JP3852216B2 - Two-dimensional code data conversion recording medium, two-dimensional code data conversion device and printer - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
[Technical field to which the invention belongs]
The present invention relates to an improvement in technology for converting pre-conversion information data representing a single piece of pre-conversion information represented by a set of characters into two-dimensional code data.
[0002]
[Prior art]
One set of pre-conversion information represented by a set of characters is represented by two or more two-dimensional codes. The pre-conversion information represented by each two-dimensional code is concatenated to represent a single piece of pre-conversion information. The code symbol of the two-dimensional code is formed by arranging a plurality of cells (pixels) in a plane (matrix), and 1-bit information is represented by one cell. If the cell size is constant, the larger the code symbol size, the larger the amount of information represented by one code symbol. If the code symbol size is constant, the smaller the cell, the larger the amount of information. Become more. If two or more two-dimensional codes are used, a large amount of information that cannot be represented by one two-dimensional code can be represented. It is also possible to output a two-dimensional code to a predetermined output area of the output medium, for example, an elongated area having a small size in one direction. When one piece of pre-conversion information is represented by one two-dimensional code, the code symbol of the two-dimensional code becomes large and may exceed the allowable output area in one direction. If a code is used, each code symbol of the two-dimensional code can be reduced, so that it can be output in the region.
[0003]
Under such circumstances, conventionally, the operator divides the pre-conversion information to be expressed by two or more two-dimensional codes, and the pre-division information data corresponding to the divided pre-conversion information is two-dimensionally stored in the computer. Conversion to code data was performed. Therefore, it is troublesome and the size of the code symbol of the two-dimensional code represented by each converted two-dimensional code data is too large, and it may be necessary to re-divide.
[0004]
[Problems to be Solved by the Invention, Solution, Action and Effect]
  Therefore, an object of the present invention is to facilitate an operator's work in a case where one piece of pre-conversion information represented by a set of characters is represented by two or more two-dimensional codes. Specifically, The information data before conversion is automatically divided so that the size of each two-dimensional code code symbol does not exceed a predetermined size.
  The above problems can be solved by the following aspects. As with the claims, each aspect is divided into sections, each section is numbered, and is described in a form that cites the numbers of other sections as necessary. This is to facilitate understanding of the technical features described in the present specification and typical combinations thereof, and the technical features described in the specification and combinations thereof are as follows. It should not be construed as limited.
(1) When one piece of pre-conversion information represented by a set of characters is represented by two or more two-dimensional codes, the size of each of the two or more two-dimensional codes is predetermined. The pre-conversion information data representing the one piece of pre-conversion information is automatically divided into two or more pieces of pre-conversion information data so as not to exceed the size.Split processing, (a) A code symbol size determination process for determining whether the size of the code symbol exceeds a predetermined size; (b) A division number increasing process for increasing the number of divisions of the pre-conversion information data when the code symbol size determination process determines that the predetermined size is exceeded.Information data division processing,
  Two-dimensional code data conversion processing for converting each piece of pre-conversion information data divided by the information data division processing into one two-dimensional code data;
A two-dimensional code data conversion recording medium recorded with a computer-readable two-dimensional code data conversion program (Claim 1).
  If the two-dimensional code data conversion program recorded on the recording medium described in this section is read and executed by a computer, the pre-conversion information data representing one piece of pre-conversion information is converted into code symbols for each two-dimensional code. Is automatically divided so as not to exceed a predetermined size (hereinafter referred to as a set maximum value) and converted into two-dimensional code data. It is not necessary for the operator to divide the pre-conversion information, and the work for conversion to two-dimensional code data can be facilitated accordingly. Moreover, since the size of the code symbol of the two-dimensional code represented by each converted two-dimensional code data can be prevented from exceeding the set maximum value, for example, an output for outputting the two-dimensional code of the output medium When the area is limited, it is possible to output a two-dimensional code in the output area.
  The set maximum value may be a value input by an operator or a value determined by a computer. For example, it can be determined based on an output region or the like in which a two-dimensional code is output. In this case, it can be considered that the set maximum value determination process is included in the two-dimensional code data conversion program.
  In addition, when converting to two-dimensional code data, even if the conversion is performed with the size of one cell kept constant, the conversion is performed with the cell size being variable. May be. It is also possible to make the cell small so that the size of the code symbol does not exceed the set maximum value. As described above, when the pre-conversion information data is converted into the two-dimensional code data, a constant cell conversion process in which the cell size is kept constant is performed, or in a variable state. There is a case where cell variable conversion processing to be converted is performed. Even if either one of the predetermined cell conversion processing and the cell variable conversion processing is performed in advance, either the cell constant conversion processing or the cell variable conversion processing is performed depending on the code symbol size or the set maximum value. It may be selectively performed based on the above.
  When constant cell conversion processing is performed, the size of a code symbol is determined based on the amount of information represented by the code symbol, and the amount of information represented by one code symbol is the value before division conversion that is converted into a two-dimensional code. It is determined based on the amount of information represented by the information data. Therefore, to prevent the code symbol from exceeding the set maximum value, the information amount represented by one code symbol does not exceed the upper limit value of the information amount corresponding to the set maximum value (referred to as the symbol upper limit information amount). Similarly, this corresponds to preventing the information amount represented by the pre-division conversion information data from exceeding the pre-conversion information upper limit information amount. As will be described later, the information represented by the code symbol of the two-dimensional code includes information indicating the number of concatenations and the order of concatenation, information for error correction, etc. in addition to the pre-conversion information represented by the pre-division conversion information data. Therefore, the amount of information is greater than the information represented by the pre-division conversion information data.
  Further, if the two-dimensional code data conversion program recorded on the recording medium described in this section is read and executed by a computer, it is determined whether or not the size of the code symbol exceeds the set maximum value. If it is determined, the number of divisions is increased. If the number of divisions is increased, the amount of information represented by one code symbol is reduced, so that one code symbol can be reduced. In this sense, the division number increasing process can be referred to as a code symbol miniaturization process.
  As described above, when the constant cell conversion process is performed, the size of the code symbol can be obtained based on the information amount represented by one code symbol and the information amount represented by the pre-division conversion information data. . Therefore, whether or not the code symbol exceeds the set maximum value can be determined based on the information amount represented by the code symbol, the information amount represented by the pre-division conversion information data, and the like. Accordingly, in the code symbol size determination process, the information amount represented by the symbol information amount determination process for determining whether the information amount represented by the code symbol exceeds the above-described symbol upper limit information amount or the pre-division information information before conversion Includes a pre-conversion information amount determination process for determining whether or not the upper limit information amount for pre-conversion information is exceeded. The pre-conversion information amount determination process can be performed before conversion to two-dimensional code data. As described above, even if the code symbol size determination process includes a direct determination process that is determined based on the actual size of the code symbol, the information amount represented by the code symbol and the information amount represented by the pre-division conversion information data It may include indirect determination processing that is determined based on the above.
