JP2005301346A - Image output system, image output device, image supply device, image output method, image supply method, and computer program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To make it possible to use specific functions of an image output device through an image supply device. <P>SOLUTION: An image output device 1 connects a character string indicating functions the image input device 1 has with a character string indicating the vendor's name or product name of the image input device 1 and transmits the character string obtained by the connection to an image supply device 2 as the character string of the vendor's name or product name of the image input device 1. The image supply device 2 receives the character string of the vendor's name and product name of the image input device 1 and extracts the character string indicating the functions the image input device 1 has from the character string thus received. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an image supply device that transmits and receives control information for image output and supplies a data file for image output, and an image based on the data file that is transmitted and received from the image supply device according to the control information. And an image output device, an image supply device, an image output method, an image supply method, and a computer program that can be used in the image output system.

  In recent years, a digital still camera device and a printer device are directly connected without using a personal computer, an image data file stored in the digital still camera device is transferred to the printer device, and printing control is performed from the image data file by the printer device. A so-called direct printing system that generates data and prints an image has been developed (see, for example, Non-Patent Document 1). As a standard for such a direct printing system, there is a CIPA DC-001-2003 standard, and digital still camera devices and printer devices of a plurality of vendors can be connected to each other.

  Conventionally, there is an image output method called frame insertion printing in which a frame image is superimposed on an image of an image data file. In frame insertion printing, based on a plurality of data files such as an image data file having image data and a layout definition file defining the frame image, one image is printed by superimposing the frame image on the image of the image data file. . Examples of such frame insertion printing include PIF (PRINT Image Framer) printing provided by the present applicant.

“White Paper of CIPA DC-001-2003 Digital Photo Solutions for Imaging Devices (Japan)” Camera & Imaging Products Association, February 3, 2003.

  For special functions such as frame insertion printing as described above, the specifications differ depending on each vendor, so notification of such functions is often not stipulated in the communication protocol between devices, and special functions specific to each vendor are used. There is a problem that it is difficult to do.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and provides an image output system, an image output apparatus, an image supply apparatus, an image output method, an image output apparatus, and an image output apparatus for enabling the special functions of the image output apparatus to be used from the image supply apparatus. It is an object to obtain a supply method and a computer program.

  In order to solve the above-described problems, the present invention is configured as follows.

  One of the image output systems of the present invention is an image supply device that transmits and receives control information described in a text format, and a control information that is described in a text format, and is received from the image supply device according to the control information. An image output device for outputting an image based on the data file. Then, the image output device concatenates the character string indicating the function of the image output device to the vendor name or product name character string of the image output device, and the concatenated character string is the vendor name of the image output device. Alternatively, it is transmitted to the image supply device as a character string of the product name. The image supply apparatus receives a character string of the vendor name or product name of the image output apparatus, and extracts a character string indicating a function of the image output apparatus from the received character string.

  Accordingly, since the image supply device recognizes the presence of the special function of the image output device, the special function of the image output device can be used from the image supply device. In addition, it is possible to prevent the image supply apparatus from requesting the image output apparatus having no special function to use the special function and failing to output the image.

  One of the image output apparatuses according to the present invention includes a communication unit that communicates with an image supply apparatus connected via a communication path, and a character string indicating a function of the image output apparatus. Or a communication control means for connecting to the character string of the product name and transmitting the connected character string to the image supply apparatus as the vendor name or the product name character string of the image output device, and the control information received by the communication means, and Image output means for outputting an image based on the data file.

  Accordingly, since the image supply device recognizes the presence of the special function of the image output device, the special function of the image output device can be used from the image supply device. In addition, it is possible to prevent the image supply apparatus from requesting the image output apparatus having no special function to use the special function and failing to output the image.

  Furthermore, one of the image output apparatuses of the present invention is such that the communication control means is as follows in addition to the image output apparatus of the present invention. In this image output apparatus, the communication control means includes one or more version information of the function in a character string indicating the function of the image output apparatus.

  Accordingly, since the image supply device recognizes the version of the special function of the image output device, the image supply device can appropriately select the version of the special function.

  Furthermore, one of the image output devices of the present invention is such that the communication control means is as follows in addition to any of the image output devices of the present invention. In this image output apparatus, when the image supply apparatus is connected to the communication means via the communication path, the communication control means causes the image supply apparatus to transmit the character string of the vendor name or product name of the image output apparatus. .

  As a result, the special function can be appropriately used from the first image output after the connection, and the image output failure can be further prevented.

  Furthermore, one of the image output devices of the present invention is such that, in addition to any of the image output devices of the above invention, the communication means and the communication control means are as follows. In this image output apparatus, the communication means transmits and receives control information described in a markup language. Further, the communication control means has a function reserved for the character string of the vendor name or product name of the image output device and the character string of the image output device by a reserved tag for designating the vendor name or product name of the image output device. Control information including an element surrounding a character string obtained by concatenating a character string to be displayed is transmitted to the image supply apparatus.

  Accordingly, it is not necessary to newly install a tag for notifying the special function, and it is not necessary to change the communication protocol between the image supply device and the image output device for the notification of the special function.

  One of the image supply apparatuses of the present invention is received by the communication means that communicates with the image output apparatus that outputs an image according to the control information and the data file of the image output connected via the communication path. Designates the use of the character string extraction means for extracting the character string indicating the function of the image output apparatus from the character string of the vendor name or product name of the image output apparatus, and the use of the function indicated by the character string extracted by the character string extraction means. Communication control means for transmitting the control information and the data file to the image output apparatus.

  Accordingly, since the image supply device recognizes the presence of the special function of the image output device, the special function of the image output device can be used from the image supply device. In addition, it is possible to prevent the image supply apparatus from requesting the image output apparatus having no special function to use the special function and failing to output the image.

  Furthermore, one of the image supply apparatuses of the present invention is such that a character string extraction means is as follows in addition to the image supply apparatus of the present invention. In this image supply apparatus, the character string extraction unit extracts one or more version information of the function from the character string indicating the function of the image output apparatus.

  Accordingly, since the image supply device recognizes the version of the special function of the image output device, the image supply device can appropriately select the version of the special function.

  Furthermore, one of the image supply apparatuses of the present invention is one in which the communication means is as follows in addition to any of the image supply apparatuses of the present invention. In this image supply apparatus, when the image output apparatus is connected to the communication means via the communication path, the communication means receives the character string of the vendor name or product name of the image output apparatus.

  As a result, the special function can be appropriately used from the first image output after the connection, and the image output failure can be further prevented.

  Furthermore, one of the image supply apparatuses of the present invention is such that the communication means and the character string extraction means are as follows in addition to any of the image supply apparatuses of the present invention. In this image supply device, the communication means transmits and receives control information described in a markup language. The character string extraction unit extracts a character string indicating a function of the image output apparatus from a character string enclosed by a tag reserved for designating the vendor name or product name of the image output apparatus.

  Accordingly, it is not necessary to newly install a tag for notifying the special function, and it is not necessary to change the communication protocol between the image supply device and the image output device for the notification of the special function.

  Furthermore, one of the image supply apparatuses according to the present invention provides communication means for displaying the vendor name or product name of the image output apparatus connected via the communication means in addition to any of the image supply apparatuses according to the invention. Display control means for displaying, as a vendor name or product name of the image output device, a character string obtained by deleting a character string indicating the function of the image output device from the vendor name or product name character string of the image output device received by Prepare.

  As a result, even if the vendor name or product name is corrected to notify the presence of the special function, the vendor name or product name is accurately displayed on the image supply apparatus.

  One of the image output methods of the present invention includes a step of concatenating a character string indicating a function of an image output device to a character string of a vendor name or a product name of the image output device, and the character string after concatenation is connected to the image. A step of transmitting the image output control information and data file to the image output device as a character string of the output device vendor name or product name, and receiving the control information and data file from the image supply device And a step of outputting an image based on the received control information and data file.

  Accordingly, since the image supply device recognizes the presence of the special function of the image output device, the special function of the image output device can be used from the image supply device. In addition, it is possible to prevent the image supply apparatus from requesting the image output apparatus having no special function to use the special function and failing to output the image.

  One of the image supply methods of the present invention includes a step of receiving a vendor name or product name character string of the image output device from the image output device, and a received vendor name or product name character string of the image output device. A step of extracting a character string indicating a function of the image output device; and a step of transmitting control information and a data file specifying use of the function indicated by the extracted character string to the image output device.

  Accordingly, since the image supply device recognizes the presence of the special function of the image output device, the special function of the image output device can be used from the image supply device. In addition, it is possible to prevent the image supply apparatus from requesting the image output apparatus having no special function to use the special function and failing to output the image.

