JP3118999B2 - Scale printing equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To provide a tape printing device capable of printing the graduation lines of a scale and the graduation figures accompanying the graduation lines before and behind the intermediate value set to a printing tape. CONSTITUTION:A power supply is closed by a power supply key and initial setting (S10) is executed and, when the key related to the formation of a document and a document printing key are operated, the formed document data is stored in a text memory. Printing processing is executed on the basis of the stored document data (S12-S16). When a scale printing key is operated (S17; Yes), graduation data setting processing inputting and setting a plurality of the set data related to a scale such as the start value, intermediate value and completion value of the scale is executed (S18). Thereafter, scale printing processing is executed on the basis of the set data (S19) and the scale decreasing or increasing up to the intermediate value from the start value wherein graduation figures are set and increasing or decreasing from the intermediate value to the completion value is printed on a printing tape.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a long scale graduation line.
The present invention relates to a scale printing apparatus configured to be able to print on a scale-shaped tape, and particularly to a scale printing apparatus capable of printing a scale before and after a set intermediate value.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A scale such as a tape measure (measure) and a ruler measures the length and dimensions of an article, displays a reduction ratio on a map, displays a magnification ratio on a micrograph, etc., and writes a column or a wall. It is used for various purposes such as recording the height on the marked scale, etc.However, conventionally, a device that can easily create a scale by an individual has not been put to practical use, and an individual can create or record a scale. To use the existing scale,
It was necessary to copy the scale on paper by a copying machine or record each graduation line on paper or the like one by one.

On the other hand, as described in Japanese Utility Model Laid-Open Publication No. 1-85050, a tape printing apparatus in which a tape is used as a printing medium and characters and symbols input and stored in advance can be printed in a dot pattern on the tape is practically used. Has been offered to.

[0004]

As described above, since an apparatus that allows an individual to easily create a scale has not been put to practical use, it has not been possible to easily, efficiently, and inexpensively create a scale.

[0005] It is possible to cut the existing scale and use it, but in this case, it is troublesome and costly. When a scale is created by copying, the length is restricted and copying can be performed only on paper. In addition, when each scale line is recorded one by one starting from the scale line of the scale, it is troublesome and results in poor performance and accuracy.

[0006] The conventional tape printing apparatus could print only characters and symbols on a tape, and thus could not produce a scale at all.

An object of the present invention is to provide a scale printing apparatus capable of printing scale lines of a scale and scale numbers attached to the scale lines before and after an intermediate value set on a tape as a print medium. is there.

[0008]

In order to achieve this object, a scale printing apparatus according to a first aspect of the present invention comprises an input means for inputting characters, symbols, and various instructions, and a scale printing apparatus. A printing means including a print head for printing a dot pattern on a long tape, an input data storage means for storing data of characters and symbols inputted from the input means, and a display including a display capable of displaying characters and symbols And a print buffer for storing dot pattern data for print output, and a print control means for receiving the data in the print buffer and causing the print means to print the data. Data setting means for inputting setting data relating to a scale including at least start value data indicating a starting value of a scale numeral to be set, and setting data from the data setting means. Receiving, in the width direction of the tape
It extends, and the constant place based on a unit of length in the longitudinal direction of the tape
The dot pattern data for printing the scale line of the scale arranged at the interval of the scale and the start value representing the start data accompanying the scale line to a predetermined intermediate value and decreasing the scale numeral from the intermediate value Scale data creating means for creating and supplying the scale data to the print buffer.

A scale printing apparatus according to a second aspect of the present invention has a configuration similar to that of the first aspect, except that an intermediate value is set to 0, and the scale data generating means transmits setting data from the data setting means to the setting data. The scale line of the scale and the associated scale line decrease from the starting value to 0, and
The dot pattern data for printing the scale numerals increasing from the start value to the start value is created and supplied to the print buffer.

A scale printing apparatus according to a third aspect of the present invention has a configuration similar to that of the first aspect, except that an intermediate value is set to 0, and the data setting means outputs start value data and start value data representing a start value. At least setting data relating to the scale including end value data representing the end value of the scale numeral attached to the scale line is configured to be able to be set, and the scale data creating means is configured to:
Receiving the setting data from the data setting means, the dot pattern data for printing a scale line of the scale and a scale numeral accompanying the scale line from the start value to 0 and from 0 to the end value are increased. Create and supply to print buffer.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the scale printing apparatus has a configuration similar to that of the first aspect, except that the data setting means is configured to be able to set intermediate value data representing an intermediate value. The data creating means receives the setting data from the data setting means and prints a scale line of the scale and a scale numeral accompanying the scale line, which decreases from the start value to the intermediate value and increases from the intermediate value to the start value. The dot pattern data is generated and supplied to the print buffer.

