print instruction signal between the same and the like, step S3001
The print target is rendered in print page units, and RGB print image data in which one pixel is represented by three colors of R (red), G (green), and B (blue) is generated. Next, in step S3002, the application server 1
Reference numeral 08 denotes information relating to the printer designated to execute printing, for example, the name of the printer, the printer cartridge information attached to the printer, the printing paper type information, the control code data, the color profile information, and the like.
Select and acquire from the stored information group.

Next, in step S3003, the application server 108 refers to the color profile information of the designated printer, and prints the RGB print image data generated in step S3001 so as to match the color profile information. Color space conversion is performed for each page and color processing is executed. Next, step S3004.
Then, the application server 108 converts the RGB print image data that has been color-processed in print page units into print image data that is expressed by the color expression method adopted by the designated printer. For example, it is converted into YMCK print image data with four colors of Y (yellow), M (magenta), C (cyan), and K (black).

Next, in step S3005, the YMC generated in step S3004 is printed for each print page.
K Print image data is compressed using the still image data compression method, JPEG. Next, in step S3006, the application server 108 transmits the printer control code data for the designated printer acquired in step S3002 to the adapter 106. Next, in step S3007, the application server 108
Compressed YM generated in step S3005
After the CK print image data is transmitted to the adapter 106 in print page units, this processing operation ends.

In the present embodiment, color processing, data compression, and data transmission of print image data are performed in print page units, but the present invention is not limited to this, and one page is subdivided into a plurality of pages. You can also go to each area.

Next, the printer data generation and transmission processing of the adapter in the printing system according to the present embodiment will be described.
This will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 31.

FIG. 31 shows a process in which the adapter in the printing system according to this embodiment processes the printer control code and print image data sent from the application server to generate printer data, and then the printer sends the data. It is a flowchart which shows the flow of operation.

First, in step S3101, the adapter 1
The printer control code 06 stores the printer control code transmitted from the application server in the RAM 2106. Next, in step S3102, the adapter 106 sequentially stores the YMCK print image data transmitted from the application server in the RAM 2106, and performs decompression JPEG decompression processing when the data for one page is complete. Next, step S310.
In step 3, the adapter 106 concatenates and adds printer control code information to the YMCK print image data decompressed in step S3102 to generate printer data.

For example, in general, the print control command is
As described below, the character string representing the control code is configured as a data string in which the length of the image data and the image data string are added.

Print control command: control code (length of image data, image data string) Then, a process for decomposing the YMCK print image data in raster units and embedding the image data in each raster unit in the printer raster print control command is executed. To do.

Next, in step S3104, the adapter 1
In step 06, the printer data generated in step S3103 is transmitted to the printer 105, printing is executed, and then this processing operation is ended.

In the present embodiment, decompression of print image data and generation of printer data are performed in print page units, but the present invention is not limited to this, and one page is subdivided. You may go to each area.

As described in detail above, the printing system according to the present embodiment can shorten the print data transmission time and improve the usability for the user.

[0353]

As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to save as a document having a normal page concept on the network, which enables printing without processing when a print request is made and at the same time prints data. It is possible to output with the same layout as when browsing on the network without missing data when printing. In addition, simple editing (layout change) and fine adjustment of print settings are possible on the network, and moreover, by printing the same type of layout document continuously, convenience is improved.

Further, according to the present invention, the print data transmission time can be shortened, and the usability for the user is improved.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a printing system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of an adapter in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration of software installed in an adapter in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an internal configuration of an application server in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a software module configuration of an application server in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a network print server (Network Print) in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
It is a figure which shows the software module structure of (Server).

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a main menu screen in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of an initial registration screen in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a favorite information registration screen in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a favorite information confirmation screen in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an information collection screen in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a layout selection screen in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a stored information list screen in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a print setting screen in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a layout customization screen in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart of an operation showing a main menu and menu selection processing in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a flow of initial registration processing, favorite information registration processing, and registration change processing operations in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a flow of information collection / selection processing operation in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a flow of a layout selection processing operation in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a flow chart showing a flow of stored information list processing and print setting processing operations in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a flow chart showing a flow of operations of stored information list processing and print setting processing in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing a flow of server processing operation when a general print function is realized in the application server in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a processing operation flow of the adapter in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a processing operation flow of a printer manager in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing a processing operation flow of a printer manager in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing a flow of printer job object processing operations in the printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an example of an information collection screen (collective printing) in the printing system according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 28 is a diagram showing an example of a batch print display screen (1) in the printing system according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 29 is a diagram showing an example of a batch print display screen (2) in the printing system according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing a flow of print image data generation / transmission processing logical operation of the application server in the printing system according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing a flow of printer data generation / transmission processing operation of the adapter in the printing system according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

