JP2013158911A - Recording device, control method for the same and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To output useful information related to a control command in development and maintenance of a control program in a control device, in a recording device connectable to the control device.SOLUTION: An information recording control part 21a of a printer 2 enables recording on a recording medium on the basis of a control command input from a host computer 4. In regard to a sample image constituted by an array of predetermined types of images in a predetermined order, the type and the order of each image constituting the sample image can be designated. When recording of the sample image is instructed, designated types of the images are recorded on the recording medium in a designated order so as to record the sample image. To record the recorded sample image, a control command group to be output from the host computer 4 is recorded on the recording medium.

Description

  The present invention relates to a recording apparatus connectable to a control apparatus, a control method for the recording apparatus, and a program for controlling the recording apparatus.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a recording apparatus (printer) that records on a recording medium under the control of a control apparatus (host apparatus) is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).
When this type of recording apparatus records an image on a recording medium, first, a control command instructing recording of the image is input from the control apparatus. Then, the recording apparatus sequentially reads and executes the input control commands, thereby controlling the mechanism related to recording, and recording the image on the recording medium.

JP 2006-123318 A

By the way, the control device generates a control command by a function of a control program such as a printer driver and outputs it to the recording device. In developing and maintaining a control program, if useful information regarding the control command can be provided to the worker in response to a request from the worker, the burden on the worker can be reduced. For example, it is possible to reduce the number of times that an operator checks a control command using a specification or the like.
The present invention has been made in view of the above-described circumstances, and enables recording of a recording device connectable to a control device to output useful information regarding a control command in developing and maintaining a control program in the control device. With the goal.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides a recording device that can be connected to a control device, and controls that are input from the control device for a plurality of types of images having different control command instructions for recording an image. Based on the command, it is configured to be recordable on a recording medium, and for a sample image configured with a predetermined type of images arranged in a predetermined order, the type of each image constituting the sample image and the order thereof are When the recording of the sample image is instructed, the sample image is recorded by recording the specified type of image on the recording medium in the specified order, and the recorded sample image is recorded. For this purpose, an information recording control unit for recording a control command group to be output by the control device on the recording medium is provided.
Here, depending on the type of image, the mode of the control command for instructing image recording differs. For example, a control command for instructing recording of a character string, a control command for instructing recording of a graphics image, and a control command instructing recording of a barcode are respectively an instruction code in each command and a parameter in each command. The setting method is different. Some recording apparatuses record a predetermined type of image in a predetermined order when recording an image. For example, a recording apparatus capable of issuing a receipt records an image on a receipt by recording a predetermined type of image on a recording medium in a predetermined order according to a predetermined layout. In such a case, the contents of the control command group to be output by the control device in order for the operator who develops and maintains the control program of the control device to record a predetermined type of image on the recording device in a predetermined order. Can be used as a reference for programming and used for testing a control program, so that useful information can be provided to the operator.
According to the above configuration, the recording apparatus is configured so that the type and order of each image constituting the sample image can be specified. When the recording of the sample image is instructed, the recording device is specified in the specified order. A sample image is recorded by recording the type of image on the recording medium, and a control command group to be output by the control device to record the recorded sample image is recorded on the recording medium. Thus, the recording apparatus is beneficial in that a sample image in which a predetermined type of image is arranged in a predetermined order and a control command group for recording the sample image in accordance with an operator's request. Information can be provided.

Further, in the present invention, the information recording control unit represents the control command group instead of or together with the control command group to be output by the control device in order to record the recorded sample image. An identification code is recorded on the recording medium.
According to this configuration, during the development or maintenance of the control program, it is often in a state where communication cannot be performed between the control device and the recording device or between the development terminal and the recording device. Even if communication cannot be performed with the control device, the control command group can be assigned to the control device or the development device by reading the identification code using the control device or the development terminal, without requiring manual input. It becomes possible to input to the terminal. The control command group input to the control device can be used for development of a control program and program correction of the control program.

Further, the present invention is characterized in that the information recording control unit records information on the control command on the recording medium when an instruction to display information on a predetermined control command is given.
According to this configuration, the recording device records information on the specific control command on the recording medium in accordance with the operator's instruction. For this reason, it is possible to provide information useful for the development and maintenance of a control program, that is, information related to a desired control command, in response to an operator's request. In addition, the operator can acquire information on a specific control command without referring to a specification or the like.