A scale printing apparatus according to a fifth aspect of the present invention has a configuration similar to that of the first aspect, except that the data setting means includes start value data representing a start value, intermediate value data representing an intermediate value, At least setting data relating to the scale including end value data representing the end value of the scale numeral attached to the scale line is configured to be settable, and the scale data creating means receives the setting data from the data setting means, and Then, dot pattern data for printing a scale numeral which decreases from a start value to an intermediate value and increases from the intermediate value to an end value accompanying the scale line is created and supplied to a print buffer.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a scale printing apparatus comprising: input means for inputting characters, symbols, and various commands; and a print head for printing in a dot pattern on a long tape as a print medium. Printing means including input means, input data storage means for storing data of characters and symbols input from the input means, display means including a display capable of displaying characters and symbols, and for storing dot pattern data for print output. A print buffer, and print control means for receiving the data in the print buffer and causing the print means to print the data, the print apparatus including at least intermediate value data representing an intermediate value of the scale numeral associated with the scale line of the scale. a data setting means for entering setting data relating to scale, from the data setting unit receives the setting data, the tape width
In the direction of the tape and in the longitudinal direction of the tape based on a unit of length.
The scale line of the scale arranged at a predetermined interval and the dot pattern data for printing the scale numeral which increases from a predetermined start value to the intermediate value and decreases from the intermediate value accompanying the scale line. Scale data creating means for creating and supplying the scale data to the print buffer.

A scale printing apparatus according to a seventh aspect of the present invention has a configuration similar to that of the sixth aspect, except that the predetermined starting value is 0, and the scale data generating means includes a scale graduation line for the scale. The dot pattern data for printing the scale numeral which increases from 0 to the intermediate value and decreases from the intermediate value to 0 accompanying the scale line is created and supplied to the print buffer.

An eighth aspect of the present invention is a scale printing apparatus having the same configuration as that of the sixth aspect, except that the data setting means sets start data representing a start value of a scale numeral associated with a scale line of the scale. , Intermediate value data representing an intermediate value, end value data representing an end value is configured to be settable, the scale data creating means receives setting data from the data setting means, and sets a scale graduation line of the scale and its graduation line. Concurrently, dot pattern data for printing a scale numeral that increases from the start value to the intermediate value and decreases from the intermediate value to the end value is created and supplied to a print buffer.

[0016]

According to the scale printing apparatus of the present invention having the above-described configuration, when the data setting means receives the setting data relating to the scale including at least the starting value data representing the starting value of the scale numeral attached to the scale line of the scale, The scale data generating means generates dot pattern data for printing a scale line of the scale and a scale numeral accompanying the scale line from a start value representing the start data to a predetermined intermediate value and increasing from the intermediate value. And supplies it to the print buffer. The print control means receives the dot pattern data in the print buffer and causes the print means to print the data. A scale is created before and after the intermediate value on the tape.

[0017]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

In this embodiment, the present invention is applied to a Japanese tape printing apparatus capable of printing a large number of characters such as kanji, hiragana, alphabetic characters and symbols on a printing tape.

As shown in FIG. 2, a keyboard 3 is provided at the front of the main body frame 2 of the tape printer 1, and a printing mechanism PM is provided in the main body frame 2 behind the keyboard 3. A liquid crystal display 22 capable of displaying characters and symbols is provided behind the keyboard 3. The liquid crystal display 22 constitutes display means of the present invention.

The keyboard 3 has character keys for inputting alphabetic characters, hiragana, numbers, and symbols, a space key, a return key, and a cursor movement key for moving the cursor K on the liquid crystal display 22 rightward or leftward. , Format setting key for setting print format, size setting key for setting print character size,
A typeface setting key for setting the typeface of print characters, a document print key for instructing document print, a scale print key for instructing scale print, and a tape feeder for feeding a print tape 5 constituting a tape as a print medium of the present invention. Tape feed key,
A power key for turning on / off the power is provided. The keyboard 3 constitutes input means and data setting means of the present invention.

Next, the printing mechanism PM constituting the printing means of the present invention will be briefly described with reference to FIG. 3. A rectangular tape storage cassette CS is detachably mounted on the printing mechanism PM. The storage cassette CS includes a tape spool 6 around which a long printing tape 5 of about 18 mm made of a transparent film is wound, and an ink ribbon 7.
, A take-up spool 9 for taking up the ink ribbon 7, and a supply spool 11 on which a double-sided tape 10 having the same width as the printing tape 5 is wound with the release paper outside. And a joining roller 12 for joining the printing tape 5 and the double-sided tape 10 are rotatably provided.

At a position where the printing tape 5 and the ink ribbon 7 overlap with each other, a thermal head 13 is erected, and the printing tape 5 and the ink ribbon 7 are attached to the thermal head 13.
And a feed roller 15 for pressing the printing tape 5 and the double-sided tape 10 against the joining roller 12 are rotatably supported by a support 16. In the thermal head 13, a heating element group including 128 heating elements is vertically arranged in rows.

Accordingly, by driving the tape feed motor 24 (see FIG. 1) in a predetermined rotation direction, the joining roller 12 and the take-up spool 9 are energized to the heating element group while being driven in synchronization with each other in the predetermined rotation direction. When printing tape 5
Characters and symbols are printed on the upper side by a plurality of dot rows, and the printing tape 5 is fed in the tape feeding direction A with the double-sided tape 10 joined. Note that the printing mechanism P
For details of M, see JP-A-2-106555.

Next, the control system of the tape printer 1 is shown in FIG.
Is configured as shown in the block diagram of FIG.

The keyboard 3 and a liquid crystal display (LC
D) a display controller (LCDC) 23 for outputting display data to 22; a drive circuit 25 for driving the thermal head 13; a drive circuit 26 for driving the tape feed motor 24; Circuit 21 for input / output interface 2 of control device C
7, respectively. The control means C constitutes a print control means and a scale data creation means.