101 Terminal (PDA) 102 Communication Network 103 Internet 104 External Provider 105 Printing Device (Printer) 106 Adapter 107 Mobile Communication Terminal 108 Application Server 2101 Communication Terminal Interface (I / F) 2102 Microcomputer (Microcomputer) 2103 Internal Bus 2104 Printer Interface 2105 ROM (Read Only Memory) 2106 RAM (Random Access Memory) 2107 Power Supply 2108 User Interface (U / I) 2109 Switch SW (1) 2110 SW (2) 2111 SW (3) 2112 3 Color LED (1) 2113 LED ( 2) 2201 application 2202 TCP / IP protocol group 2203 communication carrier protocol 2204 H / W 2205 application 2206 TCP / IP protocol group 220 Communication carriers protocol 2208 H / W 3101 firewall server (Fire Wall Se
rver) 3102 Switch (Switch) 3103 Communication server (Communicatio)
n Server) 3104 Network print server (Network P
rint Server) 3105 Radius Server 3106 Mail Server 3107 WWW Server 3108 Public Network (PSTN / PHS / PDC) 3109 Internet 3110 File Server 3201 Email Manager 3202 Print Controller 3203 User HTML Page Object 3204 HTML Page 3205 Radius Server 3206 Port Master 3207 File Manager 3208 User Data 3209 User DB 3210 PDA 3211 Adapter 3212 Printer 3213 Printer DB 3214 Printer Manager Object 3215 Printer Driver Object 3216 Print Job Object 3217 Web Browser Object 700 Menu display area 701 "Save information" button 702 "Save information list" button 703 "Initial registration / change" button 704 Mouse car 800 Menu display area 801 Registration item selection area 802 "Register" button 803 "Cancel" button 900 Menu display area 901 Favorite information category display area 902 Favorite information selection check box 903 Favorite information item 904 "Register" Button 905 “Clear” button 1000 Menu display area 1001 Registered favorite information category display area 1002 Registered favorite information item 1003 “Register” button 1004 “Return” button 1100 Menu display area 1101 Collected information display area 1102 “Select” Button 1103 "Batch" button 1104 "Clear" button 1105 Content information category display area 1106 Content information selection check box 1107 Content index information 1108 selection Information display area 1109 "Layout preview" button 1110 "Remove from scrap" button 1111 Selected content selection check box 1112 Selected content index information 1113 Selected content detailed information 1200 Menu display area 1201 Preview screen area 1202 Layout selection instruction area 1203 "Normal selection" button 1204 "Image selection" button 1205 "Newspaper" button 1206 "Normal 2" button 1207 "Customize" button 1208 Edit box 1209 "Save as this layout" button 1300 Menu display area 1301 File name display area 1302 Selected layout format type display area 1303 Recording display area 1304 with or without print output "Print" button 305 “Change” button 1400 Menu display area 1401 Thumbnail display area 1402 Printer selection list 1403 Print start time designation area 1404 “Print execution” button 1405 “Return” button 1500 Menu display screen 1501 Changeable item list display area 1502 “Layout preview Button 1503 "return" button

   ─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continued front page    (72) Inventor Muneto Takase             3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo             Non non corporation (72) Inventor ▲ Taka ▼ Akiko             3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo             Non non corporation (72) Inventor Kenji Maeda             3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo             Non non corporation (72) Inventor Onsen Takahiro             3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo             Non non corporation F-term (reference) 2C087 BD40 CA05                 5B021 AA01 BB00 BB12 CC07 CC08                       EE00

Claims (97)