Further, according to the present invention, the information recording control unit further records a recordable image on the recording medium using the control command for the control command instructed to display information, and records the image. For this purpose, the control command to be output by the control device is recorded on the recording medium.
According to this configuration, in addition to information on the selected control command, an image that can be recorded using the control command, and a control command group that the control device should output to record the image Can provide useful information.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention is configured to be connectable to a control device, and is input from the control device for a plurality of types of images having different modes of control commands for instructing image recording. A control method of a recording apparatus configured to be able to record on a recording medium based on a control command, each of which constitutes a sample image with respect to a sample image configured by arranging a predetermined type of image in a predetermined order When the type of image and its order are specified and recording of the sample image is instructed, the sample type is recorded on the recording medium by recording the image of the specified type in the specified order, and A control command group to be output by the control device to record the recorded sample image is recorded on the recording medium.
According to this control method, the recording apparatus is configured so that the type and order of each image constituting the sample image can be specified. When recording of the sample image is instructed, the recording apparatus is specified in the specified order. A sample image is recorded by recording the type of image on the recording medium, and a control command group to be output by the control device to record the recorded sample image is recorded on the recording medium. Thus, the recording apparatus is beneficial in that a sample image in which a predetermined type of image is arranged in a predetermined order and a control command group for recording the sample image in accordance with an operator's request. Information can be provided.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention is configured to be connectable to a control device, and is input from the control device for a plurality of types of images having different modes of control commands for instructing image recording. A program executed by a control unit that controls a recording apparatus configured to be recordable on a recording medium based on a control command, wherein the control unit is configured by arranging predetermined types of images in a predetermined order. When the type of each image constituting the sample image and the order thereof are designated and recording of the sample image is instructed, the type of image designated in the designated order is recorded on the recording medium. In addition to recording a sample image by recording, a control command group to be output by the control device to record the recorded sample image is recorded on the recording medium. Characterized in that to function as an information recording control unit for recording.
According to this program, the recording apparatus is configured so that the type and order of each image constituting the sample image can be specified. When recording of the sample image is instructed, the recording apparatus is specified in the specified order. A sample image is recorded by recording the type of image on the recording medium, and a control command group to be output by the control device to record the recorded sample image is recorded on the recording medium. Thus, the recording apparatus is beneficial in that a sample image in which a predetermined type of image is arranged in a predetermined order and a control command group for recording the sample image in accordance with an operator's request. Information can be provided.

  Advantageous Effects of Invention According to the present invention, there is an effect that useful information regarding control commands can be output in the development and maintenance of a control program in a control device for a recording device that can be connected to the control device.

1 is an external perspective view of a printer according to an embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of a recording system. It is a figure which shows a receipt. 3 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of a printer. It is a figure which shows a self-test image and a mode selection image. It is a figure which shows a help mode image, a sample preparation image, and a layout setting image. It is a figure which shows a sample related image and an identification code image. It is a figure which shows a command major classification image, a command middle classification image, a command minor classification image, and a command detailed information image. It is a figure which shows a selection control command sample image and a selection control command identification code image.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of a printer 2 (recording apparatus) according to an embodiment to which the present invention is applied.
The printer 2 is a thermal printer that stores a roll paper 10 (recording medium) in the main body 11 and records an image on the roll paper 10 by a thermal head (not shown) built in the main body 11 while conveying the roll paper 10. . In particular, the printer 2 can issue a piece of paper by recording a predetermined image on the roll paper 10 and cutting it at a predetermined position.
As shown in FIG. 1, a cover 12 that can be opened and closed is provided on the main body 11 of the printer 2, and the cover 12 is opened by depressing the lever 13. When the cover 12 is opened, a space for accommodating the roll paper 10 is exposed in the main body 11, and the roll paper 10 can be replenished and replaced.
A paper discharge port 14 for discharging the recorded roll paper 10 is formed on the upper surface of the main body 11 of the printer 2. A cutting blade 15 for cutting the roll paper 10 is provided in the paper discharge port 14.
The main body 11 includes a power switch 16 for turning on / off the printer 2, a push switch 17 (operation switch) for performing operations such as a paper feed operation instruction and operation mode switching, and an operation state of the printer 2. An LED display unit 18 for displaying the above is provided.

  As described above, the printer 2 according to the present embodiment includes only the push switch 17 as an operation switch in addition to the power switch 16. Further, the printer 2 does not include a display display such as a liquid crystal display.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the recording system 1 according to this embodiment.
The recording system 1 includes a printer 2 and a host computer 4. Under the control of the host computer 4, an image is recorded on the roll paper 10 by the printer 2, and after an image is recorded on the roll paper 10, In this system, a piece of paper is issued by cutting at a predetermined position.
In the following description, the recording system 1 is a system that is assumed to be applied to a convenience store, a supermarket, or the like as a part of the POS system, and can issue a receipt as a piece of paper. .

As shown in FIG. 2, the printer 2 includes a control unit 21, a print engine 22, an input unit 23, a display unit 24, a storage unit 25, and an interface unit 26 (I / F). .
The control unit 21 centrally controls each unit of the printer 2 and includes a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and other peripheral circuits. The control unit 21 controls each unit of the printer 2 by reading out and executing the firmware 41 stored in the storage unit 25. The control unit 21 can execute various timing operations based on a reference clock generated by an oscillator (not shown). In particular, the control unit 21 can perform a pressing operation based on a pressing detection signal for the pressing switch 17 input from the input unit 23. The time elapsed from when the switch 17 is pressed until the pressing is released can be measured. The control unit 21 includes an information recording control unit 21a, which will be described later.
The print engine 22 is connected to a thermal head that records an image on the recording surface of the roll paper 10, a transport mechanism that transports the roll paper 10, a cutting mechanism that cuts the roll paper 10 with the cutting blade 15, and the like. The control unit 21 controls the print engine 22 based on the control command input from the host computer 4, records an image on the roll paper 10, cuts it at a predetermined position, and issues a receipt.
The input unit 23 is connected to the push switch 17, detects an operation on the push switch 17, and outputs the operation to the control unit 21.
The display unit 24 controls the LED display unit 18 under the control of the control unit 21 to turn on / off the LED in a predetermined manner.
The storage unit 25 is a rewritable nonvolatile memory. The storage unit 25 stores firmware 41 for controlling the printer 2.
The interface unit 26 (I / F) performs communication based on a predetermined communication protocol with the host computer 4 under the control of the control unit 21.