  Note that the initial value of the number of divisions described in this section is 1. One piece of pre-conversion information data is divided by the division number 1, and the divided pre-conversion information data (the same as one piece of pre-conversion information data) is converted into two-dimensional code data. When it is determined that the size of the code symbol of the two-dimensional code represented by the two-dimensional code data is larger than the set maximum value, the number of divisions is set to two. One piece of pre-conversion information data is divided by the division number 2 (divided into two), and the same execution is repeated thereafter.
  Also,The recording medium may be a CDROM, FD, ROM card, or other removable medium, or a ROM chip, EPROM chip, hard disk, or other fixed medium.further,It may be optically or magnetically writable or nonwritable.
( 2 )The information data dividing process
  A code symbol dimension difference determination process for determining whether a dimension difference between the two or more code symbols is larger than a set difference;
  Re-division processing for changing the division position of the pre-conversion information data to divide when the size difference is determined to be larger than the set difference by the code symbol dimensional difference determination processing;
including(1)2. A recording medium for converting two-dimensional code data according to the item.
  If the division position of the pre-conversion information data is changed, the amount of information represented by each code symbol changes. Therefore, if the division position is changed so that the dimensional difference between the code symbols is small, the sizes of two or more code symbols can be made substantially the same. Although it is not essential that two or more code symbols have substantially the same size, it is convenient when reading a two-dimensional code. In addition, it is possible to improve the appearance when outputting the two-dimensional code to the output medium, or to reduce the area where the two-dimensional code is output.
  The dimensional difference between two or more code symbols is determined according to the magnitude of the setting difference. The smaller the setting difference is, the smaller the dimensional difference is. When it is set to 0, the dimensional difference is 0, and the sizes of two or more code symbols are uniform. In this case, the re-division process can be referred to as a dimension equalization process.
  Further, as described above, when cell constant conversion processing is performed, the size of the code symbol can be obtained based on the information amount represented by the code symbol and the information amount represented by the pre-division conversion information data. Therefore, the determination can be made based on whether or not these information amount differences are larger than the set information amount differences set according to each. The code symbol size difference determination processing includes symbol information amount difference determination processing and pre-conversion information amount difference determination processing. In this case, the re-division processing is performed as symbol information amount equalization processing and pre-division conversion information amount equalization. This can be called processing. Furthermore, the information amount uniformization process and the dimension uniformization process can be collectively referred to as a code symbol uniformization process.
( 3 )When one piece of pre-conversion information represented by a set of characters is represented by two or more two-dimensional codes, a difference in code symbol size between each of the two or more two-dimensional codes is determined in advance. An information data dividing process for automatically dividing the one pre-conversion information data into two or more pre-conversion information data so as not to exceed a setting difference;
  Two-dimensional code data conversion processing for converting each piece of pre-conversion information data divided by the information data division processing into one two-dimensional code data;
A recording medium for two-dimensional code data conversion in which a two-dimensional code data conversion program for causing a computer to execute is recorded in a state readable by the computer.
( 4 )The information data dividing process includes a tape width corresponding limited dividing process for determining and dividing the maximum size of the code symbol according to the width of the tape printed by the tape printer (1) to(3)A recording medium for converting two-dimensional code data according to any one of claims2).
  The set maximum value is determined in accordance with the width of the tape on which the two-dimensional code is printed in the tape printer, and the pre-conversion information data is divided so that the code symbol does not exceed the set maximum value. It can be considered that the information data division processing with the tape width correspondence restriction includes the tape width correspondence setting maximum value determination processing. The tape width may be input by an operator or supplied from a tape printer. When the tape width is detected by the tape printer and the tape width data representing the tape width is transmitted to the computer, the set maximum value is determined based on the tape width data supplied from the tape printer. Can be. In each tape printer, the width of the tape to be used is fixed, but when the two-dimensional code data conversion program is shared by multiple types of tape printers, the width of the tape supplied from each tape printer is The set maximum value can be determined based on the data. The set maximum value may be determined to be the same value as the tape width or a value smaller than the tape width, but it is desirable to determine a value smaller than the tape width in consideration of a margin or the like.
  When a tape on which a two-dimensional code is printed in a tape printer has an adhesive layer, the tape can be easily attached to an object, which is convenient. For example, it can be used for parts management.
( 5 )When one piece of pre-conversion information represented by a set of characters is represented by two or more two-dimensional codes, the two or more two-dimensional codes are arranged in a predetermined area of the output medium. Information data dividing processing for automatically dividing the information data representing the one piece of pre-conversion information into two or more pieces of pre-conversion information data;
  Two-dimensional code data conversion processing for converting each piece of pre-division information data divided by the information data dividing means into one two-dimensional code data;
A recording medium for two-dimensional code data conversion in which a two-dimensional code data conversion program for causing a computer to execute is recorded in a state readable by the computer.
  When the two-dimensional code data conversion program recorded on the recording medium described in this section is read and executed by a computer, a predetermined area (hereinafter, referred to as an output medium) in which the two-dimensional code is output. The maximum setting value is determined according to the setting output area), and the code symbol is converted so as not to exceed the maximum setting value. This eliminates the need for the operator to input the set maximum value, thereby facilitating the work. The setting output area can be input by an operator, or can be supplied from an external device such as a tape printer, as will be described later. Even when the operator inputs the setting output area, the setting output area can be easily determined from the set maximum value, so that the burden on the operator can be reduced.
( 6 )When one piece of pre-conversion information represented by a set of characters is represented by two or more two-dimensional codes, the size of each of the two or more two-dimensional codes is determined in advance. Information data dividing means for automatically dividing the pre-conversion information data representing the one piece of pre-conversion information into two or more pieces of pre-conversion information data so as not to exceed
  Two-dimensional code data conversion means for converting each piece of pre-conversion information data divided by the information data dividing means into one two-dimensional code data;
Two-dimensional code data converter includingBecause
  The information data dividing means is (a) Code symbol size determining means for determining whether the size of the code symbol exceeds a predetermined size; (b) Division number increasing means for increasing the number of divisions of the pre-conversion information data when the code symbol size determining means determines that the predetermined size is exceeded.
