JP2005028629A - Printing device and its controlling method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To strengthen the data-updating function of a printing device and to reduce the labor for printing device management. <P>SOLUTION: Next data-updating date and time are sent simultaneously with update data from a server computer. The printing device is equipped with a storage function for the next data-updating date and time. A means is set for displaying the next data-updating date and time, and automatically starting and terminating the printing device at the next data-updating date and time. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a printing apparatus that manufactures a sticker (label or the like) on which storage information to be pasted on a storage medium is printed, a control method thereof, and a control program. The present invention relates to a control method and a control program for a printing apparatus that manufactures a storage medium for storing voice, information, and the like, and a paste (a label or the like) to be attached to a storage case for storing the storage medium.
[0002]
[Prior art]
The present applicant attaches to a storage medium for recording video, audio, and information represented by a magneto-optical disk, a magnetic tape, a magnetic disk, an IC card, a flash memory card, etc., and a storage case for storing the storage medium. Stickers (labels, etc.), or stickers to be attached to a recording device having a storage medium represented by an MP3 player, for example, labels, stickers, indexes indicating the contents of stored information stored in the storage medium In order to manufacture a card or the like, a printing apparatus that generates print data to be printed on a sticker and prints the generated print data on a label has been proposed (Patent Document 1).
[0003]
When updating data of a printing apparatus using a server computer or the like, such a printing apparatus needs to be operated so that the printing apparatus is activated at a data update time, such as the printing apparatus is always activated. there were.
[0004]
[Patent Document 1]
Japanese Patent No. 2000-190575.
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, when the data of the printing apparatus is updated using the conventional printing apparatus and its system described above, the printing apparatus is always kept running so that update access from the server computer can be supported at any time. In some cases, it may not be possible to provide an easy-to-manage environment. In such a case, there is a possibility that the data of the printing apparatus cannot be updated.
[0006]
The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems of the prior art, and its purpose is to update data in a database used to generate printing data for a sticker to be attached to a storage medium. Another object of the present invention is to provide a printing apparatus capable of notifying information on a scheduled update date and time of a database.
[0007]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to achieve the above object, a printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention has the following configuration. That is, a recording medium provided with a sticking suitable for sticking to a predetermined position of the recording medium, printing means for generating print data suitable for the sticking, and printing the sticking based on the printing data; A memory for storing the database used for generating the print data and information on the scheduled update date and time of the database; receiving means for receiving the update data of the database and information on the scheduled update date and time of the database; Updating means for updating the contents of the memory based on the received update data of the database and information on the scheduled update date and time of the database; notification means for notifying information on the scheduled update date and time of the database; It is characterized by having.
[0008]
Here, for example, it is preferable that the recording medium includes a plurality of the pasted articles having different shapes.
[0009]
Here, for example, the information on the scheduled update date and time of the database preferably includes the next update date and time of the database.
[0010]
Here, for example, it is preferable that the notifying unit notifies information requesting activation of the printing apparatus during the next update time of the database when the printing apparatus is activated or stopped.
[0011]
Here, for example, a setting unit for setting a scheduled update date and time of the database, and the printer is automatically activated when it is detected that the scheduled update date and time of the database set by the setting unit has been reached It is preferable to further have an activation means.
[0012]
Here, for example, it is preferable that the activation unit further includes an activation unit that automatically activates the printing apparatus when it detects that a scheduled update date and time of the database stored in the memory has been reached.
[0013]
Here, for example, after the start-up, after the reception process by the reception unit and the update process of the contents of the memory by the update unit are completed, the printer further includes a stop unit that automatically stops the printing apparatus. It is preferable.
[0014]
In order to achieve the above object, a printing apparatus control method according to an embodiment of the present invention has the following arrangement. That is, a recording medium provided with a sticking suitable for sticking to a predetermined position of the recording medium, printing means for generating print data suitable for the sticking, and printing the sticking based on the printing data; A control method for controlling a printing apparatus having a database used for generating the print data and a memory for storing information on a scheduled update date and time of the database, the update data of the database and the schedule of the database being scheduled Receiving the update date and time information, an update step of updating the contents of the memory based on the received database update data and the scheduled update date and time information of the database, and the database schedule And an informing step of informing information on the update date and time.
