JP2008027384A - Printing system, printing apparatus, terminal apparatus and printing control program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a printing system, a printing apparatus, a terminal apparatus and a printing control program that can perform printing only with sheets remaining in the printing apparatus such that print data will not be lost, and can perform accurate reprinting in the original print format. <P>SOLUTION: When receiving print data, the printer 2 determines whether or not the number of remaining sheets is at least the number of pages yet to be printed in S8. If the number of remaining sheets is at least the number of pages yet to be printed (S8: YES), a single page of the print data is printed normally (S10). If the number of remaining sheets is smaller than the number of pages yet to be printed (S8: NO), N pages yet to be printed are converted into N QR codes (S11) and an image of an appropriate arrangement of them is expanded in a print buffer and printed on a single sheet. The routine then returns to S8 until the number of pages yet to be printed becomes zero. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a printing system that includes a printing device that prints on paper and a terminal device that transmits print data to the printing device, a printing device used in the printing system, a terminal device, and a print control program, and remains in the printing device. The present invention relates to a printing system, a printing apparatus, a terminal apparatus, and a printing control program that perform printing using only paper.

Conventionally, since printing cannot be performed when a printing apparatus runs out of paper, a number of proposals have been made to deal with the case where the paper runs out and when the paper runs out. One of them is to store print data in a memory in the printing apparatus, and print on the replenished paper when the printing apparatus is replenished with paper. As another proposal, there is a proposal to change the printing format on the sheet when the remaining sheet is low. Examples of changing the printing format on paper include printing on both sides of the paper when the setting is to print only on one side of the paper, or printing by reducing the print data for two pages to fit on one page of paper ( 2in1) is known (see Patent Document 1).
JP 2000-315143 A

  However, according to the first proposal, when the printing device is turned off, the print data stored in the memory is erased. If the print data is large, a large-capacity storage device is installed inside the printing device. It was necessary to prepare. In another proposal, printing can be performed using only the paper remaining in the printing device, and the print data will not be erased. It was not suitable for repairing. That is, with double-sided printing, it is necessary to capture a print image with a scanner, and when it is captured, it may be captured in a distorted manner, so that the distortion is also reflected in the printed matter on which it is printed. In addition, in 2in1, since a printed image is captured by a scanner from a printed material that has been reduced, information may be lost during the reduction process in addition to the problem of double-sided printing. Sometimes it was slightly different from the original image.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and printing can be performed only with the paper remaining in the printing apparatus, whereby print data is not lost, Another object of the present invention is to accurately print in the original print format when reprinting in the original print format.

  In order to achieve the above object, a printing system according to claim 1 is a printing system including a printing device that prints on paper and a data storage device that stores data to be printed by the printing device. Paper storage means for storing paper, remaining amount information detection means for detecting remaining amount information of the paper stored in the paper storage means, and printing means for printing on the paper, the data storage device comprising: Storage means for storing data, and the printing system is detected by a print number acquisition means for acquiring the number of sheets for printing the data stored in the storage means, and the remaining amount information detection means. Whether all the data can be printed on the paper stored in the paper storage means based on the remaining amount information of the paper and the number of prints acquired by the print number acquisition means Determining means, converting means for converting the amount of data to be printed on the entire surface of the paper into a two-dimensional code having a print size less than half of the paper size, and determining when the data is printed If it is determined by the means that all the data cannot be printed on the paper stored in the paper storage means, the data is converted into a two-dimensional code by the conversion means, and the two-dimensional code is converted via the printing means. And printing control means for controlling to print all the data only on the paper stored in the paper storage means.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a printing system comprising: a printing device that prints on a sheet; and a terminal device that is connected to the printing device via a communication unit. The terminal device includes the communication unit via the communication unit. A printing unit configured to transmit print data to the printing device, the printing device printing the sheet, a paper storage unit that stores the paper, and a remaining amount of paper stored in the paper storage unit Remaining amount information detecting means for detecting information; receiving means for receiving the print data transmitted from the terminal device via the communication means; and the print data received by the receiving means for printing the print data The number-of-prints acquisition unit for acquiring the number of sheets, the remaining amount information of the sheet detected by the remaining amount information detection unit, and the number of printed sheets acquired by the number-of-prints acquisition unit, Determining means for determining whether or not all the printing data can be printed on the paper stored in the paper storage means; and the amount of the print data to be printed on the entire surface of the paper is a print size equal to or less than half the paper size A conversion means for converting into a two-dimensional code, and when the print data is printed, if the determination means determines that all the print data cannot be printed on the paper stored in the paper storage means, the conversion means The print data is converted into a two-dimensional code by printing, and the two-dimensional code is printed via the printing means, so that all the print data is printed only on the paper stored in the paper storage means. Printing control means.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a printing system comprising: a printing apparatus that prints on a sheet; and a terminal device that is connected to the printing apparatus via a communication unit. The printing apparatus prints on the sheet. Sheet storage means for storing the sheet, remaining amount information detection means for detecting remaining amount information of the sheet stored in the sheet storage means, and the remaining amount information to the terminal device via the communication means A first transmission unit configured to transmit the remaining amount information of the paper detected by the detection unit; a first reception unit configured to receive print data transmitted from the terminal device via the communication unit; and the first reception unit. First printing control means for controlling the printing data to be printed on the paper by the printing means, the terminal device comprising: storage means for storing the printing data; A second transmission unit that transmits print data to the printing apparatus via the second transmission unit; a second reception unit that receives the remaining amount information of the sheet transmitted by the first transmission unit; and a sheet detected by the second reception unit Determining means for determining whether or not all the print data can be printed on the paper stored in the paper storage means based on the remaining amount information and the number of prints for printing the print data stored in the storage means; A conversion unit that converts the print data of an amount to be printed on the entire surface of the paper into a two-dimensional code having a print size that is half or less of the paper size, and the print data is transmitted to the printing apparatus by the second transmission unit. In this case, if it is determined by the determination means that all the print data cannot be printed on the paper stored in the paper storage means, the conversion means converts the print data into the secondary data. Control to print all the print data only on the paper stored in the paper storage means by converting the data into a code and transmitting the print data corresponding to the two-dimensional code via the second transmission means And a second printing control means.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a printing system comprising: a printing device that prints on a sheet; and a portable data storage device that stores data to be printed by the printing device. Storage means for storing the paper, and the printing device stores paper storage means for storing the paper, remaining amount information detection means for detecting remaining amount information of the paper stored in the paper storage means, and the paper Printing means for printing, reading means for reading out the data from the storage means, print number acquisition means for acquiring the number of sheets for printing the data stored in the storage means, and the remaining amount information detection All of the data is stored in the paper storage means based on the remaining amount information of the paper detected by the means and the number of printed sheets acquired by the printed number acquisition means. Determination means for determining whether printing is possible on paper, conversion means for converting the amount of data printed on the entire surface of the paper into a two-dimensional code having a print size less than half of the paper size, and the data When printing, if it is determined by the determining means that it is not possible to print all the data on the paper stored in the paper storing means, the converting means converts the data into a two-dimensional code, and the printing means And printing control means for controlling to print all the data only on the paper stored in the paper storage means by printing the two-dimensional code.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the printing system according to the fourth aspect, the data storage device is a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a printing apparatus that is used in a printing system that includes a printing apparatus that prints on paper and a terminal device that is connected to the printing apparatus via communication means. Means, a paper storage means for storing the paper, a remaining amount information detection means for detecting the remaining amount information of the paper stored in the paper storage means, and the terminal device via the communication means. A receiving unit that receives print data; a print number acquiring unit that acquires the number of sheets for printing the print data received by the receiving unit; and a remaining sheet detected by the remaining amount information detecting unit. Determining means for determining whether or not all the print data can be printed on the paper stored in the paper storage means based on the quantity information and the number of printed sheets acquired by the printed number acquisition means; Converting means for converting the amount of the print data to be printed on the entire surface of the paper into a two-dimensional code having a print size less than half of the paper size; and when printing the print data, the judgment means When it is determined that printing is not possible on the paper stored in the paper storage means, the conversion data is converted into a two-dimensional code by the conversion means, and the two-dimensional code is printed via the printing means. And print control means for controlling to print all the print data only on the paper stored in the paper storage means.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a terminal device used in a printing system including a printing device that prints on paper and a terminal device that is connected to the printing device via communication means, and stores print data. Means for transmitting the print data to the printing apparatus via the communication means, receiving means for receiving the remaining amount information of the paper stored in the printing apparatus via the communication means, Whether or not all the print data can be printed on the paper stored in the printing apparatus based on the remaining amount information of the paper received by the receiving means and the number of prints for printing the print data stored in the storage means Determining means for determining the amount of the print data to be printed on the entire surface of the paper into a two-dimensional code having a print size less than half the paper size; and the printing When transmitting the print data to the printer by the transmission means, if the determination means determines that all the print data cannot be printed on the paper stored in the printing apparatus, the conversion means Print control for controlling to print all the print data only on the paper stored in the printing apparatus by converting the code into a code and transmitting the print data corresponding to the two-dimensional code via the transmission means Means.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a printing apparatus used in a printing system including a printing apparatus that prints on a sheet and a portable data storage device that stores data printed by the printing apparatus. Paper storage means for storing paper, remaining amount information detection means for detecting remaining amount information of paper stored in the paper storage means, printing means for printing on the paper, and storage means of the data storage device from the storage means A reading means for reading data; a print number acquisition means for acquiring the number of sheets for printing the data stored in the storage means; and a remaining amount information of the sheet detected by the remaining amount information detection means. Determining means for determining whether or not all of the data can be printed on the paper stored in the paper storage means based on the number of printed sheets acquired by the printed number acquisition means; Conversion means for converting the amount of the data to be printed on the entire surface of the paper into a two-dimensional code having a print size less than half of the paper size; and when printing the data, all the data is transferred to the paper by the determination means. If it is determined that printing on the paper stored in the storage means is not possible, the data is converted into a two-dimensional code by the conversion means, and the two-dimensional code is printed via the printing means to store the paper. And print control means for controlling to print all the data only on the paper stored in the means.