The host computer 4 includes a host-side control unit 30, a host-side display unit 31, a host-side input unit 32, an interface unit 33 (I / F), and a host-side storage unit 34.
The host-side control unit 30 centrally controls each unit of the host computer 4 and includes a CPU, ROM, RAM, and other peripheral circuits. The host-side control unit 30 includes a printer driver execution unit 30a, which will be described later.
The host side display unit 31 includes a display panel such as a liquid crystal display panel or an organic EL panel, and displays various types of information on the display panel under the control of the host side control unit 30.
The host side input unit 32 is connected to input devices such as a keyboard, a mouse, a barcode reader, and a card reader, and outputs output signals of these input devices to the host side control unit 30. The bar code reader is used for reading a bar code recorded on a product wrapping paper or the like, and the card reader is used for reading information recorded on a credit card, a member card or the like. Information acquired using an input device such as a barcode reader or a card reader is used for processing relating to receipt issuance.
The interface unit 33 (I / F) performs communication based on the communication standard with the printer 2 under the control of the host-side control unit 30.
The host-side storage unit 34 is a part that stores various data in a rewritable manner, and includes a storage device such as a hard disk or an EEPROM. The host-side storage unit 34 stores a printer driver 42 (control program) so that it can be loaded.

Next, a basic operation when the recording system 1 issues a receipt will be described through the description of the printer driver execution unit 30a.
When the receipt is issued, first, the printer driver execution unit 30a of the host-side control unit 30 of the host computer 4 reads out and executes the printer driver 42 to obtain a control command corresponding to the command specification of the printer 2, 2 generates a control command for causing the printer 2 to perform various operations related to the receipt issuance, and outputs the control command to the printer 2. This control command includes operations necessary for causing the printer 2 to issue a receipt, such as a command for causing the conveyance mechanism to convey the thermal roll paper, a command for driving the thermal head, and a command for causing the cutting mechanism to cut the thermal roll paper. Contains commands that cause
The control unit 21 to which the control command is input controls each unit of the printer 2 based on the control command and issues a receipt.

FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of a receipt that is scheduled to be issued by the recording system 1.
As shown in FIG. 3, a logo image 50 indicating a logo is recorded at the top of the receipt. A logo is an image that is routinely recorded at the beginning of a receipt, such as a mark indicating a subject issuing a receipt (for example, a company that manages a store to which the recording system 1 is applied). The logo image 50 is a graphics image. A graphics image is an image that is not a barcode and is recorded without using font data, which will be described later, and is an image expressed by a combination of bits in a predetermined area.
A date image 51 is recorded below the logo image 50. The date image 51 is an image indicating a receipt issue date. The date image 51 is composed of characters, and each character constituting the date image 51 is recorded using font data. The font data is actual data (bitmap data, scalable font data, etc.) that expresses characters in a form that can be recorded on the roll paper 10. The storage unit 35 of the printer 2 stores font data corresponding to each of the characters (recordable characters) supported by the printer 2.
A receipt information image 52 is recorded below the date image 51. The receipt information image 52 is an image in which details of accounting such as the name of the product purchased by the customer, the purchase quantity, the unit price of the purchased product, and the total purchase amount are recorded. The receipt information image 52 is composed of characters, like the date image 51, and each character constituting the receipt information image 52 is recorded using font data.
Below the receipt information image 52, a bar code 53 for identifying the receipt is recorded.

At the time of image recording, a control command for instructing image recording is transmitted from the host computer 4 to the printer 2.
The logo image 50, the date image 51, and the barcode 53 described above have different control command modes for recording these images. Note that both the date image 51 and the receipt information image 52 are images composed only of characters, and the mode of the control command is the same. The difference in the mode of the control command means that the data structure of the control command itself is different due to a difference in instruction code or the like.
The logo image 50 is a graphics image, and a control command for recording the image includes an instruction code dedicated to the graphics image, parameters according to the instruction code, and accompanying data (for example, the logo image 50 is indicated). Image data) according to a predetermined format.
Further, the date image 51 and the receipt information image 52 are images composed of characters, and a control command for recording the images includes an instruction code dedicated to characters, a parameter according to the instruction code, and an accompanying Data (for example, character code of characters) to be included in conformity with a predetermined format.
The control command for recording the bar code 53 includes an instruction code dedicated to the bar code, parameters according to the instruction code, and accompanying data in conformity with a predetermined format.
Accordingly, any one of the logo image 50, the date image 51 (receipt information image 52), and the barcode 53 cannot be recorded using the control command related to the other image. For example, the receipt information image 52 and the barcode 53 cannot be recorded depending on the control command for recording the logo image 50.
In the following description, it is assumed that the “type” of the image is different when the mode of the corresponding control command is different for the image. As described above, the logo image 50, the date image 51 (or the receipt information image 52), and the barcode 53 have different types of control commands, and therefore have different image types. .

