JP2007210106A - Printer, information processor, information processing method, information processing program, and recording medium - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To grasp color and residual quantity of inks set in a printer for every color without depending on the performance of an information processor. <P>SOLUTION: The printer 100 acquires for every color, ink color data whereby the color of ink set in the printer 100 is expressed on a display of a host computer, and controls a communication I/F 108 so as to transmit the acquired ink color data to the host computer. The host computer transmits an ink color data request of requesting transmission of the ink color data to the printer. On the basis of the ink color data transmitted from the printer 100 in accordance with the ink color data request, an ink color table is formed which stores therein color data of the number of colors of the inks set in the printer 100. The host computer displays an image which shows the color of ink set in the printer 100 onto the display on the basis of the formed ink color table. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a printer, an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, an information processing program, and a recording medium.

  In recent years, for example, in an environment where an information processing apparatus such as a personal computer is connected to a printer, a printer driver is installed in the information processing apparatus, and raster data based on image data is created in the information processing apparatus. There is a usage form. In such a usage pattern, when the printer performance is improved, it is necessary to install a new printer driver in the information processing apparatus as the printer performance is improved.

  By the way, if you are using an information processing device that cannot be installed by adding a new program, such as an embedded device, the performance of the printer connected to the information processing device may be improved. Since a new printer driver cannot be installed in the information processing apparatus, it is assumed that the information processing apparatus cannot cope with the improvement in printer performance.

  For this reason, conventionally, for example, there is a technology in which a printer driver having a minimum capability of transmitting image data to a printer is installed in an information processing apparatus, and raster data based on the image data is created in the printer. is there. Thereby, the performance of the printer can be improved without depending on the performance of the information processing apparatus. Specifically, for example, the performance of the printer can be improved so that more colors of ink can be used.

  Here, communication is performed between the information processing apparatus and the printer in accordance with a standard such as ESC / PR. As data communicated between the information processing apparatus and the printer, in addition to image data transmitted from the information processing apparatus to the printer, for example, printer status data is transmitted from the printer to the information processing apparatus. There is data.

  Further, conventionally, for example, the remaining amount of ink of each color of the ink cartridge is detected by the remaining amount management unit, and based on the detected latest remaining amount of ink, the remaining amount display control unit has two types of remaining different sizes. There is a technique in which the remaining amount of ink is displayed by effectively using a limited screen size by displaying the amount (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below).

  In this prior art, of the two different types of remaining amount display, one remaining amount display is an ink remaining amount enlarged display screen in which the display size is large and the ink remaining amount of each color is displayed step by step in units of 10%. The other remaining amount display is an ink remaining amount icon that displays the remaining amount of ink of each color in three stages with a small display size. The icon is always displayed on the display under the operation state by the user. Thereby, the user can grasp the outline of the ink remaining amount via the icon without performing a special operation. Further, the user can confirm details by calling up the ink remaining amount enlargement display screen from the ink remaining amount menu.

JP 2005-96250 A

  However, as in the prior art described above, a printer driver having a minimum capability is installed in the information processing apparatus, and raster data for print output is created in the printer, so that it does not depend on the performance of the information processing apparatus. However, it is possible to use a printer with improved performance so that more colors and types of ink can be used. However, data regarding the remaining amount of undefined color ink is transferred from the printer to the information processing device. When transmitted, there is a problem that the information processing apparatus cannot notify the user of the remaining amount of undefined color ink.

  The printer according to the present invention includes a communication unit that communicates with an information processing apparatus that performs image display processing on a display screen, and an image based on image data received from the information processing apparatus via the communication unit. A printer that prints out the color of the ink set in the printer on the display screen for each color, and the color data acquired by the acquisition means Communication control means for controlling the communication means so as to transmit to the apparatus.

  Therefore, even when an undefined ink color is generated in the information processing apparatus as the number of ink colors that can be used for improving the print quality is increased, the printer uses the undefined ink color. The information processing apparatus can be notified for each.

  As a result, even when using an information processing device that is difficult to update the printer driver, such as an embedded device, the user can improve the quality of the print output result without depending on the performance of the information processing device. Therefore, the increased ink color can be grasped via the information processing apparatus.

  Furthermore, the printer can notify the information processing apparatus for each color of the configuration of the ink set in the printer, such as the color and type of ink, regardless of the number of ink colors that can be used in the printer. As a result, even if the number of colors of the set ink is the same, the user can select the ink color set in each printer even when using a plurality of printers having different configurations of the set ink color. Can be grasped via the information processing apparatus.