  According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a print control program for causing a computer to execute print control for printing on paper, and detecting remaining amount information of paper stored in a paper storage means for storing the paper. A remaining amount information detection step, a reception step of receiving print data via a communication means, a print number acquisition step of acquiring the number of sheets for printing the print data received in the reception step, Whether or not all the print data can be printed on the paper stored in the paper storage means based on the remaining amount information of the paper detected in the remaining amount information detection step and the number of printed sheets acquired in the printed number acquisition step. A conversion step for converting the amount of the print data to be printed on the entire surface of the paper into a two-dimensional code having a print size less than half of the paper size. And when printing the print data, if it is determined by the determination step that all the print data cannot be printed on the paper stored in the paper storage means, the conversion data is converted into a two-dimensional code. And printing the two-dimensional code via the printing means, thereby causing the computer to execute a printing process for printing all the print data only on the paper stored in the paper storage means.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a print control program for causing a computer to execute transmission of print data to be printed on a sheet by the printing apparatus, and for the sheets stored in the printing apparatus via a communication unit. All the print data is stored in the printing device according to the receiving step for receiving the remaining amount information, the remaining amount information of the paper received in the receiving step, and the number of prints for printing the print data stored in the storage means. A determination step for determining whether or not printing is possible on a sheet that has been printed, and a conversion step for converting the amount of the print data to be printed on the entire surface of the sheet into a two-dimensional code having a print size less than half the sheet size; When the print data is transmitted to the printing apparatus by communication means, all the print data is stored in the printing apparatus by the determination step. If it is determined that printing on paper is not possible, the print data is converted into a two-dimensional code by a conversion step, and the print data corresponding to the two-dimensional code is transmitted to the printing apparatus via the communication means. And causing the computer to execute a printing process in which all the print data is printed using only the stored paper.

  A print control program according to an eleventh aspect of the invention is a print control program for causing a computer to execute print control for printing on paper, and detecting remaining amount information of paper stored in a paper storage means for storing the paper. A remaining amount information detecting step, a reading step of reading data from the storage means of the data storage device, and a printed sheet number acquiring step of acquiring the number of sheets for printing the data read from the storage means by the reading step; Whether or not all of the data can be printed on the paper stored in the paper storage means based on the remaining amount information of the paper detected in the remaining amount information detection step and the number of printed sheets acquired in the printed number acquisition step. The determination step of determining and the amount of the data to be printed on the entire surface of the paper is a print size less than half the paper size. A conversion step of converting to a dimension code; and when printing the data, if the determination step determines that all of the data cannot be printed on the paper stored in the paper storage means, the conversion step Is converted into a two-dimensional code, and the two-dimensional code is printed via the printing means, thereby causing the computer to execute a printing process for printing all the data only on the paper stored in the paper storage means.

  In the printing system according to claim 1, all of the data is stored in the paper storage unit based on the remaining amount information of the paper detected by the remaining amount information detection unit and the number of printed sheets acquired by the printed number acquisition unit. A determination unit that determines whether or not printing is possible on a sheet of paper, and when the data is printed, the determination unit determines that all of the data is not printable on a sheet stored in the sheet storage unit The data is converted into a two-dimensional code by the converting means, and the two-dimensional code is printed via the printing means so that all the data is printed only on the paper stored in the paper storing means. Printing control means for controlling.

  As a result, printing can be performed only with the paper remaining in the printing apparatus, thereby preventing data from being lost. In addition, since the image printed on the printed material is a two-dimensional code, when printing from the printed material, a part of the data is not lost, and when printing from the printed material in the original printing format, it is printed accurately. Can do.

  The printing system according to claim 2, wherein the printing apparatus uses the remaining amount information of the sheet detected by the remaining amount information detecting unit and the number of printed sheets acquired by the printed sheet number acquiring unit to all print data. A determination unit that determines whether or not printing is possible on the paper stored in the storage unit, and when printing the print data, the determination unit can print all the print data on the paper stored in the paper storage unit. If it is determined that the print data is not, the conversion means converts the print data into a two-dimensional code, and prints the two-dimensional code via the printing means, so that only the paper stored in the paper storage means is used. Printing control means for controlling to print all the print data.

  As a result, printing can be performed only with the paper remaining in the printing apparatus, so that print data is not lost. Further, since the image printed on the printed material is a two-dimensional code, a portion of the print data is not lost when reading from the printed material, and the image is printed accurately when reprinting from the printed material in the original print format. be able to.

  In the printing system according to claim 3, the terminal device prints the print data based on the remaining amount information of the paper detected by the second receiving unit and the number of prints for printing the print data stored in the storage unit. When the print data is transmitted by the second transmission means to the printing apparatus by the determination means for determining whether or not printing is possible on the paper stored in the paper storage means. When it is determined that printing is not possible on all the paper stored in the paper storage means, the conversion means converts the print data into a two-dimensional code and corresponds to the two-dimensional code via the second transmission means. Second print control means for controlling to print all the print data only on the paper stored in the paper storage means by transmitting the print data to be transmitted It is configured to include a.

  As a result, printing can be performed only with the paper remaining in the printing apparatus, so that print data is not lost. Further, since the image printed on the printed material is a two-dimensional code, a portion of the print data is not lost when reading from the printed material, and the image is printed accurately when reprinting from the printed material in the original print format. be able to.

  5. The printing system according to claim 4, wherein the printing apparatus stores all the data based on the remaining amount information of the paper detected by the remaining amount information detecting unit and the number of printed sheets acquired by the printed number acquiring unit. A determination unit that determines whether or not printing is possible on the paper stored in the paper; and when the data is printed, the determination unit determines that all the data is not printable on the paper stored in the paper storage unit If the data is converted, the data is converted into a two-dimensional code by the converting means, and the two-dimensional code is printed via the printing means, so that all the data is obtained only by the paper stored in the paper storing means. And a printing control means for controlling printing.

  As a result, printing can be performed only with the paper remaining in the printing apparatus, thereby preventing data from being lost. In addition, since the image printed on the printed material is a two-dimensional code, when printing from the printed material, a part of the data is not lost, and when printing from the printed material in the original printing format, it is printed accurately. Can do.

  In the printing system according to a fifth aspect, the data storage device may be a USB memory.

  In the printing apparatus according to claim 6, the print data is all stored in the paper storage unit based on the remaining amount information of the paper detected by the remaining amount information detection unit and the number of prints acquired by the print number acquisition unit. A determination unit that determines whether or not printing is possible on a sheet that is being printed; and when the print data is printed, the determination unit determines that all print data is not printable on the sheet stored in the sheet storage unit In such a case, the print data is converted into a two-dimensional code by the converting means, and the two-dimensional code is printed via the printing means, so that all the print data is obtained only by the paper stored in the paper storing means. And a printing control means for controlling printing.

  As a result, printing can be performed only with the paper remaining in the printing apparatus, so that print data is not lost. Further, since the image printed on the printed material is a two-dimensional code, a portion of the print data is not lost when reading from the printed material, and the image is printed accurately when reprinting from the printed material in the original print format. be able to.

  The terminal device according to claim 7 stores all the print data in the printing device based on the remaining amount information of the paper received by the receiving unit and the number of prints for printing the print data stored in the storage unit. Determining means for determining whether or not printing is possible on the paper that has been printed, and when the print data is transmitted to the printing apparatus by the transmission means, the print data is all stored in the printing apparatus by the determination means. When it is determined that printing is not possible, the print data is converted into a two-dimensional code by the conversion means, and the print data corresponding to the two-dimensional code is transmitted through the transmission means, and stored in the printing apparatus. And print control means for controlling to print all the print data only on the existing paper.