In order to achieve the above object, a control program according to an embodiment of the present invention has the following arrangement. That is, a recording medium provided with a sticking suitable for sticking to a predetermined position of the recording medium, printing means for generating print data suitable for the sticking, and printing the sticking based on the printing data; A control program for controlling a printing apparatus having a database used for generating the print data and a memory for storing information on a scheduled update date and time of the database, the update data of the database and the schedule of the database being scheduled Program code of the receiving step for receiving the update date and time information, and the program code of the updating step for updating the contents of the memory based on the received update data of the database and information of the scheduled update date and time of the database And a program code for a notification process for reporting information on the scheduled update date and time of the database. And wherein the Rukoto.
[0015]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a recording medium provided with a patch suitable for being stuck to a predetermined position of a recording medium, and printing means for generating print data suitable for the patch and printing the patch based on the print data And a memory for storing a database used for generating the print data, information on the scheduled update date and time of the database, and receiving means for receiving the update data of the database and information on the scheduled update date and time of the database Update means for updating the contents of the memory based on the received update data of the database and information on the scheduled update date and time of the database, and notification means for notifying information on the scheduled update date and time of the database It can be implemented as a printing apparatus characterized by having
[0016]
Such an invention can be specifically realized in the configurations shown in FIGS. 1 to 15 in correspondence with the following first and second embodiments.
[0017]
<First Embodiment>
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
[0018]
In this specification, “recording” (sometimes referred to as “printing” or “printing”) is not only for forming significant information such as characters and figures, but also for human beings regardless of significance. Regardless of whether or not it has been revealed so that it can be perceived, a case where an image, a pattern, a pattern, or the like is widely formed on a recording medium or a medium is processed is also expressed.
[0019]
In addition, “recording media” refers to stickers (labels, stickers, index cards, etc.) that have various shapes that can be attached and removed on paper used in general recording devices. It shall represent a mount with attached sticking (hereinafter referred to as label paper). Here, the label may be not only paper but may be one that can widely accept ink such as cloth, plastic film, leather, and the like.
[0020]
The “storage medium” refers to a storage medium for recording video, audio, and information represented by a magneto-optical disk, magnetic tape, magnetic disk, IC card, Flash memory card, etc. used in general recording devices, and MP3. It also represents a storage medium represented by a player or the like.
[0021]
[Printers for various storage media: Fig. 1]
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a printing apparatus 101 for producing a label according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
[0022]
In FIG. 1, a printing apparatus 101 includes a computer 102, a touch panel monitor 103, a coin vendor 104, a printer 105, and an output port 106 that outputs a printed matter. The printing apparatus 101 includes various storage media for storing video, music, and information represented by a magneto-optical disk, a magnetic tape, a magnetic disk, an IC card, and a flash memory card, a case for storing the storage medium, and an MP3 player In addition to printing stickers (labels, stickers, index cards, etc.) that are suitable for recording devices having storage media such as It has a function of printing information on a paste for pasting information on a storage medium such as a mini disk (MD) or cassette tape.
[0023]
[Connection between printing device and other computer: Fig. 2]
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the printing apparatus 101 of FIG. 1, the overall configuration of other computers (the server computer 204, the store installation computer 207), and their connection with devices and the like.
[0024]
In FIG. 2, a computer 102 is connected to a touch panel monitor 103, a coin vendor 104, and a printer 105. The computer 102 includes a communication processing unit that communicates with other devices, a central processing unit (CPU) that performs data processing and control based on a program, a memory RAM that stores programs and data, and a storage device that includes a hard disk 201. The central processing unit (CPU) performs control processing (FIGS. 3 and 4) executed based on the control program 202 stored in the hard disk 201, and controls the respective units of the printing apparatus 101 in an overall manner.
[0025]
The hard disk 201 stores a print data database 203 including a song title, title name, artist name, and the like, and a control program 202 for performing control processing (FIGS. 3 and 4) described later. The control program 202 is executed after being copied to a memory comprising a RAM in the computer 102.
[0026]
The touch panel monitor 103 is a display device that includes a touch panel superimposed on a display screen, and includes a display processing unit and an input processing unit. For example, an icon displayed on the touch panel on the screen can be displayed by a user with a finger. Various operation instructions can be performed by touching, and data necessary for printing can be input and output.
[0027]
The coin vendor 104 is a fee collection device for collecting a usage fee for using the printing apparatus 101, and includes a usage fee processing unit. The printer 105 is a printing apparatus, and includes a print processing unit that prints a sticker such as a label and outputs the sticker through the output port 106.