  In the printer according to the present invention, the acquisition unit acquires the color data when the ink set in the printer is different from the ink defined in the information processing apparatus.

  Here, the ink set in the printer and the ink defined in the information processing apparatus, for example, compare the number of ink colors set in the printer with the number of ink colors defined in the information processing apparatus. It can be judged whether it is different.

  Further, the ink set in the printer and the ink defined in the information processing apparatus are, for example, by comparing the type of ink set in the printer with the type of ink defined in the information processing apparatus, It can be judged whether or not they are different.

  Information representing the configuration of the ink set in the printer, such as the number of ink colors and the type of ink, can be detected by the number of color data acquired by the acquisition means, and the information on the ink defined in the information processing apparatus can be detected. Information representing the configuration can be detected by communicating with the information processing apparatus via the communication means.

  Note that whether or not the configuration of the ink set in the printer is different from the configuration of the ink defined in the information processing apparatus may be determined in either the printer or the information processing apparatus.

  Therefore, the printer can notify the information processing apparatus of the undefined ink for each color only when undefined ink is generated in the information processing apparatus. As a result, even when using an information processing device that is difficult to update the printer driver, such as an embedded device, the user can improve the quality of the print output result without depending on the performance of the information processing device. Therefore, the increased ink or the newly usable ink can be grasped via the information processing apparatus.

  In the printer according to the present invention, the acquisition unit acquires code data for identifying ink set in the printer, and the communication control unit associates the color data acquired by the acquisition unit with the code data. The communication means is controlled to transmit the ink color data to the information processing apparatus.

  Therefore, even when an undefined ink color is generated in the information processing apparatus, the printer can define the same color ink using the same code data in the information processing apparatus. In this case, it is possible to reduce the amount of data related to communication after the color data is once transmitted to the information processing apparatus, thereby reducing the burden on communication. Accordingly, the user can use a printer with improved performance without depending on the performance of the information processing apparatus.

  The printer according to the present invention further comprises detection means for detecting the remaining amount of ink set in the printer for each color, and the communication control means includes data relating to the remaining amount of ink detected by the detection means; The communication means is controlled to transmit remaining amount data associated with the code data to the information processing apparatus.

  Therefore, even when the number of ink colors that can be used is increased in order to improve the print quality, the printer can notify the information processing apparatus of the remaining amount of each ink for each color. As a result, even when using an information processing device that is difficult to update the printer driver, such as an embedded device, the user can improve the quality of the print output result without depending on the performance of the information processing device. Therefore, the remaining amount of each ink including the increased ink can be grasped via the information processing apparatus.

  The information processing apparatus according to the present invention is an information processing apparatus that includes a communication unit that communicates with a printer, and that notifies the remaining amount of ink set in the printer via a display screen. A communication control means for controlling the communication means to send a color request for requesting transmission of color data representing the color of ink set in the printer on the display screen; and in response to the color request, the communication control means Based on the color data transmitted from the printer, based on the ink color table created by the creating means for creating an ink color table for storing color data for the number of colors of the ink set in the printer Display control means for displaying on the display screen an image representing the color of the ink set in the printer. To.

  Therefore, even when an undefined ink color is generated in association with an increase in the number of colors of ink that can be used in the printer in order to improve the print quality, the information processing apparatus performs the color of the undefined ink color. By creating an ink color table including data, the colors of all inks set in the printer can be notified via the display screen.

  As a result, even when using an information processing device that is difficult to update the printer driver, such as an embedded device, the user does not depend on the performance of the information processing device and the ink set in the printer can be used. The color can be grasped via the display screen.

  Furthermore, the information processing apparatus can notify the color of the ink set in the printer via the display screen regardless of the number of ink colors that can be used in the printer. As a result, even when the number of set ink colors is the same, the user can display the ink color set in each printer even when using a plurality of printers having different configurations of the set ink. It can be grasped via the screen.

  In the information processing apparatus according to the present invention, the ink set in the printer matches the ink defined in the information processing apparatus based on the color data transmitted from the printer in response to the color request. Determining means for determining whether or not to perform, wherein the creating means determines whether the ink set in the printer and the ink defined in the information processing apparatus are in accordance with a determination result determined by the determining means. The ink color table is created when they are different.