  As a result, printing can be performed only with the paper remaining in the printing apparatus, so that print data is not lost. Further, since the image printed on the printed material is a two-dimensional code, a portion of the print data is not lost when reading from the printed material, and the image is printed accurately when reprinting from the printed material in the original print format. be able to.

  In the printing apparatus according to claim 8, all of the data is stored in the sheet storage unit based on the remaining amount information of the sheet detected by the remaining amount information detection unit and the number of prints acquired by the print number acquisition unit. A determination unit that determines whether or not printing is possible on a sheet; and when the data is printed, if the determination unit determines that all of the data is not printable on a sheet stored in the sheet storage unit, The conversion unit converts the data into a two-dimensional code, and prints the two-dimensional code via the printing unit, thereby controlling all the data to be printed only on the paper stored in the paper storage unit. Printing control means.

  As a result, printing can be performed only with the paper remaining in the printing apparatus, thereby preventing data from being lost. In addition, since the image printed on the printed material is a two-dimensional code, when printing from the printed material, a part of the data is not lost, and when printing from the printed material in the original printing format, it is printed accurately. Can do.

  The print control program according to claim 9 stores all of the print data in the paper storage unit based on the remaining amount information of the paper detected in the remaining amount information detection step and the number of printed sheets acquired in the printed number acquisition step. A determination step for determining whether or not printing is possible on the printed paper, and when the print data is printed, the determination step determines that all the print data is not printable on the paper stored in the paper storage means. If the print data is converted into a two-dimensional code by a conversion step, and the two-dimensional code is printed via the printing means, all the print data is only printed on the paper stored in the paper storage means. And a printing process for printing.

  As a result, printing can be performed only with the paper remaining in the paper storage means, so that print data is not lost. Further, since the image printed on the printed material is a two-dimensional code, a portion of the print data is not lost when reading from the printed material, and the image is printed accurately when reprinting from the printed material in the original print format. be able to.

  The print control program according to claim 10 stores all print data in the printing apparatus based on the remaining amount information of the paper received in the receiving step and the number of prints for printing the print data stored in the storage unit. A determination step for determining whether or not printing is possible on a sheet that has been printed, and a sheet in which all of the print data is stored in the printing apparatus by the determination step when the print data is transmitted to the printing apparatus by communication means If it is determined that printing is not possible, the print data is converted into a two-dimensional code by a conversion step, and the print data corresponding to the two-dimensional code is transmitted through the communication means, and stored in the printing apparatus. And a printing process for printing all the print data only on the printed paper.

  As a result, printing can be performed only with the paper remaining in the printing apparatus, so that print data is not lost. Further, since the image printed on the printed material is a two-dimensional code, a portion of the print data is not lost when reading from the printed material, and the image is printed accurately when reprinting from the printed material in the original print format. be able to.

  In the print control program according to claim 11, all of the data is stored in the paper storage unit by the remaining amount information of the paper detected by the remaining amount information detection step and the number of printed sheets acquired by the printed number acquisition step. A determination step for determining whether or not printing is possible on a sheet of paper, and when the data is printed, if it is determined by the determination step that all of the data is not printable on the paper stored in the paper storage means A printing step in which the data is converted into a two-dimensional code by a conversion step, and the two-dimensional code is printed via a printing unit to print all the data only on the paper stored in the paper storage unit; It is configured with.

  As a result, printing can be performed only with the paper remaining in the paper storage means, thereby preventing data from being lost. In addition, since the image printed on the printed material is a two-dimensional code, when printing from the printed material, a part of the data is not lost, and when printing from the printed material in the original printing format, it is printed accurately. Can do.

  Hereinafter, a printing system according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings based on the first to third embodiments.

  First, a printing system according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 1 is an external perspective view showing an outline of the printing system 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the printing system 1 includes a printer 2 and a personal computer (hereinafter referred to as a PC) 3 connected by a USB cable 4 based on the USB standard. Data exchange. The PC 3 includes a main body 5, a monitor 6, a keyboard 7, and a mouse (pointing device) 8.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the printer 2, and FIG. 3 is a side sectional view of the printer 2. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a state in which a sheet is set in the sheet storage portion of the printer 2. FIG. 5 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing details of the sheet separating unit and the printing mechanism unit of the printer 2.

  The schematic structure of the printer 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. The printer 2 shown in a perspective view in FIG. 2 is of a thermal printing type, and is designed mainly for carrying with a portable information processing device (notebook PC, PDA, mobile phone, etc.). (However, it can also be connected to a stationary PC 3). The printer 2 has a configuration in which the size in plan view is about A6 size or A7 size, and the thickness is about 2 cm or less, particularly emphasizing compactness.

When the user instructs printing to the program on the PC 3 side, the program generates a print command, and the printer 2 is configured to receive the print command from the PC 3 and perform a printing operation. Note that power for printing is supplied from a rechargeable battery provided in the printer 2.

The main body case 10 of the printer 2 is formed by covering the lower surface of the frame 11 with the lower cover 12 and partially covering the upper surface with the upper cover 13. In the remaining portion of the upper surface side of the frame body 11 excluding the portion covered with the upper cover 13, a paper storage portion (paper feeding portion) 14 is formed as shown in FIG.
In this paper storage section 14, a paper package 17 in which a plurality of A6 to A7 size cut sheet-like thermal paper (recording medium; hereinafter referred to as “paper”) 15 is stored in a package material 16 is shown in FIG. It can be set as shown in.

  As shown in FIG. 3, four reflection type package detection sensors 18 are embedded in the end portion of the bottom plate portion of the paper storage portion 14 side by side with their light receiving portions facing upward. On the other hand, in the package material 16 of the paper package 17, an identification mark indicating information relating to the type of paper is attached at a position opposite to the position of the sensor 18 (not shown).

  The identification marks are provided side by side in four locations corresponding to the number of package detection sensors 18 and 0 to 3 of the four locations are colored black, while the remaining portions are not colored and are the base of the package material 16. The color (white) remains. This black and white pattern is the type of paper stored in the packaging material 16 (for example, normal type thermal paper, thermal paper capable of two-color development, label paper, copy paper capable of simultaneous printing on two sheets, etc.) ) In advance. The printer 2 automatically identifies the type of paper by reading this pattern with the package detection sensor 18.

  There are 2 ^ 4 = 16 patterns of black and white combination patterns in four places, but as a result of not using patterns that are colored black in all four places, the number of paper types that can be expressed is 16-1 = 15. . It should be noted that a pattern in which all of the four places are colored black is not applied to the package material 16 when the paper package 17 is not set in the paper container 14 in the first place. If the package detection sensor 18 detects black by using the detection of black without detecting the color, the printer 2 side can determine that the paper package 17 is not set in the paper storage unit 14. It is to do. For details of the paper package 17 with the identification mark, refer to Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2003-285940.

  The upper part of the paper accommodating portion 14 is covered with a lid 19, and the lid 19 is rotatable as shown in FIG. 3. A lock mechanism (not shown) is provided on the main body case 10 side so that the cover 19 can be closed and locked as shown in FIG. 4 with the paper package 17 set in the paper storage portion 14 as described above. It has become.

  The printer 2 is a personal product, and when the user runs out of paper, the user can replace the paper 2 with a new paper package 17 to make the printer 2 usable again. On the other hand, if the user uses up the paper 15 only as a rental product for corporations, the user does not replace the paper package 17 and the printer 2 is collected and the paper package 17 is collected at the factory. There is also an application where exchange is performed. In the first embodiment, the printer 2 is a product for corporations. Therefore, it is not necessary for the user to replace the paper package. After the lid 19 is closed and locked as shown in FIG. 4, a screw (not shown) is attached so that the lid 19 cannot be easily opened. It is tightened.

  A pickup roller 21 as a paper separating unit 20, a separation block 22, and the like are disposed at one end of the paper storage unit 14. Also, below the upper cover 13, a thermal head 24, a platen roller 25, and a paper guide 26 are disposed as a printing mechanism section (printing section) 23 described in detail later.

  The paper separation unit 20 will be described. A pickup roller 21 and a separation block 22 are provided at the end of the paper storage unit 14 on the side close to the printing mechanism unit 23. A pressing plate 27 is rotatably supported on the inner surface of the lid body 19 facing the paper storage portion 14 side. A coiled urging spring 28 is interposed between the pressing plate 27 and the lid 19, and a urging force in a direction to rotate the pressing plate 27 downward is always applied to the pressing plate 27. .

  The paper package 17 is a state in which the lower surface of the lowermost paper 15 among the papers 15 stored in the stacked state with the printing surface facing downward is partially exposed from the package material 16. Thus, it is set in the paper storage unit 14. When the lid 19 is closed and locked, the pressing plate 27 urged downward by the urging spring 28 described above picks up the exposed portion of the sheet 15 via the package material 16. The lower surface of the sheet 15 is brought into contact with the pickup roller 21.

  A separation block 22 is provided in the vicinity of the pickup roller 21, and the separation block 22 includes a separation guide surface 29 that is inclined with respect to the sheet feeding direction of the pickup roller 21.