As described above, the host computer 4 generates and outputs a control command for controlling the printer 2 by the function of the printer driver 42. Therefore, when developing the printer driver 42 or performing maintenance with program correction, what kind of control command should the operator generate by the host computer 4 in order to record a predetermined image? If this can be grasped, the work becomes efficient and the labor required for the work is reduced. This is because, in the printer driver 42, a program having a function for generating a control command is compared with a case where it is specifically understood how the control command is supposed to be generated and a case where it is not. This is because it is possible to program more efficiently and steadily, and in some cases, the number of times the control command that is supposed to be generated is examined by a specification or the like is reduced. In addition, it is possible to check whether or not the control command is generated in the assumed mode when the program is tested.
In particular, the printer 2 according to the present embodiment issues a receipt under the control of the host computer 4. In this case, if the operator can grasp the control commands to be generated and output by the host computer 4 in order to record the image according to the layout of the receipt that is supposed to be issued, the development of the printer driver 42, It is possible to achieve more efficient maintenance, easier work, and enhanced program testing.
Based on the above, the printer 2 according to the present embodiment performs the following operation.

In the following description, it is assumed that the operator is developing a printer driver 42 for controlling the printer 2.
The printer 2 is not connected to the host computer 4 and is in a stand-alone state. In general, at the stage of development of the printer driver 42, the printer 2 is prepared in a stand-alone state, connected to a development terminal as appropriate, and necessary tests are performed.
In the following description, the information recording control unit 21a is realized by the cooperation of hardware and software, such as the CPU of the control unit 21 reading and executing firmware.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the printer 2.
In the description of the operation of the printer 2 using FIG. 4, it is assumed that selection appropriate for the description of the invention is made by an operator as appropriate. In this example, the operator means a developer who develops the printer driver 42, but not limited to the operator, any operator can cause the printer 2 to perform the following operations.
First, the operator gives a self-test instruction (step SX1).
The self-test is a function of the printer 2 alone, information on the communication interface, specifications of the built-in buffer, information on the communication protocol, information on the installed font data, information on the set print density, information on the printer 2 This is a function for recording predetermined information such as the state of various dip switches provided on the substrate on the roll paper 10.
The self-test instruction is determined in advance, for example, the cover 12 is opened or closed when the push switch 17 is pressed, or the power switch 16 is turned on when the push switch 17 is pressed. It can be executed by performing a specific operation.
When the self-test is instructed, the information recording control unit 21a of the control unit 21 of the printer 2 acquires the detection value of a predetermined sensor or refers to the information described in the setting file, thereby necessary. Information is acquired, the print engine 22 is controlled, and the self-test image 55 (see FIG. 5A) is recorded on the roll paper 10 (step SA1).

FIG. 5A is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the self-test image 55. In the self-test image 55, predetermined information is recorded sequentially from the top. Further, in the self-test image 55, when the self-test is continued at the lower part of the self-test image 55, the push-down switch 17 is pressed for less than 1 second, while when the mode selection stage is entered, 1 It is recorded that the push switch 17 is pressed for more than one second.
In this example, it is assumed that the operator refers to the information recorded in the lower part of the self-test image 55 and presses the push switch 17 for 1 second or more in order to instruct the transition to the mode selection stage (step SX2). ).
Hereinafter, pressing the push switch 17 for less than 1 second is expressed as “short press”, and pressing the press switch 17 for more than 1 second is expressed as “long press”.

  When the transition to the mode selection stage is instructed, the information recording control unit 21a records the mode selection image 56 on the roll paper 10 (step SA2).

FIG. 5B is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the mode selection image 56. The mode selection image 56 is roughly divided into an area A61 and an area A62.
In the area A61 of the mode selection image 56, five modes M60 to M64 are recorded as selectable modes.
In the area A62 of the mode selection image 56, an explanation of an operation to be performed to select any of the modes M60 to M64 is recorded. In this example, when any one mode is selected, a short press is performed for the number of times indicated by the number B recorded in association with the one mode in area A61, and then a long press is performed. By doing so, one mode is selected. This is the same when selecting a mode in an image described below. In this embodiment, there is only one operation switch, the push switch 17, but any mode can be selected by a combination of short press and long press on the push switch 17.
Among the modes M60 to M64, the mode related to the invention is the mode M64 (Print Command Help or Sample). In this example, after the mode recording image 56 is recorded on the roll paper 10, the operator selects the mode. It is assumed that the mode M64 is selected by referring to the selection image 56 and performing the long press after performing the short press four times (step SX3).
When this mode M64 is selected, the operation mode of the printer 2 shifts to “help mode”. The operation of the printer 2 in the help mode is a characteristic operation different from the conventional one.
When the operator selects the mode M64, the information recording control unit 21a records the help mode image 57 (see FIG. 6A) on the roll paper 10 (step SA3).

  FIG. 6A is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the help mode image 57 recorded on the roll paper 10. In the help mode image 57, three modes M70 to M72 are recorded as selectable modes. Of these three modes, the modes related to the invention are the mode M71 (Command Help Information) and the mode M72 (Print Sample Receipt). Hereinafter, the operation of the printer 2 will be described for each of the case where the mode M72 is selected and the case where the mode M71 is selected.

