JP3919548B2 - Digital camera and printing method - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a printing system, and more specifically, electronic information captured by an electronic still camera, a video camera, or the like is output by a printer via a computer or printed via a recording medium or communication means. The present invention relates to a printing system suitable for the above.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, heat-sensitive paper has been used as printing paper, and a plurality of heating elements arranged in the main scanning direction are selectively driven to convey the paper in the sub-scanning direction, thereby printing dots on the paper. There is a line thermal transfer printer.
[0003]
In recent years, with the progress of input devices that handle images such as digital cameras, digital video cameras, and scanners on the input side, thermal transfer type printer devices have attracted attention as printing means. Because the inkjet printer has only two choices of whether or not to drop the droplets, let the small droplets land on the paper and get an apparent resolution and gradation by methods such as error diffusion On the other hand, in the case of a thermal transfer printer, the controllable heat value can be easily changed in one pixel, so that a large gradation can be obtained for one pixel. As a result, it is possible to obtain a smoother and higher quality image as compared with the ink jet printer. In addition, the performance of the thermal head and the performance of paper materials have also improved, making it possible to obtain image prints that are as good as silver halide photographs with a finished quality, especially in order to keep pace with the recent progress of digital cameras. It is attracting attention as a printer for natural images.
[0004]
Therefore, such a printer device and a photographing device such as a digital camera or a digital video camera are directly connected to each other or are integrally configured, and the photographed image information is passed through a device such as a computer for processing the image information. There is also a system for printing. According to such a system, it is possible to easily print out image information from a digital camera or digital video, which is very convenient.
[0005]
As an example of these, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-243327 describes connection between an image input device and an image output device. According to this, there is provided an image input / output system in which an image output device and an image input device are connected, wherein the image output device receives and outputs an image signal from the image input device, and the image A power supply unit configured to supply power to the input device, wherein the image output device transmits image data to the image output device and outputs the image by a connection cable for receiving supply of power from the image output device. A determination unit that determines whether it is connected to a device and can receive power supply from the image output device; and a power supply unit, and is determined by the determination unit to receive power supply from the image output device. In this case, the power from the image output apparatus is used, and when it is determined that the power supply cannot be received, the power from the power supply unit is used. According to this, since power can be supplied from the image output apparatus, print output can be performed without worrying about the remaining power of the image input apparatus such as a digital camera.
[0006]
Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 9-65182 describes power saving during printing. According to the present invention, there is provided a composite camera having an electronic viewfinder and a photographing means for recording video information on a recording medium and a printer means for printing out the video information on a recording paper. Control means for controlling to stop supplying power to the electronic viewfinder while video information is printed out on paper is provided. According to this, power is not supplied to the electronic viewfinder during printing, which is useful for power saving.
[0007]
Also, when directly connecting a digital camera and a printer device and printing image information taken by the digital camera, both the digital camera side and the printer side require a power source such as an AC adapter. It can be operated with a battery, and can be used outdoors as a mobile device.
[0008]
In addition, the digital camera will set in advance information such as how many images will be printed and how they will be printed. Once printing is started, multiple types of images will be automatically printed. You can also do it.
[0009]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, when used as a mobile device, especially when the number of printed sheets is large, the battery runs out during printing, and printing may be interrupted. It is also conceivable that print settings that have been set in advance are not completed due to a cause such as running out of paper, and are interrupted in the middle. In such a case, when printing is resumed, there is a problem that printing is restarted from the beginning or a corner is selected again.
[0010]
In addition, if continuous printing is interrupted, if it is restarted from the beginning, paper and ink are wasted, and printing time is wasted. In addition, it is troublesome to select only the images that have not been printed again and re-specify the print, and also leave room for mistakes in selecting images or specifying the number of sheets, resulting in paper, ink, and time. Can be wasted. When the number of prints becomes large, the above problem becomes even greater, and there is a problem that a user-friendly print system cannot be provided.
[0011]
The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to solve all or at least one of the above problems. Another object of the present invention is to make it possible to easily resume printing when printing according to print setting information is interrupted. Furthermore, an object of the present invention is to reduce waste of time and consumables due to interruption. Furthermore, the present invention is suitable for a printing system in which a digital camera and a printer are connected or integrally configured, and an object is to reliably provide printing of a plurality of images.
[0012]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to solve the above problems, the digital camera of the present invention has the following configuration.