  With this configuration, when the pickup roller 21 is rotationally driven, a conveying force is applied to the lowermost sheet 15 in contact with the pickup roller 21. Then, combined with the separation action of the separation guide surface 29 of the separation block 22, only one sheet 15 located at the lowermost layer is separated and sent out.

  The printing mechanism unit 23 will be described. A platen roller 25 is rotatably provided adjacent to the separation block 22, and a paper guide 26 is disposed in the vicinity of the outer peripheral surface thereof. As shown in the enlarged view of FIG. 5, the paper guide 26 has a concavely curved sliding contact surface 30 that has a substantially U-shaped cross section along the outer peripheral surface of the platen roller 25. Is formed. A pressing coil spring 31 is provided between the paper guide 26 and the main body case 10 so as to bias the sliding contact surface 30 toward the outer peripheral surface of the platen roller 25.

  In this configuration, the paper 15 separated by the paper separation unit 20 is conveyed by the pickup roller 21 and the lower end of the separation block 22 and the guide plate 32 for directing the paper 15 toward the platen roller 25 side. Pass between. The paper 15 is guided by the guide plate 32 and is fed between the platen roller 25 and the paper guide 26 from the lower surface side of the platen roller 25. Then, the sheet 15 is conveyed while being reversed between the platen roller 25 and the slidable contact surface 30 of the paper guide 26 while being reversed in a horizontal U-shape by the rotational drive of the platen roller 25, and the printing surface is moved upward. Toward the upper surface side of the platen roller 25.

  The thermal head 24 located on the upper surface side of the platen roller 25 has a heating element portion 33 as a printing portion, and in the heating element portion 33, a large number of small heating elements are arranged in the paper width direction. The thermal head 24 is provided so as to be rotatable around a rotation shaft 34, so that the heating element 33 can be brought into contact with and separated from the upper surface of the platen roller 25. The reason why the thermal head 24 is configured to be rotatable in this manner is that the thermal head 24 interferes with the work in the jam paper removing operation when the paper 15 is jammed between the platen roller 25 and the paper guide 26. This is to prevent it from becoming.

  One end of a torsion coil spring type spring 35 is locked to the thermal head 24, and the heating element 33 of the thermal head 24 constantly applies a biasing force in a direction close to the upper surface of the platen roller 25. With this configuration, as described above, the heating element 33 of the thermal head 24 comes into contact with the upper surface of the paper 15 sent by the platen roller 25 with the printing surface facing upward, and printing is performed on the paper 15 at the contact point. Made.

  The thermal head 24 is a line head type, and can print arbitrary characters and images for each line extending in a direction orthogonal to the transport direction of the paper 15 on the heat-sensitive paper 15 being transported. The printing width when printing for one line is set to be approximately equal to the width of the paper 15 to be printed. In this way, the thermal head 24 is used as a print head by using thermal paper as a recording medium, so that consumables such as ink and ink ribbon can be dispensed with and a mechanism for supplying ink can be omitted. This is because the printer 2 can be configured compactly. As the thermal paper, there are various types such as a thermal coloring type having a coloring layer that develops color by heating of the thermal head 24 and a thermal punching type in which a perforated layer to be perforated by heating is laminated on a base material layer. Can be used.

  The paper guide 26 described above is provided with a reflection type paper sensor 36 (see FIG. 7), and its light receiving portion is disposed to face the peripheral surface of the platen roller 25 described above. Accordingly, when the paper 15 is transported and passes between the sliding contact surface 30 of the paper guide 26 and the platen roller 25, the paper sensor 36 can detect the passage of the front side and the rear side of the paper 15. It has become.

  The separation block 22 is formed with a paper discharge guide surface 37 that is inclined with respect to the paper feed direction of the platen roller 25. In this configuration, the paper 15 on which printing has been performed by the heating element portion 33 of the thermal head 24 is guided by the paper discharge guide surface 37, and as shown in FIG. The paper is discharged from the gap formed by the lid 19 to the upper side of the lid 19.

  Next, the electrical configuration of the PC 3 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the PC 3. As shown in FIG. 6, the PC 3 is provided with a CPU 50 that controls the PC 3. The CPU 50 includes a ROM 51 that stores a program such as a BIOS executed by the CPU 50, a RAM 52 that temporarily stores data, and a CD-ROM 53 that is a data storage medium, and a CD-ROM that reads data. A drive 54 and an HDD 55 that is a data storage device are connected via a bus 56. In the RAM 52, a transmission buffer, a reception buffer, a work area, and the like (not shown) are dynamically secured according to a program executed by the CPU 50.

  The HDD 55 stores an OS executed in the PC 3, a PC-side print control program according to the present invention, a printer driver program for controlling the printer 2 that can be connected to the PC 3, and the like. The HDD 55 stores information such as settings, initial values, and data necessary for executing various programs.

  The CPU 50 includes a USB interface 57 for communicating with external devices including the printer 2 via the bus 56, and a display control unit 58 for displaying a screen on the monitor 6 for displaying an operation screen to the user. A keyboard 7 and a mouse 8 for input by the user are connected to an input detection unit 59 for detecting these inputs. Note that the PC 3 may be provided with a flexible disk drive (not shown), an input / output unit for audio, various interfaces, and the like.

  The CD-ROM 53 stores the OS, printer driver program, PC-side print control program, settings and data used when executing various programs, and is stored in the HDD 55 from the CD-ROM 53 at the time of introduction. It is like that. Note that the method for acquiring the various programs of the PC 3 and the use data thereof is not limited to the method using the CD-ROM 53, but may be another storage medium such as a flexible disk or an MO. You may acquire from other terminals.

  Next, the electrical configuration of the printer 2 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the printer 2. As shown in FIG. 7, the printer 2 is provided with a CPU 70 that controls the printer 2. The CPU 70 is connected to a ROM 71 storing a program executed by the CPU 70, a RAM 72 temporarily storing data, and an EEPROM 73 capable of storing data in a rewritable manner via a bus (not shown). In the RAM 72, a transmission buffer, a reception buffer (not shown), a print buffer for developing a print image, a work area, and the like are secured.

  The EEPROM 73 has a remaining number counter (not shown) that stores the remaining number of sheets 15. When the paper package 17 is mounted on the printer 2 and shipped from the factory, the number of sheets 15 included in the paper package 17 is set in the remaining number counter (not shown).

  The CPU 70 also includes a package sensor 18 that detects the type of the paper package 17 via a bus (not shown), the paper sensor 36 that detects the transported paper 15, and a user who uses the printer 2. Is connected to a power source SW 74 for turning on / off the power source.

  Further, the CPU 70 is connected to the thermal head 24 via a bus (not shown) and connected to a step motor 75 that rotates the pickup roller 21, the platen roller 25, and the like to drive the step motor 75. The thermal head control circuit 77 for controlling the heat generation of the thermal head 24, the USB interface 78 for communicating with external devices including the PC 3, and the LED 79 for displaying the status of the printer 2 are connected. Note that the LED includes two LEDs, a red LED and a green LED, and the status of the printer 2 can be reported to the user by each lighting / extinguishing / flashing, blinking cycle, and the like. In addition, the printer 2 includes a rechargeable battery (not shown) and obtains electric power therefrom.

  Next, a print image printed by the printer 2 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a printed matter that is printed when the remaining amount of paper 15 is low. As shown in FIG. 8, a total of six two-dimensional codes extending in 3 rows and 2 columns are arranged in the outline of the paper 15. All two-dimensional codes are QR codes. Each of these corresponds to the amount of data to be printed on one side of the paper 15 in the case of normal printing. That is, the data for 6 pages is printed on the sheet 15 shown in FIG. In that case, naturally, one QR code has a size equal to or less than half of the paper size. When the paper 15 is sufficient, the print data is printed as it is without being converted into a two-dimensional code. That is, one page of data is printed on the sheet 15 for one page. In the first embodiment, printing is single-sided printing that is printed only on one side of the paper. For this reason, one page of print data and one sheet of print data have the same meaning (the same applies hereinafter).

  The two-dimensional code may not be a QR code. Further, the two-dimensional code for six pages may not be printed on the paper 15 for the width of one page. For example, two pages or three pages may be used. In these cases as well, one QR code is naturally less than half the paper size. One page of data may not be converted into one two-dimensional code. For example, two pages may be one two-dimensional code.

  Next, processing in the PC 3 will be briefly described. In the PC 3, when the PC 3 is activated, the CPU 50 executes the BIOS stored in the ROM 51. Thereafter, the CPU 50 executes an OS stored in the HDD 55, a printer driver program for controlling the printer 2, a mouse driver program, and the like. Meanwhile, the CPU 50 secures storage areas for variables used in various programs in the RAM 52, and sets predetermined values for them. After executing other initial settings, the CPU 50 waits for input from the keyboard 7 and mouse 8 by the user.