  Here, the ink set in the printer and the ink defined in the information processing apparatus, for example, compare the number of ink colors set in the printer with the number of ink colors defined in the information processing apparatus. It can be judged whether it is different.

  Further, the ink set in the printer and the ink defined in the information processing apparatus are, for example, by comparing the type of ink set in the printer with the type of ink defined in the information processing apparatus, It can be judged whether or not they are different.

  Information representing the configuration of the ink set in the printer, such as the number of ink colors and the type of ink, can be acquired by communicating with the printer, and the ink configuration defined in the information processing apparatus Can be acquired based on the created ink color table.

  Therefore, the information processing apparatus creates an ink color table including color data of undefined ink only when undefined ink is generated, and displays the colors of all ink set in the printer on the display screen. Can be notified through. As a result, even when using an information processing device that is difficult to update the printer driver, such as an embedded device, the user does not depend on the performance of the information processing device and the ink set in the printer can be used. The color can be grasped via the display screen.

  The display control means in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention may display an image representing the color and remaining amount of ink when data relating to the remaining amount of ink set in the printer is received via the communication means. It displays on the said display screen, It is characterized by the above-mentioned.

  Therefore, in order to improve the print quality, the information processing apparatus displays the remaining amount of each ink on the display screen even when an undefined ink color is generated by increasing the number of ink colors that can be used in the printer. You can be notified for each color via. As a result, even when using an information processing device that is difficult to update the printer driver, such as an embedded device, the user can set each ink set in the printer without depending on the performance of the information processing device. Can be grasped via the display screen.

  The information processing method according to the present invention includes a communication unit that communicates with an information processing device that performs image display processing on a display screen, and an image received from the information processing device via the communication unit. An information processing method in a printer that prints out an image based on data, wherein an acquisition step of acquiring color data representing the color of ink set in the printer on the display screen is obtained for each color, and acquired by the acquisition step And a communication control step of controlling the communication means so as to transmit the processed color data to the information processing apparatus.

  Therefore, even when an undefined ink color is generated in the information processing apparatus as the number of ink colors that can be used for improving the print quality is increased, the printer uses the undefined ink color. The information processing apparatus can be notified for each.

  As a result, even when using an information processing device that is difficult to update the printer driver, such as an embedded device, the user can improve the quality of the print output result without depending on the performance of the information processing device. Therefore, the increased ink color can be grasped via the information processing apparatus.

  Furthermore, the printer can notify the information processing apparatus of the color of the ink set in the printer for each color regardless of the number of colors of ink that can be used in the printer. As a result, even if the number of colors of the set ink is the same, the user can select the ink color set in each printer even when using a plurality of printers having different configurations of the set ink color. Can be grasped via the information processing apparatus.

  An information processing method according to the present invention is an information processing method in an information processing apparatus that includes a communication unit that communicates with a printer and notifies the remaining amount of ink set in the printer via a display screen. A communication control step for controlling the communication means to transmit a color request for requesting transmission of color data representing the color of ink set in the printer on the display screen; and the color request In accordance with the color data transmitted from the printer, a creation process for creating an ink color table for storing color data corresponding to the number of colors of the ink set in the printer, and the ink created by the creation process Display control step for displaying an image representing the color of ink set in the printer on the display screen based on a color table Characterized by including the.

  Therefore, the printer increases the number of ink colors that can be used without depending on the performance of the information processing apparatus to improve the print quality, and is undefined in the information processing apparatus as the number of ink colors increases. Even when an ink color occurs, it is possible to notify the information processing apparatus of the colors of all the inks set in the printer by creating an ink color table including color data of the undefined ink color.

  As a result, even when using an information processing device that is difficult to update the printer driver, such as an embedded device, the user can improve the quality of the print output result without depending on the performance of the information processing device. Therefore, the increased ink color and number of colors can be grasped via the information processing apparatus.

  Furthermore, the information processing apparatus can notify the color of the ink set in the printer via the display screen regardless of the number of ink colors that can be used in the printer. As a result, even when the number of set ink colors is the same, the user can display the ink color set in each printer even when using a plurality of printers having different configurations of the set ink. It can be grasped via the screen.

  An information processing program according to the present invention causes a computer to execute the information processing method described above. Therefore, by causing a computer to execute the information processing program according to the present invention, the operation obtained by the information processing method described above is realized by the computer.