[0028]
The computer 102 of the printing apparatus 101 is connected to the modem 211 via a LAN connection 210 and is connected to the server computer 204 via a communication line. In order for the server computer 204 to be able to use the latest data such as new music information in the printing apparatus 101, the CPU of the server computer 204 sends the latest data 206 to the communication line via the modem 211 based on the latest data rewriting program 205. To be transmitted to the computer 102. The latest data 206 transmitted from the server computer 204 is stored in the label database 203 of the printing apparatus 101.
[0029]
Further, the computer 102 of the printing apparatus 101 is connected to the store installation computer 207 of the store where the printing apparatus 101 is installed through a LAN connection 210. From the store installation computer 207, the original ranking data 209 at the store is used as a database in the printing apparatus 101, so the ranking data rewriting program 208 transmits the store original ranking data 209 to the computer 102 through the LAN 210, and the label database 203 Stored in.
[0030]
[Label creation processing: FIGS. 3 and 4]
Next, the operation of the embodiment having the above-described configuration will be described with reference to FIGS. In this control process, a case where a user prints a label to be attached to a mini disc will be described as an example.
[0031]
3 and 4 are flowcharts showing the label creation process executed based on the control of the CPU of the central processing unit according to the control program 202 of the printing apparatus 101. Steps S310 to S319 are the label creation process. Steps S303 to S309 are a database update process used for the label creation process and a screen display process of the next database update date and time when the activation of the printing apparatus is stopped.
[0032]
FIG. 5 shows a result printed on each label of the label paper 501, and 502 to 507 are examples showing labels for affixing to a mini-disc and other labels printed on the label). is there.
[0033]
First, referring to FIG. 3, the label creation process in steps S310 to S319 will be described.
[0034]
When the printing apparatus 101 is activated (step S301), a standby screen is displayed by the central processing unit of the CPU of the computer 102 (step S303). When it is detected that the user has inserted a coin in the standby screen (step S310), printing is performed. The device 101 can be used by a user.
[0035]
In step S <b> 311, a predetermined menu display screen is displayed on the screen of the touch panel monitor 103, and an input method of contents (music) to be printed on the label is selected (input) by the user touching the touch panel monitor 103. )
[0036]
In the following description, as an input method of contents (music titles) to be printed on a label, an input that is updated based on an album TOP20 ranking database that is updated from a server computer 204 for a certain period and stored in a label database 203 is used. A case where the user selects a method will be described as an example.
[0037]
If it is detected in step S312 that the album TOP20 input method has been selected, an album selection screen is displayed in step S313, and the user selects the album name to be created from the album TOP20 ranking at that time. If detected, the process proceeds to step S314.
[0038]
In step S314, the title of the album (that is, the title to be printed on the label) and the music pieces recorded in the album are stored and displayed in the memory RAM.
[0039]
Next, when the input item confirmation screen for the album selected in step S314 is displayed and it is detected that the input item for the album selected by the user is confirmed, the process proceeds to step S315.
[0040]
If it is detected in step S315 that the user desires to edit the album title (label title), artist name, song order / song name selected in step S314 (the user presses a predetermined key), the process proceeds to step S316. When it is detected that the artist name, song order / song name editing process has been completed and the data has been stored in the memory RAM, the process proceeds to step S317.
[0041]
On the other hand, if it is detected in step S315 that the user does not wish to edit the album title, artist name, song order / song name (the user presses the predetermined key), the process proceeds to step S317 without doing anything.
[0042]
In step S317, the label background selection screen is displayed. When the label background is selected by the user, the label background data is added and stored in the memory RAM. When it is detected that the selection has been performed, the process proceeds to step S318. When the font / color editing screen is displayed and the user selects a font / color and detects that it has been additionally stored in the memory RAM, the process proceeds to step S319, and printing is performed based on the data stored in the memory RAM. To start.
[0043]
In step S319, print data necessary for performing predetermined printing on each determined label sheet is transmitted from the database 203 of the computer 102 of the printing apparatus 101 to the printer 105 of the printing apparatus 101. Printing is performed on each label (attachment) of the label paper based on the data.
[0044]
When the printing process is completed, the label sheet 501 printed on each label shown in FIG. 5 is output (discharged) from the output port 106, and then returns to the standby screen (initial screen) in step S303 to create the label. The process ends.
[0045]
In the label sheet 501 in FIG. 5, for example, the labels 502 and 507 can print everything from the size to the recorded song, and the other labels 503 to 506 can include album titles, Print only the artist name. In addition, labels 508 to 510 in FIG. 5 show examples of labels that can be used for advertisements, service tickets, and the like.