  One of the computer programs of the present invention communicates a computer built in an image output apparatus that outputs an image based on image output control information and a data file with an image supply apparatus connected via a communication path. A character string indicating the function of the image output device is controlled by connecting the character string indicating the function of the image output device to the vendor name or product name character string of the image output device, and the connected character string is connected to the vendor name of the image output device. Alternatively, it functions as communication control means for transmitting to the image supply apparatus as a character string of a product name, and image output control means for outputting an image based on the control information and data file received by the communication means.

  Accordingly, since the image supply device recognizes the presence of the special function of the image output device, the special function of the image output device can be used from the image supply device. In addition, it is possible to prevent the image supply apparatus from requesting the image output apparatus having no special function to use the special function and failing to output the image.

  One of the computer programs of the present invention includes a computer built in an image supply device that supplies control information and a data file to an image output device that outputs an image based on the control information and data file for image output, and a communication path. A character string extracting unit that extracts a character string indicating a function of the image output device from a vendor name or a product name character string of the image output device received by a communication unit that communicates with the image output device connected via It functions as communication control means for causing the image output apparatus to transmit control information and a data file that specify the use of the function indicated by the character string extracted by the character string extracting means.

  Accordingly, since the image supply device recognizes the presence of the special function of the image output device, the special function of the image output device can be used from the image supply device. In addition, it is possible to prevent the image supply apparatus from requesting the image output apparatus having no special function to use the special function and failing to output the image.

  One of the image output systems according to the present invention includes an image supply device that transmits and receives control information described according to a predetermined protocol, and a control information that is described according to a predetermined protocol. An image output device for outputting an image based on the received data file. When the image output device notifies the image supply device of the character string of the vendor name or product name of the image output device according to the protocol, special function information indicating a function that cannot be notified by the protocol among the functions of the image output device. Is added to the vendor name or product name information of the image output apparatus, and the vendor name or product name information of the image output apparatus is transmitted to the image supply apparatus. Further, the image supply device receives the vendor name or product name information of the image output device and extracts special function information from the received vendor name or product name information of the image output device.

  Accordingly, since the image supply device recognizes the presence of the special function of the image output device, the special function of the image output device can be used from the image supply device. In addition, it is possible to prevent the image supply apparatus from requesting the image output apparatus having no special function to use the special function and failing to output the image. In particular, because the vendor name and product name are corrected to notify the existence of a special function, there is no need to change the communication protocol between the image supply device and the image output device for notification of such a special function. .

  One of the image output apparatuses according to the present invention is a communication means for communicating with an image supply apparatus connected via a communication channel, and notifies the image supply apparatus of a character string of a vendor name or a product name of the image output apparatus according to a protocol. Special function information indicating functions that cannot be notified by protocol among the functions of the image output device is added to the vendor name or product name information of the image output device, and the vendor name or product of the image output device Communication control means for transmitting name information to the image supply device, and image output means for outputting an image based on the control information and data file received by the communication means.

  Accordingly, since the image supply device recognizes the presence of the special function of the image output device, the special function of the image output device can be used from the image supply device. In addition, it is possible to prevent the image supply apparatus from requesting the image output apparatus having no special function to use the special function and failing to output the image. In particular, because the vendor name and product name are corrected to notify the existence of a special function, there is no need to change the communication protocol between the image supply device and the image output device for notification of such a special function. .

  Furthermore, one of the image output apparatuses of the present invention is such that the communication control means is as follows in addition to the image output apparatus of the present invention. In this image output apparatus, when the communication control unit has an image output function for outputting one image using a plurality of data files, the special function information indicating the image output function is displayed as the vendor name of the image output apparatus. Alternatively, the information is added to the product name information, and the vendor name or product name information of the image output apparatus is transmitted to the image supply apparatus.

  One of the image supply apparatuses of the present invention is received by the communication means that communicates with the image output apparatus that outputs an image according to the control information and the data file of the image output connected via the communication path. Character string extraction means for extracting special function information about functions that cannot be notified by the protocol of the image output apparatus from the vendor name or product name information of the image output apparatus, and the function indicated by the character string extracted by the character string extraction means Communication control means for causing the image output apparatus to transmit control information for designating use and a data file.

  Accordingly, since the image supply device recognizes the presence of the special function of the image output device, the special function of the image output device can be used from the image supply device. In addition, it is possible to prevent the image supply apparatus from requesting the image output apparatus having no special function to use the special function and failing to output the image. In particular, because the vendor name and product name are corrected to notify the existence of a special function, there is no need to change the communication protocol between the image supply device and the image output device for notification of such a special function. .

  According to one of the image output methods of the present invention, a character string of a vendor name or a product name of an image output apparatus is notified to the image supply apparatus according to a protocol by a communication unit that communicates with an image supply apparatus connected via a communication path. At this time, the special function information indicating the function of the image output apparatus that cannot be notified by the protocol is added to the vendor name or product name information of the image output apparatus, and the vendor name or product name of the image output apparatus Transmitting the information to the image supply device, receiving the control information and the data file by the communication means, and outputting the image based on the received control information and the data file.

  Accordingly, since the image supply device recognizes the presence of the special function of the image output device, the special function of the image output device can be used from the image supply device. In addition, it is possible to prevent the image supply apparatus from requesting the image output apparatus having no special function to use the special function and failing to output the image. In particular, because the vendor name and product name are corrected to notify the existence of a special function, there is no need to change the communication protocol between the image supply device and the image output device for notification of such a special function. .

  One of the image supply methods of the present invention is that of an image output apparatus received by communication means that communicates with an image output apparatus that outputs an image according to control information and a data file of image output connected via a communication path. The step of extracting the special function information about the function that cannot be notified by the protocol of the image output apparatus from the information of the vendor name or the product name, and the control information and the data file specifying the use of the function indicated by the extracted character string are output to the image output apparatus. Transmitting to the network.

  Accordingly, since the image supply device recognizes the presence of the special function of the image output device, the special function of the image output device can be used from the image supply device. In addition, it is possible to prevent the image supply apparatus from requesting the image output apparatus having no special function to use the special function and failing to output the image. In particular, because the vendor name and product name are corrected to notify the existence of a special function, there is no need to change the communication protocol between the image supply device and the image output device for notification of such a special function. .

  One of the computer programs of the present invention is a computer built in an image output apparatus that transmits and receives control information described according to a predetermined protocol and outputs an image based on a data file received from an image supply apparatus according to the control information. When communicating the character string of the vendor name or product name of the image output device to the image supply device according to the protocol by the communication means that communicates with the image supply device connected via the communication path, the image output device Adds special function information indicating functions that cannot be notified by the protocol to the vendor name or product name information of the image output device, and sends the vendor name or product name information of the image output device to the image supply device Communication control means for outputting the control information received by the communication means and an image based on the data file An image output means, thereby to function.

  Accordingly, since the image supply device recognizes the presence of the special function of the image output device, the special function of the image output device can be used from the image supply device. In addition, it is possible to prevent the image supply apparatus from requesting the image output apparatus having no special function to use the special function and failing to output the image. In particular, because the vendor name and product name are corrected to notify the existence of a special function, there is no need to change the communication protocol between the image supply device and the image output device for notification of such a special function. .

  One of the computer programs of the present invention is connected to a computer incorporated in an image supply apparatus that transmits and receives control information described according to a predetermined protocol and supplies a data file for image output via a communication path. In addition, the function that cannot be notified by the protocol of the image output device from the vendor name or product name information of the image output device received by the communication means for communicating with the image output device that outputs the image according to the image output control information and the data file A character string extracting means for extracting special function information about the image data, and a communication control means for sending control information and a data file specifying the use of the function indicated by the character string extracted by the character string extracting means to the image output device; To function.

  Accordingly, since the image supply device recognizes the presence of the special function of the image output device, the special function of the image output device can be used from the image supply device. In addition, it is possible to prevent the image supply apparatus from requesting the image output apparatus having no special function to use the special function and failing to output the image. In particular, because the vendor name and product name are corrected to notify the existence of a special function, there is no need to change the communication protocol between the image supply device and the image output device for notification of such a special function. .

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

Embodiment 1 FIG.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an image output system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. This image output system is a kind of so-called direct printing system. In FIG. 1, a printer apparatus 1 is an embodiment of an image output apparatus of the present invention, and is an apparatus that receives an image output request and an image data file and prints an image based on the image output request and the image data file. is there. The digital camera device 2 is an embodiment of the image supply device of the present invention, stores a captured image as an image data file in a predetermined recording medium, and is designated by the image output request and the image output request. It is a device that outputs the received image data file.