The control device C comprises a CPU 29 and this CPU
I / O interface 27, CGROM 30, ROM3
1 and 32 and the RAM 40.

CGROM (Pattern Data Memory) 30
Stores dot pattern data for display in association with code data for each of a large number of characters. In a ROM (outline data memory) 31, outline data (outline data) for defining the outline of the character for each of a large number of characters in order to print the character is a typeface (Gothic typeface, Mincho typeface, etc.). Each code is classified and stored in association with the code data.

The ROM 32 has a display drive control program for controlling the display controller 23 in correspondence with character code data such as characters, numbers and symbols input from the keyboard 3, and outlines corresponding to each code data in the text memory 41. An image development processing control program for converting data into dot pattern data for printing and developing the data in a print buffer 47; a print drive control program for sequentially reading data from the print buffer 47 and driving the thermal head 13 and the tape feed motor 24; It stores a control program for tape printing control, which will be described later, which is unique to the present application. Note that the image development processing control program includes various subroutines for controlling character modification processing for modifying characters such as bold and white characters.

The RAM 40 has a memory area such as a text memory 41, a print format memory 42, a scale range memory 43, a scale line pitch memory 44, a numerical unit memory 45, a scale counter 46, a print buffer 47, a flag memory 48, and a work memory. Is provided.

The text memory (corresponding to the input data storage means) 41 constitutes the input data storage means of the present invention, and stores code data of characters and symbols input from the keyboard 3 as document data. The print format memory 42 stores a plurality of print format information such as set character size data, typeface data, and selected character modification data.

The scale range memory 43 stores a numerical value of a set start scale (hereinafter, referred to as a start value).
SS, numerical value of intermediate scale (hereinafter referred to as intermediate value) M
S and a numerical value of an end scale (hereinafter, referred to as an end value) ES are stored in units of mm. The scale line pitch memory 44 stores a unit pitch (m, c) of the scale line of the set scale.
m, mm) and a small scale line S, which is a scale line for each unit pitch.
The pitch of L, the pitch of the middle scale line ML, which is five unit pitch scale lines, and the pitch of the large scale line LL, which is ten unit pitch scale lines, are stored.

The number unit memory 45 stores “m” for the unit of length represented by the set scale number, that is, the number unit.
, The numerical unit data “10” is stored for “cm”, and the numerical unit data “01” is stored for “mm”. In the scale counter 46,
The total number of scales from the first scale is stored as a first count value SC1, and the scale number is stored as a second count value SC2.

The print buffer 47 stores print dot pattern data and scale print dot pattern data of a plurality of characters and symbols developed as images. Accordingly, the print buffer 47 has a memory capacity of a size of 128 bits (16 bytes) corresponding to 128 dots in the vertical direction (dot row direction) and predetermined bits for a plurality of characters in the horizontal direction (dot row direction). Is provided.

In the flag memory 48, the flag data of the large scale number flag LF, which is set (data is "1") when the scale numbers are printed on the large scale line LL, and the scale numbers are printed on the middle scale line ML. The flag data of the middle scale number flag MF that is set when the
Small scale numerical flag SF set when printed on
Is set when the second count value SC2 of the scale counter 46 is between the start value SS and the intermediate value MS in the scale printing process, and the second count value SC
The flag data of the count flag AF that is reset when 2 exceeds the intermediate value MS, the flag data of the down flag DF that is set when the count value SC is counted down in the scale printing process, and the like are stored.

Next, a routine of tape printing control performed by the control device C of the tape printing apparatus 1 will be described with reference to a schematic flowchart of FIG. In the figure, reference symbol Si
(I = 10, 11, 12,...) Are each step.

When the power is turned on by operating the power key, the tape printing control shown in FIG.
-48 are initialized (S1)
0). When a key related to document creation such as a character key or a symbol key is operated to create a document (S11 / S12: Yes), the input character code is stored in the text memory 41 (S13). , The character or symbol of the character code is displayed on the display 22 (S1).
4) Return to S11.

Next, when the document print key is operated (S11: Yes, S12: No, S15: Yes),
A document printing process for printing the document data stored in the text memory 41 is executed (S16), and the process returns to S11. That is, this document printing process is a normal printing process. The dot pattern data corresponding to the character code read out from the text memory 41 is developed into printing dot pattern data based on the character size and typeface, and the print buffer 47 is printed. The dot pattern data read from the print buffer 47 is output to the printing mechanism PM and is sequentially printed on the printing tape 5.

Next, when the scale print key is operated to print the scale (S11: Yes, S12
-S15: No, S17: Yes), first, a scale information setting process for inputting and setting a plurality of setting data relating to the scale is executed (S18), then a scale printing process is executed (S19), and the process returns to S11.

The scale information setting processing control routine will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 5. First, a scale length setting screen for setting the total length of the scale is displayed on the display 22 (S24). By operating the numeric keys, the start value SS, the intermediate value MS, and the end value ES are respectively set in millimeters. By operating the return key, each data of the start value SS, the intermediate value MS, and the end value ES is stored in the scale setting memory 43. (S2
5).

For example, as shown in FIG.
The setting screen for the intermediate value MS and the end value ES is displayed on the liquid crystal display 22, so that, for example, each of the numeric keys "0", "1", and "5" is operated in the input area indicated by the underline. And the starting value SS is “100” m
m, “0” mm is set as the intermediate value MS, and “150” mm is set as the end value ES.

