JP2013022879A - Printing apparatus, information processing apparatus, control method of printing apparatus, control method of information processing apparatus, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a user with minimum information by carrying out printing using data generated by an information processing apparatus to print a printing apparatus state or setting as much as possible according to an operation of the printing apparatus or by simply printing the printing apparatus state or setting by the printing apparatus itself even when it is impossible to print using the data generated by the information processing apparatus.SOLUTION: When it is determined that a status printing indication from the user is received from an operating part 1501, a CPU 12 of a printer 1500 determines whether or not it is possible to communicate with a host computer 3000. When it is determined that it is possible to communicate with the host computer 3000, the CPU requires data for status printing from the host computer 3000, and performs processing of regular status printing by receiving the data for status printing from the host computer 3000. On the other hand, when it is determined that it is impossible to communicate with the host computer 3000, the CPU performs processing for simple status printing by generating data for status printing.

Description

  The present invention relates to a technique for printing a state or setting of a printing apparatus.

Host-based printers that reduce the cost of the printer by performing rendering processing on the host computer side have become widespread.
When performing status printing in order to know printer settings with such a host-based printer, the user operates a utility of a host computer connected to the printer.

  On the other hand, there is a need that the user is in front of the printer and wants to execute status printing by an operation on the printer side in order to confirm the printer settings.

  In Patent Document 1, status printer print data generated by a host computer is held in a printer, and when the user issues a status print instruction, the held status print print data is stored. Techniques have been proposed for performing status printing using these.

JP 2008-41018 A

  However, in the above prior art, the printer needs a memory for constantly storing the print data for status printing generated on the host computer side, which leads to an increase in the cost of the printer.

  Further, in the above prior art, since the print data for status printing is generated by the host computer, the print data cannot be generated when the host computer is not connected or cannot communicate with the host computer, and status printing is executed. I can't.

  Note that the host-based printer has few fonts that can be used due to cost constraints. Therefore, if status printing is to be realized only on the host base printer side, only simple status printing with limited information can be performed.

  Due to restrictions on the fonts that can be used in the host-based printer, only a few types of characters including numbers can be printed. Therefore, in simple status printing, only alphanumeric characters such as IP addresses and Mac addresses may be printed. The user may want to check the printer settings and status for many items, such as regular status printing. However, in simple status printing, information on items that the user wants to check is not printed, and it may be difficult for the user to sufficiently check the printer status.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above problems. It is an object of the present invention to perform printing using data for printing the status or setting of a printing device, which is generated by the information processing device as much as possible, according to the operation on the printing device side, and generated by the information processing device. Even when printing cannot be performed using the recorded data, the printing apparatus itself can simply print the state or setting of the printing apparatus and provide a mechanism that can provide the minimum information to the user.

  The printing apparatus according to the present invention includes: a receiving unit that receives a print instruction for the state or setting of the printing apparatus from a user; a determination unit that determines whether or not communication with the information processing apparatus is possible; If it is received and the determination means determines that communication with the information processing apparatus is possible, the data for printing the status or setting of the printing apparatus is requested to the information processing apparatus and is generated by the information processing apparatus Communication means for receiving data from the information processing apparatus, generation means for generating data for printing the status or settings of the printing apparatus, the print instruction received by the reception means, and information processing by the determination means When it is determined that communication with the apparatus is possible, the printing process is performed using the data received by the communication unit, and the print instruction is received by the reception unit. Accepted, and if it is determined that not communicate with the information processing apparatus by said determining means, and having a print processing unit that performs a printing process by using the data which the generation means is generated.

  According to the present invention, in accordance with an operation on the printing apparatus side, printing is performed using data for printing the state or setting of the printing apparatus as much as possible generated by the information processing apparatus, and is generated by the information processing apparatus. Even when printing cannot be performed using the recorded data, the state or setting of the printing apparatus can be simply printed by the printing apparatus itself, and the minimum information can be provided to the user.

1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a printing system including a printing apparatus and an information processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows an example of a function structure of the printing system of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the process by the side of the host computer 3000 of a present Example. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing on the printer 1500 side according to the present exemplary embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of a status print. It is a figure which shows an example of a simple status print.

Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a printing system including a printing apparatus and an information processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 shows the hardware of the host computer 3000 and the hardware of the printer 1500.
In FIG. 1, a printer (printing apparatus) 1500 is communicably connected to a host computer 3000 (information processing apparatus). The printer 1500 is a host-based printer that reduces the cost of the printer by performing rendering processing on the host computer 3000 side. Although FIG. 1 shows that one host computer 3000 is connected to the printer 1500, a plurality of host computers 3000 may be connected to the printer 1500.

  The host computer 3000 includes a CPU 1. The CPU 1 generally controls each device connected to the system bus 4 based on a program ROM stored in the ROM 3 or a program stored in the external memory 11. Further, the CPU 1 executes document processing in which graphics, images, characters, tables (including spreadsheets), etc. are mixed based on application programs such as document processing stored in the external memory 11 or the like.