[0046]
[Database update procedure and next update date / time notification method]
Next, a procedure for updating the label database 203 of the printing apparatus 101 from the server computer 204 and a method for notifying the next update date and time will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 6 to 9.
[0047]
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing control processing for updating the terminal database (database 203 of the printing apparatus 101) by the CPU of the server computer 204.
[0048]
FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining data transmission between the printing apparatus 101 and the server computer 204 of FIG.
[0049]
FIG. 8 is an example of the contents of the latest data 206 transmitted from the server computer 204 of FIG. 2 to the printing apparatus 101. The latest data 801 includes header information 802, database update date / time 803, database update contents 804, and next database update date / time. 805 is included.
[0050]
FIG. 9 is an example of the next data update date / time screen 901 of the database displayed on the touch panel monitor 103 in the processing of step S302 or step S305 in FIGS. 3 and 4, and 902 is the next data update date / time.
[0051]
[Data transmission between server computer and printing device: Fig. 7]
7 is a diagram for explaining data transmission between the printing apparatus 101 and the server computer 204 in FIG. 2, and the latest label is added to the database of the printing apparatus 101 from the server computer 204 in the processing of steps S602 to 605 in FIG. Data (new music information etc.) is written.
[0052]
[Process of server computer: FIG. 6]
That is, when the latest data rewriting program 205 in the server computer 204 is activated in step S601 of FIG. 6 (update processing by the server computer 204), the latest data 206 to be written is selected and rewriting of the latest data is started.
[0053]
Next, in step S602, based on the latest data rewriting program 205, the server computer 204 sends a command for inquiring the current state and database update to the printing apparatus 101.
[0054]
Next, if the printing apparatus 101 is not currently used by the user and can be rewritten, a reply of an affirmative response to the inquiry command is received from the printing apparatus 101 (step S603 or step S307 in FIG. 3). .
[0055]
Upon receiving the affirmative response in step S603, the server computer 204 transmits the latest data 801 in FIG. 8 to the printing apparatus 101 in step S604.
[0056]
Next, the printing apparatus 101 receives the latest data 801, analyzes the header information 802, writes the latest data 804 to the latest data storage area of the label database 203 if it is the latest data, and returns an end response (step). S605 or step S308 of FIG. 3).
[0057]
When the server computer 204 receives the completion response in step S605, it ends the latest data rewriting process (step S606).
[0058]
[Display of date and time of next data update by printing device: Fig. 3]
On the other hand, in the printing apparatus 101 of FIG. 3, after the latest data rewrite processing is completed (steps S307 to S308), the next database update date information 805 included in the latest data 801 is stored in the hard disk 201 (step S309).
[0059]
Based on the stored update date information 805 for the next database, the printing apparatus 101 displays the next data update date / time screen 901 in FIG. 9 immediately after the apparatus is started (step S302) and immediately before the apparatus is ended (step S305). Is displayed.
[0060]
902 in FIG. 9 displays the next database update date / time data stored in the hard disk 201 in step S309, that is, the next database update date / time shown in 805 in FIG.
[0061]
As described above, according to the first embodiment according to the procedures of FIGS. 3, 4, 6, and 7, it is represented by a magneto-optical disk, a magnetic tape, a magnetic disk, an IC card, a Flash memory card, and the like. In a printing apparatus that prints a recording medium that records video, audio, information, etc., a case that houses the storage medium, and a patch that is compatible with a recording apparatus having the storage medium represented by an MP3 player, etc. When updating the data in the device database, the server computer sends the data update information in the database of the printing device and information on the next scheduled update date and time, and activates the printing device with the information on the next scheduled update date and time. Can be displayed at the time of start and stop (when finished). Therefore, the person in charge managing this printing apparatus can know the next database update date in advance, and can activate this printing apparatus at the update time.
[0062]
By doing so, data transmission / reception from the server computer can be performed smoothly, and data update retries due to the fact that the printing apparatus is not activated at the time of data update can be reduced.
[0063]
Also, by using this method, it is possible to reduce the load on the server computer and the network, and to quickly update data with other terminal devices.
[0064]
As described above, in the printing apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention, the recording medium preferably includes a plurality of patches with different shapes.
[0065]
Further, for example, it is preferable that the information on the scheduled update date / time of the database includes the next update date / time of the database.