<When mode M72 (Print Sample Receipt) is selected>
When the operator selects the mode M72 after the help mode image 57 is recorded on the roll paper 10 (step SX4), the information recording control unit 21a sets the sample preparation image 58 (FIG. 6B) on the roll paper 10. Reference) is recorded (step SA4).
As will be apparent from the following description, the operator sets the layout of the sample image SP (described later), records the sample image SP on the roll paper 10, and a control command group for recording the recorded sample image SP. Mode M72 in the help mode image 57 is selected when it is desired to record the information on the roll paper 10.

FIG. 6B is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the sample preparation image 58. In the sample preparation image 58, four modes M80 to M83 are recorded as selectable modes. Of these four modes, the modes relevant to the invention are the three modes M81 to M83.
First, the case where the mode M81 is selected will be described.
When the operator selects the mode M81 (step SX5), the information recording control unit 21a records the layout setting image 59 (see FIG. 6C) on the roll paper 10 (step SA5).

  FIG. 6C is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the layout setting image 59. The layout setting image 59 is an image for setting the layout of the sample image SP (sample image). The sample image SP is an image recorded on the roll paper 10 when the mode M82 is selected in the sample preparation image 58. The sample image SP is composed of one or a plurality of image units (described later), and the layout setting image 59 specifies the type and the order in the sample image SP for each of the image units constituting the sample image SP. As a result, the layout of the sample image SP can be set. Here, one image unit is a sample of one kind of image. In this example, an image unit for graphics image (graphics image unit), a character image unit (character image unit), and a barcode image unit (barcode image unit) are prepared as image units. . Furthermore, in this example, regarding the character image unit, the image unit (date character) related to the sample of the date image 51 is taken into consideration that there are two images of the date image 51 and the receipt information image 52 in the receipt. An image unit) and an image unit (receipt information character image unit) relating to a sample of the receipt information image 52 are prepared.

  In the area A91 of the layout setting image 59, the layout of the sample image SP currently set, that is, the type and the order in the sample image SP are recorded for each image unit constituting the sample image SP. In the example of FIG. 6C, regarding the layout of the sample image SP, the first is a graphics image unit (Graphics), the second is a date character image unit (Character (date)), and the third is receipt information. A character image unit (Character (bill)) is displayed, and the fourth is a bar code image unit (Barcode).

In the area A92 of the layout setting image 59, information describing an operation to be performed in order to change the layout of the sample image SP is recorded. Specifically, in area A92, information indicating that six modes M90 to M95 can be selected is recorded. As described above, the mode selection method is performed by a combination of short press and long press on the push switch 17.
When the mode M90 is selected (step SX6), the information recording control unit 21a holds the set contents for the layout of the sample image SP, returns the processing procedure to step SA4, and again prepares the sample. The image 58 is recorded on the roll paper 10.
When the mode M91 is selected, the information recording control unit 21a adds a graphics image unit to the layout of the sample image SP set at the present time, and records that fact on the roll paper 10. For example, when the mode M91 is selected in the state of FIG. 6C, the information recording control unit 21a adds a graphics image unit as the fifth image unit in the sample image SP, and adds the added sample image. An image specifying the SP layout is recorded on the roll paper 10.
When the mode M92 is selected, the information recording control unit 21a adds the date character image unit to the layout of the sample image SP set at the present time, and records that fact on the roll paper 10. For example, the information recording control unit 21a displays an image showing the layout of the sample image SP after adding the date character image unit, for example, each image unit constituting the sample image SP as shown in an area A91 in FIG. In addition, the order is specified and the type is specified.
When the mode M93 is selected, the information recording control unit 21a adds the receipt information character image unit to the currently set layout of the sample image SP, and records that fact on the roll paper 10.
When the mode M94 is selected, the information recording control unit 21a adds the barcode image unit to the layout of the sample image SP set at the present time, and records that fact on the roll paper 10.
When the mode M95 is selected, the information recording control unit 21a once clears the layout of the sample image SP set at the present time, and records it on the roll paper 10 to that effect. The operator selects the mode M95 when clearing the layout of the sample image SP at the present time and newly setting a layout.
As described above, in this embodiment, the operator can arbitrarily set the combination of the image units in the sample image SP using the mode M91 to the mode M95. Therefore, the operator can make the layout of the sample image SP conform to the layout of the receipt that is supposed to be issued. The effect of this will be described later.

  In the sample preparation image 58 recorded on the roll paper 10 in step SA4, when the mode M82 is selected by the operator (step SX7), the information recording control unit 21a displays the sample related image 60 ( 7 (a)) is recorded (step SA6).

FIG. 7A is a diagram schematically illustrating the sample-related image 60.
In the area A101 of the sample related image 60, the sample image SP in which the layout is set in the layout setting image 59 is recorded. That is, as described above, in the layout setting image 59, the type and order of each image unit constituting the sample image SP are specifically specified. Then, the information recording control unit 21a sequentially records the designated image units in the order designated in the layout setting image 59 in the area A101. For example, as shown in an area A91 of the layout setting image 59 in FIG. 6B, the sample image SP is configured in the order of a graphics image unit, a date character image unit, a receipt information character image unit, and a barcode image unit. Is specified. In this case, the information recording control unit 21a sequentially records a graphics image unit, a date character image unit, a receipt information character image unit, and a barcode image unit in the area A101. Data necessary for recording each image unit is prepared in advance and stored in a predetermined storage area.