  Further, the font ROM of the ROM 3 or the external memory 11 stores font data used in the document processing. The data ROM of the ROM 3 or the external memory 11 stores various data used when performing the document processing or the like.

The RAM 2 functions as a main memory and work area for the CPU 1.
A keyboard controller (KBC) 5 controls key input from a keyboard 9 or a pointing device (not shown). A display controller (DSPC) 6 controls display on a display 10 such as an LCD.

  An external memory controller (DKC) 7 controls access to the external memory 11. The external memory 11 is composed of, for example, a hard disk (HD), a floppy (registered trademark) disk (FD), or a flash EEPROM. The external memory 11 stores various programs such as a boot program, an operating system, various application programs, a printer selector and a network printer driver program, and various data such as font data, user files, and edit files.

  An external interface controller (external I / FC) 8 is connected to the printer 1500 via a predetermined bidirectional interface 21 and executes communication control processing with the printer 1500. The bidirectional interface 21 may be any other interface that can connect the host computer 3000 and the printer 1500, whether it is USB I / F, Network I / F, wired, or wireless. It may be an interface.

  Note that the CPU 1 executes, for example, outline font development (rasterization) processing on the display information RAM set on the RAM 2 to enable WYSIWYG on the display 10. The CPU 1 opens various windows registered based on commands instructed by a mouse cursor (not shown) on the display 10 and executes various data processing.

Next, the printer 1500 will be described.
The CPU 12 generally controls access to various devices connected to the system bus 15 based on a program ROM stored in the ROM 13 or a control program stored in the hard disk 23, and is connected via the printing unit interface 16. An image signal as output information is output to a printing unit (printer engine) 17. The printing unit 17 may be of any printing method. For example, an ink jet type, a sublimation type, or an electrophotographic type may be used.

  The font ROM of the ROM 13 stores font data used for generating the output information. The data ROM of the ROM 13 stores various characteristic information used on the host computer 3000 in the case of a printer not provided with an external storage device such as the hard disk 23.

  The CPU 12 can perform communication processing with the host computer 3000 via the external interface controller (external I / FC) 18, and is configured to be able to notify the host computer 3000 of information in the printer.

The external interface controller (external I / FC) 18 is connected to the host computer 3000 via a predetermined bidirectional interface 21 and executes communication control processing with the host computer 3000.
The RAM 19 functions as a main memory and work area for the CPU 12. The RAM 19 is configured so that the memory capacity can be expanded by an optional RAM connected to an expansion port (not shown). The RAM 19 is used as an output information expansion area, environment data storage area, NVRAM, and the like. The NVRAM area (non-volatile storage area) in the RAM 19 stores printer information of the printer 1500 (including information indicating printer settings and status printed by status printing). To do.

  Access to the hard disk (HD) 23 is controlled by a disk controller (DKC) 22. The hard disk 23 may be a solid state drive (SSD) or the like.

  The external memory 14 is an IC card or the like, and access is controlled by a memory controller (MC) 20. The external memory 14 is connected to the printer 1500 as an option, and stores font data, an emulation program, form data, and the like.

  An operation unit (operation panel) 1501 includes switches for operation, an LED display, and the like. Further, the operation unit 1501 is provided with a status print request button 1502 for the user to instruct execution of status printing (that is, for receiving a status printing instruction from the user).

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the printing system of the present invention.
The application 101 passes the created data to the print data generation unit 102. The application 101 is executed by the CPU 1. The print data generation unit 102 generates print data from the data received from the application 101 and passes it to the print data transfer unit 103. The CPU 1 functions as the print data generation unit 102 according to the control program.

  The print data transfer unit 103 periodically acquires a printer status from the printer 1500, and looks at the acquired status to perform online processing, offline processing, and transfer of print data to the printer 1500. Further, when execution of status printing is confirmed, the print data transfer unit 103 acquires printer information from the printer 1500 and passes it to the status print generation unit 104. The external interface controller 8 has a function of communicating with the host computer 3000 among the functions of the print data transfer unit 103. Further, the CPU 1 functions as a part of the print data transfer unit 103 according to the control program. For example, the CPU 1 generates print data and commands to be transmitted to the printer 1500, and the external interface controller 8 transmits the print data and commands to the printer 1500. The external interface controller 8 receives information from the printer 1500, and the CPU 1 processes the information.

  The status print generation unit 104 generates print data for status printing from the printer information acquired from the print data transfer unit 103 and passes it to the print data transfer unit 103. The print data transfer unit 103 transfers the print data for status printing received from the status print generation unit 104 to the printer 1500. The CPU 1 functions as the status print generation unit 104 according to the control program.