[0066]
In addition, for example, the notification unit preferably notifies information requesting activation of the printing apparatus during the next update date and time of the database when the printing apparatus is activated or stopped.
[0067]
(Second Embodiment)
Next, a printing apparatus 2101 for manufacturing a label according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.
[0068]
In the printing apparatus according to the first embodiment, information on the next scheduled update date and time is displayed when the printing apparatus is started and ended. However, in the printing apparatus according to the second embodiment, the scheduled database Automatically start the printing device based on the update date and time (next update scheduled date and time), or automatically start the printing device after the automatically started printing device finishes updating the database Can be stopped.
[0069]
The printing apparatus 2101 according to the second embodiment described below is related to the first embodiment except for a control program whose configuration is stored in the uninterruptible power supply 1001, the keyboard 1002, and the hard disk 201. This is the same as the printing apparatus 101 (FIG. 1). Therefore, since the description about the common part is duplicated, the same reference numeral is given and the description thereof is omitted, and only the difference from the first embodiment will be described below.
[0070]
[Printing apparatus for various storage media: FIG. 10]
FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a printing apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention.
[0071]
In FIG. 10, a printing apparatus 2101 according to the second embodiment is obtained by adding an uninterruptible power supply 1001 and a keyboard 1002 to the printing apparatus 101 according to the first embodiment.
[0072]
[Connection between printing apparatus and other computer: FIG. 11]
FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the printing apparatus 2101 in FIG. 10 and the connection with devices such as other computers (server computer 204, store installation computer 207).
[0073]
In FIG. 11, a computer 102 is connected to a touch panel monitor 103, a coin vendor 104, a printer 105, an uninterruptible power supply 1001, and a keyboard 1002. The computer 102 includes a storage unit including a hard disk 201 and stores a control program 202 stored in the hard disk 201, a print data database 203, and a program 1101 for setting an update time. The programs 202 and 1101 are executed after being copied to a memory including a RAM in the computer 102.
[0074]
The uninterruptible power supply 1001 includes a power supply unit and a device activation processing unit, and stably supplies power to the computer 102 even in the event of a power failure, as well as a set date and time, for example, a scheduled update date and time of the planned database. The computer 102 is activated by supplying power to the computer 102 and performing an end process.
[0075]
A keyboard 1002 has an input processing unit and is used to switch the operation mode of the computer 102.
[0076]
[Automatic start of printer, database update, automatic stop]
12 to 13 are flowcharts showing label creation processing executed based on the control of the CPU of the central processing unit in accordance with the control program 202 of the computer 102 of the printing apparatus 2101 shown in FIG. 11, and FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing processing of a setting program 1101.
[0077]
FIG. 15 shows the contents of the latest data 206 transmitted from the server computer 204 of FIG. 11 to the printing apparatus 2101.
[0078]
The printing apparatus 2101 according to the second embodiment can set the start date and time (only time), has a clock calendar function (clock function) inside, and supplies power to the computer 102 at the set time (startup). An uninterruptible power supply 1001 that can start the computer 102 or automatically terminate the computer 102 by sending an end signal is provided. Further, the computer 102 is automatically started upon receiving a power supply or signal from the uninterruptible power supply 1001. Computer 102 and a control program 202 for the computer 102.
[0079]
For this reason, in the printing apparatus according to the second embodiment, the printing apparatus is automatically started based on information on the scheduled update date and time (next update scheduled date and time) of the database, or is further automatically started. After the printing apparatus finishes updating the database, the activation of the printing apparatus can be automatically stopped.
[0080]
[Set automatic start date and time]
In FIG. 12, first, when the printing apparatus 101 is activated, the keyboard 1002 is used to shift to the maintenance mode (step S1206), and the timing at which the uninterruptible power supply 1001 activates the computer 102 can be set by date or time. The type of the uninterruptible power supply 1001 that can be set is set (step S1207).
[0081]
[Database update and next update time setting (uninterruptible power supply)]
First, an example using an uninterruptible power supply 1001 that can set the date and time will be described.
[0082]
After setting the timing for starting the computer 102 in the maintenance mode (step S1207) and receiving the latest data 801 of FIG. 8 from the server computer 204 as in the first embodiment (step S1208), a label is generated based on the latest data 801. The database 203 is updated (step S1209).
[0083]
Next, after the rewriting process of the label database 203 based on the latest data 801 is completed, the next database update date / time 805 included in the latest data 801 is also temporarily stored in the hard disk 201 based on the control program 202 (step S1210).