  This image output request is a control command for causing the printer apparatus 1 to execute printing under desired printing conditions, and one image data file is designated for each image. Therefore, for example, when four images are printed on one printing paper, four image data files are normally designated.

  The communication path 3 is a wired transmission medium that connects the printer device 1 and the digital camera device 2. The communication path 3 is not limited to a wired communication path, and a wireless communication path may be used. In the first embodiment, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable is used for the communication path 3. When the communication path 3 is a wired communication path, the printer apparatus 1 and the digital camera apparatus 2 are provided with connectors (not shown), the connectors at both ends of the cable of the communication path 3 and the connectors of both apparatuses 1 and 2. Are connected to each other.

  In the printer apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1, the communication circuit 11 is a circuit that transmits and receives various types of information as electrical signals via the communication path 3. The communication control unit 12 is a circuit or device that controls the communication circuit 11 and transmits / receives control information (control command, response to the device, job status notification, and the like) and an image data file according to various protocols. .

  In the printer device 1, the print control unit 13 is a circuit or device that controls and monitors the printing mechanism 14 and controls printing processing. The printing mechanism 14 is a mechanical and / or electrical component that outputs an image. The printing mechanism 14 of the printer apparatus 1 corresponds to a printing mechanism, a paper feeding mechanism, or the like. The printing control unit 13 and the printing mechanism 14 constitute printing means for printing an image based on the image data file.

  In the printer device 1, the operation unit 15 is a circuit or device that is operated by a user and outputs a signal corresponding to the operation. As the operation unit 15, various switches, a touch panel, and the like are used as appropriate. The display device 16 is a device that displays various types of information. As the display device 16, various indicators, a liquid crystal display, and the like are used as appropriate. The power supply circuit 17 is a circuit that is connected to, for example, a commercial power supply or an AC / DC converter and supplies supplied power to an internal circuit.

  In the digital camera device 2 shown in FIG. 1, the communication circuit 21 is a circuit that transmits and receives various types of information as electrical signals via the communication path 3. The communication control unit 22 is a circuit or device that controls the communication circuit 21 and transmits / receives information to / from a communication partner according to various protocols. The central control unit 23 is a circuit or device that executes various processes while exchanging various information with a circuit or device having various functions such as the communication control unit 22 and the recording medium 24.

  In the digital camera device 2, the recording medium 24 is a device that stores one or a plurality of image data files 31 including image data. The image data file 31 is a file including image data taken by a digital camera, for example, and other image data. The format of the image data is, for example, JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) format, EXIF (EXchangeable Image File) format, or the like.

  As the recording medium 24, a semiconductor memory, a memory card using a semiconductor memory, a magnetic recording medium, an optical recording medium, a magneto-optical recording medium, or the like may be used, and may be fixed inside the digital camera device 2. The digital camera device 2 may be detachable.

  In the digital camera device 2, the operation unit 25 is a circuit or device that is operated by a user and outputs a signal corresponding to the operation. As the operation unit 25, various switches, a touch panel, and the like are used as appropriate. The display device 26 is a device that displays various information such as an image based on image data. As the display device 26, various indicators, a liquid crystal display, and the like are appropriately used. Note that the display device 26 functions as a display unit that displays a menu having various function setting items as menu items. When the setting item is represented by a predetermined code, the menu item corresponding to the setting item is text representing the item.

  In the digital camera device 2, the photographing unit 27 includes an optical system such as a lens, an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device), and the like, photographs a subject and outputs image data corresponding to the photographed image. Mechanism or device.

  The battery 28 is a battery that supplies power to the internal circuit of the digital camera device 2. In addition, as the battery 28, a storage battery, a disposable battery, etc. are used. When the digital camera device 2 is a device that requires portability, a battery 28 is provided as a power source. However, when the digital camera device 2 is a device that does not require portability, a printer device as a power source. Alternatively, a power supply circuit such as one power supply circuit 17 may be provided instead, or power may be supplied from the printer apparatus 1 via the communication path 3.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration example of the printer apparatus 1 in the image output system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 2, a CPU 41 is an arithmetic device that executes a program and executes processing described in the program. The ROM 42 is a memory that stores programs and data in advance. The RAM 43 is a memory that temporarily stores the program and data when the program is executed.

  As a program executed by the CPU 41, a program for performing image processing such as color conversion and halftoning on the image data of the image data file, and print control such as control data for printing (ESC / P, etc.) from the image data. Command), control information related to direct printing, and a program for performing processing in accordance with a protocol for transferring image data are stored in the ROM 42, the nonvolatile memory 46, or other recording medium (not shown). ing.

  Such a program may be stored in a rewritable nonvolatile memory 46 such as an EEPROM (Electronic Erasable and Programmable ROM). In that case, by rewriting this program after shipment, it is possible to add special functions such as the PIF printing function and upgrade special functions. In addition, the ROM 42 stores environment information such as a vendor name and a product name of the printer device 1 in advance.

  In FIG. 2, the print engine 44 is a circuit or device that controls the printing mechanism 14 based on the printing control data supplied from the CPU 41 to execute printing processing.

  The USB host-side interface 45 corresponds to the communication circuit 11 in FIG. 1 and is a host-side interface circuit defined by USB.

  The non-volatile memory 46 is a non-volatile semiconductor memory as a storage unit that stores the above-described program, various settings, and history thereof. As the storage means, another recording medium such as a magnetic recording medium may be used instead of the semiconductor memory.

  The bus 47 is a signal path that interconnects the CPU 41, ROM 42, RAM 43, print engine 44, USB host-side interface 45, nonvolatile memory 46, operation unit 15, and display device 16. The number of buses 47 and the topology of connections to the buses 47 such as the CPU 41 and the print engine 44 are not limited to those shown in FIG. The operation unit 15 and the display device 16 in FIG. 2 are the same as those in FIG.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration example of the digital camera device 2 in the image output system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. In FIG. 3, a CPU 61 is an arithmetic unit that executes a program and executes processing described in the program. The ROM 62 is a memory that stores programs and data in advance. The RAM 63 is a memory that temporarily stores the program and data when the program is executed.

  As a program executed by the CPU 61, a program for controlling each unit at the time of shooting or data transfer, a program for performing processing in accordance with a protocol for transfer of control information and image data related to direct printing, A program for managing the image data file is stored in the ROM 62 or other recording medium (not shown).

  Such a program may be stored in a rewritable nonvolatile memory provided in place of the ROM 62. In that case, by rewriting this program after shipment, it is possible to add special functions such as the PIF printing function and upgrade special functions. In addition, the ROM 62 stores environment information such as the vendor name and product name of the digital camera device 2 in advance.

  In FIG. 3, a memory card 65 corresponds to the recording medium 24 of FIG. 1, and is a recording medium for storing image data obtained by photographing. Instead of the memory card 65, a semiconductor memory fixed in the device, a magnetic recording device, or the like may be used.

  The USB device-side interface 66 corresponds to the communication circuit 21 in FIG. 1 and is a device-side interface circuit defined by USB.

  The bus 67 is a signal path that connects the CPU 61, ROM 62, RAM 63, memory card 65, USB device-side interface 66, operation unit 25, display device 26, and photographing unit 27 to each other. The number of buses 67 and the topology of connections to the bus 67 such as the CPU 61 are not limited to those shown in FIG. Note that the operation unit 25, the display device 26, and the photographing unit 27 in FIG. 3 are the same as those in FIG.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a protocol used between the printer device 1 and the digital camera device 2 in the image output system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. 4A is a diagram illustrating a protocol hierarchy of the entire printing system, and FIG. 4B is a diagram illustrating a detailed protocol configuration of the DPDP layers 84a and 84b.

  In the first embodiment, first, as the physical layer 81, the communication path 3 which is a USB cable, and a signal transmission / reception circuit (not shown) in the USB host side interface 45 and the USB device side interface 66 are used. In the printer device 1 and the digital camera device 2 according to the first embodiment, there are USB layers 82a and 82b realized by the USB host side interface 45 and the USB device side interface 66 as layers for controlling the physical layer. Still image class (SIC) is used as the USB class. Thereby, a data transmission path is realized. The USB standard currently exists such as USB 1.1, USB 2.0, etc., but may be a version proposed after the next version or a communication standard equivalent to USB may be used instead. When the USB is used for the communication path 3, the printer device 1 is a USB host and the digital camera device 2 is a USB device.