A two-dimensional code data conversion device comprising:3).
  In the two-dimensional code data conversion device described in this section, the pre-conversion information data representing one piece of pre-conversion information is automatically set so that the size of the code symbol of each two-dimensional code does not exceed the set maximum value. Divided and converted into two-dimensional code data.
  An example of the two-dimensional code data conversion apparatus described in this section is a computer that can read and execute a two-dimensional conversion program from the recording medium described in section (1). The recording medium may be provided fixedly in the computer or may be provided detachably. In addition, the recording medium is not limited to that described in paragraph (1), but the paragraph (2) to(Five)It can be as described in any one of the paragraphs.
( 7 )A recording medium;
  (a)A main control unit that reads the program stored in the recording medium and executes the read program;(b)A computer including a data supply unit for supplying data acquired by execution in the main control unit;
  An output device connected to the computer and outputting an output image corresponding to the data supplied from the data supply unit to an output medium;
An output system comprising:
  The recording medium is(c)When one piece of pre-conversion information represented by a set of characters is represented by two or more two-dimensional codes, the size of each of the two or more two-dimensional codes is determined in advance. The pre-conversion information data representing the one piece of pre-conversion information is automatically divided into two or more pre-conversion information data so as not to exceedSplit processing, (i) A code symbol size determination process for determining whether the size of the code symbol exceeds a predetermined size; (ii) A division number increasing process for increasing the number of divisions of the pre-conversion information data when the code symbol size determination process determines that the predetermined size is exceeded.Information data division processing,(d)A two-dimensional code data conversion program for causing a computer to execute a two-dimensional code data conversion process for converting each piece of pre-division information data divided in the information data division process into one two-dimensional code data is read by the computer It is a recording medium for two-dimensional code data conversion recorded in a possible state,
  The data supply unit includes a two-dimensional code data supply unit that supplies the output device with the two-dimensional code data acquired by the main control unit;
  The output system includes a two-dimensional code output device that outputs a two-dimensional code corresponding to the two-dimensional code data to an output medium.
  In the computer, the two-dimensional code data conversion program is read from the recording medium and executed, whereby the pre-conversion information data is converted into two-dimensional code data, and the two-dimensional code data is supplied to the output device. In the output device, a two-dimensional code corresponding to the two-dimensional code data supplied from the computer is output to the output medium. The computer can be an aspect of a two-dimensional code conversion device.
  The output device can be a display device that displays a two-dimensional code on a screen such as a CRT display or a liquid crystal display as an output medium, or a printer that prints out the two-dimensional code on a print medium as an output medium. . The printer can be a sheet printer that prints out a two-dimensional code on ordinary recording paper, or a tape printer that prints out on a tape-like print medium. The aspect of this section is effective when the output device reads a program from a recording medium and does not have an executable control unit.
  Note that the recording medium is not limited to that described in (1), but in (2) to(Five)It can be set as the recording medium as described in any one of claim | items.
( 8 )When one piece of pre-conversion information represented by a set of characters is represented by two or more two-dimensional codes, the size of each of the two or more two-dimensional codes is determined in advance. Information data dividing means for automatically dividing the pre-conversion information data representing the one piece of pre-conversion information into two or more pieces of pre-conversion information data so as not to exceed
  Two-dimensional code data conversion means for converting each piece of pre-conversion information data divided by the information data dividing means into one two-dimensional code data;
  A print unit for printing out a two-dimensional code corresponding to the two-dimensional code data converted by the two-dimensional code data conversion means on a print medium;
Including printerBecause
  The information data dividing means is (a) Code symbol size determining means for determining whether the size of the code symbol exceeds a predetermined size; (b) Division number increasing means for increasing the number of divisions of the pre-conversion information data when the code symbol size determining means determines that the predetermined size is exceeded.
A printer comprising:4).
  The printer described in this section has a control unit including information data dividing means and two-dimensional code data converting means. The control unit of the printer can read and execute the program from the recording medium described in the item (1). The recording medium may be fixedly provided in the control unit or removable. Also, item (2) or(Five)The recording medium described in any one of the items may be used.
  The printing unit may print out a two-dimensional code on a normal recording paper or may print out on a tape-shaped print medium. When printing out a two-dimensional code to an arbitrary position (area) of a recording paper that is larger than the size of the code symbol, the size of the code symbol is not a problem, but the recording paper is determined. This is often a problem when printing out to a specified portion (set output area), or when printing out to a print medium that is restricted in the same width direction of the tape. You can enjoy it effectively.
  Further, when the print medium has a tape-like adhesive layer, the tape on which the two-dimensional code is printed can be easily attached to the object, which is convenient.
( 9 )The printing unit prints the two-dimensional code on the tape as the print medium in the longitudinal direction of the tape, and the information data dividing means prints the maximum size of the code symbol in the printing unit. Including a dividing means with a tape width restriction that is determined according to the width of the tape to be divided(8)The printer described in (5).
( 10 )A printer for printing out a two-dimensional code on a print medium;
  A recording medium in which a two-dimensional code data conversion program for causing a computer that supplies two-dimensional code data corresponding to the two-dimensional code to be executed by the printer is recorded in a computer-readable state. Code data conversion program(a)When one piece of pre-conversion information represented by a set of characters is represented by two or more two-dimensional codes, the size of each of the two or more two-dimensional codes is determined in advance. Information data that automatically divides the information data representing one piece of pre-conversion information into two or more pre-conversion information data without exceedingSplit processing, (i) A code that determines whether the size of the code symbol exceeds a predetermined size. Symbol size determination processing, (ii) A division number increasing process for increasing the number of divisions of the pre-conversion information data when the code symbol size determination process determines that the predetermined size is exceeded.Information data division processing,(b)A recording medium that is a program including two-dimensional code data conversion processing for converting each piece of pre-division information data divided in the information data division processing into one two-dimensional code data;
Including printer and recording medium.
  The aspect described in this section is effective when the printer does not have an executable control unit that reads a program recorded on a recording medium. If there is a recording medium, the program may be read from the recording medium, a computer capable of executing the two-dimensional code data conversion program executed, and the two-dimensional code data obtained as a result may be supplied to the printer. The computer can be one aspect of a two-dimensional code conversion device. The recording medium is not limited to that described in paragraph (1),(Five)It can be as described in any one of the paragraphs.