[0084]
If the uninterruptible power supply 1001 that can set the start date and time is set (step S1211), the next update time stored in step S1210 is set in the uninterruptible power supply 1001 based on the update time setting program 1101 in FIG. (Step S1212). Note that the update time setting program 1101 is, for example, 5 minutes before the next update time 805 in consideration of the time required for starting the printing apparatus 101 (the next update time 805 in FIG. 8 is 9:30). , 9:25) is set to the uninterruptible power supply 1001.
[0085]
In step S1214, the start of the printing apparatus is stopped (finished), and in the case of the date / time setting operation, the process is terminated as it is (after the next update date / time is displayed in step S1217, the process ends in step S1218).
[0086]
[Automatic activation of printing device: Fig. 14]
Next, FIG. 14 will be described with reference to FIG. 14 when starting up at the time set in step S1212 (next database update time) when the printing apparatus is stopped (finished).
[0087]
The date and time when the calendar operating in the uninterruptible power supply 1001 is set in step S1212 when the printing apparatus 101 is not activated (in the case of the next database update date and time 805 in FIG. At 9:25 on March 14, the power is supplied from the uninterruptible power supply 1001, the computer 102 is automatically started (step S1401), a standby screen is displayed (step S1402), and the printing apparatus 101 is terminated. If the time (starting stop time) has not been reached, the process proceeds to step S1405. Note that the end time is not set during automatic startup. For example, an invalid value such as 9999/99/99 is set during the previous device termination process.
[0088]
In step S1405, when new latest update data 1501 is received from the server computer 204, the computer 102 updates the data in the database in the processes of FIGS. 6 and 7 (step 1406).
[0089]
Further, when the printing apparatus is automatically started from the end state and the data is updated, an automatic start flag for storing the automatic start: ON is set in the hard disk 201 so that the next update time can be set. Save (step S1407).
[0090]
Subsequently, the next update date information 1505 in the latest data 1501 is also temporarily stored in the hard disk 201 (step S1408).
[0091]
Further, the update time setting program 1101 sets a predetermined end date and time (for example, 5 after the end of the update process) so that the printing apparatus 101 automatically ends again after a predetermined time after the completion of data update in the database. It is set to end after minutes) (step S1409).
[0092]
On the other hand, in step S1403, when the current date and time: the calendar (clock) operating in the uninterruptible power supply 1001 reaches the end time set in step S1407, the process proceeds to step S1404, and the power supply from the uninterruptible power supply 1001 is turned on. The supply is stopped and the computer 102 is automatically terminated.
[0093]
When the printing apparatus 101 is activated in FIG. 12 (step S1201), it is confirmed whether the automatic activation flag ON is stored (step S1202), and when the automatic activation flag ON is stored (step S1211). Next, update date information 1505 of the next database included in the latest data 1501 shown in FIG. 15 stored in step S1408 of FIG. 14 is set (step S1212).
[0094]
By setting the update date information of the next database in this way, the computer 102 is automatically started before the next update scheduled time, so that the printing apparatus 2101 is started at the scheduled update date and time, and when the data update is completed, it is automatically restarted. Can be terminated automatically. Further, it is possible to provide a printing apparatus that automatically starts and ends at the next update date and time when it is restarted thereafter.
[0095]
[Usage example of uninterruptible power supply that can be set only for startup time]
Next, an example using an uninterruptible power supply 1001 that can set only the startup time will be described.
[0096]
After setting in the maintenance mode of FIG. 12 (step S1207), the latest data 801 is received from the server computer 204 as in the first embodiment, and the label database 203 is updated (step S1209).
[0097]
After completion of the latest data rewriting process, the printing apparatus 2101 temporarily stores the next update date information 805 included in the latest data 801 in FIG. 8 in the hard disk 201 (step S1210).
[0098]
If the uninterruptible power supply 1001 that can set only the activation time is set, the next update time is not set to the uninterruptible power supply 1001 (step S1211).
[0099]
Further, when the printing apparatus 2101 is terminated (step S1205), it is confirmed in step S1214 in FIG. 13 whether or not the time is set in the maintenance mode (step S1207) for the uninterruptible power supply 1001 with only time setting. If the time is set, the process advances to step S1215, and the update time setting program 1101 analyzes the next data update date and time 805 stored in step S1210 based on the calendar function operating on the computer 102 or the like. Then, it is confirmed whether or not the current date and time (date and time when the computer 102 is operating) is the day before or next to the next data update date and time 805 (step S1215).