Next, the functional configuration of the printer 1500 will be described.
The communication unit 105 receives commands from the host computer 3000 and transmits printer status and printer information to the host computer 3000. The external interface controller 18 functions as the communication unit 105.

  When the status print request button 1502 is pressed from the operation unit 1501 (FIG. 1) and the status print type determination unit 106 determines that communication with the host computer 3000 is possible, the status print type determination unit 106 receives the status acquisition command from the host computer 3000 and receives the printer. A status print request flag is set in the status and notified to the host computer 3000 via the communication unit 105. The CPU 12 functions as the status print type determination unit 106 according to the control program. The status print request flag is a flag for notifying the host computer 3000 that the status print request button 1502 has received a status print instruction from the user. Further, the status print type determination unit 106 determines the status print type as a regular status print in accordance with the status print generation enable command received from the host computer 3000.

  If the status print request button 1502 is pressed from the operation unit 1501 (FIG. 1) and the status print type determination unit 106 determines that communication with the host computer 3000 is impossible, the status print type determination unit 106 changes the status print type to simple status printing. decide.

  That is, when the status print type determination unit 106 receives a status print request from the user, the status print type determination unit 106 uses the status print print data received from the host computer 3000 depending on whether communication with the host computer 3000 is possible or not. The first status printing process for performing the status printing process or the second status printing process for performing the simple status printing process using the font for performing the font status printing acquired from the font ROM of the ROM 13 is determined. To do.

  If the status print type determination unit 106 determines to execute regular status printing, the status print type determination unit 106 notifies the host computer 3000 that execution of status printing has been confirmed via the communication unit 105. Further, the status print type determination unit 106 transmits printer information to the host computer 3000 in response to a printer information acquisition command from the host computer 3000. As described above, the status print type determination unit 106 requests the print data for status printing from the host computer 3000, and receives the print data for status printing from the host computer 3000 (status print data reception process). On the other hand, when the status print type determination unit 106 determines to execute simple status printing, the status print type determination unit 106 instructs the simple status print generation unit 107 to generate print data for simple status printing.

The simple status print generation unit 107 acquires fonts from the font ROM in the ROM 13 and printer information from the RAM 19 in accordance with instructions from the status print type determination unit 106, and uses these to obtain print data for simple status printing. Generate. The CPU 12 functions as the simple status print generation unit 107 according to the control program.
The printing mechanism unit 108 prints the print data received from the host computer 3000 or the simple status print generation unit 107. The printing mechanism unit 108 has a printing function among the functions of the printing mechanism unit 108. Further, the CPU 1 functions as a part of the print data transfer unit 103 according to the control program. For example, the CPU 12 receives print data from the communication unit 105, and the printing unit 108 executes printing based on the print data.

  Note that the user often requests execution of status printing in order to check the status of the printer while staying in front of the printer. However, a host base printer such as the printer 1500 needs to be connected to the host computer 3000 when performing regular status printing. That is, the host base printer cannot perform normal status printing unless the host computer 3000 is connected.

  Although it is possible to perform status printing with only the printer using the minimum fonts installed in the printer, in this case, since the font is limited, a simple status with limited items etc. You can only print. A simple status print is one that prints fewer items (that is, a smaller amount of data is printed) than a regular status print. The user may want to check the printer settings and status for many items, such as regular status printing. However, in simple status printing, information on items that the user wants to check is not printed, and it may be difficult for the user to sufficiently check the printer status. Therefore, it is desirable for the printer to execute regular status printing when the host computer is connected.

  Although it is possible to add fonts by adding an external memory 14 as an option, etc., this increases the cost, so the host base printer with reduced cost can be equipped with the external memory 14 as a standard. Is not realistic.

  In this embodiment, when the user presses the status print request button 1502 from the main body panel (operation unit 1501) of the printer 1500, whether the printer 1500 is connected to an interface (I / F) such as a network or USB. Confirm. If the I / F is not connected, the printer 1500 prints a simple status print report.

  On the other hand, when the I / F is connected, the printer 1500 reflects the status print request flag in the printer status. The host computer 3000 that has acquired the printer status from the printer 1500 notifies the printer 1500 that it is possible if status printing can be executed. The printer 1500 selects and determines a host computer 3000 that executes status printing from among the host computers 3000 that can execute status printing, and requests the determined host computer 3000 to execute status printing. The host computer 3000 that has been requested to execute status printing generates print data for regular status printing and transmits it to the printer 1500. In the printer, the printer 1500 receives the print data for status printing, and prints the print data for status printing.

  With the above processing, the printer 1500 prints a simple status print report when not connected to the host computer 3000, and prints a regular status print report when connected to the host computer 3000. Is possible.

  Note that in the host computer 3000, the application 101, the print data generation unit 102, the print data transfer unit 103, and the status print generation unit 104 are programs stored in the ROM 3 or the external memory 11 so that the CPU 1 of the host computer 3000 can read the computer. It corresponds to a function realized by the host computer 3000 by reading and executing.