In the area A102 of the sample related image 60, when the host computer 4 causes the printer 2 to record the sample image SP recorded in the area A101, a control command group to be generated and output by the host computer 4 is recorded. Is done.
In the present embodiment, information indicating a control command for recording each image unit is recorded in advance, and the information recording control unit 21a selects each image unit according to a combination of image units constituting the sample image SP. A control command group for recording the sample image SP is recorded in the area A102 by sequentially recording the control commands for recording.
As described above, in this embodiment, the operator designates the type (image type) of the image unit constituting the sample image SP and the order of the sample image SP with respect to the printer 2. After setting the layout, the sample image SP conforming to the set layout can be recorded on the roll paper 10. Further, the operator can record a control command group for recording the sample image SP in association with the sample image SP. In particular, the operator can use the layout setting image 59 to make the layout of the sample image SP conform to the receipt layout assumed to be issued by the printer 2, and the receipt. The sample image SP conforming to the layout and the control command group related to the recording of the sample image SP can be recorded on the roll paper 10. As described above, the image sample conforming to the layout of the receipt and the information indicating the control command to be generated and output by the host computer 4 for recording the image sample are used in developing the printer driver 42. It is very useful information that leads to the improvement of efficiency, ease of work, and enhancement of program test.
In other words, the printer 2 according to the present embodiment can provide information that is very useful for the development of the printer driver 42 in response to an operator's request.

Now, in the area A103 of the sample related image 60, three modes of mode M100 to mode M102 are recorded as selectable modes.
When the operator selects the mode M101 (step SX8), the information recording control unit 21a moves the processing procedure to step SA5 and records the layout setting image 59 on the roll paper 10.
When the mode M102 is selected by the operator (step SX9), the information recording control unit 21a records the identification code image 61 (see FIG. 7B) on the roll paper 10 (step SA7).

FIG. 7B is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the identification code image 61.
In the area A111 of the identification code image 61, a two-dimensional code CO1 as an identification code is recorded. The two-dimensional code CO1 stores information indicating a control command group recorded in the area A102 of the sample related image 60, that is, a control command group for recording the sample image SP. The firmware has a function of generating a two-dimensional code storing information indicating the control command group based on the information indicating the control command group. The information recording control unit 21a uses the function to generate a control command A two-dimensional code CO1 storing information indicating the group is generated, and the image is recorded in the area A111.
The two-dimensional code CO1 recorded here is used by the operator, for example, in the following manner. That is, when developing the printer driver 42, the printer 2 is basically in a stand-alone state. Therefore, although the information indicating the control command group recorded on the roll paper 10 by the information recording control unit 21a is useful information in developing the printer driver 42, the information is converted into electronic data in a terminal for developing the printer driver 42. In order to use it, it is necessary to manually input the content recorded on the roll paper 10 to the terminal for development. The operation related to the manual input is very complicated, and there is a risk of an input error. In this embodiment, since the two-dimensional code CO1 representing the control command group is recorded on the roll paper 10, the risk of input mistakes can be obtained by reading the two-dimensional code CO1 with a dedicated scanner or the like in the development terminal. In addition, information indicating a control command group can be input very easily and can be used as electronic data in the terminal.

In the area A112 of the identification code image 61, a mode M110 is recorded as a selectable mode.
When the mode M110 is selected by the operator (step SX10), the information recording control unit 21a moves the processing procedure to step SA3 and records the help mode image on the roll paper 10.
In the sample preparation image 58 of FIG. 6B, when the mode M83 is selected by the operator (step SX7 ′), the information recording control unit 21a moves the processing procedure from step SA4 to step SA7, and samples The identification code image 61 on which the two-dimensional code CO1 related to the image SP is recorded is recorded on the roll paper 10.

<When Mode M71 (Command Help Information) is selected in Help Mode Image 57>
After the help mode image 57 is recorded on the roll paper 10 in step SA3, when the operator selects the mode M71 (step SX11), the information recording control unit 21a records the command large classification image 63 on the roll paper 10. (Step SA8).
As will be apparent from the following description, the operator selects the mode M71 when it is desired to examine information related to a certain control command.

FIG. 8A is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the command large classification image 63 recorded on the roll paper 10. The command large classification image 63 records information indicating each classification when the control commands that can be processed by the printer 2 are classified. Each of the classifications is assigned a mode M121 to a mode M126, and the operator can select any mode.
In this example, it is assumed that the control command that the operator wants to check belongs to the classification (Graphics Command) related to the mode M122 in FIG. 8A, and the worker selects the mode M122 (step SX12). ).

  When the mode M122 is selected by the operator (step SX12), the information recording control unit 21a records the in-command classified image 64 (see FIG. 8B) on the roll paper 10 (step SA9).

FIG. 8B is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the mid-command classification image 64. In the middle command command image 64, information indicating each category when the control commands belonging to the category selected in the command major category image 63 are further classified is recorded. Each of the classifications is assigned a mode M131 to a mode M134, and the operator can select any mode.
In the following description, it is assumed that the control command that the operator wants to check belongs to the classification (XX) related to the mode M131 in FIG. 8B, and the operator has selected the mode M131 (step SX13). ).

  When the mode M131 is selected by the operator (step SX13), the information recording control unit 21a records the command small classification image 65 (see FIG. 8C) on the roll paper 10 (step SA10).