  When there is an input from the keyboard 7 or mouse 8 by the user, the CPU 50 performs various processes according to the input. For example, a word processing software is started and a document is created according to user input, a drawing software is started and an image is created according to user input, or an e-mail software or browser software is started and used. Documents and images are captured from the outside in response to input by the user. When a program having a print function is activated, a print command including a document or image designated by the user is transmitted to the printer 2 via the USB interface 57 in response to an input by the user.

  Next, processing in the printer 2 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the main process of the printer 2. The following processes are all executed by the CPU 70.

  First, when the power SW 74 is pressed, the program stored in the ROM 71 is executed by the CPU 70. Thereby, as shown in FIG. 9, an initialization process is performed in S1. As initialization processing, various variables in the RAM 72 are initialized. A green LED 79 is lit to indicate that the printer 2 is on standby. In addition, various initialization processes are performed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S2.

  In S <b> 2, it is determined whether print data is received from the PC 3 via the USB interface 78. Even if the print data sent from the PC 3 is print data for printing a printed material over a plurality of pages, the print data is sent in a batch. In addition, the number of prints is written at the top of the print data. If it is determined that the print data has been received (S2: YES), the process proceeds to S3, and if it is determined that the print data has not been received (S2: NO), the process proceeds to S4.

  In S4, other processes are executed, and thereafter, the process proceeds to S2 again and the above-described processes are repeated. On the other hand, in S 3, the number of printed sheets is read from the received print data and temporarily stored in the RAM 72. In addition, until the printing is completed, a green LED 79 blinks to indicate that the printer 2 is printing. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S5.

  In S5, it is determined whether there is a print residue. This is determined based on whether the number of printed sheets stored in the RAM 72 is not zero. If it is determined that there is a remaining print (S5: YES), the process proceeds to S6. If it is determined that there is no remaining print (S5: NO), the process proceeds to S7.

  In S7, the green LED 79 is returned from the blinking display to the lit display, thereby notifying the completion of printing. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S2 again and the above-described processing is repeated. On the other hand, in S6, it is determined whether or not there is paper remaining. This is determined by whether or not the remaining number counter (not shown) of the EEPROM 73 is not zero. If it is determined that there is paper remaining (S6: YES), the process proceeds to S8, and if it is determined that there is no paper remaining (S6: NO), the process proceeds to S9.

  In S9, the green LED 79 is returned from the blinking display to the lit display, and the red LED 79 is lit up to notify that the paper is out. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S2 again and the above-described processing is repeated.

  In S8, it is determined whether the remaining number of sheets ≧ the remaining number of prints. This is determined based on whether or not “remaining sheet number counter (not shown) of EEPROM 73” ≧ “number of printed sheets stored in RAM 72”. If it is determined that the remaining number of sheets ≧ the remaining number of printing (S8: YES), the process proceeds to S10, and if it is determined that the remaining number of sheets <the remaining number of printing (S8: NO), the process proceeds to S11.

  In S10, one sheet is normally printed from the print data. When printing, the print data is developed in a print buffer (not shown). Thereafter, the sheet motor 15 is conveyed by rotating the step motor 75 by the motor drive circuit 76, and the thermal head 24 is controlled by the thermal head control circuit 77, so that the image developed in the print buffer is printed on the sheet 15. Is done. At this time, the step motor 75 and the thermal head 24 are controlled while being synchronized. In addition, the remaining number counter (not shown) of the EEPROM 73 is updated by being decreased by 1, and the number of printed sheets stored in the RAM 72 is also decreased by 1 and updated. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S5 again and the above-described processing is repeated.

  On the other hand, in S11, N pages of the remaining printing are converted into a two-dimensional code. In the first embodiment, since up to six QR codes, which are a kind of two-dimensional code, are printed on one page, the print data for six pages is converted into six QR codes at the maximum. Since the conversion method to the QR code is well known, detailed description is omitted. When shifting from S8 to S11, for example, when the remaining number of sheets is one and the remaining number of prints is three, three QR codes are printed on one page. As described above, when a maximum of 6 QR codes are printed on one page, in reality, 2 to 6 QR codes may be printed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S12.

  In S12, an image in which the QR code of the two-dimensional code converted in S11 is appropriately arranged is printed on the upper paper 15 on which the image is developed in the print buffer. In addition, the remaining number counter (not shown) of the EEPROM 73 is updated by being reduced by 1, and the number of printed sheets stored in the RAM 72 is updated by being decreased by N which is the number of pages converted into the two-dimensional code in S11. . Thereafter, the process proceeds to S5 again and the above-described processing is repeated.

  For example, if the remaining number of sheets is 2 and the number of pages of print data is 9 pages, the first determination in S8 is “remaining number of sheets (2 sheets) <remaining printing pages (9 pages)”, NO. Thus, 6 pages are converted into a two-dimensional code in S11 and printed on one sheet 15 in S12. As a result, the remaining number of sheets is 1, and the remaining print pages are 3. In the second determination at S8, “NO” (remaining number of sheets (1) <remaining pages to be printed (3 pages)) is NO, and at S11, the three pages are converted into a two-dimensional code, and one sheet at S12. 15 is printed. Thereby, the printing for 6 pages is completed.

  As another example, it is assumed that the remaining number of sheets is 5 and the number of pages of print data is 9 pages. In the first determination at S8, “No. of remaining sheets (5) <remaining printed pages (9 pages)” is NO, so 6 pages are converted into a two-dimensional code at S11, and one sheet at S12. 15 is printed. As a result, the remaining number of sheets is 4, and the remaining pages are 3 pages. In the second determination in S8, “remaining number of sheets (4) ≧ printed remaining pages (3 pages)” is YES, and one page is printed on one sheet 15 as it is in S10. As a result, the remaining number of sheets is 3, and the remaining pages are 2 pages.

  In the third determination in S8, “remaining number of sheets (3) ≧ printing remaining pages (2 pages)” is YES, and one page is printed as it is on one sheet 15 in S10. As a result, the remaining number of sheets is two and the remaining print pages are one page. In the fourth determination at S8, “remaining number of sheets (2 sheets) ≧ printed remaining pages (1 page)” is YES, and one page is printed as it is on one sheet 15 at S10. Thereby, the printing for 6 pages is completed.

  In the first embodiment, a plurality of print data for one page cannot be printed on one sheet of the remaining print pages with only the remaining paper 15 in the printer 2 at the beginning of the printing process. A page is printed on one sheet of paper 15 using a two-dimensional code, and one page of print data can be printed on one sheet of paper for the remaining pages. One page of print data is printed.

  However, when it is not possible to print one page of print data on one sheet of paper for the remaining print pages with only the paper 15 remaining in the printer 2, the print data is converted into a two-dimensional code from the beginning to the end. It may be converted and printed. In the beginning of the printing process, one page of print data is printed on one sheet of paper, and one page of print data is printed on one sheet of paper more than this, and the remaining paper 15 in the printer 2 is printed. When it is impossible to finish the printing process with only a single page, a plurality of pages may be printed on one sheet 15 using a two-dimensional code.

  In the printing system 1, all the print data is stored in the paper storage unit (paper supply unit) 14 according to the number of prints read from the print data received via the remaining number counter (not shown) of the EEPROM 73 and the USB interface 57. CPU 70 that determines whether printing is possible on the existing paper 15 and when printing the print data, when the CPU 70 determines that all the print data cannot be printed on the paper 15 stored in the paper storage unit 14, The CPU 70 converts the print data into a two-dimensional code and prints the two-dimensional code via the thermal head 79, the step motor 77, and the like, thereby printing all the print data using only the paper 15 stored in the paper storage unit 14. The CPU 70 is configured to control to do so.

  As a result, printing can be performed only with the paper 15 remaining in the printer 2, so that the print data stored for printing after the paper replenishment disappears, and it does not remain anywhere. You won't be in trouble. Further, since the image printed on the paper 15 is a two-dimensional code, unlike the case where it is not converted into a two-dimensional code, one of the data is read at the time of reading by a device having a two-dimensional code reading function such as a camera-equipped mobile phone. It is possible to accurately print the data in the original print format based on the read data without dropping the part.

  In the printing system 1, the printer 2 stores all print data in the sheet storage unit 14 based on the remaining number counter (not shown) of the EEPROM 73 and the number of prints read from the print data received via the USB interface 78. The CPU 70 that determines whether or not printing is possible on the paper 15 being printed, and when the print data is printed, the CPU 70 determines that all the print data cannot be printed on the paper 15 stored in the paper storage unit 14. The CPU 70 converts the print data into a two-dimensional code, and prints the two-dimensional code via the thermal head 79, the step motor 77, etc., so that all the print data is obtained only by the paper 15 stored in the paper storage unit 14. And a CPU 70 that controls to perform printing.

  As a result, printing can be performed only with the paper 15 remaining in the printer 2, so that the print data stored for printing after the paper replenishment disappears, and it does not remain anywhere. You won't be in trouble. Further, since the image printed on the paper 15 is a two-dimensional code, unlike the case where it is not converted into a two-dimensional code, one of the data is read at the time of reading by a device having a two-dimensional code reading function such as a camera-equipped mobile phone. It is possible to accurately print the data in the original print format based on the read data without dropping the part.