The set start value SS, intermediate value MS,
When the start value SS <intermediate value MS> end value ES is satisfied with respect to the end value ES (S26 / S27: Yes), or when the start value SS> intermediate value MS <end value ES is satisfied (S26: No) , S28 / S29: Yes) only, S3
0 is executed. On the other hand, the start value SS <intermediate value MS>
End value ES or start value SS> intermediate value MS <end value ES
Does not hold (S26 / S28: No or S
26: Yes, S27: No, or S26: No,
(S28: Yes, S29: No), the buzzer sounds (S32), and the process returns to S25.

In S30, the sum of the absolute value of the difference between the start value SS and the intermediate value MS and the absolute value of the difference between the intermediate value MS and the end value ES is larger than the maximum scale length AL that can be created in the print buffer. If it is larger (S30: No), the buzzer 20 is sounded to warn that printing is not possible (S31), and the process returns to S25.

On the other hand, a value obtained by adding the absolute value of the difference between the intermediate value MS and the end value ES to the absolute value of the difference between the start value SS and the intermediate value MS is the maximum scale length AL ( If it is less than or equal to (stored in the ROM 32 in advance) (S30: Yes), a screen for setting the pitch of the scale line of the scale is displayed on the liquid crystal display 22 (S3
2) The unit pitch (m, cm, m), which is the pitch of the scale line, is operated by key operation of numeric keys or the like on the keyboard 3.
m), and a scale line pitch is set for each of the pitch of the large scale line LL, the pitch of the middle scale line ML, and the pitch of the small scale line SL based on the unit pitch. And each scale line LL, M
The scale line pitch data of L and SL is stored in the scale line pitch memory 4.
4 (scale line pitch setting processing: S33).

Here, the small graduation line SL is usually a graduation line for every unit pitch, the middle graduation line ML is usually a graduation line for five unit pitches, and the large graduation line LL is usually This is a scale line for 10 unit pitches. And these scale lines
Is the width of the printing tape 5 as shown in FIGS.
Formed from one end in the direction with a straight line extending in the width direction
And set in the longitudinal direction of the printing tape 5.
They are arranged at equal intervals according to the pitch.

For example, as shown in FIG. 11, a scale line pitch setting screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display 22.
For the item “pitch”, “m”, “cm”, and “mm” to “mm” are set as the scale line pitches by operating the symbol keys, and the items “large” and “medium” indicating the pitch of the large scale line LL are set. Regarding the item "medium" indicating the pitch of the scale line ML and the item "small" indicating the pitch of the small scale line SL, the pitches of the scale lines are "10", "5", "1" by operating the numeric keys.
Are set respectively.

Next, when a condition necessary for creating a scale, SP <MP <LP, is satisfied for the large scale line pitch LP, the middle scale line pitch MP, and the small scale line pitch SP (S34). : Yes), setting whether or not to print a scale numeral attached to the large scale line LL, the middle scale line ML, and the small scale line SL, and the scale number setting for setting the unit of the length represented by the scale number The screen is displayed on the liquid crystal display 22 (S35), and the scale line for printing the scale numeral is selected and set collectively by the operation of the next key or the previous key with the symbol of the unit of the length. The scale line flags LF, MF, SF corresponding to the scale line with the set scale number are set, and the data of the set number unit is stored in the number unit memory 45 (scale number setting process: 36). Then, this control is ended, and the flow shifts to S19 of tape print control shown in FIG. 4, where scale print processing control is executed.

For example, as shown in FIG. 12, since a scale number setting screen is displayed on the display 22, a scale number among three types of a large scale line LL, a middle scale line ML, and a small scale line SL is added. The large scale line LL to be printed is indicated in units of the scale number “cm”. Note that the middle scale line ML and the small scale line SL to which no scale numbers are attached are designated by “OFF”. Accordingly, only the large scale numeral flag LF is set and the unit data “10” is stored in the numeral unit memory 4.
5 is stored.

In S35, SP <MP <L
If P does not hold (S34: No), the buzzer 20 sounds to warn that a scale cannot be created (S37), and the process returns to S32.

Next, the scale print processing control routine will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 6. First, the print buffer 47 is cleared (S40), and "0" is stored in the first count value SC1 of the scale counter 46. And
The start value SS, for example, “100” is stored in the second count value SC2 according to the above-described setting shown in FIG. 11 (S4).
1). Then, the flag data of the count flag AF is set to "1" (S42).

Next, the scale information setting process (see FIG. 5)
Is compared with the intermediate value MS, and when the start value SS is larger, the down flag DF
Is set to "1" (S44). On the other hand, when the intermediate value MS is larger, the down flag DF
Is reset to "0" (S45).
For example, as shown in FIG. 11, the start value SS is “100”.
Since the intermediate value MS is set to "0", the flag data of the down flag DF is set to "1" through S43 and S44.

When the setting of the down flag DF is completed, the scale line development processing is performed thereafter. Since the start of the scale is usually the large scale line LL, the large scale line development processing control (see FIG. 7) is executed. Is performed (S46).

When this control is started, first, the development position nD of the large scale line LL in the print buffer 47 corresponding to the first count value SC1 is obtained (S80). That is,
Since the size of one dot is about 0.141 mm, nD = S
C1 求 め 0.141. However, the fractional part is rounded off. When the first count value SC1 is “0”, it is the head position (left end position) of the print buffer 47.