[0005]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
  Less than,Of the present inventionA printer as one embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. This printer is equipped with a computer,Of the present inventionThe program recorded on the recording medium as one embodiment can be read and executed,Of the present invention1 is a two-dimensional code conversion apparatus as one embodiment.
[0006]
In FIG. 2, 10 is a personal computer (hereinafter abbreviated as computer), and 12 is a tape printer as a printing unit. The computer 10 is a control unit of the tape printer 12. The computer 10 includes a main body 16 including a control unit 14 (see FIG. 1), a keyboard 18 and a mouse 20 as input devices, and a display device 22 as an output device. The tape printer 12 is connected to the computer 10 via a connection line 24. The tape printer 12 is also an aspect of the output device of the computer 10.
The tape printer 12 is an apparatus that prints an output image on a tape-like print medium. The tape is provided in the cassette 28 shown in FIG. 3 and is supplied when the cassette 28 is mounted on the tape printer 12. Will be.
[0007]
The cassette 28 includes a cassette body 30, a tape spool 34 around which a transparent laminate film 32 is wound, a ribbon supply spool 38 around which an ink ribbon 36 is wound, a take-up spool 40 that winds up the ink ribbon 36, A tape supply spool 44 around which a double-sided adhesive tape 42 is wound is included, and each spool 34, 38, 40, 44 is attached to the cassette body 30 so as to be relatively rotatable. The double-sided adhesive tape 42 is wound with the release paper positioned on the outer peripheral side.
[0008]
The ink ribbon 36 is supplied from a ribbon supply spool 38 and is taken up by a take-up spool 40 via a plurality of feed rollers, and a part of the ink ribbon 36 is overlapped with the laminate film 32 and a position corresponding to the overlapping portion (ink). A thermal head 50 is provided on the ribbon side. A platen roller 52 is provided at a position facing the thermal head 50 (on the laminate film side), and the laminate film 32 and the ink ribbon 36 are pressed against the thermal head 50. In the thermal head 50, a large number of heating elements are arranged in the vertical direction. By heating the heating element, the ink in the ink pond 36 is transferred to the laminate film 32, and an output image is formed.
The double-sided adhesive tape 42 is supplied to the downstream side of the thermal head 50 of the laminate film 32, and a pair of joining rollers 54 and 56 are provided on both sides thereof. The laminate film 32 and the double-sided pressure-sensitive adhesive tape 42 are pressed by a pair of joining rollers 54 and 56 and are combined to form a printing tape 58. The joining roller 56 is also a feed roller that discharges the printing tape 58 to the outside of the tape printer 12. The platen roller 52 and the joining roller 54 are supported so as to be relatively rotatable by a roller support portion 60 that is rotatably provided in a tape printer main body (not shown).
[0009]
The joining roller 56 and the ribbon take-up spool 40 described above are rotated by driving a feed motor 64 (see FIG. 1). When the joining roller 56 and the ribbon take-up spool 40 are rotated synchronously and the thermal head 50 is controlled, an output image is formed on the laminate film 32 and the double-sided adhesive tape 42 is put together. The printing tape 58 is sent out.
Although not shown, the tape printer 12 is provided with a pair of fixed blades and a movable blade, and the printing tape 58 is cut by reciprocating the movable blade once. The movable blade is moved by a cutter drive motor 66.
[0010]
There are a plurality of types of cassettes 28 determined by the types of the printing tape 58 such as the width, color, and type. There are 6mm, 9mm, 12mm, 18mm, 24mm, and 36mm widths, and 13 colors such as red, blue, green, and so on. As for the mold, there are a non-laminate tape, a heat sensitive tape, and an instant lettering tape that do not have a laminate film in addition to the laminate film 32 and the double-sided adhesive tape 42 combined. In the case of a non-laminate tape, the output image is directly printed on the surface of the single-sided adhesive tape opposite to the release paper.
[0011]
In the present embodiment, the tape type, that is, the type of the cassette 28 is detected by the tape width sensor 70, the tape color sensor 72, and the tape type sensor 74, respectively. These sensors 70 to 74 have a recess group including a plurality of recesses provided on the main body side of the tape printer 12, and the type of tape is detected based on the fitting state of the protrusions in each of these recesses. . As shown in FIG. 4, the tape width sensor 70 includes a recess group 76 including three recesses. When the cassette 28 outside the cassette body 30 is mounted, the tape width sensor 70 is positioned at a position facing the recess group 76. A protrusion group 78 (in the case shown in the figure, the protrusion group 78 includes two protrusions but may not include any protrusions) according to the width is provided. By optically detecting the fitting state of the protrusions with respect to each of the three recesses, eight fitting states can be detected, and the tape width is detected corresponding to these fitting states. Similarly, the tape color sensor 72 has a recess group including four recesses, and 16 fitting states can be detected, and the tape-type sensor 78 has a recess group including two recesses. Four types of fitting states can be detected.
In addition, the tape printer main body is provided with a cassette switch 80 for detecting whether or not the cassette 28 is mounted, and a tape end sensor 82 for detecting that the tape is in an end state. The tape end sensor 82 is provided at a position facing the opening provided in the cassette 28 of the roller support 60, and an end mark provided at or near the tape end of the laminate film 32 is detected.
[0012]
As shown in FIG. 1, the control unit 14 of the computer 10 includes a CPU 89, a RAM 90, a ROM 91, an input / output I / F 92, a transmission / reception I / F 93, a hard disk (HD) drive device 94, and a CD ROM drive device. 95, and a floppy disk (FD) drive device 96 and the like. The input / output I / F 92 is connected to the keyboard 18, the mouse 20, and the display device 22, and the CDROM drive device 95, the FD drive device 96, and the like. The display device 22 includes a CRT display (CRTD) 96 and a CRT controller (CRTC) 97 as display screens. A CDROM drive device 95 reads information recorded on a CDROM 99 as a recording medium (CDROM drive ( CDD) 100 and a CDROM drive controller (CDC) 101 for controlling it. When the CDROM 99 is inserted into the CDROM drive device 95 and installed according to a predetermined procedure, various programs and data recorded on the CDROM 99 are read and recorded on the hard disk 102. Similarly, the FD drive device 96 includes an FD drive (FDD) 103 that reads information recorded on a floppy disk (not shown) as a recording medium, and an FD drive controller (DFC) 104 that controls the FD drive.
The computer 12 is not necessarily required to have both the CDROM drive device 95 and the FD drive device 96, and may have only one of them. Further, the display device 22 may have a liquid crystal display instead of the CRTD 96. Since the CRTD 96 displays a character, a template, a two-dimensional code, a selection image, and the like, which will be described later, the display device 22 and the like constitute a computer output image output device, a two-dimensional code output device, a selection image output device, and the like. Can be considered.