  Next, the printing system 1 according to the second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment is almost the same as the first embodiment, and mainly the printing processes of both the printer and the PC are different. Below, it demonstrates with reference to FIG. 10 centering on a different part from 1st Embodiment. Note that the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment.

  First, the printer 2 will be described. In the printer 2, the following processing is performed in place of the main processing shown in FIG. In the printer 2, after the initialization process, various processes are performed in accordance with commands transmitted from the PC 3 via the USB interface 78. The commands include a print command for performing printing, a remaining paper request command for detecting the remaining paper of the printer 2, and the like. The print command includes print data in the form of a bitmap image. When the print command is received, the CPU 70 prints the bitmap image on the paper 15 as it is. At this time, every time a sheet of paper is printed, the remaining number counter (not shown) of the EEPROM 73 is decremented by one and updated. In the first embodiment, the print command is transmitted for all pages at once, but, unlike that, the print command is transmitted as a separate print command for each page even when the print data extends over a plurality of pages.

  When the remaining sheet request command is received, the CPU 70 returns the value of the remaining sheet counter (not shown) of the EEPROM 73 to the PC 3 via the USB interface 78.

  Next, the PC 3 will be described. A print buffer (not shown) is secured in the RAM 52 of the PC 3.

  Subsequently, the printing process on the PC 3 side will be described with reference to FIG. This printing process is a process executed by the CPU 50 when a user instructs printing of a document or an image via the keyboard 7 or the mouse 8 when a program having a printing function is started. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the printing process.

  As shown in FIG. 10, in S20, the remaining amount of paper in the printer 2 is acquired. This process includes a process for transmitting a remaining paper amount request command to the printer 2 via the cable 4, a process for waiting for reception of the remaining amount of paper sent back from the printer 2, and a time when the remaining amount of paper is sent back. It consists of processing to read it. After the remaining amount of paper is acquired, the process proceeds to S21.

  In S21, it is determined whether or not there is a print residue. This is determined by the number of printed sheets stored in the RAM 52. If it is determined that there is remaining printing (S21: YES), the process proceeds to S22, and if it is determined that there is no remaining printing (S21: NO), the process proceeds to S23. In S 23, a screen indicating the completion of printing is displayed on the monitor 6 via the display control unit 58. Thereafter, this printing process ends.

  In S22, it is determined whether there is any remaining paper. This is determined from the remaining number of sheets obtained from the printer 2 in S20 and stored in the RAM 52. If it is determined that there is paper remaining (S22: YES), the process proceeds to S24, and if it is determined that there is no paper remaining (S22: NO), the process proceeds to S25. In S <b> 25, a screen indicating that the paper is out is displayed on the monitor 6 via the display control unit 58. Thereafter, this printing process ends.

  In S24, it is determined whether the remaining number of sheets ≧ the remaining number of prints. This is determined based on whether “the remaining number of sheets stored in the RAM 52” ≧ “the number of printed sheets stored in the RAM 52”. When it is determined that the remaining number of sheets ≧ the remaining number of printing (S24: YES), the process proceeds to S26, and when it is determined that the remaining number of sheets <the remaining number of printing (S24: NO), the process proceeds to S27.

  In S26, one image from the print data is developed in a print buffer (not shown) of the RAM 52 for normal printing. In addition, the number of prints stored in the RAM 52 is updated by one. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S29.

  On the other hand, in S27, N pages of the remaining printing are converted into a two-dimensional code. In the second embodiment, since up to six QR codes, which are a kind of two-dimensional code, are printed on one page, the print data for six pages is converted into six QR codes at the maximum. Since the conversion method to the QR code is well known, detailed description is omitted. When shifting from S24 to S27, for example, when the remaining number of sheets is one and the remaining number of prints is three, three QR codes are printed on one page. As described above, when a maximum of 6 QR codes are printed on one page, in reality, 2 to 6 QR codes may be printed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S28.

  In S28, the QR code of the two-dimensional code converted in S27 is developed into an image appropriately arranged in a print buffer (not shown) of the RAM 52. At this time, the number of prints stored in the RAM 52 is updated by being reduced by N, which is the number of pages converted into the two-dimensional code in S27. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S29.

  In S 29, a print command created based on the image developed in the print buffer (not shown) of the RAM 52 is transmitted to the printer 2 via the USB interface 57. At that time, the remaining number of sheets in the RAM 52 is reduced by 1 and updated. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S21 again and the above-described processing is repeated.

  In the second embodiment, the remaining amount of paper is acquired from the printer 2 only once at the beginning of the printing process. However, the remaining amount of paper may be acquired from the printer 2 every time before a print command is transmitted. .

  In the second embodiment, separate print commands are transmitted for each print data to be printed on one sheet of paper. However, one print command composed of all print data may be transmitted. .

  In the printing system 1 according to the second embodiment, the PC 3 stores all print data in the sheet storage unit 14 based on the remaining amount of paper acquired from the printer 2 via the USB interface 57 and the number of prints stored in the RAM 52. When the print data is transmitted to the printer 2 through the USB interface 57 and the CPU 50 that determines whether printing is possible on the paper 15 that has been printed, the CPU 50 stores all the print data in the paper 15 that is stored in the paper storage unit 14. If it is determined that printing is not possible, the CPU 50 converts the print data into a two-dimensional code and transmits the print data corresponding to the two-dimensional code via the USB interface 57 to be stored in the paper storage unit 14. CPU 50 for controlling to print all the print data only on paper 15 It is configured Te.

  As a result, printing can be performed only with the paper 15 remaining in the printer 2, so that the print data stored for printing after the paper replenishment disappears, and it does not remain anywhere. You won't be in trouble. Further, since the image printed on the paper 15 is a two-dimensional code, unlike the case where it is not converted into a two-dimensional code, one of the data is read at the time of reading by a device having a two-dimensional code reading function such as a camera-equipped mobile phone. It is possible to accurately print the data in the original print format based on the read data without dropping the part.

  Next, a printing system according to the third embodiment will be described. Although a schematic configuration of a printing system according to the third embodiment is not illustrated, the system is a system in which a USB memory is directly connected to the printer 2 of the first embodiment. Note that the same components as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals as those in the first embodiment.

  The USB memory is a well-known USB memory, and includes a storage unit (not shown), a USB interface, and a CPU. The USB memory does not have a power source inside, and is configured such that when connected to an external device, power is supplied from the external device via the USB interface. As is well known, the USB memory does not have an input means for accepting an operation from the user, and writes a file to the internal storage means by receiving an instruction from an external device via the USB interface. A file written in the storage means is read out. In the third embodiment, when the USB memory is connected to the printer 2, the USB memory receives power supply from the printer 2, and the file written in the storage unit is read by receiving an instruction from the printer 2. .

  The files stored in the storage means of the USB memory are known text files, image files, document files using predetermined word processing software, and other general files. In the third embodiment, it is assumed that only one printable text file, image file, or document file is stored in advance in the USB memory.

  In the first embodiment, the PC 3 is connected to the USB connector provided in the printer 2 via the USB cable 4, but in the third embodiment, a USB memory may be connected to the USB connector provided in the printer 2. If so, an external device other than the USB memory may be connected via the USB cable 4. The printer 2 may be configured to include a plurality of USB connectors.

  Next, processing in the printer 2 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the main process of the printer 2. The following processes are all executed by the CPU 70.

  First, when the power SW 74 is pressed, the program stored in the ROM 71 is executed by the CPU 70. Thereby, as shown in FIG. 11, an initialization process is performed in S40. As initialization processing, various variables in the RAM 72 are initialized. A green LED 79 is lit to indicate that the printer 2 is on standby. In addition, various initialization processes are performed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S41.

  In S <b> 41, it is determined whether print data is received from an external device other than the USB memory via the USB interface 78. If it is determined that print data has been received (S41: YES), the process proceeds to S42, and if it is not determined that print data has been received (S41: NO), the process proceeds to S43.

  In S42, printing is normally performed based on the received print data. When printing, the print data is developed in a print buffer (not shown). Thereafter, the sheet motor 15 is conveyed by rotating the step motor 75 by the motor drive circuit 76, and the thermal head 24 is controlled by the thermal head control circuit 77, so that the image developed in the print buffer is printed on the sheet 15. Is done. At this time, the step motor 75 and the thermal head 24 are controlled while being synchronized. When printing over a plurality of pages, all pages are printed. Further, a remaining sheet counter (not shown) of the EEPROM 73 is updated by reducing the sheet used for printing. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S41 again and the above-described processing is repeated.

  In S43, it is determined whether or not a USB memory is connected. If it is determined that the USB memory is connected (S43: YES), the process proceeds to S44, and if it is determined that the USB memory is not connected (S43: NO), the process proceeds to S45.