Next, the scale line width is set to 2 at the development position nD.
The dot pattern data for the large scale line LL having a dot row and a scale line length of about 80 is developed (S8).
1). For example, as shown in FIG. 13, when the count value SC is “0”, nD

The dot pattern data for the large scale line LL is developed at the [0] position, that is, at the left end position of the print buffer 47.

When the large scale numeral flag LF is set (S82: Yes), the large scale line LL is set.
When there is a space in the extended portion of the dot pattern data of the scale character of the predetermined character size to expand the pattern (S83: Yes), the second count value SC2 stored in the scale counter 46 and the number unit memory 45 are stored. Based on the unit data, the dot pattern data of the scale numeral is developed so as to have a predetermined character size (S84), this control ends, and the process returns to S47 of the scale printing process control.

However, when the large scale numeral flag LF is not set (S82: No) and when it is impossible to develop the dot pattern data of the scale numeral (S83:
No), this control is immediately terminated, and the process returns to S47 of the scale print processing control. For example, as shown in FIG. 13, when the count value SC is “0”, nD

In the case of [0], there is no space for expanding the dot pattern data of the scale numeral, but the count value SC is "10".
In the case of nD [71], there is a space for expanding the dot pattern data of the scale numeral, and the dot pattern data of the scale numeral "9" is expanded.

Next, the first count value SC1 is incremented by one (S47). After that, the down flag DF
Is "1" (S48: Yes), the second count value SC2 is decremented by one (S4).
9) On the other hand, the flag data of the down flag DF is “0”
If (S48: No), the second count value SC2 is incremented by one (S50).

When the processing of S49 or S50 is completed,
It is determined whether the flag data of the count flag AF is "1" (S51). If the flag data of the count flag AF is "1" (S51: Yes), the second count value S
It is determined whether C2 has become equal to the intermediate value MS (S52).

If the second count value SC2 is not equal to the intermediate value MS (S52: No), the first count value SC1
Is compared with the respective scale line pitches set in the scale line pitch process in S34, and when the first count value SC1 is an integer N times the large scale line pitch LP (S63: Y
es), the large scale line development process control described above is executed (S
64) The flow shifts to S47. However, the count value S
When C is an integer N times the middle scale line pitch MP (S6
3: No, S65: Yes), middle scale line development processing control (see FIG. 8) is executed (S66), and after this control ends, the flow shifts to S47.

The control of the middle scale line development processing is substantially the same as the control of the large scale line development processing. Therefore, in brief, the development position nD of the middle scale line ML in the print buffer 47 corresponding to the first count value SC1 is determined. Required (S90),
At this development position nD, dot pattern data for a middle graduation line ML having a graduation line width of 2 dot rows and a graduation line length of about 68 dots is developed (S91).

When the middle scale numeral flag MF is set (S92: Yes) and there is a space in which the dot pattern data of a numeral of a predetermined character size can be developed (S93: Yes), the scale counter 46
Based on the second count value SC2 stored in the memory unit and the unit data stored in the numeral unit memory 45, the dot pattern data of the scale numeral is developed to have a predetermined character size (S94), and this control ends. Then, the process returns to S47 of the scale printing process control. However, when the middle scale numeral flag MF is not set (S92:
No) and when it is not possible to print the scale numbers (S9
3: No), this control is immediately terminated.

On the other hand, when the first count value SC1 is an integer N times the small graduation line pitch SP (S63 / S65: N
o, S67: Yes), small scale line development processing control (see FIG. 9) is executed (S68), and after this control ends, the flow shifts to S47.

This small scale line development processing control is substantially the same as the large scale line development processing control. Therefore, to briefly explain, the development position nD of the small scale line SL in the print buffer 47 corresponding to the first count value SC1 is determined. Required (S10
0), dot hattern data for the small graduation line SL having a graduation line width of 2 dots and a graduation line length of about 48 dots is developed at this development position nD (S101).

When the small scale numeral flag SF is set (S102: Yes) and there is a space in which the dot data of a predetermined character size can be expanded (S103: Yes), the data is stored in the scale counter 46. Based on the set second counter value SC2 and the unit data stored in the numeral unit memory 45, the dot pattern data of the scale numeral is developed to have a predetermined character size (S104), and this control is terminated. Then, the process returns to S47 of the scale printing process control. However, when the small scale numeral flag SF is not set (S102:
No) and when it is not possible to print the scale numbers (S10
3: No), this control is immediately terminated.

Until the second count value SC2 becomes equal to the intermediate value MS, the processes of S47 to S52 and S63 to S68 are repeatedly executed, and dot pattern data of a scale from the start value SS to the intermediate value MS is created. Are stored in the print buffer 47. For example, according to the above settings, the start value SS is “100” and the intermediate value MS is “0”, so that S47 to S49, S51, S52, S63 to S
By executing the processes of 68, dot pattern data of a scale of 99 mm in which the scale number decreases toward “0” is created and stored in the print buffer 47.