  In the printer 1500, the communication unit 105, the status print type determination unit 106, and the simple status print generation unit 107 are read out and executed by the CPU 12 of the printer 1500 by reading a program recorded in the ROM 13 or the hard disk 23 so as to be computer-readable. This corresponds to a function realized by the printer 1500. The printing mechanism unit 108 includes the printing unit 17 and the like.

[Operation of host computer]
Hereinafter, detailed processing on the host computer 3000 side of the present embodiment will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing on the host computer 3000 side of this embodiment. Each step (S301 to S316) of this flowchart is processed by the print data transfer unit 103 and the status print generation unit 104. The processing based on this flowchart is realized by the CPU 1 of the host computer 3000 reading and executing a computer-readable program recorded in the ROM 3 or the external memory 11.

  In step S301, the print data transfer unit 103 acquires a printer status transmitted from the printer 1500 by transmitting a status acquisition command to the printer 1500 (inquires by polling to acquire the printer status). The printer status includes error information generated in the printer, the status of the print job, a status print request flag, a status print execution confirmation flag, and the like.

  In step S302, the print data transfer unit 103 determines whether a status print request flag is set in the printer status acquired in step S301. The status print request flag is a flag for notifying the host computer 3000 from the printer 1500 that the status print request button 1502 has received a status print instruction from the user.

  If it is determined that the status print request flag is not set in the printer status acquired in S301 (No in S301), the print data transfer unit 103 returns the process to S301.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the status print request flag is set in the printer status acquired in S301 (Yes in S301), the print data transfer unit 103 proceeds to S303. In S303, the print data transfer unit 103 It is determined whether status printing is possible. Note that if the host computer 3000 is in a state where job processing cannot be performed due to insufficient memory capacity or disk capacity, it is determined that status printing is not possible. If the job processing is possible, status printing is possible. Is determined.

If it is determined that status printing is not possible (No in S303), the print data transfer unit 103 returns the process to S301.
On the other hand, if it is determined that status printing is possible (Yes in S303), the print data transfer unit 103 transmits a status print enable command to the printer 1500 in S304 (possible information transmission processing). Note that the status print enable command includes at least one of the specifications of the host computer 3000 (information regarding the performance of the host computer 3000 such as CPU information and memory size) and information regarding the processing state of the host computer 3000 such as the CPU usage rate.

  In step S <b> 305, the print data transfer unit 103 acquires a printer status transmitted from the printer 1500 by transmitting a status acquisition command to the printer 1500 (inquires by polling to acquire the printer status).

  In step S <b> 306, the print data transfer unit 103 determines whether the status print execution confirmation flag is set in the printer status acquired in step S <b> 305 (whether the status print execution is confirmed). The status print execution confirmation flag is a flag for requesting data for status printing from the printer side to the host computer. Therefore, when the status print execution confirmation flag is set in the printer status transmitted from the printer 1500 in response to the status acquisition command, the print data transfer unit 103 determines that the request for print data for status printing has been confirmed. recognize.

  When it is determined that the status print execution confirmation flag is not set in the printer status acquired in S305 (when it is determined that the status print execution is not confirmed) (No in S306), the print data transfer unit 103 , The process returns to S301.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the status print execution confirmation flag is set in the printer status acquired in S305 (when it is determined that the execution of status printing has been confirmed) (Yes in S306), the print data transfer unit 103 performs S307. Proceed with the process.

  In step S <b> 307, the print data transfer unit 103 acquires printer information from the printer 1500 by transmitting a printer information acquisition command to the printer 1500, and passes the acquired printer information to the status print generation unit 104. The printer information includes information indicating the settings and status of the printer that is printed by status printing. For example, information such as the presence / absence of an option cassette, presence / absence of a network interface, Mac address, IP address, sleep setting, firmware version, and the like as shown in FIG. 5 is included in the printer information. Note that the printer information is not limited to the information shown in FIG. 5, and various printer setting information, for example, extended function settings, paper feed settings, layout settings, operation mode settings, print adjustment settings, etc. Information such as settings, interface settings, various status information, the remaining amount of printing agent (ink, toner, etc.), the remaining amount of paper, and the print counter value may also be included.

  In step S <b> 308, the status print generation unit 104 generates print data for status printing using the printer information acquired from the print data transfer unit 103 and the font ROM in the ROM 13 or the font stored in the external memory 11. , To the print data transfer unit 103. Here, print data for regular status printing as shown in FIG. 5 is generated.

  In step S <b> 309, the print data transfer unit 103 transmits the status print print data acquired from the status print generation unit 104 to the printer 1500 (status print data transmission process).

  In step S <b> 310, the print data transfer unit 103 acquires a printer status transmitted from the printer 1500 by transmitting a status acquisition command to the printer 1500 (inquires by polling to acquire the printer status).