FIG. 8C is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the command small classification image 65. In the command minor classification image 65, information indicating each classification when the control commands belonging to the classification selected in the middle command classification image 64 are further classified is recorded. Each classification is assigned a selectable mode. When the number of control commands to be recorded is large in the command small classification image 65, the information recording control unit 21a divides the control commands into pages, and according to the instruction, a predetermined number (for example, 9 Record) control commands. By doing so, even if the number of control commands is large, the number of times of pressing the push switch 17 for selecting a desired control command may be reduced.
In the following description, the control command that the operator wants to check belongs to the classification (Function 02 (Print NV Graphics)) related to mode M141 in FIG. 8C, and the operator selects mode M141. It is assumed (step SX13).
In this example, it is assumed that there is one control command belonging to the classification according to the mode M141, and that the control command is a control command for recording a graphics image. In other words, in this example, the operator instructs display of information related to the control command for which information is to be checked by selecting the mode M141.

  When the mode M141 is selected by the operator (step SX14), the information recording control unit 21a records the command detailed information image 66 (see FIG. 8D) on the roll paper 10 (step SA11).

FIG. 8D is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the command detailed information image 66. The command detailed information image 66 is roughly divided into an area A151 and an area A152.
In the area A151 of the command detailed information image 66, detailed information related to the control command selected in the command small classification image 65 is recorded. The information to be recorded is determined in advance. For example, the name of the control command, the format of the control command, the range of possible values of the parameter to be set, the explanation of special parameters, etc. are recorded in the command detailed information image 66. The These pieces of information are very useful information that contributes to facilitating the development of the printer driver 42.
As described above, in this embodiment, the printer 2 can record detailed information of a specific control command on the roll paper 10 in accordance with an instruction from the operator. For this reason, the operator can obtain detailed information of a specific command only by giving an instruction to the printer 2 without performing complicated work such as referring to a specification or the like. In development, the work becomes easier.

Further, as shown in FIG. 8D, in the area A152 of the command detailed information image 66, mode M150 to mode M153 are recorded as selectable modes.
When the mode M151 is selected by the operator (step SX15), the information recording control unit 21a records the selection control command sample image 67 (see FIG. 9A) on the roll paper 10 (step SA12).

FIG. 9A is a diagram schematically showing an example of the selection control command sample image 67.
In the area A161 of the selection control command sample image 67, an example of an image that can be recorded by using the control command (selection control command) selected in the command small classification image 65 and indicated in detail in the command detailed information image 66 Is recorded. For each control command, data necessary for recording an example of an image that can be recorded using each control command is stored in advance, and the information recording control unit 21a selects based on the corresponding data. An example of an image that can be recorded using a control command is recorded in area A161.
In the area A162 of the selection control command sample image 67, when the host computer 4 causes the printer 2 to record the image recorded in the area A161, a control command group to be generated and output by the host computer 4 is recorded. .
As described above, in the present embodiment, the printer 2 not only records the detailed information of the specific control command on the roll paper 10 in accordance with the operator's instruction, but also records using the specific control command. It is possible to provide information that is very useful in the development of the printer driver 42, such as an example of a possible image and information indicating a control command group for recording an example of the image.

In the area A163 of the selection control command sample image 67, two modes of mode M160 to mode M161 are recorded as selectable modes.
When the mode M161 is selected by the operator (step SX16), the information recording control unit 21a records the selection control command identification code image 68 (see FIG. 9B) on the roll paper 10.

FIG. 9B is a diagram schematically showing an example of the selection control command identification code image 68. In area A171 of the selection control command identification code image 68, a two-dimensional code CO2 as an identification code is recorded.
The two-dimensional code CO2 stores information indicating the control command group recorded in the area A162 of the selection control command sample image 67. Based on the information indicating the control command group, the information recording control unit 21a generates a two-dimensional code CO2 that stores information indicating the control command group, and records the image in the area A171. By recording the two-dimensional code CO2, as with the two-dimensional code CO1, the information indicating the control command group is input to the terminal for developing the printer driver 42 very easily after eliminating the risk of an input error. And can be used as electronic data in the terminal.

In the area A172 of the selection control command identification code image 68, a mode M170 is recorded as a selectable mode.
When the mode M170 is selected by the operator (step SX17), the information recording control unit 21a moves the processing procedure to step SA3 and records the help mode image on the roll paper 10.
When the mode M152 is selected by the operator in the command detailed information image 66 (step SX15 ′), the information recording control unit 21a shifts the processing procedure from step SA11 to step SA13, and the 2 related to the selection control command. The selection control command sample image 67 in which the dimension code CO2 is recorded is recorded on the roll paper 10.

As described above, the printer 2 according to the present embodiment can roll a recording medium based on a control command input from the host computer 4 for a plurality of types of images having different control command modes for instructing image recording. The paper 10 is configured to be recordable.
Further, the printer 2 determines the type of each image constituting the sample image SP for the sample image SP in which the image units related to the predetermined type of image are arranged in the predetermined order in the layout setting image 59, and The order can be specified.
Then, when recording of the sample image SP is instructed by the operator, the printer 2 records the sample image SP by recording on the roll paper 10 the image unit related to the specified type of image in the specified order. In addition, an information recording control unit 21 a that records a control command group to be output by the host computer 4 on the roll paper 10 in order to record the recorded sample image SP is provided.
According to this, the printer 2 includes a sample image SP configured by arranging predetermined types of images in a predetermined order according to an operator's request, and a control command group for recording the sample images. Information useful for the development of the printer driver 42 and maintenance of the printer driver 42 can be provided.