That is,
A digital camera for outputting a plurality of images to a printer based on print designation information having information for designating an image to be printed, an input means for inputting the print designation information, and printing an image based on the print designation information Output means for continuously outputting a plurality of images to the printer, recording means for recording interruption information in a memory when printing based on print designation information is interrupted, and printing based on the interruption information Control means for resuming printing based on the designation information. The control means is characterized in that when the print designation information has changed before and after the interruption, the printing based on the interruption information is not resumed.
In order to solve the above problems, the digital camera of the present invention has the following configuration. That is,
A digital camera for outputting a plurality of images to a printer based on print designation information having information for designating an image to be printed, an input means for inputting the print designation information;
Output means for continuously outputting a plurality of images to a printer in order to print an image based on the print designation information, and a recording means for recording interruption information in a memory when printing based on the print designation information is interrupted And control means for resuming printing based on the print designation information based on the interruption information, and determination means for judging whether the recording medium on which the print designation information is recorded has changed before and after the interruption, The control means is characterized in that the printing is not resumed based on the interruption information when the recording medium is changed.
[0013]
In order to solve the above problems, the printing method of the present invention includes the following steps. That is,
A print control method for outputting a plurality of images based on print designation information having information for designating an image to be printed, wherein an input process for inputting the print designation information, and printing of an image based on the print designation information In order to perform the output process for continuously outputting a plurality of images, the recording process for recording the interruption information in the memory when the printing based on the print designation information is interrupted, and the print designation information based on the interruption information. A control process for resuming printing, and when the print designation information has changed before and after the interruption, the control process does not resume printing based on the interruption information.
In order to solve the above problems, the printing method of the present invention includes the following steps. That is,
A printing method for outputting a plurality of images based on print designation information having information for designating an image to be printed, an input process for inputting the print designation information, and printing an image based on the print designation information In addition, an output process for continuously outputting a plurality of images, a recording process for recording interruption information in a memory when printing based on print designation information is interrupted, and a print based on print designation information based on the interruption information And a determination step for determining whether the recording medium on which the print designation information is recorded has changed before and after the interruption. In the control step, when the recording medium has changed, The printing is not resumed based on the interruption information.
[0015]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
<First embodiment>
A basic system configuration of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. This printing system employs a sublimation type thermal transfer recording system in a printer unit, and can print out electronic image information for an arbitrary number of prints. The printing system will be described according to the procedure.
[0016]
An embodiment of a normal thermal transfer recording apparatus according to the present invention will be specifically described below with reference to the drawings.
[0017]
FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a side surface of a recording apparatus according to an embodiment. First, the overall configuration of the recording apparatus will be described. A sheet feeding roller 3 separates and feeds sheets one by one from a sheet cassette 2 loaded with recording sheets P on the apparatus main body 1. At this time, the recording paper P is in contact with the paper feed roller 3 by the push-up plate 21 urged by the spring 20. The recording paper P conveyed by the paper feed roller 3 is nipped and conveyed by the conveying roller pair 4 so that the recording unit can reciprocate. The conveying roller pair 4 includes a pinch roller 42 and a grip roller 41.
[0018]
In the recording section, the platen roller 5 and the thermal head 6 that generates heat according to the recording information are opposed to each other across the recording paper conveyance path, and a heat-meltable or heat-sublimable ink stored in the ink cassette 7 is applied. The ink sheet 8 having an ink layer and an overcoat layer that is overcoated on the print screen to protect the print screen is pressed against the recording paper P by the thermal head 6 and is selectively heated, whereby the recording is performed. A predetermined image is transferred and recorded on the paper P, and a protective layer is overcoated.
[0019]
The ink sheet covers the print area of the recording paper P and is provided with a yellow (Y), magenta (M), and cyan (C) ink layer and an overcoat (OP) layer arranged in a size substantially equal to the size. After each layer is thermally transferred, the recording paper P is returned to the recording start position P1 and transferred onto the recording paper one after another. In this way, the recording paper P is reciprocated by the number of inks of each color and the number of overcoat layers by the conveying roller pair 4.
[0020]
At this time, the recording paper P after printing of each ink layer is reversed in front of the apparatus main body 1 and guided to the rear of the apparatus main body 1 through the front portion of the paper cassette and the lower guide portion. Since the recording paper P in the middle of printing is exposed to the outside because it is reversed in front of the device, there is no waste of space or unintentionally touching it, making it possible to save space at the installation location, etc. Yes.