[0013]
The keyboard 18 is mainly operated when character data is input. In addition, the keyboard 18 in the tape printer 12 is set with a printing condition such as the type of the cassette 28 and the presence / absence of automatic cutting, a print instruction (print start instruction), The operation may be performed also when various operation instructions in the computer 12 are given. These setting of printing conditions, printing instructions, instructions for various operations in the computer 12 and the like are often performed by operating the mouse 20. A character string that includes one or more characters such as characters, alphanumeric characters, and symbols represented by character data input by operating the keyboard 18 has one meaning. Data representing a character string is referred to as character string data, but may be referred to as document data (pre-conversion information data) when a single piece of information is represented by a set of a plurality of characters. The information indicating the printing conditions includes cassette information indicating the type of cassette, operating condition information indicating the operating conditions of the cutter drive motor 66 and the like in the tape printer 12, and the like. Are collectively referred to as tape printer control information (hereinafter abbreviated as print information). Since the driving of the feed motor 64 is started according to the printing instruction or the thermal head 50 is activated, the printing instruction information can be included in the printing information.
The tape printer 12 is connected to the transmission / reception I / F 93 via a connection line 24.
[0014]
The RAM 90 is supplied from a character data memory 110 that stores character data, a dot data memory 111 that stores print dot data to be transmitted to the tape printer 12, a print information memory 112 that stores print information, and a tape printer 12. A printer-side information memory 113 that stores information representing the state of the tape printer 12, an error information memory 114 that stores error information in the computer 10, and an image that stores image data selected (created) by the operator. A data memory 115 and the like are provided, and a plurality of memories used for tape printing and the like are provided. The plurality of memories include a selected template data memory 116 that stores template data selected by an operator, an output template data memory 117 that stores template data for output, and a two-dimensional code data memory 118 that stores two-dimensional code data. Etc. are included. The template data includes graphic data, character string data, and output format data, and the output format data is data representing attributes such as character size and typeface.
[0015]
The HD drive device 94 includes a hard disk drive (HDD) 121 that reads information such as programs and data recorded on the hard disk 102 and a hard disk drive controller (HDC) 122 that controls the hard disk drive 121. The hard disk 102 is a data memory for storing a large number of data, such as an image data memory (image file) 125 for storing a plurality of image data, and a pattern data memory 126 for storing pattern data when character data is converted into dot data. Is provided. The image file 125 stores a plurality of pieces of image data (dot data) in association with image data names that specify the image data 125, and the pattern data memory 126 stores outline data representing characters in a Gothic typeface, Mincho system. Each typeface such as a typeface is stored corresponding to each character data. The image data stored in the image file 125 may be stored as vector data.
[0016]
Further, a print control program memory 129 for storing a print control program for performing print control, and a display drive control program for controlling the CRTC 97 by converting character data, image data, etc. into display dot data for display on the CRTD 96 are stored. Display drive program memory 130, dot data conversion program memory 131 for storing a dot data conversion program for converting character data into printing dot data, data transmission for controlling transmission of printing dot data, printing information, etc. to the tape printer 12 A program memory for storing a large number of programs such as a transmission control program memory 132 for storing a control program is provided.
In the output template data stored in the output template data memory 117 of the RAM 90, the character string data included in the output template data is converted into print dot data according to the output format data, combined with the graphic data, and stored in the dot data memory 111. Is done. In the present embodiment, programs, data, and the like read from the CDROM 99 or the like by being installed are recorded in the CDROM information memory 133. When executing a program stored in the hard disk 102, the program is read and stored in the RAM 90.
[0017]
The above-mentioned CDROM 99 is provided with a data memory and a program memory. The data memory includes a template data memory 140 in which a plurality of template data is recorded, an image data memory (clip art) 141 in which a plurality of image data (dot data) is recorded, and a classification for specifying the type of character string. A classification data memory 142 and the like in which data is recorded are included. In the program memory, a classification program memory 146 in which a classification program for classifying a character string corresponding to character string data based on the classification data is recorded, a character string Two-dimensional code data conversion program memory 147 in which a two-dimensional code data conversion program for converting data (pre-conversion information data) into two-dimensional code data is recorded, and a program for converting the converted two-dimensional code data into dot data is recorded Code dot data A replacement program memory 148, an output image creation program memory 149 in which an output image data creation program for creating output image data using template data is recorded, and a selected image in which a selected image data processing program for processing selected image data is recorded A data processing program memory 150, a selected image data change program memory 151 in which a selected image change program for changing selected image data is recorded, and the like are included. The selected image data processing program includes a clip art selected image data processing program for clip art and an image file selected image data processing program for image file.
The transmission / reception I / F 93, connection line 24, dot data memory 111, transmission control program memory 133, a portion for executing the transmission control program of the CPU 89, and the like constitute a data supply unit. Further, the main control unit of the computer 10 is constituted by the CDROM drive device 95, the CPU 89, and the like.
[0018]
The hard disk 102 of the computer 10 stores a large number of programs and data relating to printing, but these programs and data relating to printing may be recorded in the CD ROM 99. Usually, since a program and data relating to printing are recorded in a recording medium such as the hard disk 102 fixedly provided in the computer, the program recorded in the CDROM 99 is executed using these. However, it is also possible to record a dedicated printing program and data on the CD ROM 99 separately from the program and data recorded on the hard disk 102. It can also be stored on the printer 12 side. Further, various programs and data stored in the hard disk 102 can be stored in the ROM 91.
[0019]
Similarly, the tape printer 12 has a control unit 160 mainly composed of a computer. The control unit 160 includes a CPU 161, a RAM 162, a ROM 163, an input / output I / F 164, a transmission / reception I / F 165, and the like. The input / output I / F 164 is connected with the above-described sensors such as the tape width sensor 70, the tape color sensor 72, the tape type sensor 74, the cassette switch 80, the tape end sensor 82, the thermal head 50, and the feed motor. 64, cutter driving motors 66 for driving the cutters are connected through driving circuits 167, 168, and 169, respectively.
[0020]
The RAM 162 has a reception buffer for storing data supplied from the computer 10, a print buffer for storing heating element control data for controlling the heating elements of the thermal head 50, the type of cassette 28 in the tape printer 12, and a mounting state. A cassette status information memory for storing information representing the above, an error information memory for storing errors, and the like are provided. The data supplied from the computer 10 and stored in the reception buffer includes dot data and print information. The cassette status information and error information are collectively referred to as status information representing the status of the tape printer 12 and supplied to the computer 10. This is the printer-side information described above.