[Claims] 1. A print information storing / rearranging step of storing / rearranging as print information suitable for printing; a transmitting step of transmitting the print information as an electronic mail; and a step of receiving the electronic mail to obtain print data. A first converting step for converting; a second converting step for converting the print data converted by the first converting step into a data format of an interface of the printer; and a printing converted by the second converting step. A printing step of printing data by the printer. 2. A print information storing / rearranging means for storing / rearranging as print information suitable for printing, a transmitting means for transmitting the print information as an electronic mail, and a print data by receiving the electronic mail. First converting means for converting; second converting means for converting the print data converted by the first converting means into a data format of an interface of the printer; and printing converted by the second converting means A printing system comprising: a printing unit that prints data. 3. A printing method for performing a printing process by a printing system including a computer connected to a network, an application server for collecting data and generating print data, and a printer, which is arbitrary on the network according to an instruction from the computer. An information collecting step of collecting information of the above, a data converting step of converting the collected information collected by the information collecting step into print data, and a data transmitting step of transmitting the print data converted by the data converting step to the printer. A first control step of controlling the print data to be printed by the printer. 4. The method according to claim 3, further comprising a category selecting step of selecting a category, wherein information on the category selected by the category selecting step is collected on the network by the information collecting step. Printing method. 5. An information selection step of selecting information from the collection information collected by the information collection step, and a selection information storage step of storing the selection information selected by the information selection step. The printing method according to Item 3. 6. The printing method according to claim 3, further comprising a first collected information saving step of saving the collected information in a format including layout information suitable for printing. 7. The printing method according to claim 6, further comprising a selection layout information storage step of storing the selection layout information separately from the collection information, wherein the collection storage information can be repeatedly changed in layout. 8. The method according to claim 6, further comprising a layout information selection step of selecting the layout information.
Or the printing method according to 7. 9. The method according to claim 6, further comprising a layout information changing step of changing the layout information.
Or the printing method according to 7. 10. The printing method according to claim 6, further comprising a display step of displaying a print content of the collected information accompanied by the layout information. 11. The printing method according to claim 3, further comprising a second collection information storage step of storing the collection information in a format including print setting information. 12. The printing method according to claim 11, wherein the print setting information is print sheet information. 13. The printing method according to claim 11, wherein the print setting information is print mode information. 14. The printing method according to claim 11, wherein the print setting information is printer cartridge information. 15. The printing method according to claim 3, further comprising a setting change / save step of changing / storing a setting relating to a delivery destination printer according to an instruction from the computer. 16. The printing method according to claim 3, further comprising a distribution step of distributing the print information to a designated printer by an instruction from the computer. 17. The printing method according to claim 16, further comprising a distribution result display step of displaying a distribution result of the distribution step. 18. A first print setting information storing step of storing print setting information in association with the collection information and the layout information, and information collected and stored by the first print setting information storing step, the print setting information. The printing method according to claim 3, further comprising a search step of searching separately. 19. The printing method according to claim 18, wherein the print setting information is print sheet information. 20. The printing method according to claim 18, wherein the print setting information is print mode information. 21. The printing method according to claim 18, wherein the print setting information is printer cartridge information. 22. A second print setting information storage step of storing print setting information in association with the collection information and the layout information, and information collected and stored by the second print setting information storage step is grouped by paper type. The printing method according to claim 3, further comprising a second control step of controlling the printing by printing. 23. The printing method according to claim 22, wherein the print setting information is print sheet information. 24. The printing method according to claim 23, wherein the print setting information is print mode information. 25. The printing method according to claim 23, wherein the print setting information is printer cartridge information. 26. A printing system including a computer connected to a network, an application server for collecting data and generating print data, and a printer, wherein information for collecting arbitrary information on the network according to an instruction from the computer. Collecting means; data converting means for converting the collected information collected by the information collecting means into print data; data transmitting means for transmitting the print data converted by the data converting means to the printer; A printing system, comprising: a first control unit that controls printing by a printer. 27. The method according to claim 26, further comprising category selecting means for selecting a category, wherein the information collecting means collects information on the category selected by the category selecting means on the network. Printing system. 28. An information selection means for selecting information from the collection information collected by the information collection means, and a selection information storage means for storing the selection information selected by the information selection means. Item 2
The printing system according to item 6. 29. The printing system according to claim 26, further comprising a first collection information storage unit that stores the collection information in a format including layout information suitable for printing. 30. The printing system according to claim 29, further comprising selection layout information storage means for storing the selection layout information separately from the collection information, and the layout of the collection storage information can be repeatedly changed. 31. A layout information selecting means for selecting the layout information is provided.