  In S45, other processing is performed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S41 again and the above-described processing is repeated.

  In S44, the file is read from the USB memory and temporarily stored in the RAM 72. Further, the number of sheets required to print the file as it is is detected. In detection, the detection method differs depending on the file type. For example, in the case of a text file, the number of lines is counted and converted to one with a predetermined number of lines. If it is an image file, the number is one. If it is a document file by a predetermined word processing software, information on the total number of pages written in the document file is read out. The detected number of printed sheets is temporarily stored in the RAM 72. In addition, until the printing is completed, a green LED 79 blinks to indicate that the printer 2 is printing. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S46.

  In S46, it is determined whether or not there is a print residue. This is determined based on whether the number of printed sheets stored in the RAM 72 is not zero. If it is determined that there is remaining printing (S46: YES), the process proceeds to S47. If it is determined that there is no remaining printing (S46: NO), the process proceeds to S48.

  In S48, the green LED 79 is returned from the blinking display to the lit display, thereby notifying the completion of printing. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S51.

  In S47, it is determined whether or not there is paper remaining. This is determined by whether or not the remaining number counter (not shown) of the EEPROM 73 is not zero. If it is determined that there is paper remaining (S47: YES), the process proceeds to S49, and if it is determined that there is no paper remaining (S47: NO), the process proceeds to S50.

  In S50, the green LED 79 is returned from the blinking display to the lit display, and the red LED 79 is lit up to notify that the paper is out. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S51.

  In S51, it is determined whether or not the USB memory is disconnected from the printer 2. If it is determined that the USB memory has been disconnected (S51: YES), the process proceeds to S41 again and the above-described processing is repeated. On the other hand, if it is determined that the USB memory has not been disconnected (S51: NO), the process proceeds to S51 again and the above-described processing is repeated.

  If it is determined in S47 that there is paper remaining (S47: YES), in S49, it is determined whether the remaining number of sheets ≧ the remaining number of prints. This is determined based on whether or not “remaining sheet number counter (not shown) of EEPROM 73” ≧ “number of printed sheets stored in RAM 72”. When it is determined that the remaining number of sheets ≧ the remaining number of printing (S49: YES), the process proceeds to S52, and when it is determined that the remaining number of sheets <the remaining number of printing (S49: NO), the process proceeds to S53.

  In S52, one sheet is normally printed from the print data. When printing, the print data is developed in a print buffer (not shown). Thereafter, the sheet motor 15 is conveyed by rotating the step motor 75 by the motor drive circuit 76, and the thermal head 24 is controlled by the thermal head control circuit 77, so that the image developed in the print buffer is printed on the sheet 15. Is done. At this time, the step motor 75 and the thermal head 24 are controlled while being synchronized. In addition, the remaining number counter (not shown) of the EEPROM 73 is updated by being decreased by 1, and the number of printed sheets stored in the RAM 72 is also decreased by 1 and updated. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S46 again and the above-described processing is repeated.

  On the other hand, in S53, N pages of the remaining printing are converted into a two-dimensional code. In the third embodiment, since up to six QR codes, which are a kind of two-dimensional code, are printed on one page, the maximum six pages of print data are converted into six QR codes. Since the conversion method to the QR code is well known, detailed description is omitted. When shifting from S49 to S53, for example, when the remaining number of sheets is one and the remaining number of prints is three, three QR codes are printed on one page. As described above, when a maximum of 6 QR codes are printed on one page, in reality, 2 to 6 QR codes may be printed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S54.

  In S54, an image in which the QR code of the two-dimensional code converted in S53 is appropriately arranged is printed on the upper paper 15 on which the image is developed in the print buffer. Further, the remaining number counter (not shown) of the EEPROM 73 is updated by being decreased by 1, and the number of printed sheets stored in the RAM 72 is updated by being decreased by N which is the number of pages converted into the two-dimensional code in S53. . Thereafter, the process proceeds to S46 again and the above-described processing is repeated.

  In the third embodiment, only a single file is stored in the USB memory. However, it is also possible to print a plurality of files in correspondence with a case where a plurality of files are stored. May be. Alternatively, when a plurality of files are stored in the USB memory, the printer 2 may be configured to select a file to be printed.

  In the printing system according to the third embodiment, the printer 2 uses the remaining number counter (not shown) of the EEPROM 73 and the number of prints detected from the file read via the USB interface 57 to store all the file data in the sheet storage unit. A CPU 70 that determines whether printing is possible on the paper 15 stored in the (paper feeding unit) 14, and a paper in which all file data is stored in the paper storage unit 14 by the CPU 70 when printing file data. 15, the CPU 70 converts the file data into a two-dimensional code and prints the two-dimensional code via the thermal head 79 and the step motor 77 to store the data in the paper storage unit 14. CPU that controls to print all file data only on the paper 15 that is printed It is configured to include a 0 and.

  As a result, printing can be performed only with the paper 15 remaining in the printer 2, so that the print data stored for printing after the paper replenishment disappears, and it does not remain anywhere. You won't be in trouble. Further, since the image printed on the paper 15 is a two-dimensional code, unlike the case where it is not converted into a two-dimensional code, one of the data is read at the time of reading by a device having a two-dimensional code reading function such as a camera-equipped mobile phone. It is possible to accurately print the data in the original print format based on the read data without dropping the part.

  The present invention is not limited to the first to third embodiments, and various improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention.

  When the printer 2 is a product for individuals and the user uses up the paper 15, the user may replace the paper with a new paper package 17. In that case, the user sets the remaining number of sheets together with the replacement of the sheet package 17.

  In addition, the printer is not a portable printer, but may be a stationary printer that supports cut sheets of various sizes such as A3, A4, and A5, a printer specialized for New Year card creation or business card creation. In the case of a stationary printer, the remaining number of sheets may be detected by, for example, providing a scale in a sheet storage provided in the printer and converting the weight of the sheet into the number of sheets. Alternatively, it may be detected by measuring the height of the paper stacked in the paper storage provided in the printer and converting the height of the paper into the number of sheets. Also, a known method may be used. Even if the remaining number of sheets is not accurately known, it may be estimated to a small amount in anticipation of safety, and the printing may be switched to a printing that is converted into a two-dimensional code from a slightly earlier stage when the remaining number of sheets is available.

  The printing method of the printer is not limited to the example of the embodiment, and for example, an ink jet method may be used.

  The terminal device may not be the PC 3, but may be a PDA or a mobile phone.

1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a printing system 1 according to a first embodiment. 2 is an external perspective view of the printer 2. FIG. 2 is a side sectional view of the printer 2. FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a state where a sheet is set in a sheet storage unit 14 of the printer 2. FIG. 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view illustrating details of a paper separation unit and a printing mechanism unit of the printer 2. It is a block diagram which shows the electric constitution of PC3. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an electrical configuration of a printer 2. FIG. FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a printed matter that is printed when the remaining amount of paper is low. 4 is a flowchart showing main processing of the printer 2. It is a flowchart which shows the printing process of PC3 which comprises the printing system 1 which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the main process of the printer 2 which comprises the printing system which concerns on 3rd Embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

1 Printing system 2 Printer 3 PC
50 CPU
51 ROM
52 RAM
70 CPU
71 ROM
72 RAM
73 EEPROM

Claims (11)