  At the higher level, an image transfer protocol (PTP) that defines control from outside the digital still image device (DSPD) and image data transfer to the outside of the digital still image device (DSPD) is used. The PTP layers 83a and 83b are processing units that transfer data files based on PTP. As a standard for PTP, there is “PIMA 15740: 2000” of PHOTOGRAPHIC AND IMAGEING MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION, INC. PTP is a protocol that provides a communication method for exchanging image data between DSPDs. In PTP, an object (such as an image data file) in storage is specified by an object handle, not a path.

  In the first embodiment, DPDP, which is a protocol for printing image data stored in the digital camera device 2 directly to the printer device 1 via the communication path 3 above the PTP described above. DPDP layers 84a and 84b that perform control information transmission / reception and printing processing based on the protocol are used. In the DPDP layers 84a and 84b, a series of scripts (in this case, XML: eXtensible Markup Language) in which control information related to the printing process is described between the printer apparatus 1 and the digital camera apparatus 2 (that is, XML: eXtensible Markup Language) Text data) is transmitted and received via the communication path 3. The control information related to the printing process includes various commands in the printing process, a response to the command, and notification of the status of the apparatus and the print job. Further, this script includes only control information and does not include the image data file itself to be printed. That is, information such as the storage location of the image data file is included in this script, but the image data itself is not included.

  Among the above-described protocols, the physical layer 81 is realized by the communication circuit 11, the communication path 3, and the communication circuit 21 in the first embodiment, and the USB layers 82a and 82b are realized by the communication circuit 11 and the communication circuit 21. Thus, the PTP layers 83 a and 83 b and the DPDP layers 84 a and 84 b are realized by the communication control unit 12 and the communication control unit 22.

  In the DPDP layers 84a and 84b, in order to obtain consistency between the DPDP layers 84a and 84b and a plurality of types of lower layers, the lower layer I / O format (command set, A transport layer 91 for transferring control information corresponding to the response format is provided. Therefore, the lower layers of the DPDP layers 84a and 84b are not limited to the PTP layers 83a and 83b, and the transport layer 91 may be changed according to the lower layers.

  In the DPDP layers 84a and 84b, an XML processing layer 92 for generating and interpreting an XML script including control information is provided above the transport layer 91, and further, control information is sent above the XML processing layer 92. An application layer 93 that transmits and receives and advances the direct printing process is provided.

  In the first embodiment, the DPDP layers 84a and 84b cooperate with each other, specify one data file in one image output request, and continuously execute a plurality of image output requests. And transfer one image using a plurality of data files specified in the plurality of image output requests.

  Here, the frame insertion printing function (hereinafter referred to as PIF printing function) will be described. Hereinafter, printing using the PIF printing function is referred to as PIF printing.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the concept of the PIF printing function. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a print image in the case of PIF printing. When the PIF printing function is used, for example, as shown in FIG. 5, a plurality of images 121, 122, 123 are printed in the same image area in a superimposed state. In that case, for example, one of the images 121, 122, and 123 is a frame image, and the frame image data includes information on a transparent area where the other image 122 is displayed (for example, The position of the area, transparency, etc.) are described. Then, as shown in FIG. 6, the image data of the background image 121, the image data of the main image 122 to be printed, and the data of the image 123, which is a frame image, are combined to form one image 131. Image data is generated, and a combined image 131 is printed based on the image data.

  The position of the main image 122 and the layout of the background image and frame image in the case of PIF printing are defined in the layout definition file. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a layout definition file. As shown in FIG. 7, the layout definition file describes header information (portion starting with heading [HEADER]) and page information (portion starting with heading [PAGE]).

  The header information includes information related to the layout definition file. For example, the header information includes a variable “HdKeyWord”, a variable “HdDirection”, a variable “HdSound”, a variable “HdThumbnail”, a variable “HdPhysicalPaperSize”, a variable “HdMargines”, and the like.

  The variable “HdKeyWord” is a variable having a specific or user-desired keyword relating to the page layout as a value. For example, in FIG. 7, “Christmas” and “Greeting” are set. For this keyword, not only single-byte alphanumeric characters but also characters having a desired character code can be used. The layout definition file is searched based on the keyword “HdKeyWord”.

  The variable “HdDirection” is a variable having the display direction information of the page layout as a value. The display direction is the page layout direction when displayed on the finder or display screen of the digital camera, or when printed, for example, portrait or landscape.

  The variable “HdSound” is a variable having as a value the sound file information, that is, the pointer of the sound file associated with the layout definition file. The value of the variable “HdSound” is, for example, the file name of the sound file (for example, “GSOUND.PCM” as shown in FIG. 7) and the relative path name (for example, “\ EPUDL \” as shown in FIG. 7). . An absolute path name may be used instead of a relative path name. Hereinafter, the file pointer representation method can be the same as in this case. In this way, a sound file can be associated with the layout definition file. For example, when this layout definition file is output to the outside, the sound file may also be output. The sound file is reproduced at a predetermined time. For example, when the page layout described in the layout definition file is displayed in the viewfinder or display section of a digital camera, the display section of a printer, or when a page design including the page layout is printed, Although it is recorded in the sound file, sound etc. are played automatically.

  The variable “HdThumbnail” is a variable having the thumbnail information, that is, the pointer of the image data file of the thumbnail image of the page layout as a value. The thumbnail image is created using a specific device (such as a personal computer, a mobile phone, a digital camera, or a printer). Note that a list of a plurality of page layouts in which thumbnail images are arranged may be displayed or printed in accordance with a user operation.

  The variable “HdPhysicalPaperSize” is a variable having, as a value, a physical page size information, that is, a paper size that perfectly matches the size of the page layout when the page layout is printed.

  The variable “HdMargines” is a variable having, as a value, print margin information, that is, information indicating how much margin is left on the printing paper and printing the page layout. For example, as shown in Fig. 7, when the value of the variable "HdMargines" is set to "3, 3, 3, 3", printing is performed so that 3 mm margins are generated at the top, bottom, left and right edges of the square paper. Is called. Note that the numerical value of the print margin is not limited to a positive value, and may be zero or a negative value. In such a case, printing is performed without forming any blank space.

  The page information in the layout definition file includes information related to page layout attributes. For example, the page information includes a function “Draw Picture”, a function “Draw Strings”, a function “Draw Line”, and the like.

  The function “Draw Picture” is a function that draws an image using information about the image area as an argument.

  The first argument of the function “Draw Picture” is an image file pointer for associating a target image file applied to the image area. If the target image is determined when the layout definition file is generated, the value of the first argument image file pointer is the file pointer of the target image. If the target image is not determined when the layout definition file is generated, Is NULL (empty). When the background image 121 to be applied to the image area of the page layout is determined in advance, the file pointer of the image is described as the first argument. Note that the type of image to be applied may be identified by the extension of the file name. For example, in the case of a background image, the extension “EFF” may be used. If the target image is not determined when the layout definition file is generated, the target image is specified in the print job start command.

  The second argument of the function “Draw Picture” is the photo ID of the image area. The value of the photo ID is an integer of 1 or more when the applied image has not been determined, and is zero when the applied image has been determined.

  The third argument to the sixth argument of the function “Draw Picture” are XY coordinate values of two points on the diagonal line indicating the outer shape of the rectangular image area. Note that the outer shape of the image area is not limited to a square, and may be a polygon, a perfect circle, an ellipse, or the like. The method of indicating the outer shape of the image area is not limited to the method of describing coordinates, for example, a boundary line It may be a functional expression that represents it.

  The seventh argument of the function “Draw Picture” is rotation degree information indicating the degree to which the image applied to the image area is rotated. The degree of rotation information can be set in a predetermined range (for example, 0 to 360 degrees).

  The eighth argument of the function “Draw Picture” is a numerical value that specifies a fitting rule to be applied to the image. As a fitting rule, for example, a rule that an image is applied as it is regardless of whether or not a margin is generated in the image area, an image is displayed so that a user-desired range is displayed while maintaining a user-desired aspect ratio. There are rules such as applying without causing margins in the area.

  The ninth argument of the function “Draw Picture” is a numerical value that specifies an alignment rule for determining the position where an image is to be arranged in the image area. Examples of the alignment rule include upper left alignment (a method of aligning the upper left vertex of the image with the upper left vertex of the image area), center alignment (a method of aligning the image area with the center of the image area), and the like.

  Also, the function “Draw Strings” in the page information is a function that draws decorative parts such as characters and graphics specified by the argument at the position specified by the argument. The structure of the function “Draw Strings” varies depending on what decorative parts are applied to the page layout.

  The first argument of the function “Draw Strings” is a pointer to an image file used for applying decorative parts. The second argument of the function “Draw Strings” is the photo ID of the image area.