The ROM 163 also has a transmission / reception control program for controlling transmission / reception of data to / from the computer 10, a head control program for converting dot data supplied from the computer 10 into heating element control data, and a thermal head based on printing information. A large number of programs such as a print drive control program for controlling the operation state of 50, the drive state of the feed motor 64, and the like are stored.
[0021]
Information is communicated between the computer 10 and the tape printer 12. Information communication between them is described in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 7-89196, and detailed description thereof is omitted. Printing information is supplied from the computer 10 to the tape printer 12 and dot data is supplied one by one. The tape printer 12 controls the thermal head 50 and the like based on the printing information and the dot data, so that the printing tape 58 Printing is performed. Since the print tape 58 has an adhesive layer, the print tape 58 on which the output image is printed can be easily attached to a desired item by the operator.
[0022]
In the computer 10, the print control program represented by the flowchart of FIG. In step 1 (hereinafter abbreviated as S1. The same applies to other steps), it is determined whether or not there has been a key input or operation of the mouse 20 (hereinafter simply abbreviated as input). If there is no input, it waits until there is an input. If there is an input, the determination is YES, and it is determined in S2 whether the input data is character data. If it is character data, the determination is YES, and the data is stored in the character data memory 110 and displayed on the CRTD 96 in S3. If it is not character data, the determination is no, and it is determined in S4 whether or not there is a print instruction. If it is a print instruction, the data stored in the character data memory 110 and the output template memory 117 is converted into dot data for printing in S5 and stored in the dot data memory 111. In S6, the data is printed together with the print information. To the tape printer 12. The selected image data stored in the selected image data memory 116 is stored and transmitted as it is in the dot data memory 111, and the two-dimensional code data is converted into printing dot data in accordance with the execution of the code dot data conversion program. Similarly transmitted. On the other hand, if it is not a print instruction input, a process corresponding thereto is performed in S7. For example, when the input is print information, it is stored in the print information memory 112, and when the input is information for instructing the operation in the computer 10, processing corresponding to the input is performed. For example, when execution of “create tape print data (Ptouch)” is selected from the program menu by operating the mouse of the operator, the screen shown in FIG. 6 is displayed on the CRTD 96.
[0023]
When the bar code is clicked, inserted, or the bar code is clicked on the display screen shown in FIG. 6, the bar code conversion program shown in the flowchart of FIG. 7 is executed. The By executing the barcode conversion program, the pre-conversion information data is converted into QR code data of a QR code as a two-dimensional code. First, the QR code will be described.
The QR code has a concatenation function, and can express a lot of information by concatenating information represented by a plurality of QR code symbols 180 (see FIG. 12). The information represented by the QR code symbol 180 includes, in addition to character data, information indicating that the information is linked, information indicating the number of links, information indicating the order of linkage, and the like. Therefore, it is possible to represent one piece of information by combining information represented by a plurality of QR code symbols 180. Further, since error correction information is included, even if a part of the QR code symbol 180 is damaged, it can be corrected.
[0024]
The QR code symbol 180 has a square shape and includes a large number of cells 182. The cell 182 includes a white cell and a black cell, and one cell 182 can represent 1-bit information. In the QR code symbol 180, these cells 182 are arranged in a matrix (planar), and a large amount of information is represented.
The number of cells 182 included in one QR code symbol 180 is determined in a plurality of stages according to the model, but the size of one cell 182 can be set by an operator. If the size of the cell 182 is constant, the amount of information represented by one QR code symbol 180 increases as the size of the QR code symbol 180 increases. On the other hand, when the size of the cell 182 is variable and one size of the QR code symbol 180 is constant, the amount of information increases as the size of the cell 182 decreases.
[0025]
In the present embodiment, when the pre-conversion information data is converted into QR code data, the size of the QR code symbol 180 does not exceed the set maximum value determined according to the tape width, and the QR code data is converted. The code symbols 180 are divided so that the sizes thereof are uniform.
Since the QR code symbol 180 is printed out on the print tape 58 in the tape printer 12, the size is limited by the width of the print tape 58. The set maximum value is a size obtained by subtracting a margin necessary for reading the QR code from the tape width. When the QR code symbol 180 is larger than the set maximum value, the number of divisions of the pre-conversion information data is increased. The amount of information represented by one QR code symbol is reduced, and the QR code symbol 180 can be reduced.
Further, it is not essential to make the sizes of the plurality of QR code symbols 180 uniform, but a uniform one is desirable for reading. In addition, there are advantages that the appearance is improved and that the printing tape 58 can be used effectively. Therefore, when the sizes of two or more QR code symbols 180 are not uniform, the division position of the pre-conversion information data is changed. Then, the data is divided at the changed division position, and the information data before division conversion is converted into the QR code symbol 180.
[0026]
In S11, conditions for conversion to QR code data are set, and pre-conversion information data to be converted is input. Conditions are set according to the operation of the mouse 20 on the display screens shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, and the input of pre-conversion information data is performed by operating the keyboard 18 on the display screen shown in FIG. 9 and 10, the barcode to be converted is a QR code, a QR code model, an error correction level, a size level, and the like are set, and the maximum number of connections is set to 16. The pre-conversion information data is a set of character data. Generally, alphanumeric characters in character data are represented by 1 byte (8 bits), and kanji are represented by 2 bytes. The input pre-conversion information data is stored in the character data memory 110 of the RAM 90.
[0027]
In S12, the width of the print tape 58 provided in the cassette 28 mounted on the tape printer 12 is detected. If the information indicating the tape width is stored in the printing device side information memory 113 of the RAM 90 of the computer 10, the information is read. If not, the status request information for requesting the status information to the tape printer 12 is displayed. Sent. In response, status information including tape width information is supplied from the tape printer 12, and the tape width can be acquired. In S13, the number of character data included in the pre-conversion information data stored in the character data memory 110 (corresponding to the number of characters and alphanumeric characters, hereinafter abbreviated as the number of characters) is counted, and the number of characters is the maximum concatenated number ( 16) It is determined whether it is smaller. If it is smaller than the maximum number of connections, the number of characters is set to the maximum number of connections, and the number of connections is initialized in S15. In the present embodiment, the initial value of the number of connections R is 1. The concatenation number R is a number corresponding to the division number, and corresponds to the number of QR code symbols represented by the QR code data to be converted. If the number of characters is greater than the maximum number of connections, the number of connections R is initialized as it is.