  In step S311, the print data transfer unit 103 determines whether the printer 1500 has completed status printing based on the printer status acquired in step S310.

  When the printer 1500 determines that the status printing has already been completed (Yes in S311), the print data transfer unit 103 ends the process of this flowchart.

On the other hand, if the printer 1500 determines that status printing has not yet been completed (No in S311), the print data transfer unit 103 advances the process to S312.
In step S312, the print data transfer unit 103 determines whether an error has occurred in the printer 1500 based on the printer status acquired in step S310.
If it is determined that no error has occurred in the printer 1500 (No in S312), the print data transfer unit 103 returns the process to S310.

On the other hand, if it is determined that an error has occurred in the printer 1500 (Yes in S312), the print data transfer unit 103 advances the process to S313.
In step S313, the print data transfer unit 103 determines whether the error that has occurred in the printer 1500 is a communication error. For example, if it is determined that the transmission of the print data in S309 has failed, or if it is determined in S310 that the printer status has not been acquired, it is determined that a communication error has occurred.

  If it is determined that the error that has occurred in the printer 1500 is a communication error (Yes in S313), the print data transfer unit 103 ends the processing of this flowchart in order to switch to simple status printing on the printer 1500 side. To control.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the error that has occurred in the printer 1500 is not a communication error (No in S313), the print data transfer unit 103 advances the process to S314.
In step S <b> 314, the print data transfer unit 103 determines whether an error that has occurred in the printer 1500 has been canceled.
If it is determined that the error that has occurred in the printer 1500 has not been canceled (No in S314), the print data transfer unit 103 returns the process to S310.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the error that has occurred in the printer 1500 has been canceled (Yes in S314), the print data transfer unit 103 advances the process to S315.
In step S315, the print data transfer unit 103 determines whether it is necessary to retransmit print data for status printing. Here, the print data transfer unit 103 determines whether it is necessary to retransmit the print data according to the type of error. For example, when a jam error occurs, printing is performed until a jam occurs, so that the print data does not remain in the device buffer, and therefore it is determined that the print data needs to be retransmitted. On the other hand, when there is no paper error, since actual printing has not yet started, the device keeps the print data in the buffer, and therefore it is determined that the retransmission of the print data is unnecessary.

If it is determined that it is not necessary to retransmit the print data for status printing (No in S315), the print data transfer unit 103 returns the process to S310.
On the other hand, if it is determined that it is necessary to retransmit the print data for status printing (Yes in S315), the print data transfer unit 103 retransmits the print data for status printing to the printer 1500 in S316, and returns the process to S310. .

[Printer operation]
Hereinafter, detailed processing on the printer 1500 side of the present embodiment will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing on the printer 1500 side according to the present exemplary embodiment. Each step (S401 to S426) of this flowchart is processed by the communication unit 105, the status print type determination unit 106, and the simple status print generation unit 107. The processing based on this flowchart is realized by the CPU 12 of the printer 1500 reading and executing a program recorded in the ROM 13 or the like so as to be readable by a computer.

  In step S401, the status print type determination unit 106 determines whether the status print request button 1502 of the operation unit 1501 has been pressed by the user (accepts a status print instruction from the user).

  If it is determined that the status print request button 1502 of the operation unit 1501 has not been pressed (No in S401), the status print type determination unit 106 returns the process to S401.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the status print request button 1502 of the operation unit 1501 has been pressed (Yes in S401), the status print type determination unit 106 advances the process to S402.

  In step S <b> 402, the status print type determination unit 106 determines whether it is connected to the host computer 3000 via the bidirectional interface 21 (whether or not communication with the host computer 3000 is possible). For example, with respect to the USB I / F connection, it is determined that the signal line is “High” when connected to the host computer. Further, the connection of the network I / F is determined to be connected by being linked up.

If it is determined that the host computer 3000 is not connected (communication is impossible) via the bidirectional interface 21 (No in S402), the status print type determination unit 106 advances the process to S422.
On the other hand, if it is determined that the host computer 3000 is connected (communication is possible) via the bidirectional interface 21 (Yes in S402), the status print type determination unit 106 advances the process to S403.
In S403, when the status print type determination unit 106 receives a status acquisition command from the host computer 3000 via the communication unit 105 (polling reception), the process proceeds to S404.

In step S404, the status print type determination unit 106 sets a status print request flag in the printer status, and proceeds to step S405.
In step S405, the status print type determination unit 106 transmits the printer status to the host computer 3000 that is the transmission source of the status acquisition command via the communication unit 105.

  When the printer 1500 can communicate with a plurality of host computers 3000 and receives a status acquisition command from the plurality of host computers 3000, the status print type determination unit 106 determines that all the host computers 3000 that are the transmission sources of the status acquisition command are used. It is assumed that the printer status is transmitted to.

  As described above, the status print type determination unit 106 can notify each communicable host computer 3000 that the status print request flag has been received and can generate print data for status printing. Is received from each host computer (possible information reception process).