[0100]
If the current date and time is the previous day or the current day, the update time setting program 1101 takes into account the time required to start the printing apparatus 101 in the same manner as described above, for example, 5 minutes before the next update time 805. The time (9:25 in 805) is set in the uninterruptible power supply 1001 (step S1216).
[0101]
As described above, even when the uninterruptible power supply 1001 with only the time setting is used, when the printing apparatus is in a finished state (starting is stopped), the processing after starting up at the time set in step S1216 is also as follows. As described above, the processing can be automatically terminated by the processing of FIG.
[0102]
Even when the printing apparatus is activated again after that, the automatic activation of the printing apparatus can be set at the next database update in the processes of steps S1214 to S1218 based on the next update date information 1505 stored in step S1408. .
[0103]
In this way, even when the uninterruptible power supply 1001 with only the time setting is used, a printing apparatus that automatically starts before the next update scheduled time and automatically ends after the data update is provided as described above. it can.
[0104]
Also in the second embodiment, based on the next data update date and time 805 stored in step S1210, as in the first embodiment, immediately after the start of the apparatus (step S1203) and immediately before the end of the apparatus (step S1217). Thus, the method of displaying the next data update date / time screen 901 in FIG. 9 can be used in combination.
[0105]
As described above, in the printing apparatus according to the second embodiment, by receiving the next data update date and time from the server computer and setting the date and time in the uninterruptible power supply, the printing apparatus is automatically activated at the next update time. Since the automatically activated printing apparatus can automatically stop the printing apparatus after the update of the database is completed, there is an effect that the number of managers can be reduced.
[0106]
As described above, in the printing apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention, when the setting unit for setting the scheduled update date and time of the database and the arrival of the scheduled update date and time of the database set by the setting unit are detected, It is preferable to further include an activation unit that automatically activates the printing apparatus.
[0107]
In addition, for example, it is preferable that the activation unit further includes an activation unit that automatically activates the printing apparatus when it detects that a scheduled update date and time of the database stored in the memory has been reached.
[0108]
In addition, for example, it is preferable to further include a stop unit that automatically stops the printing apparatus after the reception process by the reception unit and the update process of the memory contents by the update unit are completed after activation.
[0109]
In the first and second embodiments described above, the description has been given of the case where the printing apparatus creates a label for affixing to a mini-disc. However, a magneto-optical disc including CD, DVD, etc. Storage media such as magnetic disks, IC cards, SD memory cards, compact flash (registered trademark), memory sticks, smart media, etc., storage media such as flash memory cards, cases storing such storage media, and recordings such as MP3 players The present invention can be similarly implemented even when a label, a sticker, an index card, or the like to be attached to the apparatus is created.
[0110]
In the second embodiment, an uninterruptible power supply that can set the date and time is used to automatically start the computer 102. For example, a control board provided with a timer circuit is created. Even if a device capable of supplying power to the computer 102 at the set time or controlling the start and end signals is produced, the same can be realized.
[0111]
In the first and second embodiments, the embodiment for updating data from the server computer has been described. However, by providing a similar update function and a function for generating update data, for example, from a store-installed computer or the like. The scheme of the present invention can be implemented.
[0112]
[Other Embodiments]
Note that the present invention can take a form of a system, apparatus, method, program, storage medium, or the like, and specifically includes a plurality of devices (for example, a host computer, an interface device, a reader, a printer, and the like). The present invention may be applied to a system composed of the above, or to an apparatus (for example, a copying machine, a facsimile machine, etc.) composed of a single device.
[0113]
Another object of the present invention is to supply a storage medium recording a program code of software for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus stores the storage medium. Needless to say, this can also be achieved by reading and executing the program code stored in the.
[0114]
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 and the program itself constitute the present invention.
[0115]
As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy (registered trademark) disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, CD-R, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM, or the like is used. be able to.
[0116]
Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS (operating system) operating on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by performing part or all of the actual processing and the processing is included.
[0117]
Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written in a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function expansion is performed based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that the CPU or the like provided in the board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing, and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.
[0118]
When the present invention is applied to the above storage medium, the storage medium stores program codes corresponding to the flowcharts described above (shown in FIGS. 8, 9, 19, and 20).