  The third argument of the function “Draw Strings” is first decorative part information representing the contents of the decorative part. In FIG. 7, the second argument is “% G,% d,% y”. This value “% G,% d,% y” represents a character string indicating the shooting date of the image in the image file described as the used image information. Note that a character string desired by the user may be described instead of the character string indicating the shooting date.

  The fourth argument to the seventh argument of the function “Draw Strings” are decorative part application position information indicating the position where the decorative part specified by the first decorative part information is arranged. In FIG. 36, the fourth argument to the seventh argument are “100, 200, 200, 300” in the same format as the designation of the image area outline.

  The eighth argument to the twelfth argument of the function “Draw Strings” are second decorative part information indicating the attribute of the decorative part to be applied. In FIG. 7, the eighth argument to the twelfth argument are “Mincho”, 0, 128, 128, 128 ”. In FIG. 7, the attributes described from the eighth argument to the twelfth argument are character attributes representing the shooting date that is inserted into the decorative part application position described above. Here, it is shown that a character string representing the shooting date is described in a Mincho style, a size of 8 points, and each RGB color having a value of 128.

  The function “Draw Line” in the page information is a function for drawing a line applied to the page layout. The function “Draw Line” takes eight arguments, the first argument and the second argument are the start end coordinates of the line, and the third argument and the fourth argument are the peripheral end coordinates of the line. The fifth argument to the eighth argument are attribute information (line thickness and RGB value) of the drawn line. In FIG. 7, the fifth argument to the eighth argument are “5, 255, 0, 0”, the thickness of the line is 5 points, the R value is 255, and the G value is about the line color. 0 and B value are 0.

  When performing PIF printing, a plurality of images 121, 122, 123 are combined by a printer or the like based on the layout definition file described above, and the combined images are printed.

  In the printer apparatus 1, the communication circuit 11 functions as a communication unit that communicates with the digital camera apparatus 2 connected via a communication path, and the DPDP layer 84 a displays a character string indicating the function of the printer apparatus 1. , Function as communication control means for connecting to the vendor name or product name character string of the printer device 1 and transmitting the connected character string to the digital camera device 2 as the vendor name or product name character string of the printer device 1; The printing mechanism 14 and the print engine 44 function as image output means for outputting an image based on the control information and the data file received by the communication circuit 11.

  In the digital camera device 2, the communication circuit 21 functions as a communication unit that communicates with the printer device 1 connected via a communication path, and the DPDP layer 84 b of the printer device 1 received by the communication circuit 21. Character string extraction means for extracting a character string indicating the function of the printer device 1 from a character string of the vendor name or product name, and control information and data for specifying use of the function indicated by the character string extracted by the character string extraction means From the character string of the vendor name or product name of the printer device 1 received by the communication circuit 21 when displaying the communication control means for sending the file to the printer device 1 and the vendor name or product name of the printer device 1 A character string from which the character string indicating the function of the printer apparatus 1 is deleted is displayed as the vendor name or product name of the printer apparatus 1. That functions as a display control means.

  Next, the operation of each device in the image system according to Embodiment 1 will be described. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an XML script for an image output request and a set of data files used during PIF printing in the image system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the printer apparatus in the image system according to the first embodiment.

  In the printer device 1 and the digital camera device 2, after startup, the CPUs 41 and 61 execute various programs stored in advance in the ROMs 42 and 62. Thereby, in the printer apparatus 1 and the digital camera apparatus 2, the communication control units 12 and 22, the print control unit 13, and the central control unit 23 are realized, and the hierarchical processing unit shown in FIG. 4 is realized.

  Thereafter, when the printer apparatus 1 and the digital camera apparatus 2 are physically connected by the communication path 3 by the user, first, a data transmission path based on the still image class between the two is established by the entities of the USB layers 82a and 82b. The When the USB transmission path is established, the entities of the PTP layers 83a and 83b that use the data transmission path are activated above the USB layers 82a and 82b. Note that the entities (communication entities) of the protocol layers above the USB layers 82 a and 82 b and the USB layers 82 a and 82 b are realized by the communication control units 12 and 22.

  Then, the printer device 1 and the digital camera device 2 each store a file with a predetermined name (or pretend to be virtually stored), and the communication control units 12 and 22 make it based on PTP. When the file is detected, it is detected that a device compatible with the DPDP protocol is connected as a communication partner. By this connection processing, it is guaranteed that the communication partner is using the same protocol (in this case, DPDP protocol) that is used by itself.

  When a device corresponding to the DPDP protocol is connected as a communication partner by this connection processing, the communication control units 12 and 22 of the printer device 1 and the digital camera device 2 perform processing according to the DPDP protocol by the DPDP layers 84a and 84b. Start.

  When the connection process is completed, mutual notification of environmental information indicating the type and identification of each device is performed between the digital camera device 2 and the printer device 1. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating mutual notification of environmental information between the digital camera device 2 and the printer device 1 according to the first embodiment.

  When the printer apparatus 1 corresponding to the DPDP protocol is detected as a communication partner by the connection process (step S1), the DPDP layer 84b of the digital camera apparatus 2 displays the DPDP protocol version information, the vendor name of the digital camera apparatus 2, Vendor-specific version information relating to the digital camera device 2, the product name of the digital camera device 2, the notification of the environment information including the serial number of the digital camera device 2, and the control command of the XML script including the request for the environment information of the printer device 1 ( Control information) (step S2) and transmitted to the printer 1 (step S3).

  When receiving the XML script, the DPDP layer 84a of the printer apparatus 1 determines whether or not direct printing according to the DPDP protocol can be executed in cooperation with the digital camera apparatus 2. Next, when direct printing is possible, the DPDP layer 84a is scheduled to respond to functions that are installed in the printer apparatus 1 and are not planned as environment information in the DPDP protocol, and option information described later. Information (hereinafter, referred to as special function information) of functions of the printer device 1 that are not defined (that is, functions for which the tag name expressed in the XML script is not defined in the DPDP protocol) is collected (step S4).

  The DPDP layer 84a of the printer apparatus 1 reads a character string of the product name of the printer apparatus 1 stored in advance in the ROM 42 or the like, and indicates characters indicating the special functions installed in the printer apparatus 1 based on the special function information. The column is concatenated with the character string of the product name, and the character string after concatenation is used as the product name for environmental information (step S5). At the time of connection, a delimiter such as a space is inserted between the character string of the product name and the character string of the special function.

  The DPDP layer 84a of the printer apparatus 1 includes information indicating whether direct printing according to the DPDP protocol is accepted, DPDP protocol version information, the vendor name of the printer apparatus 1, and vendor-specific version information regarding the printer apparatus 1. Then, an XML script having environment information including the product name of the printer apparatus 1 and the serial number of the printer apparatus 1 is generated as a response (control information) (step S6) and transmitted to the digital camera apparatus 2 (step S7).

  The DPDP layer 84b of the digital camera device 2 receives the response including the environment information of the printer device 1. Then, the DPDP layer 84b of the digital camera apparatus 2 determines whether or not the character string indicating the product name of the printer apparatus 1 includes a character string indicating a predetermined special function, and the product name of the printer apparatus 1 is determined. If the character string to be displayed includes a character string indicating a predetermined special function, the character string indicating the special function is extracted, and the special function mounted on the printer device 1 is identified from the character string. (Step S8).

  When the DPDP layer 84b of the digital camera device 2 generates and transmits an XML script as control information, control information (command type, response content, etc.) is passed from the application layer 93 to the XML processing layer 92, and the XML processing layer 92 generates an XML script based on the information, and the transport layer 91 supplies the transfer instruction of the XML script to a lower protocol (here, PTP). When the DPDP layer 84a of the printer apparatus 1 receives the XML script, the XML script is passed as data from the lower protocol (here, PTP) to the transport layer 91, and the XML processing layer 92 receives the control command. Control information is extracted from the XML script, and the direct printing application layer 93 executes a process designated based on the control information. In this way, the control information is transferred as an XML script file between the DPDP layers 84a and 84b by the PTP file transfer function. Other control information such as control information response and device or job status notification is also transferred in the same manner.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of an XML script used for mutual notification of environment information between the digital camera device 2 and the printer device 1 according to the first embodiment.