[0021]
Moreover, by directly using the lower part of the paper cassette 2 as a paper guide, the thickness of the apparatus main body 1 can be reduced, and the recording paper P is sandwiched between the ink cassette 7 and the paper cassette 2. The overall height of the apparatus main body 1 can be kept to a minimum by passing through the space, which enables miniaturization.
[0022]
Reference numeral 25 denotes a paper transport guide portion of the paper cassette 2. This is a guide portion for reversing the recording paper P that has been reversed from the front of the apparatus main body 1 to the rear of the apparatus main body, and is provided in the paper cassette 2 to greatly contribute to downsizing of the entire apparatus main body 1.
[0023]
Reference numeral 26 also serves as a tray portion of the recording paper P printed on and discharged from the upper surface of the paper cassette 2, which also contributes to downsizing of the apparatus main body 1. After the printing of each ink layer is completed, the recording paper P is guided to the discharge roller 1 (9-1) and the discharge roller 2 (9-2) and discharged from the rear of the apparatus main body 1 to the front, and the recording operation is completed. The discharge roller 1 is configured to be in pressure contact only during the discharge operation of the recording paper P, and is configured so that no stress is applied during printing. The apparatus main body 1 includes a guide portion 15 for the recording paper P, and guides the recording paper P.
[0024]
Reference numeral 16 denotes a conveyance path switching sheet. After the recording sheet P is fed, the recording sheet P is guided to the discharge side path.
[0025]
Further, the thermal head 6 for printing is integrally provided in the head arm 22, and when the ink cassette 7 is replaced, it is retracted to a position where the ink cassette 7 can be removed and inserted. This retracting operation can be performed by exchanging the ink cassette 7 when the paper cassette 2 is pulled out. At this time, the head arm 22 is pressed by the cam portion 22-1 in conjunction with the mounting and dismounting operation of the paper cassette 2. The two cam portions 2-1 are configured to move up and down as they retreat.
[0026]
In a normal thermal transfer recording apparatus, three colors of YMC are recorded three times in a surface sequential manner, so that it is necessary to control to accurately match the recording leading ends of the respective colors. For this purpose, it is necessary to convey the recording paper P firmly between the conveying roller pair 4 shown in FIG. For this reason, an unrecordable blank portion is required at the end of the recording paper P in the feed direction. In view of this, in order to easily obtain a print with no border, as shown in FIG. 3, a blank portion that cannot be recorded because the recording paper P is firmly clamped by the conveying roller pair 4 at the start of recording as shown in FIG. A perforation 12 is provided so that it can be easily cut by hand later.
[0027]
The present invention is implemented using the recording paper P having the perforations described above and the thermal transfer recording apparatus, and the perforation region provided on the recording paper is overcoated.
[0028]
The area indicated by the diagonally slanting left line is a printing area, and is controlled so as to print an area including a perforation. The overcoat is an area that is substantially printed and is controlled so as to include an area that is printed slightly larger than the area to be printed.
[0029]
Furthermore, the detailed description regarding an apparatus is given below.
[0030]
In the recording apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1, the conveying roller pair 4 includes a pinch roller 42 and a grip roller 41. The grip roller 41 is directly connected to the output shaft of a stepping motor (not shown) via a speed reduction mechanism. The stepping motor is driven to rotate forward and backward by rotation control. Since the recording paper P is firmly sandwiched by the conveying roller pair 4 and reciprocated, the recording paper P is also accurately position-controlled and driven by rotation control of the stepping motor. As an example, if the recording pitch for one line by the thermal head 6 is 85 μm and the number of steps of the stepping motor for transporting the recording paper P for one line is four, the recording paper P has a stepping motor. By controlling the rotation in four steps, one line (that is, 85 μm) can be conveyed. If the printing range shown in FIG. 4 is 144 mm in the transport direction, 1694 lines can be printed. In order to transport the recording paper by this amount, the stepping motor may be rotated by 6776 steps.
[0031]
In the recording apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1, a recording paper leading edge detection sensor 10 is placed at a position near the paper feeding roller pair 4 when the paper feeding roller 3 is viewed from the paper feeding roller pair 4. The leading edge is detected, and after the detection, a predetermined line is fed and stopped within a range that can be clamped by the conveying roller pair 4. This position is the position at the start of recording described above. From here, the thermal head is driven to generate heat according to the recording information from the first Y yellow, and a predetermined image of each color ink is recorded or the overcoat layer is transferred. When one color is finished, the recording paper is then returned from this position in the direction of the paper discharge roller 9 and conveyed, and a predetermined number of lines are sent back again, and YMC each color and overcoat layer transfer are repeated four times.