In a printing system comprising a printing device for printing on paper and a data storage device for storing data to be printed by the printing device,
The printing apparatus includes:
Paper storage means for storing the paper;
Remaining amount information detecting means for detecting remaining amount information of the paper stored in the paper storing means;
Printing means for printing on the paper,
The data storage device comprises:
Storage means for storing the data;
The printing system includes:
Print number acquisition means for acquiring the number of sheets for printing the data stored in the storage means;
Whether or not all the data can be printed on the paper stored in the paper storage means based on the remaining amount information of the paper detected by the residual information detection means and the number of prints acquired by the print number acquisition means. A judging means for judging;
Conversion means for converting the amount of data to be printed on the entire surface of the paper into a two-dimensional code having a print size less than half the paper size;
When printing the data, if it is determined that the data cannot be printed on the paper stored in the paper storage means by the determination means, the data is converted into a two-dimensional code by the conversion means, A printing system comprising: a printing control unit configured to print the two-dimensional code through a printing unit so as to print only the data stored on the sheet stored in the sheet storing unit. . In a printing system comprising a printing device for printing on paper and a terminal device connected to the printing device via communication means,
The terminal device
Transmission means for transmitting print data to the printing apparatus via the communication means;
The printing apparatus includes:
Printing means for printing on the paper;
Paper storage means for storing the paper;
Remaining amount information detecting means for detecting remaining amount information of the paper stored in the paper storing means;
Receiving means for receiving the print data transmitted from the terminal device via the communication means;
Print number acquisition means for acquiring the number of sheets for printing the print data received by the reception means;
Whether or not all of the print data can be printed on the paper stored in the paper storage means based on the remaining amount information of the paper detected by the residual information detection means and the number of prints acquired by the print number acquisition means A judging means for judging
Conversion means for converting the amount of the print data to be printed on the entire surface of the paper into a two-dimensional code having a print size less than half the paper size;
When printing the print data, if it is determined by the determination means that all the print data cannot be printed on the paper stored in the paper storage means, the conversion data is converted into a two-dimensional code by the conversion means. And a print control means for controlling to print all the print data only on the paper stored in the paper storage means by printing the two-dimensional code via the printing means. Printing system to do. In a printing system comprising a printing device for printing on paper and a terminal device connected to the printing device via communication means,
The printing apparatus includes:
Printing means for printing on the paper;
Paper storage means for storing the paper;
Remaining amount information detecting means for detecting remaining amount information of the paper stored in the paper storing means;
First transmitting means for transmitting the remaining amount information of the paper detected by the remaining amount information detecting means to the terminal device via the communication means;
First receiving means for receiving print data transmitted from the terminal device via the communication means;
First printing control means for controlling the printing data received by the first receiving means to print on the paper by the printing means;
The terminal device
Storage means for storing the print data;
Second transmission means for transmitting print data to the printing apparatus via the communication means;
Second receiving means for receiving the remaining amount information of the paper transmitted by the first transmitting means;
All the print data is printed on the paper stored in the paper storage means according to the remaining amount information of the paper detected by the second receiving means and the number of prints for printing the print data stored in the storage means. A determination means for determining whether it is possible,
Conversion means for converting the amount of the print data to be printed on the entire surface of the paper into a two-dimensional code having a print size less than half the paper size;
When the print data is transmitted to the printing apparatus by the second transmission means, the conversion means determines that the print data cannot be printed on the paper stored in the paper storage means by the determination means. The print data is converted into a two-dimensional code, and the print data corresponding to the two-dimensional code is transmitted via the second transmission unit, so that the print data can be obtained only on the paper stored in the paper storage unit. A printing system comprising: a second print control unit that performs control so that all printing is performed. In a printing system comprising a printing device for printing on paper and a portable data storage device for storing data to be printed by the printing device,
The data storage device comprises:
Storage means for storing the data;
The printing apparatus includes:
Paper storage means for storing the paper;
Remaining amount information detecting means for detecting remaining amount information of the paper stored in the paper storing means;
Printing means for printing on the paper;
Reading means for reading the data from the storage means;
Print number acquisition means for acquiring the number of sheets for printing the data stored in the storage means;
Based on the remaining amount information of the paper detected by the remaining amount information detecting unit and the number of printed sheets acquired by the printed number acquiring unit, it is determined whether or not all the data can be printed on the sheet stored in the sheet storing unit. A judgment means to
Conversion means for converting the amount of data to be printed on the entire surface of the paper into a two-dimensional code having a print size less than half the paper size;
When printing the data, if it is determined by the determination means that it is not possible to print all the data on the paper stored in the paper storage means, the conversion means converts the data into a two-dimensional code, A printing system comprising: a printing control unit configured to print the two-dimensional code through a printing unit so as to print only the data stored on the paper stored in the paper storage unit. .   The printing system according to claim 4, wherein the data storage device is a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory. In a printing apparatus used in a printing system including a printing apparatus that prints on paper and a terminal apparatus that is connected to the printing apparatus via communication means,
Printing means for printing on the paper;
Paper storage means for storing the paper;
Remaining amount information detecting means for detecting remaining amount information of the paper stored in the paper storing means;
Receiving means for receiving print data transmitted from the terminal device via the communication means;
Print number acquisition means for acquiring the number of sheets for printing the print data received by the reception means;
Whether or not all of the print data can be printed on the paper stored in the paper storage means based on the remaining amount information of the paper detected by the residual information detection means and the number of prints acquired by the print number acquisition means A judging means for judging
Conversion means for converting the amount of the print data to be printed on the entire surface of the paper into a two-dimensional code having a print size less than half the paper size;
When printing the print data, if it is determined by the determination means that all the print data cannot be printed on the paper stored in the paper storage means, the conversion data is converted into a two-dimensional code by the conversion means. And a print control means for controlling to print all the print data only on the paper stored in the paper storage means by printing the two-dimensional code via the printing means. Printing device to do. In a terminal device used in a printing system comprising a printing device that prints on paper and a terminal device that is connected to the printing device via communication means,
Storage means for storing print data;
Transmitting means for transmitting the print data to the printing apparatus via the communication means;
Receiving means for receiving remaining amount information of the paper stored in the printing apparatus via the communication means;
Whether or not all the print data can be printed on the paper stored in the printing apparatus based on the remaining amount information of the paper received by the receiving unit and the number of prints for printing the print data stored in the storage unit A judging means for judging whether or not
Conversion means for converting the amount of the print data to be printed on the entire surface of the paper into a two-dimensional code having a print size less than half the paper size;
When transmitting the print data to the printing apparatus by the transmission unit, if the determination unit determines that all the print data cannot be printed on the paper stored in the printing apparatus, the conversion unit outputs the print data. Control is performed so that all the print data is printed only on the paper stored in the printing apparatus by converting the code into a two-dimensional code and transmitting the print data corresponding to the two-dimensional code via the transmission unit. And a printing control means. In a printing apparatus used in a printing system including a printing apparatus that prints on paper and a portable data storage device that stores data to be printed by the printing apparatus,
Paper storage means for storing the paper;
Remaining amount information detecting means for detecting remaining amount information of the paper stored in the paper storing means;
Printing means for printing on the paper;
Reading means for reading the data from the storage means of the data storage device;
Print number acquisition means for acquiring the number of sheets for printing the data stored in the storage means;
Based on the remaining amount information of the paper detected by the remaining amount information detecting unit and the number of printed sheets acquired by the printed number acquiring unit, it is determined whether or not all the data can be printed on the sheet stored in the sheet storing unit. A means to determine,
Conversion means for converting the amount of data to be printed on the entire surface of the paper into a two-dimensional code having a print size less than half the paper size;
When printing the data, if it is determined by the determination means that it is not possible to print all the data on the paper stored in the paper storage means, the conversion means converts the data into a two-dimensional code, A printing apparatus comprising: a printing control unit configured to print the two-dimensional code via a printing unit so as to print only the data on a sheet stored in the sheet storage unit. . In a print control program for causing a computer to execute print control for printing on paper,
A remaining amount information detecting step of detecting remaining amount information of the paper stored in the paper storing means for storing the paper;
A receiving step of receiving print data via a communication means;
A print number acquisition step of acquiring the number of sheets for printing the print data received in the reception step;
Whether or not all the print data can be printed on the paper stored in the paper storage means based on the remaining amount information of the paper detected in the remaining amount information detection step and the number of printed sheets acquired in the printed number acquisition step. A judging process for judging
A conversion step of converting the amount of the print data to be printed on the entire surface of the paper into a two-dimensional code having a print size less than half of the paper size;
When printing the print data, if it is determined by the determination step that all the print data cannot be printed on the paper stored in the paper storage means, the conversion data is converted into a two-dimensional code by the conversion step. A printing control program comprising: a printing step of printing all the print data only on the paper stored in the paper storage means by printing the two-dimensional code via the printing means. In a print control program for causing a computer to transmit print data to be printed on paper in a printing apparatus,
A receiving step of receiving remaining amount information of the paper stored in the printing apparatus via a communication unit;
Whether or not all the print data can be printed on the paper stored in the printing device, based on the remaining amount information of the paper received in the receiving step and the number of prints for printing the print data stored in the storage unit A judging process for judging
A conversion step of converting the amount of the print data to be printed on the entire surface of the paper into a two-dimensional code having a print size less than half of the paper size;
When transmitting the print data to the printing apparatus by communication means, if it is determined by the determination step that all the print data cannot be printed on the paper stored in the printing apparatus, the conversion data A printing step of printing all the print data only on the paper stored in the printing apparatus by converting the print data into a two-dimensional code and transmitting the print data corresponding to the two-dimensional code via the communication means; A printing control program comprising: In a print control program for causing a computer to execute print control for printing on paper,
A remaining amount information detecting step of detecting remaining amount information of the paper stored in the paper storing means for storing the paper;
A reading step of reading data from the storage means of the data storage device;
A print number acquisition step of acquiring the number of sheets for printing the data read from the storage means in the read step;
Based on the remaining amount information of the paper detected by the remaining amount information detecting step and the number of printed sheets acquired by the printed number acquiring step, it is determined whether or not all the data can be printed on the paper stored in the paper storing means. A decision process to
A conversion step of converting the amount of data to be printed on the entire surface of the paper into a two-dimensional code having a print size less than half the paper size;
When printing the data, if it is determined by the determination step that all the data cannot be printed on the paper stored in the paper storage means, the data is converted into a two-dimensional code by the conversion step and printed. A printing control program comprising: a printing step of printing all of the data only on the paper stored in the paper storage means by printing the two-dimensional code through the means.

Images