In the present embodiment, the information recording control unit 21a replaces the control command group to be output by the host computer 4 in order to record the sample image SP recorded on the roll paper 10, or together with the control command group. A two-dimensional code CO1 representing the control command group is recorded on the roll paper 10.
According to this configuration, even when the printer driver 42 is under development and maintenance, and the printer 2 is in a stand-alone state, the control command group is used for the development terminal without using a manual input method. Can be entered. In this case, the risk of input errors can be eliminated.

In the present embodiment, the information recording control unit 21a displays the information of the selection control command by using the command detailed information image 66 when the operator is instructed to display information on a specific control command (selection control command). Information is recorded on the roll paper 10.
According to this configuration, the printer 2 can provide information useful for the development and maintenance of the printer driver 42, such as information related to a desired control command, in response to an operator's request. In addition, the operator can acquire information on a specific control command without referring to a specification or the like.

In this embodiment, the information recording control unit 21a records a recordable image on the roll paper 10 using the selection control command for the selection control command instructed to display related information by the operator. At the same time, a group of control commands to be output by the host computer 4 for recording the image is recorded on the roll paper 10.
According to this configuration, the printer 2 includes, in addition to the information related to the selection control command, an image that can be recorded using the control command, and a control command group that the host computer 4 should output to record the image. Can provide useful information.

The above-described embodiment is merely an aspect of the present invention, and can be arbitrarily modified and applied within the scope of the present invention.
For example, in the above-described embodiment, in the layout setting image 59, the operator can arbitrarily set the type and order of the image units for each image unit constituting the sample image SP. A plurality of different sample images SP may be prepared, and any one of the sample images SP may be selected so that the layout of the sample image SP can be set.
Further, the types of images are not limited to those described with examples in the above-described embodiments. That is, the image type exists for each mode of the control command that instructs to record the image.
In the above-described embodiment, the printer 2 is a thermal printer. However, the recording format of the printer 2 is not limited to this, and may be anything such as an ink jet type or a dot impact type.
In the above-described embodiment, the two-dimensional code is shown as an example of the identification code. However, the identification code is not limited to the two-dimensional code. That is, all of the optically readable identification codes can be applied.
Each functional block shown in FIG. 2 can be arbitrarily realized by cooperation of hardware and software, and does not suggest a specific hardware configuration.
Further, for example, the function of the information recording control unit 21 a of the printer 2 may be provided in another device externally connected to the printer 2.
Various operations may be executed by executing a program stored in an externally connected storage medium.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Recording system, 2 ... Printer (recording apparatus), 4 ... Host computer (control apparatus), 10 ... Roll paper (recording medium), 21 ... Control part, 21a ... Information recording control part, 67 ... Selection control command sample image (Images that can be recorded using control commands), CO1 ... two-dimensional code (identification code), CO2 ... two-dimensional code (identification code), SP ... sample image.

Claims (6)

A recording device connectable to a control device,
A plurality of types of images having different control command modes for instructing image recording are configured to be recordable on a recording medium based on a control command input from the control device, and
For a sample image configured by arranging a predetermined type of image in a predetermined order, the type of each image constituting the sample image and the order thereof can be specified,
When the recording of the sample image is instructed, the control device records the sample image by recording the specified type of image on the recording medium in the specified order and records the recorded sample image. A recording apparatus comprising an information recording control unit for recording a control command group to be output on the recording medium. The information recording control unit
An identification code representing the control command group is recorded on the recording medium instead of or together with the control command group to be output by the control device in order to record the recorded sample image. The recording apparatus according to claim 1. The information recording control unit
3. The recording apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when an instruction to display information relating to a predetermined control command is given, information relating to the control command is recorded on the recording medium. The information recording control unit
For the control command instructed to display information, a recordable image is recorded on the recording medium using the control command, and a control command to be output by the control device to record the image is displayed. The recording apparatus according to claim 3, wherein recording is performed on the recording medium. It is configured to be connectable to a control device, and is configured to be capable of recording on a recording medium based on a control command input from the control device, regarding a plurality of types of images having different control command modes for instructing image recording. A control method for a recording apparatus,
For sample images composed of images of a predetermined type arranged in a predetermined order, the type of each image constituting the sample image and its order are specified, and if the recording of the sample image is instructed, it is specified. A sample image is recorded by recording an image of a specified type in the specified order on the recording medium, and a control command group to be output by the control device to record the recorded sample image is recorded on the recording medium. Recording method for recording apparatus, characterized in that recording is performed. It is configured to be connectable to a control device, and is configured to be capable of recording on a recording medium based on a control command input from the control device, regarding a plurality of types of images having different control command modes for instructing image recording A program executed by a control unit that controls the recording device,
The control unit
For sample images composed of images of a predetermined type arranged in a predetermined order, the type of each image constituting the sample image and its order are specified, and if the recording of the sample image is instructed, it is specified. A sample image is recorded by recording an image of a specified type in the specified order on the recording medium, and a control command group to be output by the control device to record the recorded sample image is recorded on the recording medium. A program that functions as an information recording control unit for recording.

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