  The recording medium of the present invention is characterized in that the information processing program described above is recorded in a computer readable manner. Therefore, various operations obtained by executing the above-described information processing program are realized by causing the computer to read and execute the information processing program recorded on the recording medium according to the present invention.

  Exemplary embodiments of a printer, an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, an information processing program, and a recording medium according to the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  First, the printer system according to the embodiment will be described. Although not shown, the printer system of the embodiment includes a printer (see FIG. 1) and a host computer (see FIG. 3) that is an information processing apparatus. The printer and the host computer are connected so that they can communicate with each other.

(Printer hardware configuration)
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of a printer. First, the hardware configuration of the printer will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 1, the printer 100 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, a GRAM (Graphics RAM) 104, and an EPROM (Erasable and). (Programmable ROM) 105, an input device 106, a display 107, a communication I / F (interface) 108, and an input I / F 109. The units 101 to 109 included in the printer 100 are connected by a bus 110.

  The CPU 101 controls the entire printer 100. The ROM 102 stores programs such as a boot program, an information processing program, and a print program. The RAM 103 is used as a work area for the CPU 101. That is, the CPU 101 controls the entire printer 100 by executing various programs recorded in the ROM 102 while using the RAM 103 as a work area.

  Here, the information processing program recorded in the ROM 102 is executed by the CPU 101, whereby RGB data representing the color of ink set in the printer 100 on the display provided in the host computer (see FIG. 3) is displayed for each color. And the communication I / F 108 is controlled to transmit the acquired RGB data to the host computer.

  Further, the information processing program recorded in the ROM 102 is executed by the CPU 101, and when the number of ink colors set in the printer 100 differs from the number of ink colors defined in the host computer, RGB It is a program that gets data.

  Further, the information processing program recorded in the ROM 102 is executed by the CPU 101 to acquire ink ID data for identifying ink set in the printer 100, and the RGB data and ink ID acquired as described above. This is a program for controlling the communication I / F 108 to transmit ink color data associated with the data to the host computer.

  Further, the information processing program recorded in the ROM 102 is executed by the CPU 101 to detect the remaining amount of ink set in the printer 100 for each color, and the data and ink ID relating to the detected remaining amount of ink. This is a program for controlling the communication I / F 108 to transmit the remaining amount data associated with the data to the host computer.

  The GRAM 104 temporarily records image data that can be printed immediately or output. Here, the image data is, for example, image data for print output transmitted from the host computer. The GRAM 104 is used, for example, when the CPU 101 develops image data. As the GRAM 104, for example, SDRAM (Synchronous Dynamic RAM), SGRAM (Synchronous Graphics RAM), DDR SDRAM (Double Data Rate Synchronous DRAM), or the like can be used.

  The EPROM 105 records an ink color table (see FIG. 2). In the ink color table, RGB data for representing the color of ink set in the printer 100 on a display (see FIG. 3) provided in the host computer, and ink ID data provided for each ink set in the printer 100 (Code data) is stored in association with each other.

  The input device 106 also includes keys for inputting various instructions, and outputs a signal corresponding to the user's key operation to the CPU 101. The display 107 displays, for example, outline information of instruction contents input via the input device 106. In addition to or instead of the display 107, the printer 100 may include an LED (not shown) that notifies the operation state of the printer 100 (whether or not an error has occurred).

  The communication I / F 108 communicates with the host computer via wireless or wired communication, transmits data to the host computer, and receives data transmitted from the host computer. Communication between the printer 100 and the host computer is performed in accordance with ESC / PR. Here, ESC / PR is a printer control code system developed by Seiko Epson Corporation.

  Further, the input I / F 109 outputs a detection signal corresponding to the output value output from the remaining amount sensor connected to the input I / F 109 to the CPU 101. Here, the remaining amount sensor is a sensor whose output changes according to the remaining amount of ink set in the printer 100, and is connected to the input I / F 109. The remaining amount sensor is provided for each color of ink set in the printer 100. The CPU 101 detects the remaining amount of ink for each color based on the detection signal output from the input I / F 109.

  In addition, although not shown, the printer 100 includes a device control IC that drives and controls various devices (not shown) such as a printer head for performing printing and a motor for moving the printer head or transporting paper. I have. A plurality of device control ICs are provided according to the number of devices controlled by the device control IC.

  FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an ink color table provided in the printer 100. Next, an ink color table provided in the printer 100 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, in the ink color table 200, the host computer includes an ink ID area 210 that stores the ink ID data described above, and a host computer that includes (or can set) ink colors set in the printer 100. A data (R, G, B) area 220 for storing RGB data for the above representation is secured.

  That is, the various functions realized by the acquisition means, communication control means, and detection means in the printer of the present invention are performed using programs and data recorded in the ROM 102, RAM 103, EPROM 105, etc. in the printer 100 shown in FIG. The CPU 101 executes a predetermined program and controls each unit in the printer 100 to realize its function.

(Hardware configuration of host computer)
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the host computer. Next, the hardware configuration of the host computer will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 3, the host computer 300 includes a CPU 301, ROM 302, RAM 303, media drive 304, recording medium 305, audio I / F 306, speaker 307, input device 308, and video I / F 309. And a display 310 and a communication I / F 311. The units 301 to 311 included in the host computer 300 are connected by a bus 320.

  The CPU 301 controls the entire host computer 300. The ROM 302 records various programs such as a boot program and an information processing program. The RAM 303 is used as a work area for the CPU 301. That is, the CPU 301 controls the entire host computer 300 by executing various programs recorded in the ROM 302 while using the RAM 303 as a work area.

  Here, the information processing program recorded in the ROM 302 is executed by the CPU 301, whereby a color request for requesting transmission of RGB data indicating the color of the ink set in the printer 100 on the display 310 is sent to the printer 100. This is a program that controls the communication I / F 311 to transmit, and displays an image representing the color of the ink set in the printer 100 on the display 310 based on the RGB data transmitted from the printer 100 in response to the transmission request. .

  Further, the information processing program recorded in the ROM 302 is executed by the CPU 301, and based on the RGB data transmitted from the printer 100 in response to the transmission request, the number of colors of ink set in the printer 100 and the host When the number of ink colors defined in the computer 300 matches, the number of ink colors set in the printer 100 is different from the number of ink colors defined in the host computer 300. This is a program for causing the display 310 to display an image representing the color of the ink set in the printer 100.

  Further, the information processing program recorded in the ROM 302 is executed by the CPU 301, so that when data relating to the remaining amount of ink set in the printer 100 is received via the communication I / F 311, the ink color and This is a program for causing the display 310 to display an image representing the remaining amount.

  The media drive 304 records information on the recording medium 305 and reads information recorded on the recording medium 305. For example, an ink color table (see FIG. 4) is recorded on the recording medium 305. In the ink color table recorded on the recording medium 305, the RGB data and the ink ID data described above are stored in association with each other as in the ink color table 200 shown in FIG. Only RGB data relating to the ink defined in the host computer 300 is stored.

  The audio I / F 306 outputs an analog signal obtained by D / A converting the output audio signal to the speaker 307. The speaker 307 outputs a sound corresponding to the analog signal output from the sound I / F 306.

  Examples of the input device 308 include a remote controller including a plurality of keys for inputting characters, numerical values, various instructions, a keyboard, a touch panel, and the like. The input device 308 may be realized by any one of a remote controller, a keyboard, and a touch panel, but may be realized by a plurality of forms.

  The video I / F 309 generates image data to be displayed on the display 310 and outputs the generated image data to the display 310. Specifically, the video I / F 309 includes, for example, a graphic controller that performs predetermined processing with the display 310, and a buffer memory such as a VRAM (Video RAM) that temporarily records image data that can be displayed immediately. And a control IC that controls the display 310 based on image data output from the graphic controller.

  Further, the communication I / F 311 transmits data to the printer 100 or receives data transmitted from the printer 100 via wireless or wired communication. Examples of data transmitted to the printer 100 include image data. As described above, communication between the printer 100 and the host computer 300 is performed in accordance with ESC / PR, and a predetermined command for instructing the printer 100 to perform image data and an image printing operation based on the image data. Data containing is sent.

  FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an ink color table provided in the host computer 300. Next, an ink color table provided in the host computer 300 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 4, the ink color table 400 stores the ink ID area 410 that stores the ink ID data described above, and RGB data that represents the color of the ink set in the printer 100 on the display 310. A data (R, G, B) area 420 is reserved.

  Ink color data having ink ID data “02” and “04” is not defined in the ink color table 400, so ink ID data “02” and “04” in the data (R, G, B) area 420. The columns 421 and 422 corresponding to the inks in FIG.