When the second count value SC2 becomes equal to the intermediate value MS (S52: Yes), this intermediate value MS is indicated by the large graduation line LL, as in S80, S81, and S84 in the large graduation line development processing control. First count value S
Large scale line LL in print buffer 47 corresponding to C1
Is obtained (S53), and this development position nD
The dot hattern data for the large scale line LL is developed in D (S54). Further, based on the intermediate value MS stored in the scale range memory 43, the dot pattern data of the numeral representing the intermediate value MS is developed so as to have a predetermined character size (S55). By this processing, the intermediate value MS
The dot pattern data of the numeral indicating the large scale line LL and the intermediate value MS is stored in the print buffer 47.

For example, according to the above setting, since the intermediate value MS is "0", the respective processes of S52 to S55 are executed, and the dot pattern of the scale numeral "0" is created together with the large scale line LL. It is stored in the print buffer 47. Therefore, at this point, the scale number decreases toward “0”, ie, 1
0cm scale dot pattern data is created,
This is stored in the print buffer 47 (see FIG. 10).

Then, the flag data of the count flag AF is reset to "0" (S56), and the down flag D
If the flag data of F is “1” (S57: Yes),
The flag data is reset to "0" (S58),
On the other hand, if the flag data of the down flag DF is “0” (S57: No), the flag data is set to “1” (S59). When the processing in S58 or S59 ends, the process returns to S47. According to the above setting, the flag data of the down flag DF is set to "1", so that the flag data is set to "0" through S57 and S58.

Then, the processing of S47 to S51 is performed again, but the count flag A is determined in the processing of S56.
Since F has been reset (S51: No), it is determined whether the flag data of the down flag DF is "1" (S60), and the first count value SC1 and the end value ES are determined.
Is determined (S61, S62).

The flag data of the down flag DF is "1"
(S60: Yes), and if the second count value SC2 is equal to or greater than the end value ES stored in the scale range memory 43 (S61: No), the processes of S63 to S68 are executed, and the process returns to S47. Also, the flag data of the down flag DF is “0” (S60: No),
If the second count value SC2 is equal to or smaller than the end value ES stored in the scale range memory 43 (S61: No), the processes of S63 to S68 are executed similarly, and the process returns to S47. Through the processes of S47 to S51 and S60 to S68, dot pattern data of a scale from the intermediate value MS to the end value ES is created and stored in the print buffer 47.

For example, according to the above setting, since the end value ES is set to “150”, S47, S48, S
The respective processes of 50, S51, S60, and S62 to S68 are executed, and the scale numeral increases from “0” to “15” 1
5cm scale dot pattern data is created,
It is stored in the print buffer 47. At this point, a dot pattern data of a total length of 25 cm, in which a scale of 10 cm in which the scale number is reduced to “0” and a scale of 15 cm in which the scale number is increased from “0” to “15” is created, is stored in the print buffer 47. (Fig. 1
3).

On the other hand, when the flag data of the down flag DF is "1" (S60: Yes), if the second count value SC2 is larger than the end value ES stored in the scale range memory 43 (S61: No),
If the second count value SC2 is smaller than the end value ES stored in the scale range memory 43 when the flag data of the down flag DF is “0” (S60: Yes), the print buffer (S62: No). The dot pattern data of the unit represented by the scale numeral is developed at a predetermined position of 47 (S69), and the dot pattern data for scale printing in the print buffer 47 is sequentially read out and output to the printing mechanism PM for scale printing (S70). This control is terminated, and the process returns to S11 of the tape print control.

For example, as shown in FIG. 14, a plurality of large scale lines LL, middle scale lines ML, small scale lines SL and scale numbers "9", "8",. "
Stores dot pattern data for scale printing consisting of "0", "1" ... "14", "15", etc., and prints based on this dot pattern data through the processing of S62, S69 and S70. FIG. 14 shows the mechanism PM.
As shown in (1), starting from the large scale line LL without scale numbers, the scale numbers decrease to “9”, “8”,.
"0", "1" ... "1" continuously on a scale of 0 cm
15 cm scale increasing to 5 ". That is, the total length is 25
A cm scale is printed on the printing tape 5.

Further, in the start / intermediate / end scale setting process of S25 (see FIG. 5), the start value SS is set to “1”.
0 ", the intermediate value MS is" 100 ", and the end value ES is" 20 "
, First, the scale printing process (S
Through S43 and S45 in 19), the down flag DF
Is set to "0", and after the dot pattern data of the large scale line LL is created in the process of S46, S47, S48, S50 to S52, S63 to S6
8 are executed, and the dot pattern data of the 89 mm scale in which the scale number increases from “2” is stored in the print buffer 47.

Next, through the processing of S53 to S57 and S59, a dot pattern of the scale numeral "10" is created together with the large scale line LL and stored in the print buffer 47. Therefore, at this point, dot pattern data of a 9 cm scale in which the scale number increases toward “10” is created and stored in the print buffer 47. Also,
The flag data of the down flag DF is set to “1”.

Again, S47 to S51, S60, S61,
The respective processes of S63 to S68 are executed, and the scale numeral is set to “1”.
The dot pattern data of the 8 cm scale that decreases from “0” to “2” is created and stored in the print buffer 47. At this point, the scale number increases to "10" 9
cm scale and 8c decreasing from "10" to "2"
The dot pattern data of a scale of 17 cm in total length connected to the m scale is created and stored in the print buffer 47.

Then, through the processes of S61, S69, and S70, based on the dot pattern data stored in the print buffer 47, as shown in FIG. 9c whose starting scale number increases to "2", "3" ... "10"
"10", "9" ... "2" continuously on the scale of m
7cm scale reduced to. That is, a scale having a total length of 17 cm is printed on the printing tape 5.