  The XML script shown in FIG. 9A is an example of a control command for notifying and requesting environmental information from the digital camera device 2 to the printer device 1. In this script, tags <DPDP_Request> and </ DPDP_Request> indicate that this XML script is a control command (that is, a request). Tags <Configuration>, </ Configuration> indicate that this XML script is a notification of environment information. Tags <Vendor> and </ Vendor> are tags for specifying the vendor (here, “EPSON”) of the digital camera device 2. Tags <ModelName> and </ ModelName> are tags for specifying the product name of the digital camera device 2 (here, “L-400”). Tags <Number> and </ Number> are tags for specifying a serial number (that is, unique identification information) of the digital camera device 2.

  The XML script shown in FIG. 9B is an example of a response for notification of environment information from the printer apparatus 1 to the digital camera apparatus 2. In this script, tags <DPDP_Response> and </ DPDP_Response> indicate that this XML script is a response to a control command. Other tags shown in FIG. 9B are the same as the tags having the same names shown in FIG.

  Since the printer apparatus 1 has a PIF printing function as a special function as described above, the product name of the printer apparatus 1 (here, “ModelName>, </ ModelName>” is used in the response shown in FIG. 9B). PM-A850 ") and a character string indicating a PIF print function (here,"-** PIF **-") are enclosed. The character string indicating the function includes a function identifier (here, “PIF”) and a delimiter (“-**”, “**-”).

  That is, the DPDP layer 84a of the printer apparatus 1 reads the character string “PM-A850” of the product name of the printer apparatus 1 stored in advance in the ROM 42 or the like, and is mounted on the printer apparatus 1 based on the special function information. The character string “-** PIF **-” indicating the special function is connected to the product name character string, and the resulting character string “PM-A850 --- ** PIF ***-” is The product name for environmental information. Then, the DPDP layer 84b of the digital camera device 2 receives a predetermined special function from a character string indicating the product name of the printer device 1 in the response XML script, that is, a character string surrounded by tags <ModelName>, </ ModelName>. Is extracted, and it is recognized that the printer apparatus 1 is equipped with the PIF printing function.

  Note that the DPDP layer 84a of the printer apparatus 1 may include version information of the special function in a character string indicating the special function, as shown in FIG. 9C, for example. FIG. 9C shows a character string “-** PIF1.0 **-” when the version of the PIF printing function of the printer apparatus 1 is 1.0.

  In addition, the DPDP layer 84a of the printer apparatus 1 may include all versions of information that can be supported by the printer apparatus 1 in a character string indicating a special function, as shown in FIG. 9D, for example. In FIG. 9D, a character string “-** PIF1.0 2.0 3” indicating that the PIF printing function of the printer apparatus 1 supports any of versions 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0. .0 **-". In this case, the character string indicating the version number is listed with a space as a delimiter (delimiter) after the character string “PIF” unique to the special function. The version number may be represented by a single character string.

  If the PIF printing function is added or upgraded due to rewriting of the program after shipment, the above-described character string is generated by reflecting them.

  Thereafter, when the DPDP layer 84b of the digital camera apparatus 2 receives a response indicating that direct printing can be performed, the printer apparatus 1 displays option information for each of a plurality of predetermined function setting items provided in the printer apparatus 1. Get from. At this time, the DPDP layer 84b of the digital camera device 2 transmits a control command which is a request for transmitting option information. When receiving the control command, the DPDP layer 84a of the printer apparatus 1 transmits a response including option information. The DPDP layer 84b of the digital camera device 2 receives the response and acquires option information. The option information includes all values that can be set by the printer device 1 for each setting item.

  When the initial processing at the time of connection is completed in this way, the digital camera device 2 can accept an operation by the user for direct printing.

  As described above, the DPDP layer 84b of the digital camera device 2 recognizes that the printer device 1 has the PIF printing function. Based on this, the DPDP layer 84b of the digital camera device 2 controls the user interface so that the user can select the PIF printing function. For example, in the print function menu or the like, the PIF print function can be selected by the user interface (the operation unit 25 and the display unit 26).

  If the character string for the PIF printing function, which is a predetermined special function, is not obtained from the product name when the environmental information is notified, the DPDP layer 84b of the digital camera device 2 selects the PIF printing function by the user. Control the user interface so that it cannot. That is, when a character string indicating the PIF printing function is not detected from the product name in the environment information, the DPDP layer 84b of the digital camera device 2 prevents the PIF printing function from being selected in the printing function menu or the like. Use of the PIF printing function is prohibited. As a result, if the printer device connected to the digital camera device 2 does not support the PIF printing function, the data file related to the PIF printing function is not supplied to the printer device, and printing fails and printing paper is loaded. It is possible to avoid waste. In addition, before selecting / transmitting a layout definition file or image data file used for printing, the digital camera device 2 determines whether the printer device 1 supports the PIF printing function. Nevertheless, it is possible to prevent the user from selecting the layout definition file or the image data file.

  When the user can select the PIF printing function, when the user performs a predetermined operation on the operation unit 25 of the digital camera device 2 and inputs a command to perform PIF printing, the DPDP layer 84b of the digital camera device 2 The command is accepted. The DPDP layer 84b of the digital camera device 2 has a user-defined layout definition file (that is, a layout including a frame image and a background image) for PIF printing based on a user interface by the operation unit 25 and the display device 26, and Specify the image data file.

  Then, the DPDP layer 84b of the digital camera device 2 generates an image output request specifying the layout definition file, the image data file of the main image, and the data file of the frame image. FIG. 10A shows an example of an XML script for an image output request during PIF printing. For example, as shown in FIG. 10B, the layout definition file “aaa.usd” with the file ID “FFFF0001”, the frame image data file “aaa.eff” with the file ID “FFFF0002”, and the file When the image data file “aaa.jpg” of the main image whose ID is “00000001” is selected, an XML script shown in FIG. 10A is generated. In the XML script shown in FIG. 10A, the layout definition file is specified as the file ID “00000001” by the imageFileID tag, and the format of the file is set to the default “Default” by the FileType tag. . The file format of the dedicated data file for a certain vendor-specific printing function such as the PIF printing function is not defined in advance by the DPDP protocol. Note that the xx tag includes both the <xx> tag and the </ xx> tag.

  Next, the DPDP layer 84b of the digital camera device 2 transmits the image output request XML script using the processing layers below the PTP layer 83b. This XML script is transferred to the printer apparatus 1 via the communication path 3.

  Then, the DPDP layer 84a of the printer apparatus 1 receives the XML script for the image output request transferred by the processing layer below the PTP layer 83a (step S11).

  The DPDP layer 84a of the printer apparatus 1 analyzes the contents and determines whether or not the file format designation is the default (step S12).

  If the file format specified in the image output request is the default, the DPDP layer 84a of the printer apparatus 1 generates a file transmission request (control command) for the data file specified first in the image output request, It transmits to the digital camera device 2. The DPDP layer 84b of the digital camera device reads the data file having the file ID designated by the file transmission request from the recording medium 24 and transmits it to the printer device 1. The DPDP layer 84a of the printer apparatus 1 receives the data file. In this way, the printer device 1 acquires the file specified first in the image output request (step S13). For example, in the case of the XML script shown in FIG. 10A, the data file having the file ID “FFFF0001” described first in the file designation is first acquired.

  The file transmission request is transferred from the printer apparatus 1 to the digital camera apparatus 2 via the communication path 3. Then, the data file is transferred from the digital camera device 2 to the printer device 1 via the communication path 3. When the DPDP layer 84b of the digital camera apparatus 2 receives the XML script for the file transmission request transferred by the processing layer below the PTP layer 83a, the DPTP layer 84b converts the designated data file (that is, the layout definition file desired by the user) into the PTP. Transfer using layer 83b. In this process, the DPDP protocol file transfer request may be converted into a PTP file transfer request GetObject, and the file transfer may be performed only by the DPDP layer 84a and the PTP layers 83a and 83b.

  When the file format of the data file specified in the image output request is the default, the DPDP layer 84a of the printer apparatus 1 analyzes the contents of the data file when acquiring the data file specified first in the image output request. (Step S14). In this analysis, the DPDP layer 84a determines whether or not this data file is a layout definition file for PIF printing (step S15). For example, the DPDP layer 84 determines whether or not the data file is a layout definition file for PIF printing based on variable names and function names used in the layout definition file.

  When the DPDP layer 84a of the printer apparatus 1 recognizes that the data file is a layout definition file for PIF printing, the DPDP layer 84a acquires the remaining data file specified in the image output request from the digital camera apparatus 2 ( Step S16). The remaining data files are acquired in the same manner as the acquisition of the first data file (step S13). In the case of PIF printing, the remaining data files specified in the image output request include a frame image data file and a main image data file. For example, in the case of the image output request shown in FIG. 10A, the frame image data file “aaa.eff” and the main image data file “aaa.jpg” are acquired by the printer apparatus 1.