In step S <b> 406, the status print type determination unit 106 determines whether a status print enable command has been received from the host computer 3000 via the communication unit 105.
If it is determined that the status print enable command has not been received (No in S406), the status print type determination unit 106 advances the process to S408.

On the other hand, if it is determined that a status print enable command has been received (Yes in S406), the status print type determination unit 106 advances the process to S407.
In step S <b> 407, the status print type determination unit 106 records in the work area in the RAM 19 for each host computer 3000 that the status print enable command has been received. In the work area, based on the status print enable command, the response time, the CPU usage rate of the host computer, the specifications of the host computer (CPU information, memory size), and the interface used to connect to the host computer Type (USB or Network etc.) is recorded.

In step S <b> 408, the status print type determination unit 106 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed after the status transmission in step S <b> 405.
If it is determined that the predetermined time has not yet elapsed (No in S408), the status print type determination unit 106 returns the process to S406.

On the other hand, if it is determined that a certain time has elapsed (Yes in S408), the status print type determination unit 106 advances the process to S409.
In step S409, the status print type determination unit 106 determines whether there is a record of reception of a status print enable command in the work area described above.
If it is determined that there is no record of reception of the status print enable command (No in S409), the status print type determination unit 106 determines to execute the simple status print, and the process proceeds to S422.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that there is a record of reception of the status print enable command (Yes in S409), the status print type determination unit 106 determines to execute regular status printing, and proceeds to S410.

  In S410, the status print type determination unit 106 determines a host computer that executes status printing (host determination processing). From the information recorded in the work area, the host computer with the lowest CPU usage rate is determined as the optimum host computer. As an optimum host computer determination method, other determination methods such as giving priority to the host computer that responded first, the host computer with the highest specification, or the host computer with USB connection may be used.

  In step S411, when the status print type determination unit 106 receives a status acquisition command from the host computer 3000 via the communication unit 105 (polling reception), the process proceeds to step S412.

  In step S412, the status print type determination unit 106 sets a status print execution confirmation flag in the printer status based on the result of the host determination process in step S410. In step S413, the communication unit 105 transmits the printer status to the host computer 3000. The printer status (information indicating the printer status) transmitted to the host computer that executes status printing includes a status print execution confirmation flag (flag for requesting data for status printing from the host computer). . On the other hand, a printer status transmitted to a host computer that does not execute status printing does not include a status print execution confirmation flag.

  When status acquisition commands are received from a plurality of host computers 3000, the status print type determination unit 106 transmits the printer status to all the host computers 3000 that are the transmission source of the status acquisition commands.

  In step S <b> 427, when the status print type determination unit 106 receives a printer information acquisition command from the host computer 3000 via the communication unit 105, the status print type determination unit 106 acquires printer information from the RAM 19. The communication unit 105 transmits the printer information to the host computer 3000. Note that, as described above, the printer information includes information indicating the settings and status of the printer that is printed by status printing.

  In step S <b> 414, the communication unit 105 receives the status print data transmitted from the host computer 3000, and passes the received status print data to the printing mechanism unit 108. As a result, the printing mechanism unit 108 starts printing the report as shown in FIG. 5 (S415). FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a regular status print. Although not shown, the status print type determination unit 106 transmits the printer status to the host computer 3000 after receiving a status acquisition command from the host computer 3000.

In step S416, the status print type determination unit 106 determines whether the status print started in step S415 has been completed.
If it is determined that the status printing has been completed (Yes in S416), the status print type determination unit 106 ends the process of this flowchart.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the status print has not been completed yet (No in S416), the status print type determination unit 106 advances the process to S417.
In step S417, the status print type determination unit 106 determines whether an error has occurred.
If it is determined that no error has occurred (No in S417), the status print type determination unit 106 returns the process to S416.

On the other hand, if it is determined that an error has occurred (Yes in S417), the status print type determination unit 106 advances the process to S418.
In step S418, the status print type determination unit 106 determines whether the error is a communication error.
If it is determined that the error is a communication error (Yes in S418), the status print type determination unit 106 advances the process to S422.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the error is not a communication error (No in S418), the status print type determination unit 106 advances the process to S419.
In step S <b> 419, the status print type determination unit 106 determines whether the error has been canceled from the information acquired from the printing mechanism unit 108.
If it is determined that the error has not yet been released (No in S419), the status print type determination unit 106 performs the process of S419 again.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the error has been canceled (Yes in S419), the status print type determination unit 106 advances the process to S420.
In S420, the status print type determination unit 106 determines whether it is necessary to retransmit the print data for status printing.
If it is determined that it is not necessary to retransmit the print data for status printing (No in S420), the status print type determination unit 106 returns the process to S416.

On the other hand, if it is determined that it is necessary to retransmit the print data for status printing (Yes in S420), the status print type determination unit 106 advances the process to S421.
In step S421, the status print type determination unit 106 receives print data for status printing from the host computer 3000, and returns the process to step S415.