The reason for setting the number of characters as the maximum number of connections when the number of characters is smaller than the maximum number of connections is to prevent S16-19 from being repeated indefinitely. For example, when the QR code symbol is larger than the set maximum value and the number of characters is smaller than the maximum number of connections, neither the determination in S16 nor the determination in S18 will be NO. On the other hand, if the number of characters is the maximum number of concatenations, even if the QR code symbol is larger than the set maximum value, the determination in S16 is NO and the execution of the program can be terminated.
[0028]
In S16 to S19, the pre-conversion information data is divided and converted so that the size of the QR code symbol 180 does not exceed the set maximum value. In addition, the size of the QR code symbol 180 is made uniform.
In S16, it is determined whether or not the number of connections R is equal to or less than the maximum number of connections. If it is equal to or less than the maximum number of connections, the determination is YES, and in S17, the pre-conversion information data is set to a number corresponding to the number of connections R. The data is divided and each pre-division information data is converted into QR code data. In S18, it is determined whether or not the QR code symbol 180 included in the converted QR code data is larger than the set maximum value (dimension determination). If larger, in S19, the concatenation number R is increased by 1 ( The same execution is repeatedly performed (miniaturization process). In S17, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 8, a uniformization process for making the sizes of the QR code symbols 180 uniform is performed. Initially, in S31, the pre-conversion information data is equally divided, and in S32, each pre-division information data is converted into a QR code. It is determined whether or not the size of the QR code symbol 180 is uniform. (Dimensional difference determination) If not uniform, the determination in S33 is NO, the division position is changed in S34 (division position changing process), and re-division is performed. The division position is changed so that the size of the QR code symbol 180 becomes uniform. Then, the re-divided pre-division information data is converted into QR code data, and it is determined whether or not the size of the QR code symbol 180 is uniform. S32 to 34 are repeatedly performed until the size becomes uniform.
[0029]
When S16 is executed for the first time, the initial value of the concatenation number R is 1, so that the pre-conversion information data is converted into QR code data. In this case, the pre-conversion information data and the pre-division conversion information data are the same, and there is one QR code symbol 180 represented by the QR code data to be converted. For this reason, the determination in S33 is always YES, and the equalization process is not substantially performed. When the amount of information represented by the pre-conversion information data is large, the determination in S18 is YES, so in S19 the number of connections R is increased to 2, and the pre-conversion information data is divided into two. Thereafter, S16 to S19 are repeatedly executed, and if the size of the QR code symbol 180 becomes smaller than the set maximum value, the determination in S18 is NO, and in S20, the QR code symbol 180 is changed to CRTD 96 as shown in FIG. And stored in the two-dimensional code data memory 118 of the RAM 90. In response to the print instruction, the QR code symbol 180 stored in the two-dimensional code data memory 118 is converted into dot data for printing, stored in the dot data memory 111, and transmitted to the tape printer 12. In the tape printer 12, the QR code symbol 180 is printed on the printing tape 58.
On the other hand, if the size of the QR code symbol 180 does not become smaller than the set maximum value even when the number of concatenations R is the maximum number of concatenations 16, the determination in S16 is NO, and in S20, the QR code symbol 180 is Displayed on the DRTD 96.
[0030]
As described above, in this embodiment, when one piece of pre-conversion information is represented by two or more QR codes, the pre-conversion information is automatically divided without being divided by the operator. Therefore, an operator's operation at the time of two-dimensional code conversion can be facilitated. Also, since the code symbol size is converted into QR code data so as not to exceed the set maximum value, even if there is a limit on the size of the output medium that outputs the two-dimensional code, it is within the limit range. Can be converted to be placed. In particular, it is effective when printing on a print medium having a tape-shaped equal width direction limit. Furthermore, since it is converted into a uniform size, it is convenient when reading a QR code. In addition, there is an advantage that the printing tape 58 can be effectively used with good appearance. Further, since the set maximum value is determined by the computer according to the width of the printing tape 58, the operator does not need to input the set maximum value, and the operation can be facilitated.
[0031]
As described above, in this embodiment, the print unit is configured by the tape printer 12 and the like, and the control unit that controls the print unit is configured by the computer 10 and the like. This control unit is also a two-dimensional code data conversion device. The pre-conversion information data dividing means is constituted by the two-dimensional code data conversion program memory 147 of the CDROM 99 as a recording medium and the portions for executing S12 and S16 to 19 (excluding S32) of the two-dimensional code data conversion program of the CPU 89. The two-dimensional code data conversion means is constituted by the part for executing S32 of the two-dimensional code data conversion program. The execution of the two-dimensional code data conversion program S12, S16 to 19 (excluding S32) corresponds to the pre-conversion information data division process, and the execution of S32 corresponds to the two-dimensional code data conversion process. Furthermore, the execution of S18 corresponds to a code symbol size determination process, and the execution of S19 corresponds to a division number increase process. The execution of S12 and S16 to 19 (excluding S32) is also a division process with restriction corresponding to the tape width. The CDROM 99 is an embodiment of a recording medium on which a two-dimensional code data conversion program is recorded. However, since the program recorded on the CDROM 99 is recorded on the hard disk 102 by being installed, the hard disk 102 is the main medium. It can also be considered a recording medium according to the invention.
[0032]
The recording medium can be a floppy disk (not shown). The two-dimensional code data conversion program recorded on the floppy disk is read by the FD drive device 96 and executed by the CPU 89. When the recording medium is a readable / writable recording medium such as a floppy disk, the character data memory 110, the dot memory 111 and the like provided in the RAM 90 of the computer 12 are stored in the two-dimensional code data conversion program. It can also be provided on the same recording medium as the recorded recording medium. The recording medium may be an optically writable compact disc (CDRAM). In any case, the recording medium may be data writable or non-writable, and is fixedly provided in the computer 12 and removable. It may be.
[0033]
In the above embodiment, after the pre-conversion information data is converted into two-dimensional code data, it is determined whether or not the size of the code symbol represented by the converted two-dimensional code data exceeds a set maximum value ( However, it can also be determined before conversion. As described above, since the size of the code symbol can be estimated according to the amount of information represented by the code symbol, the size of the code symbol can be estimated according to the amount of information represented by the pre-division conversion information data. It is. Similarly, the determination of whether or not the image is uniform (dimension difference determination) can also be performed before actual conversion.