Or the printing system according to item 30. 32. The printing system according to claim 29, further comprising a layout information changing step of changing the layout information. 33. The printing system according to claim 29, further comprising display means for displaying a print content of the collection information accompanied by the layout information. 34. The printing system according to claim 26, further comprising a second collection information storage unit that stores the collection information in a format including print setting information. 35. The printing system according to claim 34, wherein the print setting information is print sheet information. 36. The printing system according to claim 34, wherein the print setting information is print mode information. 37. The printing system according to claim 34, wherein the print setting information is printer cartridge information. 38. The printing system according to claim 26, further comprising a setting changing / storing unit that changes / saves a setting relating to a delivery destination printer according to an instruction from the computer. 39. The printing system according to claim 26, further comprising a distribution unit that distributes the print information to a designated printer by an instruction from the computer. 40. A delivery result display means for displaying a delivery result by the delivery means.
9. The printing system according to item 9. 41. First print setting information storage means for storing print setting information in association with the collection information and the layout information, and the print setting information for the information collected and stored by the first print setting information storage means. 27. The printing system according to claim 26, further comprising a searching unit for searching separately. 42. The printing system according to claim 41, wherein the print setting information is print sheet information. 43. The printing system according to claim 41, wherein the print setting information is print mode information. 44. The printing system according to claim 41, wherein the print setting information is printer cartridge information. 45. A second print setting information storage unit for storing print setting information in association with the collection information and the layout information, and information collected and stored by the second print setting information storage unit is grouped by paper type. Second control to print by printing
27. The printing system according to claim 26, further comprising: 46. The printing system according to claim 45, wherein the print setting information is print sheet information. 47. The printing system according to claim 45, wherein the print setting information is print mode information. 48. The printing system according to claim 45, wherein the print setting information is printer cartridge information. 49. A computer connected to a network, an application server for collecting data and generating print data, a print data is received from the application server via a communication network, and the received print data is connected. A printer adapter for converting into a data format of an interface of a printer, and a printing method including a printer for printing the print data converted and transmitted by the printer adapter. A printing method comprising: a first print data generation step of performing generation processing by the application server; and a data connection processing step of performing connection processing of the print control data by the printer adapter. 50. A compression step of compressing the print image data generated by the first print data generation step, and the print image data compressed by the compression step from the application server via a communication network. 50. A printing method according to claim 49, comprising a first sending step of sending to a printer adapter. 51. The printing according to claim 49, further comprising a second transmission step of transmitting print control data corresponding to the type of the printer from the application server to the printer adapter via a communication network. Method. 52. A decompressing step of decompressing print image data transmitted from said application server via a communication network, and print image data decompressed by said decompressing step transmitted from said application server via a communication network. A second print data generation step of generating print data by linking with print control data; and a third conversion of converting the print data generated by the second print data generation step into a data format of an interface of a printer. The printing method according to claim 49, further comprising: a step; and a third transmitting step of transmitting the print data converted by the third converting step to a printer. 53. A computer connected to a network, an application server for collecting data and generating print data, and receiving print data from the application server via a communication network and connecting the received print data. A printer adapter for converting the data format of the interface of the printer being used, and a printer for printing the print data converted and transmitted by the printer adapter, the application server performing the print image data generation processing. The printing system is characterized in that the printing control data is connected by the printer adapter. 54. Compressing means for compressing print image data generated by the application server, and print image data compressed by the compressing means from the application server to the printer adapter via a communication network. The printing system according to claim 53, further comprising a first transmission unit. 55. The printing according to claim 53, further comprising a second transmission unit for transmitting print control data corresponding to the type of the printer from the application server to the printer adapter via a communication network. system. 56. Decompression means for decompressing print image data transmitted from the application server via the communication network, and print image data decompressed by the decompression means transmitted from the application server via the communication network. Print data generating means for generating print data by linking with print control data; and transmitting print data generated by the print data generating means and converted by the printer adapter into a data format of a printer interface to a printer. 54. The transmitting means according to claim 3,
Printing system described in. 57. A printing method, wherein a printing process is performed by a printing system including a computer connected to a network, an application server for collecting data and generating print data, and a printer, selected by a user via the computer. Category information notifying step of notifying specific category information, category information registering / storing step of registering / saving the specific category information notified by the category information notifying step, and information collection of notifying the user of the start of information collection A start notification step, an information collecting step of collecting information on the specific category information selected by the user on the Internet at the time of collecting information, and information for selecting information required by the user from the information collected by the information collecting step. Selection step A display step of displaying the information selected by the information selecting step; an information storing step of storing the information selected by the information selecting step in a format including layout information and print setting information selected by the user; A search step of searching the information saved by the step for each print setting information, a layout information changing step of changing the layout information of the information saved by the information saving step, and a printing start of the information saved by the user by the information saving step. A print start instruction step for instructing, an information conversion step for converting the information stored by the information storage step into print data, a distribution step for distributing the information converted by the information conversion step to a printer designated in advance by the user, Distribution by the distribution step A delivery result displaying step of displaying a result, and a printing method. 