[0119]
As described above in detail, according to the present invention, when the latest data such as new music data is updated, the next data update scheduled date and time is sent simultaneously from the server computer, so that the information is displayed when the printing apparatus starts and ends. The person in charge of the display and managing the printing apparatus can know the next update date in advance.
[0120]
In addition, the printing apparatus can be activated during the update time, and data transmission / reception from the server computer can be smoothly performed.
[0121]
It is possible to prevent the printing apparatus from being activated at the time of data update and to reduce data update retries.
[0122]
Since the data can be reliably updated once at the time of updating, it is possible to reduce the load on the server computer and the network and to quickly update the data of other terminal devices.
[0123]
Since the printing apparatus can be automatically activated and terminated at the time of update, there is an effect that it is possible to provide a printing apparatus system that does not depend on the business hours of the printing apparatus installation store and the like and does not require management effort.
[0124]
【The invention's effect】
As described above in detail, according to the present invention, when updating the data of the database used to generate the printing data for the paste to be attached to the storage medium, the information on the scheduled update date of the database is displayed. It is possible to provide a printing apparatus capable of informing.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a printing apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the printing apparatus of FIG. 1 and connection with other devices such as a computer.
FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing control processing of the computer of FIG. 2;
4 is a flowchart showing a control process of the computer 102 in FIG. 2;
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a printing result in the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a control process of the server computer.
7 is a diagram showing a control operation of the computer of FIG. 2 and a server computer.
FIG. 8 is a content example of update data in the embodiment of the present invention.
9 is a diagram showing an example of a next update date / time display screen displayed on the touch panel monitor in the control processing of FIGS. 3 and 12. FIG.
FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a printing apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
11 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the printing apparatus of FIG. 10 and the connection with other devices such as a computer.
12 is a flowchart showing control processing of the computer of FIG.
13 is a flowchart showing a control process of the computer of FIG.
14 is a flowchart showing control processing of the computer in FIG. 11. FIG.
FIG. 15 is a content example of update data according to the second embodiment of the present invention;

Claims (9)

A recording medium provided with a sticking suitable for sticking to a predetermined position of the recording medium;
Generating printing data suitable for the patch, and printing means for printing the patch based on the print data;
A memory for storing a database used for generating the print data and information on a scheduled update date and time of the database;
Receiving means for receiving update data of the database and information of a scheduled update date and time of the database;
Updating means for updating the contents of the memory based on the received update data of the database and information on the scheduled update date and time of the database;
Informing means for informing information on the scheduled update date and time of the database;
A printing apparatus comprising: The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the recording medium includes a plurality of the pastes having different shapes. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the scheduled update date / time information of the database includes a next database update date / time. The said notification means notifies the information which requests | requires starting of the said printing apparatus in the time slot | zone of the update date and time of the said next database at the time of starting or a stop of the said printing apparatus. Printing device. A setting unit configured to set a scheduled update date and time of the database; and an activation unit that automatically starts the printing apparatus upon detecting that the scheduled update date and time of the database set by the setting unit has been reached. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: 2. The activation unit according to claim 1, further comprising an activation unit that automatically activates the printing apparatus when detecting that a scheduled update date and time of the database stored in a memory has been reached. The printing apparatus as described. And further comprising a stop unit for automatically stopping the printing apparatus after the start-up and after the receiving process by the receiving unit and the updating of the memory contents by the updating unit are completed. The printing apparatus according to claim 6. A recording medium provided with a sticking suitable for sticking to a predetermined position of the recording medium;
Generating printing data suitable for the patch, and printing means for printing the patch based on the print data;
A control method for controlling a printing apparatus having a database used for generating the print data and a memory for storing information on a scheduled update date and time of the database,
Receiving the update data of the database and information of the scheduled update date and time of the database;
An update step of updating the contents of the memory based on the received update data of the database and information on the scheduled update date and time of the database;
An informing step of informing information on the scheduled update date and time of the database;
A control method for a printing apparatus, comprising: A recording medium provided with a sticking suitable for sticking to a predetermined position of the recording medium;
Generating printing data suitable for the patch, and printing means for printing the patch based on the print data;
A control program for controlling a printing apparatus having a database used for generating the print data and a memory for storing information on a scheduled update date and time of the database,
Program code of a receiving step for receiving the update data of the database and information on the scheduled update date and time of the database,
A program code of an update process for updating the contents of the memory based on the received update data of the database and information on a scheduled update date and time of the database;
A program code of a notification step for notifying information of a planned update date and time of the database;
A control program for controlling a printing apparatus.

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