When the scale print key is operated to display the scale range setting screen on the LCD 22, if the start range SS, the intermediate value MS, and the end value ES are stored in the scale range memory, each scale range is set. Displays the value stored at the input position.

As described in detail above, the tape printing apparatus of this embodiment operates the scale print key and then inputs the start, intermediate, and end values to move from the start value SS to the intermediate value MS. The scale in which the scale number increases and the scale in which the scale number decreases from the intermediate value MS toward the end value ES, or the scale in which the scale number decreases from the start value SS toward the intermediate value MS, and the intermediate value M
It is possible to easily create a tape on which a scale in which a scale in which the scale number increases from S toward the end value ES is continuous. The tape created in this way can be attached to any location and can be used as a scale.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various restrictions can be added without departing from the gist of the present invention.

For example, in the scale information setting processing shown in FIG. 5, the processing in S25 can be changed to the processing shown in FIG. In this process, when the scale information setting process control is started, first, a start value SS, an intermediate value MS,
Each of the end values ES is set to “0” and stored in the scale range memory 43 (S110).

Next, as shown in FIG. 17, an end value setting screen for setting whether or not to set the start value SS and the end value ES to the same value is displayed on the LCD 22 (S111). If the “Y” key is operated while the end value setting screen is displayed (S112: Yes), the second scale range setting screen shown in FIG. 18 is displayed on the LCD 22 (S11).
3) Then, a start / intermediate / end scale setting process shown in FIG. 5 is executed (S25). On the second scale range setting screen, based on the data stored in the scale range memory 43, “0” is displayed at each input position of the start value SS, the intermediate value MS, and the end value ES, and the start is started. A cursor indicating that only the input positions of the value SS and the intermediate value MS can be changed is displayed.

In the start / intermediate / end scale setting processing, when the start value SS is input by operating the numeric keys, the input value is displayed at the input position of the start value SS and the same numerical value is ended. It is displayed at the input position of the value ES.
Thus, when it is desired to set the start value SS and the end value ES to the same value, the input of the end value can be omitted. Then, a scale on which the scale number decreases or increases from the start value SS to the intermediate value MS and increases or decreases from the intermediate value MS to the start value SS is printed on the printing tape 5.

On the other hand, when the "N" key is operated (S11)
2: No, S114: Yes), the scale range setting screen shown in FIG. 10 is displayed (S115). However, the start value SS, the intermediate value MS, and the end value E are stored in the scale range memory 43.
Since data in which S is "0" is stored, "0" is displayed together with the cursor at each input position of the start value SS, the intermediate value MS, and the end value ES.

When the end value setting screen is displayed,
When a key other than the "Y" key or the "N" key is operated, a buzzer sounds to notify that an invalid key has been operated (S116), and the process returns to S112.

After setting each of the start value SS, the intermediate value MS, and the end value ES to “0” in S110, the process proceeds to S2
Since new settings are made by changing each value in step 5,
When the start value SS and the end value ES are changed and set, and the intermediate value MS is not changed, the scale on which the scale numeral decreases from the start value SS to 0 and increases from 0 to the end value ES is set to the scale of the printing tape 5. Can be printed.

If the start value SS and the end value ES are set to the same value in S111 and S112, and only the start value SS is changed and set in S25, the scale numeral becomes equal to the start value S.
A scale that decreases from S to 0 and increases from 0 to the start value SS can be printed on the printing tape 5.

Further, when the start value SS and the intermediate value MS are changed and set, and the end value ES is not changed, the scale numeral increases from the start value SS to the intermediate value MS and the intermediate value MS is changed.
The scale from 0 to 0 can be printed on the printing tape 5. When the intermediate value MS and the end value ES are changed and set, and the start value SS is not changed, the scale in which the scale number increases from 0 to the intermediate value MS and decreases from the intermediate value MS to the end value ES is set. Printing can be performed on the printing tape 5.

When only the intermediate value MS is changed and the start value SS and the end value ES are not changed, the scale numeral increases from 0 to the intermediate value MS, and changes from 0 to the intermediate value MS.
The scale which decreases to the maximum can be printed on the printing tape 5.

In the control of the scale information setting process, the print position of the scale numeral and the print position of the unit of the length represented by the scale numeral may be set. In addition, as a unit of the length of the scale, a scale of various length units such as inches, feet, and scales other than cm can be configured to be printable. It should be noted that various setting techniques may be used, such as displaying a plurality of setting items such as a scale length in a menu format with respect to the scale, and displaying the setting contents of the selected setting item sequentially by operating a cursor moving key. It is possible.

The scale lines can be printed so that the line widths of the small scale lines, the middle scale lines, and the large scale lines are different. The small scale lines are thin, the large scale lines are thick, and the middle scale lines are in the middle. If the scale is printed, the appearance of the printed scale is improved. The line width of each scale line may be stored in the ROM as a fixed value in advance, or may be set to an arbitrary value for each scale line. In addition, if the line width of one scale line is set, the width of another scale line may be automatically set.

[0091]

As is apparent from the above description, according to the scale printing apparatus of the present invention, the scale lines of the scale and the scale lines before and after the intermediate value set on the tape as the print medium are sandwiched. Can be printed with graduation numbers attached to.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a control system of a tape printing apparatus.