  That is, various functions realized by the communication control means, display control means, and judgment means in the information processing apparatus of the present invention are recorded in the ROM 302, RAM 303, recording medium 305, etc. in the host computer 300 shown in FIG. Using the program and data, the CPU 301 executes a predetermined program and controls each part in the host computer 300 to realize its function.

(Information processing procedure of printer 100)
FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an information processing procedure of the printer 100. Next, an information processing procedure of the printer 100 will be described with reference to FIG. In the flowchart shown in FIG. 5, it is first determined whether or not a color number request transmitted from the host computer 300 has been received (step S501). Here, the ink color number request is data that requests the printer 100 to notify the host computer 300 of the number of ink colors (number of types) set in the printer 100.

  When an ink color number request is received (step S501: Yes), ink color number data representing the number of ink colors set in the printer 100 is acquired with reference to the ink color table 200 (step S502). . Then, the communication I / F 108 is controlled to transmit the generated ink color number data to the host computer 300 (step S503), and the process proceeds to step S504. If the request for the number of ink colors has not been received (step S501: NO), the process proceeds to step S504.

  In step S504, it is determined whether an ink color data request has been received (step S504). Here, the ink color data request is data that requests the printer 100 to notify the host computer 300 of RGB data for the number of ink colors set in the printer 100 for each ink.

  When an ink color data request is received (step S504: Yes), RGB data for the number of ink colors is acquired for each ink color with reference to the ink color table 200 (step S505). Ink color data that associates the data with the ink ID data is generated (step S506). Then, the communication I / F 108 is controlled to transmit the generated ink color data to the host computer 300 (step S507), and the process proceeds to step S508. If an ink color data request has not been received (step S504: No), the process proceeds to step S508 as it is.

  Then, it is determined whether or not a remaining amount data request has been received (step S508). If not received (step S508: No), the process returns to step S501. If received (step S508: Yes), the ink remaining amount is detected based on the output value of the remaining amount sensor (step S509), and the data relating to the ink remaining amount and the ink ID data are obtained based on the detection result. The associated remaining amount data is generated (step S510). Here, the data regarding the remaining amount of ink is data representing a percentage when the ink tank is fully filled, such as “30” and “67”, for example.

  Finally, the communication I / F 108 is controlled to transmit the remaining amount data generated in step S510 to the host computer 300 (step S511), and the series of processing ends.

(Information processing procedure of the host computer 300)
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the information processing procedure of the host computer 300. Next, the information processing procedure of the host computer 300 will be described with reference to FIG. In the flowchart shown in FIG. 6, first, the communication I / F 311 is controlled to transmit an ink color number request to the printer 100 (step S601), and the ink color number data corresponding to the transmitted ink color number request. Until it is received (step S602: No).

  In step S602, when the ink color number data corresponding to the ink color number request transmitted in step S601 is received (step S602: Yes), the RGB color representing the ink color set in the printer 100 on the display 310 is displayed. An ink color data request for requesting data transmission is generated (step S603). Then, the communication I / F 311 is controlled to transmit the generated ink color data request to the printer 100 (step S604).

  Subsequently, it waits until the ink color data corresponding to the ink color data request transmitted in step S604 is received (step S605: No), and when the ink color data corresponding to the ink color data request is received (step S605: Yes). ) Creates a new ink color table based on the received ink color data (step S606) and initializes display data (step S607).

  In step S606, the data in the ink color table 400 shown in FIG. 4 is deleted, and a new ink color table in which the data received in step S605: Yes is recorded is created. As a result, in step S606, a new ink color table having the same contents as the ink color table 200 shown in FIG. 2 is created instead of the ink color table 400 shown in FIG. That is, a new ink color table in which color data corresponding to the blank fields 421 and 422 in the ink color table 400 is recorded is created.

  In step S607, the size of a pop-up screen (see FIG. 7) for notifying the remaining amount of ink set in the printer 100 is set in the printer 100 based on the color number data received in step S602: Yes. The display size of the pop-up screen is set so as to have a size corresponding to the number of ink colors.

  Then, the communication I / F 311 is controlled to transmit a remaining amount data request to the printer 100 (step S608). Here, the remaining amount data request is data requesting the printer 100 to notify the host computer 300 of the remaining amount of ink set in the printer 100 for each ink.