58. In a printing system including a computer connected to a network, an application server for collecting data and generating print data, and a printer, the specific category information selected by the user is notified via the computer. Category information notifying means, category information registration / storing means for registering / storing the specific category information notified by the category information notifying means, information collection start notifying means for notifying the user of the start of information collection, Information collecting means for collecting information on the specific category information selected by the user at the time of collection on the Internet; information selecting means for selecting information required by the user from the information collected by the information collecting means; Information that displays the information selected by the selection means Indicating means, information saving means for saving the information selected by the information selecting means in a format including layout information and print setting information selected by the user, and a search for searching the information saved by the information saving means for each print setting information Means, layout information changing means for changing layout information of the information saved by the information saving means, print start instructing means for instructing the user to start printing the information saved by the information saving means, and the information saving means An information conversion unit that converts the stored information into print data, a distribution unit that distributes the information converted by the information conversion unit to a printer designated in advance by a user, and a distribution result display unit that displays the distribution result of the distribution unit. A printing system comprising: 59. A printing system including a computer connected to a network, an application server for collecting data and generating print data, and a printer, a receiving server for receiving an instruction from the computer, and a receiving server for receiving the instruction from the computer. A data collection / management server that collects and manages data according to a category selected according to an instruction, and a print server that converts the data collected by the data collection / management server into print information and sends the converted data to the printer A printing system comprising: 60. The receiving server, an instruction waiting means for waiting for a user's instruction via the computer, a category selecting means for allowing the user to select a category, and a data collecting according to the category selected by the user. Data collection request means for charging the management server, category notification means for notifying the data collection / management server of the category selected by the user, and information notification means for notifying the user of the information acquired from the data collection / management server A data selection means for allowing the user to select the collected data, a data notification means for notifying the user of the data selected by the user, a storage method selection means for allowing the user to select a storage method, and a print instruction method for the user. The printing instruction method selecting unit for performing the printing instruction method selection unit according to claim 59. Printing system. 61. The printing system according to claim 60, wherein the data notifying unit notifies the user of the data selected by the user as a preview screen. 62. The data collection / management server, an instruction waiting unit that waits for an instruction from the receiving server, an information collecting unit that collects information according to the category notified from the receiving server, and the information collecting unit. 61. An information providing means for providing information to the receiving server, a layout means for laying out the information collected by the information collecting means, and a print instruction means for giving a print instruction to the print server. The printing system described. 63. The print server has print data generating means for generating print data according to designated print information, and distributing means for distributing the print data generated by the print data generating means to a specific printer. The printing system according to claim 60, wherein: 64. The printing system according to claim 60, further comprising print start instructing means for instructing the print server to start printing by using an electronic mail. 65. The printing system according to claim 60, wherein the application server and the printer are connected via a telephone line. 66. The printing system according to claim 65, wherein the telephone line is wired. 67. The printing system according to claim 65, wherein the telephone line is wireless. 68. A computer-readable program for controlling a printing system including a computer connected to a network, an application server for collecting data and generating print data, and a printer, which is suitable for printing. Print information storage / relocation step for saving / relocating as print information, a transmission step for transmitting the print information as an e-mail, and a first conversion step for receiving the e-mail and converting it into print data. A second conversion step of converting the print data converted by the first conversion step into a data format of an interface of the printer, and a print of printing the print data converted by the second conversion step by the printer A program for causing a computer to execute steps and A program characterized by comprising a module. 69. A computer-readable program for controlling a printing system including a computer connected to a network, an application server for collecting data and generating print data, and a printer, the computer comprising: An information collecting step of collecting arbitrary information on the network according to an instruction; a data converting step of converting the collected information collected by the information collecting step into print data; and the print data converted by the data converting step by the printer. A program module for causing a computer to execute a data transmission step of transmitting to a printer and a first control step of controlling the print data to be printed by the printer. 70. A program module for causing a computer to execute a category selecting step of selecting a category, and collecting information about the category selected by the category selecting step on the network by the information collecting step. 70. The program according to claim 69. 71. A program for causing a computer to execute an information selecting step of selecting information from the collected information collected by the information collecting step and a selection information storing step of storing the selection information selected by the information selecting step. The program according to claim 69, comprising a module. 