  If No in S402, No in S409, or Yes in S418, the status print type determination unit 106 instructs the simple status print generation unit 107 to generate print data of simple status prints in S422. In response to this instruction, the simple status print generation unit 107 acquires printer information from the RAM 19, acquires fonts from the ROM for fonts in the ROM 13, and generates print data for simple status printing using these.

In S423, the simple status print generation unit 107 passes the print of the print data for the simple status print generated in S422 to the printing mechanism unit 108. As a result, the printing mechanism unit 108 starts printing the report as shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a simple status print.
In the above description, the simple status print generation unit 107 generates print data for simple status printing after being instructed by the status print type determination unit 106. However, each time the printer information stored in the RAM 19 is changed, the simple status print generation unit 107 generates print data for simple status printing based on the changed printer information and stores the print data in the RAM 19. It may be left. In this case, the simple status print generation unit 107 acquires print data for simple status printing from the RAM 19 in accordance with an instruction from the status print type determination unit 106 and passes the print data to the printing mechanism unit 108.

In step S424, the status print type determination unit 106 determines whether simple status printing has been completed.
If it is determined that the simple status printing is completed (Yes in S424), the status print type determination unit 106 ends the process of this flowchart.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the simple status printing has not yet been completed (No in S424), the status print type determination unit 106 advances the process to S425.
In step S425, the status print type determination unit 106 determines whether an error has occurred.
If it is determined that no error has occurred (No in S425), the status print type determination unit 106 returns the process to S424.

On the other hand, if it is determined that an error has occurred (Yes in S425), the status print type determination unit 106 advances the process to S426.
In step S426, the status print type determination unit 106 determines whether the error has been canceled.
If it is determined that the error has not been canceled (No in S426), the status print type determination unit 106 performs the process of S426 again.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the error has been canceled (Yes in S426), the status print type determination unit 106 returns the process to S424.

  As described above, normal status printing can be executed as much as possible by operation on the printer side. If a plurality of host computers are connected to the printer, the optimum host computer can execute status printing. Even when the host computer is not connected to the printer, the printer can execute the simple status print to provide the minimum information to the user.

  In the present embodiment, the printer 1500 responds to an inquiry (status acquisition command) from the host computer 3000, a status print request flag for notifying that a user has instructed status printing, and printing for status printing. The configuration in which the printer status in which the status print execution confirmation flag for requesting data to the host computer 3000 is set is transmitted to the host computer 3000 is shown. However, the printer 1500 voluntarily sends a notification that the user has issued a status print instruction or a request for requesting print data for status printing from the host computer 3000 to the host computer 3000. You may comprise.

  In the present embodiment, the printer 1500 is configured to request and receive print data for status printing (print data printable by the printing unit 17) from the host computer 3000. However, the printer 1500 requests and receives font data for performing status printing from the host computer 3000 and uses the received font data and the printer information stored in the RAM 19 to generate a regular status on the printer 1500 side. You may comprise so that the printing data for printing may be produced | generated. That is, in response to a request from the printer 1500, the host computer 3000 acquires font data (particularly font data used for status printing) stored in the font ROM of the ROM 3 or an external memory, and transmits it to the printer 1500. You may comprise as follows.

It should be noted that the configuration and contents of the various data described above are not limited to this, and it goes without saying that the various data and configurations are configured according to the application and purpose.
Although one embodiment has been described above, the present invention can take an embodiment as, for example, a system, apparatus, method, program, or storage medium. Specifically, the present invention may be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices, or may be applied to an apparatus composed of a single device.

Moreover, all the structures which combined said each Example are also contained in this invention.
(Other examples)
The present invention can also be realized by executing the following processing. That is, software (program) that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or apparatus via a network or various storage media, and a computer (or CPU, MPU, or the like) of the system or apparatus reads the program. It is a process to be executed.

In the description of FIG. 2, it has been described that the print data generation unit 102 and the status print generation unit 104 are realized by the CPU 1. However, dedicated hardware corresponding to each of the print data generation unit 102 and the status print generation unit 104 may be prepared in addition to the CPU 1.
In addition, dedicated hardware corresponding to each of the simple status print generation units 107 may be prepared in addition to the CPU 12.