  The DPDP layer 84a of the printer apparatus 1 performs PIF printing by the print control unit 13 and the printing mechanism 14 based on the layout definition file acquired first, the frame data file acquired later, and the image data file of the main image. This is executed (step S17). Thereby, one image 131 as shown in FIG. 6 is printed.

  On the other hand, when the DPDP layer 84a of the printer apparatus 1 determines in step S12 that the file format specified in the image output request is not the default, and in step S15, the DPDP layer 84a of the printer apparatus 1 If it is determined that the data file specified in 1 is not a layout definition file for PIF printing, one image is specified based on one image data file specified by one imageFileID tag according to the image output request, and the image Is output (step S18).

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, the printer device 1 connects the character string indicating the function of the printer device 1 to the vendor name or product name character string of the printer device 1 and after the connection, Is transmitted to the digital camera device 2 as a character string of the vendor name or product name of the printer device 1. The digital camera device 2 receives the character string of the vendor name or product name of the printer device 1 and extracts a character string indicating the function of the printer device 1 from the received character string.

  As a result, the digital camera device 2 recognizes the presence of a special function such as the PIF printing function of the printer device 1, so that the special function of the printer device 1 can be used from the digital camera device 2. Also, it is possible to prevent the digital camera device 2 from requesting the printer device 1 having no special function to use the special function and failing to print. In particular, since the vendor name or product name is corrected to notify the existence of the special function, it is necessary to change the communication protocol between the digital camera device 2 and the printer device 1 for the notification of the special function. Absent. Further, it is not necessary to additionally define a tag for notifying the special function, and it is not necessary to change the communication protocol between the printer device 1 and the digital camera device 2 for the notification of the special function.

  Furthermore, in the first embodiment, one or more version information of the function is included in the character string indicating the special function.

  Accordingly, since the digital camera device 2 recognizes the version of the special function of the printer device 1, the digital camera device 2 can appropriately select a version that can be supported by the printer device 1.

  Furthermore, in the first embodiment, immediately after the digital camera device 2 and the printer device 1 are connected and the connection process is completed, information on special functions is notified to the partner device.

  Thereby, the special function can be appropriately used from the first printing after the connection, and the printing failure can be further prevented.

  Further, in the first embodiment, when the digital camera device 2 displays the vendor name or product name of the printer device 1, the digital camera device 2 receives the character string of the received vendor name or product name of the printer device 1 (that is, the XML script). A character string obtained by deleting a character string (for example, “-** PIF **-”) indicating a function of the printer apparatus 1 from a character string enclosed in a predetermined tag) The name is displayed on the display device 26.

  Thus, even if the vendor name or product name is corrected and the presence of the special function is notified, the digital camera device 2 displays the vendor name and product name of the printer device 1 accurately.

Embodiment 2. FIG.
In the image output system according to the second embodiment of the present invention, when the digital camera device 2 notifies the printer device 1 of environmental information, information on special functions installed in the digital camera device 2 is used as the product name. In addition, it notifies together.

  Note that the hardware configurations of the printer apparatus 1 and the digital camera apparatus 2 in the image output system according to the second embodiment are the same as those in the first embodiment, and thus description thereof is omitted.

  Next, the operation of each device in the image system according to Embodiment 2 will be described.

  In the second embodiment, when the DPDP layer 84b of the digital camera device 2 notifies the printer device 1 of the environmental information, the information on the special function that is mounted on itself is the same as the printer device 1 in the first embodiment. Are added to the product name, and an XML script for notification and request of environment information is generated and transmitted.

  For example, in the second embodiment, when the product name of the digital camera device 2 is “L-400” and corresponds to the PIF printing function (that is, according to the request of the printer device 1 as described above, the PIF When the data file necessary for the printing function can be supplied to the printer apparatus 1), the element indicating the product name in this XML script is “<ModelName> L-400-** PIF **”. --- </ ModelName> ". Among these, “-** PIF **-” is a character string indicating the PIF printing function.

  When the DPDP layer 84a of the printer apparatus 1 receives this XML script, it extracts a character string indicating a special function from the product name, and confirms that the digital camera apparatus 2 supports the PIF printing function from the character string. recognize.

  For example, the DPDP layer 84a of the printer apparatus 1 responds as described above only when the character string indicating any special function is extracted from the character string of the product name of the digital camera apparatus 2. A character string indicating a special function may be added to the product name. In this way, when the digital camera device connected to the printer device 1 does not support the notification of the special function using the product name field, the digital camera device sets the product name of the printer device 1. Misidentification can be prevented.

  Each embodiment described above is a preferred example of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to these, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. It is.

  For example, in each of the above-described embodiments, the character string indicating the special function is added to the product name, but may be added to the vendor name.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, a character string indicating a function such as “-** PIF **-” may be concatenated before the character string of the product name. Further, the delimiter character string for identifying the special function is not limited to “-**”, “**-”, etc., but at least the character string of the product name and the function identifier (for example, “PIF”) It only has to exist between. This delimiter character string may be a character string in which a plurality of characters other than numerals and alphabets are consecutive.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the printer apparatus 1 analyzes the contents of the data file to determine the format of the data file. Instead, the printer apparatus 1 uses the file ID specified in the image output request. The name of the data file (or name including the path) is acquired from the digital camera device 2, and the data is based on all or part of the name of the data file (or name including the path) (for example, file extension). The file format may be determined.

  If the PTP layers 83a and 83b are installed, the name of the data file including the path can be acquired as follows. First, the DPDP layer 84a of the printer apparatus 1 supplies a file ID to the PTP layer 83a, and issues a command GetObjectInfo specifying the file ID as an object handle. When receiving the command GetObjectInfo, the PTP layer 83b of the digital camera device 2 returns a file name corresponding to the object handle and an object handle of the directory as a return value. The PTP layer 83a of the printer apparatus 1 passes the return value to the DPDP layer 84a. Thereby, the DPDP layer 84a of the printer apparatus 1 acquires the file name of the file ID and the object handle of the directory. The DPDP layer 84a of the printer apparatus 1 ends here when only the file name of the file ID needs to be acquired. On the other hand, when acquiring the file name and path of the file ID, the DPDP layer 84a of the printer apparatus 1 repeatedly issues the command GetObjectInfo by specifying the object handle of the directory until the name of the root directory is obtained. . Thereby, the file name including the path is acquired.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, control information is described using XML, which is one of markup languages. However, other markup languages such as SGML (Standard Generalized Markup Language) are used. You may make it describe.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, PTP and USB are used in the hierarchy below the DPDP protocol. However, other protocols such as TCP / IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol) may be used. Good. Further, as a transmission medium at that time, a wired LAN, Bluetooth, a wireless LAN, or the like may be used. Further, in the above-described embodiment, a USB mass storage class may be used instead of PTP as a protocol for managing and transferring image data in the digital camera device 2.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, instead of the printer device 1, another recording device that records an image on a medium such as paper, a display device that displays an image, a projection device that projects an image, or the like may be used. Good.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the digital camera device 2 can be a digital camera for moving images and / or still images, and various electronic devices having such an imaging function. Such electronic devices include mobile telephones, PDAs, music players, television receivers, video recording / playback devices, television telephones, and television vision conferencing devices. The digital camera device 2 may be a portable device or a device that is not very portable. Further, in place of the digital camera device 2, the above-described electronic device having no imaging function may be used.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the output image is not limited to a still image and may be a moving image. In that case, instead of the printer device 1, a device capable of outputting a moving image, such as a display device, is used.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, PIF printing is given as an example of outputting one image using a plurality of data files including image information. However, a plurality of data files including image information are used. Other image output processes that use and output one image can be similarly realized.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, one image is output using two data files containing image information. However, one image is output using three or more data files. Other image output processes can be similarly realized.