[0034]
Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the dimension determination is performed after the dimension difference determination is performed, but the dimension determination may be performed first. For example, it is determined whether or not the minimum of two or more code symbols is larger than the set maximum value. If it is determined that the set maximum value is exceeded, the division number increasing process is performed without performing the dimension difference determination. Can be done. This is because, when the minimum code symbol exceeds the set maximum value, the size of the code symbol does not fall below the set maximum value even if the division position is changed. Conversely, if the maximum value exceeds the set maximum value, the number of divisions is increased without determining the size difference, or if the average size exceeds the set maximum value, the number of divisions. An increase process can be performed.
In any case, {circle around (1)} dimension determination and dimension difference determination and {2} at least one of dimension determination and dimension difference determination and the context of conversion into two-dimensional code data are not questioned.
[0035]
Further, instead of the constant cell conversion process, the variable cell conversion process may be performed, or the constant cell conversion process and the variable cell conversion process may be selectively performed.
Further, in the above embodiment, the set maximum value is determined by the computer according to the width of the printing tape 58, but the set maximum value may be input by the operator. Further, the present invention can be applied to a case where a two-dimensional code is printed on a predetermined area of normal paper instead of a tape. The operator may input the area or the set maximum value. When an area is input, the set maximum value is determined by the computer in consideration of a margin and the like from the area.
Further, the barcode is not limited to a QR code, and can be applied to conversion to another barcode.
[0036]
Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the computer 10 is the control unit of the tape printer 12. However, when the tape printer 12 itself has a control unit that can read and execute a program from a recording medium, the computer 10 includes There is no need for connection, and the tape printer 12 can convert the pre-conversion information data into two-dimensional code data. In this case, the print unit is constituted by the thermal head 50 or the like. However, even if the tape printer 12 does not have the above-described control unit, if there is a recording medium for two-dimensional code data conversion, if it is connected to a computer and a two-dimensional code data conversion program is executed, two The dimension code can be printed out.
[0037]
Further, the present invention is not limited to a tape printer but can be connected to a sheet printer that can print out on normal recording paper. However, various modifications and improvements are made based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art. The present invention can be implemented in the manner described above.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a circuit diagram of a computer as a control unit of a printer according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is an overall external view of the printer.
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the inside of a tape cassette mounted on a tape printer as a printing unit of the printer.
FIG. 4 is a sectional view of a tape width sensor provided in the tape printer.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a print control program stored in the hard disk of the computer.
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a display screen of a CRT display when a program recorded on a recording medium is read by the computer and an execution is instructed.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a two-dimensional code data conversion program recorded on the recording medium.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the contents of S17 of the two-dimensional code data conversion program.
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a display screen of CRTD when a two-dimensional code data conversion program is executed by the computer, and a diagram showing a display screen when setting conditions for conversion to a two-dimensional code. is there.
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another display screen when setting the above conditions.
FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a display screen when inputting pre-conversion information data to be converted into the two-dimensional code data.
FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a display screen when a QR code symbol of QR code data obtained by converting the pre-conversion information data is output to a CRTD.
[Explanation of symbols]
10 Computer 12 Tape printer
14 Control unit 18 Keyboard
20 mouse 22 display device
24 connecting line 58 printing tape
70 Tape width sensor 89 CPU
90 RAM 93,165 I / F for transmission / reception
94 HD drive device 95 CDROM drive device
99 CDROM 100 CDD 101 CDC
102 Hard disk 110 Character data memory
111 dot data memory 118 two-dimensional code data memory
132 Transmission control program memory 133 CDROM information memory
147 Two-dimensional code data conversion program memory
147 Code dot data conversion program memory

Claims (5)

When one piece of pre-conversion information represented by a set of characters is represented by two or more two-dimensional codes, the size of each of the two or more two-dimensional codes is determined in advance. so as not to exceed, a dividing process of dividing automatically converted before information data representative of said one cohesive before conversion information into two or more split transformation before information data, the size of (a) the code symbol Code symbol size determination processing for determining whether or not a predetermined size is exceeded, and (b) the conversion when the code symbol size determination processing determines that the predetermined size is exceeded. An information data dividing process including a dividing number increasing process for increasing the dividing number of the previous information data ;
A two-dimensional code data conversion program for causing a computer to execute a two-dimensional code data conversion process for converting each piece of pre-conversion information data divided by the information data division process into one two-dimensional code data is read by the computer A recording medium for two-dimensional code data conversion which is recorded in a possible state. The information data dividing process includes a tape width corresponding limited dividing process for determining and dividing the maximum size of the code symbol according to the width of a tape printed by a tape printer. 2. A recording medium for converting two-dimensional code data according to 1 . When one piece of pre-conversion information represented by a set of characters is represented by two or more two-dimensional codes, the size of each of the two or more two-dimensional codes is determined in advance. Information data dividing means for automatically dividing the pre-conversion information data representing the one piece of pre-conversion information into two or more pieces of pre-conversion information data so as not to exceed
A two-dimensional code data conversion device including two-dimensional code data conversion means for converting each piece of pre-division information data divided by the information data division means into one two-dimensional code data ,
The information data dividing means; (a) code symbol size determining means for determining whether the size of the code symbol exceeds a predetermined size; and (b) the code symbol size determining means by the code symbol size determining means. A two-dimensional code data conversion device comprising: a division number increasing means for increasing the number of divisions of the pre-conversion information data when it is determined that the predetermined size is exceeded . When one piece of pre-conversion information represented by a set of characters is represented by two or more two-dimensional codes, the size of each of the two or more two-dimensional codes is determined in advance. Information data dividing means for automatically dividing the pre-conversion information data representing the one piece of pre-conversion information into two or more pieces of pre-conversion information data so as not to exceed
Two-dimensional code data conversion means for converting each piece of pre-conversion information data divided by the information data dividing means into one two-dimensional code data;
A printer that includes a print unit that prints out a two-dimensional code corresponding to the two-dimensional code data converted by the two-dimensional code data conversion unit on a print medium ,
The information data dividing means; (a) code symbol size determining means for determining whether the size of the code symbol exceeds a predetermined size; and (b) the code symbol size determining means by the code symbol size determining means. A printer comprising: a division number increasing means for increasing the number of divisions of the pre-conversion information data when it is determined that the predetermined size is exceeded . The printing unit prints the two-dimensional code on the tape as the print medium in the longitudinal direction of the tape, and the information data dividing means prints the maximum size of the code symbol in the printing unit. 5. The printer according to claim 4 , further comprising a dividing means with a tape width restriction that is determined according to the width of the tape to be divided.

Images