Further, the present invention may be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices or an apparatus composed of a single device.
The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications (including organic combinations of the embodiments) are possible based on the spirit of the present invention, and these are excluded from the scope of the present invention. is not. That is, the present invention includes all the combinations of the above-described embodiments and modifications thereof.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 102 Print data generation means 103 Print data transfer means 104 Status print generation means 105 Communication means 106 Status type determination part 107 Simple status print generation means 108 Printing mechanism part 1500 Printer 3000 Host computer

Claims (15)

A printing device,
Accepting means for accepting a printing instruction for the state or setting of the printing apparatus from a user;
Determining means for determining whether communication with the information processing apparatus is possible;
If the accepting means accepts the print instruction and the judging means determines that communication with the information processing apparatus is possible, the data processing apparatus requests data for printing the status or setting of the printing apparatus, Communication means for receiving data generated by the information processing apparatus from the information processing apparatus;
Generating means for generating data for printing the status or setting of the printing apparatus;
When the receiving unit receives the print instruction and the determining unit determines that communication with the information processing apparatus is possible, the receiving unit performs a printing process using the data received, and the receiving unit receives the print instruction. A print processing unit that receives and prints using the data generated by the generation unit when the determination unit determines that communication with the information processing apparatus is impossible;
A printing apparatus comprising: When the determination unit determines that communication with the information processing apparatus is possible, the communication unit notifies each of the information processing apparatuses capable of communication that the print instruction has been received from the reception unit. Receives possible information transmitted from each information processing device when data for printing the status or setting of the printing device can be generated,
The printing apparatus further includes:
Determining means for determining an information processing device that requests data for printing the status or setting of the printing device based on the possible information;
The printing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising:   The printing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the possible information includes at least one of information related to performance of the information processing apparatus and information related to a processing state of the information processing apparatus.   3. The determination unit according to claim 2, wherein if the possible information is not received from any information processing apparatus, the determination unit determines to perform a printing process using data generated by the generation unit. The printing apparatus according to 3.   The communication means requests the information processing apparatus for data for printing the status or setting of the printing apparatus in response to a status inquiry from the information processing apparatus. The printing apparatus according to any one of the above.   The communication means sets information indicating the status of the printing apparatus and sets a flag for requesting data for printing of the status or setting of the printing apparatus to the information processing apparatus, and transmits the information to the information processing apparatus. The printing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the information processing apparatus requests data for printing the status or setting of the printing apparatus. An information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a printing apparatus,
Receiving means for receiving a request for data for printing the status or setting of the printing apparatus transmitted from the printing apparatus when a printing instruction for the status or setting of the printing apparatus is received from a user in the printing apparatus; ,
Generating means for generating data for printing the status or settings of the printing device when the request is received by the receiving means;
Transmitting means for transmitting the data generated by the generating means to the printing device;
An information processing apparatus comprising:   The said receiving means receives the request | requirement of the data for the printing of the state or setting of the said printing apparatus from the said printing apparatus by inquiring of the state of the said printing apparatus, The said request | requirement of Claim 7 The information processing apparatus described.   In the case where a flag for requesting data for printing of the status or setting of the printing device is set in the information indicating the status of the printing device transmitted from the printing device in response to the inquiry 9. The information processing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the information processing apparatus recognizes that there is a request for data for printing the status or setting of the printing apparatus. When receiving a notification that the print instruction has been received from the printing apparatus, a determination unit that determines whether data for printing of the state or setting of the printing apparatus can be generated;
When the determination unit determines that data for printing the status or setting of the printing apparatus can be generated, the information processing apparatus can generate data for printing the status or setting of the printing apparatus. Possible information transmission means for transmitting the possible information to be transmitted to the printing device to the printing device;
The information processing apparatus according to claim 7, further comprising:   The information processing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the possible information includes at least one of information related to performance of the information processing apparatus and information related to a processing state of the information processing apparatus. A method for controlling a printing apparatus,
A receiving step in which a receiving unit receives a printing instruction for the state or setting of the printing apparatus from a user;
A determination step for determining whether the determination means can communicate with the information processing apparatus;
When the communication unit receives the print instruction in the receiving step and determines that communication with the information processing apparatus is possible in the determination step, the data for printing the status or setting of the printing apparatus is stored in the information processing apparatus. Requesting and receiving from the information processing device the data generated by the information processing device;
A first status print processing step in which the print processing means performs print processing using the data received in the reception step;
A generating step for generating data for printing the status or setting of the printing apparatus;
When the print processing unit receives the print instruction in the reception step and determines that communication with the information processing apparatus is impossible in the determination step, a second print process is performed using the data generated in the generation step. Status printing process step;
A control method for a printing apparatus, comprising: A method for controlling an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a printing apparatus,
A receiving unit receives a request for data for printing the status or setting of the printing apparatus transmitted from the printing apparatus when a printing instruction for the status or setting of the printing apparatus is received from a user in the printing apparatus. Receiving step to
A generating step for generating data for printing the status or setting of the printing device when the generating unit receives the request in the receiving step;
A transmission step for transmitting data for printing the status or setting of the printing apparatus generated in the generation step to the printing apparatus;
A method for controlling an information processing apparatus, comprising:   The program for functioning a computer as a means of the printing apparatus as described in any one of Claims 1 thru | or 6.   The program for functioning a computer as a means of the information processing apparatus as described in any one of Claims 7 thru | or 11.

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