  The present invention is applicable to, for example, a direct printing system.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image output system according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration example of a printer apparatus according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration example of the digital camera device according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a protocol used between a printer device and a digital camera device in Embodiment 1. FIG. It is a figure explaining the concept of a PIF printing function. It is a figure which shows an example of the print image in the case of PIF printing. It is a figure which shows an example of a layout definition file. 6 is a diagram for explaining mutual notification of environment information in Embodiment 1. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of an XML script used for mutual notification of environment information according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of an XML script for an image output request and a data file set used for PIF printing in Embodiment 1. FIG. 3 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the printer apparatus according to the first embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Printer apparatus (image output apparatus), 2 Digital camera apparatus (image supply apparatus), 11, 21 Communication circuit (communication means), 14 Printing mechanism (a part of image output means), 44 Print engine (one of image output means) Part), 84a DPDP layer (communication control means), 84b DPDP layer (communication control means, character string extraction means, display control means)

Claims (22)

An image supply device that transmits and receives control information described in a text format, and an image output that transmits and receives control information described in a text format and outputs an image based on the data file received from the image supply device according to the control information In an image output system comprising the apparatus,
The image output device concatenates a character string indicating a function of the image output device with a character string of a vendor name or a product name of the image output device, and connects the character string after connection to the vendor name or Send it to the image supply device as a product name string,
The image supply device receives a character string of a vendor name or a product name of the image output device, and extracts a character string indicating a function of the image output device from the received character string;
An image output system characterized by Communication means for communicating with an image supply apparatus connected via a communication path;
A character string indicating the function of the image output device is connected to a vendor name or product name character string of the image output device, and the connected character string is used as a vendor name or product name character string of the image output device. Communication control means for transmitting to the image supply device;
Image output means for outputting an image based on the control information and data file received by the communication means;
An image output apparatus comprising:   3. The image output apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the communication control unit includes one or more version information of the function in a character string indicating the function of the image output apparatus.   The communication control means, when an image supply apparatus is connected to the communication means via a communication path, causes the image supply apparatus to transmit a character string of a vendor name or a product name of the image output apparatus. The image output apparatus according to claim 2. The communication means transmits and receives control information described in a markup language,
The communication control means indicates a character string of the vendor name or product name of the image output apparatus and a function of the image output apparatus by a tag reserved for designating the vendor name or product name of the image output apparatus. Causing the image supply device to transmit control information including an element surrounding a character string concatenated with a character string;
The image output apparatus according to claim 2. A communication unit that communicates with an image output apparatus that outputs an image according to control information and a data file for image output, connected via a communication path;
A character string extracting means for extracting a character string indicating a function of the image output device from a vendor name or a product name character string of the image output device received by the communication means;
Communication control means for causing the image output device to transmit control information and a data file for specifying use of the function indicated by the character string extracted by the character string extracting means;
An image supply apparatus comprising:   The image supply device according to claim 6, wherein the character string extraction unit extracts one or more version information of the function from a character string indicating the function of the image output device.   7. The communication unit according to claim 6, wherein when the image output device is connected to the communication unit via a communication path, the communication unit receives a character string of a vendor name or a product name of the image output device. Image supply device. The communication means transmits and receives control information described in a markup language,
The character string extracting means extracts a character string indicating a function of the image output device from a character string surrounded by a tag reserved for designating a vendor name or a product name of the image output device;
The image supply device according to claim 6.   When displaying the vendor name or product name of the image output device connected via the communication means, the image output device is obtained from the character string of the vendor name or product name of the image output device received by the communication means. 7. The image supply device according to claim 6, further comprising display control means for displaying a character string from which a character string indicating a function of the image is deleted as a vendor name or a product name of the image output device. In an image output method by an image output apparatus that outputs an image based on control information and a data file of image output,
Concatenating a character string indicating a function of the image output apparatus with a character string of a vendor name or a product name of the image output apparatus;
Transmitting the concatenated character string as a vendor name or product name character string of the image output device to an image supply device that supplies image output control information and a data file to the image output device;
Receiving control information and a data file from the image supply device;
Outputting an image based on the received control information and data file;
An image output method comprising: In an image output method by an image supply device that supplies control information and a data file to an image output device that outputs an image based on control information and a data file of image output,
Receiving a character string of a vendor name or a product name of the image output device from the image output device;
Extracting a character string indicating the function of the image output device from the received vendor name or product name character string of the image output device;
Transmitting control information and a data file specifying the use of the function indicated by the extracted character string to the image output device;
An image supply method comprising: A computer built in an image output device that outputs an image based on control information and data file of image output,
Controls the communication means that communicates with the image supply device connected via the communication path, and links the character string indicating the function of the image output device to the character string of the vendor name or product name of the image output device. Communication control means for transmitting the connected character string to the image supply device as a vendor name or product name character string of the image output device;
Image output control means for outputting an image based on the control information and the data file received by the communication means;
Computer program to make it function. A computer built in an image supply device that supplies control information and a data file to an image output device that outputs an image based on control information and a data file for image output;
A character for extracting a character string indicating a function of the image output device from a character string of a vendor name or a product name of the image output device received by a communication unit that communicates with an image output device connected via a communication path Column extraction means;
Communication control means for causing the image output device to transmit control information and a data file for specifying use of the function indicated by the character string extracted by the character string extracting means;
Computer program to make it function. An image supply device that transmits and receives control information described according to a predetermined protocol, and an image based on a data file received from the image supply device according to the control information, that transmits and receives control information described according to the predetermined protocol In an image output system comprising an image output device
When the image output device notifies the image supply device of the character string of the vendor name or product name of the image output device according to the protocol, the image output device indicates a function that cannot be notified by the protocol. The special function information is added to the vendor name or product name information of the image output device, and the vendor name or product name information of the image output device is transmitted to the image supply device.
The image supply device receives the vendor name or product name information of the image output device, and extracts the special function information from the received vendor name or product name information of the image output device;
An image output system characterized by In an image output device that transmits and receives control information described according to a predetermined protocol, and outputs an image based on the data file received from the image supply device according to the control information.
Communication means for communicating with an image supply apparatus connected via a communication path;
When notifying the image supply device of the character string of the vendor name or product name of the image output device according to the protocol, the special function information indicating the function that cannot be notified by the protocol among the functions of the image output device, Communication control means for adding to the information of the vendor name or product name of the image output device and transmitting the information of the vendor name or product name of the image output device to the image supply device;
Image output means for outputting an image based on the control information and data file received by the communication means;
An image output apparatus comprising:   When the communication control means has an image output function for outputting one image using a plurality of data files, the special function information indicating the image output function is used as the vendor name or product name information of the image output apparatus. The image output apparatus according to claim 16, wherein information on a vendor name or a product name of the image output apparatus is transmitted to the image supply apparatus. In an image supply apparatus that transmits and receives control information described according to a predetermined protocol and supplies a data file for image output.
A communication unit that communicates with an image output apparatus that outputs an image according to control information and a data file for image output, connected via a communication path;
A character string extraction unit that extracts special function information about a function that cannot be notified by the protocol of the image output device from the vendor name or product name information of the image output device received by the communication unit;
Communication control means for causing the image output device to transmit control information and a data file for specifying use of the function indicated by the character string extracted by the character string extracting means;
An image supply apparatus comprising: In an image output method by an image output device that transmits and receives control information described according to a predetermined protocol and outputs an image based on a data file received from the image supply device according to the control information.
When notifying the image supply device of the character string of the vendor name or product name of the image output device according to the protocol by the communication means that communicates with the image supply device connected via the communication path, the image output device Special function information indicating a function that cannot be notified by the protocol among the functions that are included is added to the vendor name or product name information of the image output device, and the vendor name or product name information of the image output device is added to the image supply device Sending to
Receiving control information and a data file by the communication means;
Outputting an image based on the received control information and data file;
An image output method comprising: In an image supply method by an image supply apparatus that transmits and receives control information described according to a predetermined protocol and supplies a data file for image output.
From the information of the vendor name or product name of the image output device received by the communication means that communicates with the image output device that outputs the image according to the control information and data file of the image output that is connected via the communication path. Extracting special function information about a function that cannot be notified by the protocol of the output device;
Transmitting control information and a data file specifying the use of the function indicated by the extracted character string to the image output device;
An image supply method comprising: A computer built in the image output device that transmits and receives control information described according to a predetermined protocol and outputs an image based on the data file received from the image supply device according to the control information.
When notifying the image supply apparatus of the character string of the vendor name or product name of the image output apparatus according to the protocol by the communication means that communicates with the image supply apparatus connected via the communication path, the image output apparatus Special function information indicating functions that cannot be notified by the above protocol is added to the vendor name or product name information of the image output device, and the vendor name or product name information of the image output device is supplied to the image Communication control means for transmitting to the device;
Image output means for outputting an image based on the control information and data file received by the communication means;
Computer program to make it function. A computer built in an image supply device that transmits and receives control information described according to a predetermined protocol and supplies a data file for image output;
From the information of the vendor name or product name of the image output device received by the communication means that communicates with the image output device that outputs the image according to the control information and data file of the image output that is connected via the communication path. A character string extraction means for extracting special function information about a function that cannot be notified by the protocol of the output device;
Communication control means for causing the image output device to transmit control information and a data file for specifying use of the function indicated by the character string extracted by the character string extracting means;
Computer program to make it function.

Images