72. The program module according to claim 69, further comprising a program module for causing a computer to execute a first collected information saving step of saving the collected information in a format including layout information suitable for printing. Program of. 73. A program module for causing a computer to execute a selected layout information storage step of storing the selected layout information separately from the collected information, wherein the collected and stored information can be repeatedly changed in layout. 72. The program according to 72. 74. The program according to claim 72, further comprising a program module for causing a computer to execute a layout information selecting step of selecting the layout information. 75. The program according to claim 72, further comprising a program module for causing a computer to execute a layout information changing step of changing the layout information. 76. The program according to claim 72, further comprising a program module for causing a computer to execute a display step of displaying a print content of the collected information accompanied by the layout information. 77. The program according to claim 69, further comprising a program module for causing a computer to execute a second collected information storage step of storing the collected information in a format including print setting information. 78. The program according to claim 77, wherein the print setting information is print sheet information. 79. The program according to claim 77, wherein the print setting information is print mode information. 80. The program according to claim 77, wherein the print setting information is printer cartridge information. 81. The program module according to claim 69, further comprising a program module for causing a computer to execute a setting change / save step of changing / storing a setting relating to a delivery destination printer according to an instruction of the computer. program. 82. The program according to claim 69, further comprising a program module for causing a computer to execute a distribution step of distributing the print information to a designated printer by an instruction of the computer. 83. The program according to claim 82, further comprising a program module for causing a computer to execute a distribution result display step of displaying a distribution result of the distribution step. 84. A first print setting information storing step of storing print setting information in association with the collection information and the layout information, and information collected and stored in the first print setting information storing step, 70. The program according to claim 69, further comprising a program module for causing a computer to execute a search step of separately searching. 85. The program according to claim 84, wherein the print setting information is print sheet information. 86. The program according to claim 84, wherein the print setting information is print mode information. 87. The program according to claim 86, wherein the print setting information is printer cartridge information. 88. A second print setting information storage step of storing print setting information in association with the collection information and the layout information, and information collected and stored by the second print setting information storage step is grouped by paper type. 70. The program according to claim 69, further comprising a program module for causing a computer to execute a second control step for controlling so as to perform printing. 89. The program according to claim 88, wherein the print setting information is print sheet information. 90. The program according to claim 88, wherein the print setting information is print mode information. 91. The program according to claim 88, wherein the print setting information is printer cartridge information. 92. A computer connected to a network, an application server for collecting data and generating print data, a print data is received from the application server via a communication network, and the received print data is connected. A computer-readable program for controlling a printing system including a printer adapter for converting the printer interface data format that is used and a printer for printing the print data converted and transmitted by the printer adapter. A program for causing a computer to execute a first print data generation step in which the print image data generation processing is performed by the application server, and a data connection processing step in which the print control data connection processing is performed by the printer adapter. A program characterized by comprising a module. 93. A compression step of compressing the print image data generated by the first print data generating step, and the print image data compressed by the compression step from the application server via a communication network. The program according to claim 92, comprising a program module for causing a computer to execute the first transmitting step of transmitting to the printer adapter. 94. A program module for causing a computer to execute a second transmission step of transmitting print control data corresponding to the type of the printer from the application server to the printer adapter via a communication network. The program according to claim 92. 95. A decompressing step of decompressing print image data transmitted from the application server via the communication network, and print image data decompressed by the decompressing step transmitted from the application server via the communication network. A second print data generation step of generating print data by linking with print control data; and a third conversion of converting the print data generated by the second print data generation step into a data format of an interface of a printer. 93. The program according to claim 92, comprising a program module for causing a computer to execute a step and a third transmitting step of transmitting the print data converted by the third converting step to a printer. 96. A computer-readable program for controlling a printing system including a computer connected to a network, an application server for collecting data and generating print data, and a printer, the computer comprising: A category information notifying step of notifying specific category information selected by the user via the category information registering / storing step of registering / saving the specific category information notified by the category information notifying step; Information collection start notification step of notifying the start, information collection step of collecting information on the specific category information selected by the user at the time of information collection on the Internet, and the information needed by the user from the information collected by the information collection step Passion An information selection step of selecting, a display step of displaying the information selected by the information selection step, and an information storage for saving the information selected by the information selection step in a format including layout information and print setting information selected by the user. A search step of searching the information saved in the information saving step for each print setting information; a layout information changing step of changing the layout information of the information saved in the information saving step; and a user saving in the information saving step. A print start instructing step for instructing to start printing of the information, an information converting step for converting the information stored in the information storing step into print data, and the information converted in the information converting step to a printer designated in advance by the user. The delivery step to deliver, A program comprising a program module for causing a computer to execute a distribution result display step of displaying a distribution result by the distribution step. 97. A storage medium storing the program according to any one of claims 68 to 96.