  After that, it waits until the remaining amount data corresponding to the remaining amount data request transmitted in step S608 is received (step S609: No), and if received (step S609: Yes), the received remaining amount data is changed to the received remaining amount data. Based on this, display data is created (step S610), and the remaining amount of ink set in the printer 100 is displayed using the created display data (step S611). In step S611, specifically, the above-described pop-up screen (see FIG. 7) is displayed on the display 310 in the size initialized in step S608.

  Finally, it is determined whether or not to end the display of the pop-up screen displayed in step S611 (step S612). If not (step S612: No), the process returns to step S608, and if it ends (step S612: Yes). ) Ends the series of processing. In step S612, when an instruction operation for ending the display of the pop-up screen is received by the input device 308, it is determined that the display of the pop-up screen is ended.

  Here, FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a display screen displayed on the display 310. FIG. 7 shows a display screen 700 displayed on the display 310 in step S611 of FIG. 6 described above. As shown in FIG. 7, a pop-up screen 710 for notifying the remaining amount of ink set in the printer 100 is displayed on the display screen 700. In the pop-up screen 710, indicators 711 to 716 indicating the color and remaining amount of ink set in the printer 100 are displayed for the number of colors of ink set in the printer 100.

  The pop-up screen 710 also displays a “close” key 717 and an “x” key 718 that are operated when the display of the pop-up screen 710 is terminated. In step S612 of FIG. 6 described above, when the “close” key 717 or the “x” key 718 is operated, it is determined that an instruction operation for ending the display of the pop-up screen 710 has been received.

  As described above, according to the embodiment, when an undefined ink color is generated in the host computer 300 as the number of ink colors that can be used in the printer 100 is increased in order to improve the print quality. In addition, the colors of all inks set in the printer 100 including the undefined ink color can be notified via the display 310 of the host computer 300.

  Thus, even when the user uses the host computer 300 that is difficult to update the printer driver such as an embedded device, the user can improve the quality of the print output result without depending on the performance of the host computer 300. Therefore, the colors of all inks set in the printer 100 including the ink colors increased in the printer 100 can be grasped via the display 310 of the host computer 300.

  Further, according to the embodiment, regardless of the number of ink colors that can be used in the printer 100, the color (type) of ink set in the printer 100 can be notified via the display 310 of the host computer 300. it can. Accordingly, even when the user uses a plurality of printers 100 having different ink configurations such as colors and types even if the number of colors of the set ink is the same, the ink set in each printer 100 is used. The color can be grasped via the display 310 of the host computer 300.

  According to the embodiment, even when an undefined ink color occurs in the host computer 300, the same color ink is defined using the same ink ID data between the printer 100 and the host computer 300. be able to. Therefore, even when an undefined ink color occurs in the host computer 300, it is only necessary to transmit RGB data once between the printer 100 and the host computer 300, and the amount of data related to subsequent communication can be reduced. The burden on communication can be reduced. As a result, the user can use the printer 100 with improved performance without depending on the performance of the host computer 300.

  Further, according to the embodiment, even when the number of ink colors that can be used in the printer 100 is increased in order to improve the print quality, the remaining amount of each ink can be determined via the display 310 of the host computer 300. Notification can be made for each color. Thus, even when the user uses the host computer 300 that is difficult to update the printer driver such as an embedded device, the user can improve the quality of the print output result without depending on the performance of the host computer 300. Therefore, the remaining amount of each ink including the increased ink can be grasped via the indicators 711 to 716 on the pop-up screen 710 displayed on the display 310 of the host computer 300.

  In the above-described embodiment, the ink color data of all the inks set in the printer 100 are acquired every time. However, the present invention is not limited to this. It may be determined whether the ink set in the printer 100 matches the ink defined in the ink color table 400 of the host computer 300.

  Specifically, for example, the host computer 300 matches the number of ink colors set in the printer 100 with the number of ink colors defined in the ink color table 400 based on the ink color number data. It may be determined whether or not.

  Then, based on the ink color number data, only when the number of ink colors set in the printer 100 and the number of ink colors defined in the ink color table 400 are different, The above ink color data request may be transmitted.

  In this case, the ink color data transmitted from the printer 100 and the data of the ink color table 400 shown in FIG. 4 are compared, and a new ink color table in which only different data is updated is created. Also good.

  According to such a form, only when the undefined ink color is generated in the host computer 300, only the ink color data of the undefined ink can be updated. As a result, the processing load on the host computer 300 for the update can be reduced.