FIG. 2 is a plan view of the tape printing apparatus.

FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view of a printing mechanism.

FIG. 4 is a schematic flowchart of a routine of tape print control.

FIG. 5 is a schematic flowchart of a scale information setting process control routine;

FIG. 6 is a schematic flowchart of a routine of a scale printing process control.

FIG. 7 is a schematic flowchart of a routine for large scale line development processing control.

FIG. 8 is a schematic flowchart of a middle scale line development process control routine.

FIG. 9 is a schematic flowchart of a small scale line developing process control routine.

FIG. 10 is an exemplary diagram of a scale length setting screen.

FIG. 11 is an exemplary diagram of a scale line pitch setting screen.

FIG. 12 is an exemplary view of a scale number setting screen.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing dot pattern data in a print buffer.

FIG. 14 is a plan view of a printing tape on which scale printing is performed.

FIG. 15 is a plan view of a scale printing tape.

FIG. 16 is a schematic flowchart of a part of a scale information setting process control routine according to a modification;

FIG. 17 is an illustration of an end value setting screen according to a modification.

FIG. 18 is a view showing an example of a second scale range setting screen according to a modified row.

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 1 tape printer 3 keyboard 5 printing tape 22 liquid crystal display 41 text memory 47 print buffer C controller PM printing mechanism

Claims (8)

(57) [Claims] An input means for inputting characters, symbols, and various commands, a printing means including a print head for printing in a dot pattern on a long tape as a printing medium, and an input means for inputting from the input means. Input data storage means for storing character and symbol data; display means including a display capable of displaying characters and symbols; a print buffer for storing dot pattern data for print output; A printing control means for causing the printing means to print the data, the data setting means for inputting setting data relating to the scale including at least start value data representing a start value of a scale numeral associated with the scale line of the scale; and receives the setting data from said data setting means, said tape
A unit of length that extends in the width direction of the tape and extends in the longitudinal direction of the tape
For printing a scale line of a scale arranged at a predetermined interval based on the scale line and a scale numeral which decreases from a start value representing the start data to a predetermined intermediate value and increases from the intermediate value. And a scale data creating means for creating dot pattern data and supplying the dot pattern data to a print buffer. 2. The intermediate value is set to 0, and the scale data generating means receives setting data from the data setting means, and sets a scale line of the scale and the scale line from the start value to 0. 2. The scale printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein dot pattern data for printing a scale numeral that decreases and increases from 0 to the start value is created and supplied to a print buffer. 3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the intermediate value is set to 0, and the data setting means includes at least a scale-related setting including start value data representing the start value and end value data representing an end value of a scale numeral attached to a scale line. Data is settable, the scale data generating means receives the setting data from the data setting means, and reduces the scale value from the start value to 0 accompanying the scale line and the scale line; 2. The scale printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein dot pattern data for printing a scale numeral increasing to the end value is created and supplied to a print buffer. 3. 4. The data setting means is configured to be able to set intermediate value data representing the intermediate value, and the scale data creation means receives setting data from the data setting means, It is characterized in that dot pattern data for printing a scale numeral which is decreased from the start value to the intermediate value along with a scale line and increases from the intermediate value to the start value is created and supplied to a print buffer. The scale printing device according to claim 1, wherein 5. The setting relating to at least the scale, comprising: start value data representing the start value, intermediate value data representing the intermediate value, and end value data representing an end value of a scale numeral attached to a scale line. Data is settable, the scale data creating means receives setting data from the data setting means, decreases from the start value to the intermediate value along with the scale line of the scale and the scale line, The scale printing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein dot pattern data for printing a scale numeral increasing from an intermediate value to the end value is created and supplied to a print buffer. 6. Input means for inputting characters, symbols and various commands, printing means including a print head for printing in a dot pattern on a long tape as a print medium, and input means input from the input means. Input data storage means for storing character and symbol data; display means including a display capable of displaying characters and symbols; a print buffer for storing dot pattern data for print output; A print control means for causing the printing means to print the data, wherein the data setting means for inputting setting data relating to the scale including at least intermediate value data representing an intermediate value of the scale numeral associated with the scale line of the scale; and receives the setting data from said data setting means, said tape
A unit of length that extends in the width direction of the tape and extends in the longitudinal direction of the tape
Dot pattern data for printing a scale line of a scale arranged at a predetermined interval based on the scale line and a scale numeral accompanying the scale line from a predetermined start value to the intermediate value and decreasing from the intermediate value And a scale data creating means for creating and supplying the scale data to a print buffer. 7. The predetermined starting value is 0, and the scale data generating means increases the scale line from 0 to the intermediate value and decreases from the intermediate value to 0 in association with the scale line of the scale. 7. The scale printing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein dot pattern data for printing a scale numeral to be printed is created and supplied to a print buffer. 8. The data setting means is configured to be capable of setting start data representing a start value of a scale numeral associated with a scale line of a scale, intermediate value data representing an intermediate value, and end value data representing an end value. The scale data generating means receives the setting data from the data setting means, increases the scale line and the scale line from the start value to the intermediate value, and decreases from the intermediate value to the end value. 7. A method according to claim 6, wherein dot pattern data for printing scale numbers to be printed is created and supplied to a print buffer.
A scale printing device according to item 1.