  More specifically, for example, the host computer 300, based on the ink color data, the ink color (type) set in the printer 100 and the ink color (type) defined in the ink color table 400. It may be determined whether or not and match.

  Only when the color (type) of the ink set in the printer 100 is different from the color (type) of the ink defined in the ink color table 400 based on the ink color data, the new ink is used. A color table may be created.

  According to such a form, a new ink color table can be created only when undefined ink is generated in the host computer 300. As a result, the processing burden on the host computer 300 for creating a new ink color table can be reduced.

  Note that the information processing method described in this embodiment can be realized by executing a program prepared in advance on a computer such as a personal computer or a workstation. This program is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, a flexible disk, a CD-ROM, an MO, and a DVD, and is executed by being read from the recording medium by the computer. The program may be a transmission medium that can be distributed via a network such as the Internet.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of a printer. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an ink color table provided in the printer. The block diagram which shows the hardware constitutions of a host computer. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an ink color table provided in a host computer. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an information processing procedure of the printer. The flowchart which shows the information processing procedure of a host computer. Explanatory drawing which shows an example of the display screen displayed on a display.

Explanation of symbols

100 printer, 108 communication I / F, 300 host computer, 311 communication I / F

Claims (11)

A printer that includes a communication unit that communicates with an information processing apparatus that performs image display processing on a display screen, and that prints out an image based on image data received from the information processing apparatus via the communication unit. And
Obtaining means for obtaining, for each color, color data representing the color of ink set in the printer on the display screen;
Communication control means for controlling the communication means to transmit the color data acquired by the acquisition means to the information processing apparatus;
A printer comprising: The acquisition means includes
The printer according to claim 1, wherein the color data is acquired when ink set in the printer is different from ink defined in the information processing apparatus. The acquisition means includes
Obtaining code data for identifying ink set in the printer;
The communication control means includes
3. The printer according to claim 1, wherein the communication unit is controlled to transmit ink color data in which color data acquired by the acquiring unit and code data are associated to the information processing apparatus. Detecting means for detecting the remaining amount of ink set in the printer for each color;
The communication control means includes
4. The communication unit is controlled to transmit the remaining amount data in which the data relating to the remaining amount of ink detected by the detecting unit and the code data are associated with each other to the information processing apparatus. Printer. An information processing apparatus that includes a communication unit that communicates with a printer and notifies the remaining amount of ink set in the printer via a display screen,
Communication control means for controlling the communication means so as to transmit a color request for requesting transmission of color data representing the color of ink set in the printer on the display screen;
Creating means for creating an ink color table for storing color data corresponding to the number of colors of ink set in the printer, based on color data transmitted from the printer in response to the color request;
Display control means for displaying an image representing the color of ink set in the printer on the display screen based on the ink color table created by the creating means;
An information processing apparatus comprising: Based on the color data transmitted from the printer in response to the color request, whether or not the number of ink colors set in the printer matches the number of ink colors defined in the information processing apparatus. A judgment means for judging,
The creating means includes
The ink color table is created when the number of ink colors set in the printer differs from the number of ink colors defined in the information processing device according to the determination result determined by the determination means. The information processing apparatus according to claim 5. The display control means includes
The data representing the color and remaining amount of ink is displayed on the display screen when data relating to the remaining amount of ink set in the printer is received via the communication means. The information processing apparatus described in 1. Information in a printer that includes a communication unit that communicates with an information processing apparatus that performs image display processing on a display screen, and that prints out an image based on image data received from the information processing apparatus via the communication unit A processing method,
An acquisition step of acquiring, for each color, color data representing the color of ink set in the printer on the display screen;
A communication control step of controlling the communication means so as to transmit the color data acquired by the acquisition step to the information processing device;
An information processing method comprising: An information processing method in an information processing apparatus that includes a communication unit that communicates with a printer, and notifies the remaining amount of ink set in the printer via a display screen,
A communication control step of controlling the communication means to transmit a color request for requesting transmission of color data representing the color of ink set in the printer on the display screen;
A creation step of creating an ink color table that stores color data for the number of colors of ink set in the printer, based on color data transmitted from the printer in response to the color request;
A display control step for displaying an image representing the color of the ink set in the printer on the display screen based on the ink color table created in the creation step;
An information processing method comprising:   An information processing program for causing a computer to execute the information processing method according to claim 8. A computer-readable recording medium having the information processing program according to claim 10 recorded thereon.

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