[0032]
In the recording apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1, the distance of the position where the recording paper P is pressed by the recording paper leading edge detection sensor 10, the platen roller 5 and the thermal head 6 is 20 mm on the recording paper in consideration of the arrangement of components in the apparatus. However, this is not a limitation. At this time, the printed matter shown in FIG. 3 is obtained by transferring and recording each color ink and transferring the overcoat layer as described below.
[0033]
The color ink transfer and overcoat sequence will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
S1: The user instructs a print operation by a print button (not shown) or a print instruction from a digital camera or digital video camera.
S2: The processing circuit 18 in the apparatus main body 1 starts communication with the device that has executed the print instruction, and the processing circuit 18 checks various conditions necessary for printing with the device that has executed the print instruction. If necessary, image processing of image information to print information is performed.
S3: When the print preparation is completed, the processing circuit 18 drives the motor connected to the paper feed roller 3 to start feeding the recording paper P.
S4: After detecting the leading edge of the recording paper, the stepping motor is rotated by a predetermined step to start printing. At this time, the printing start position was set to 12.465 mm with reference to the leading edge of the recording paper.
S5: Subsequently, while the stepping motor is rotated by four steps, the thermal head is driven to generate heat, and printing for one line is performed. The printing is completed by rotating for a total of 6776 steps (1694 lines). The print end position at this time is 156.455 mm with reference to the leading edge of the recording paper.
S6: Next, the stepping motor is rotated by about 10 lines (40 steps) and stopped for deceleration until stopping.
S7: From this state, the stepping motor is driven in the reverse direction, the recording paper P is conveyed in the reverse direction to the time of printing, is returned by a predetermined number of steps (6776 steps-deceleration), and for further deceleration, the predetermined number of lines. Rotate about 10 lines (40 steps) and stop.
S8: The above is repeated three times for the three colors of YMC, and a desired mark image is transferred and recorded on the recording paper P.
S9: Thereafter, the overcoat layer for protecting the printing screen is transferred once more.
S10: Thereafter, the stepping motor is reversely driven and guided to the discharge roller 3 as it is, and the paper is discharged by driving the discharge roller 3 to complete a series of operations.
[0034]
In the above description, the control means 19 feeds the recording paper P based on the number of steps of the stepping motor based on the recording paper leading edge detection signal first detected by the recording paper leading edge detection sensor 10 when the recording paper P is fed. Based on the positional relationship at the time, the number of steps of rotation of the stepping motor is managed at the time of all print recording, and the recording position management is performed, but this is limited to each YMC color and overcoat layer. The recording position is managed by providing a detection sensor at the leading end of the recording paper to detect the leading edge of the recording paper and managing the number of steps of rotation driving of the stepping motor based on the signal at the time of transfer recording It is also good.
[0035]
In the above description, the transfer of the overcoat layer is described to be performed only by turning ON / OFF the heat generation drive of the thermal head. However, at the start of the overcoat transfer, the heat generation amount is gradually increased, and the overcoat layer is transferred. At the end of the transfer, it is also possible to add a control as obtained by gradually reducing the amount of heat generation.
[0036]
Here, communication between the printer that executes the above-described print instruction of S1 and the printer apparatus will be described in more detail.
[0037]
As an example, it is assumed that the print instruction is executed now as a digital camera DC. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram in which the digital camera DC and the printer apparatus main body 1 are connected. It is assumed that the digital camera DC holds image information in a memory inside the digital camera DC after shooting. A removable memory such as a compact flash card or smart media is convenient. Of course, other types of memory may be used. Assume that the digital camera DC is set to the reproduction mode and an arbitrary image is being reproduced. Since the reproduction of the image information can be confirmed at any time by the liquid crystal display device included in the digital camera DC, the user can arbitrarily call the photographed favorite image information. Here, when the printer 27 can communicate with the printer apparatus main body 1 via the cable 27 or wireless means, necessary information is communicated from the digital camera DC to the printer apparatus by a predetermined print execution button (not shown). A print output can be obtained.
[0038]
The necessary information includes information on negotiation with the digital camera DC, information on the image to be printed from the digital camera DC, information added to the image information at the time of shooting or later, print size, number of sheets, and trimming designation Print control information and the like.
[0039]
Now, the contents related to the present invention will be described in more detail. FIG. 5 is a schematic system block diagram on the camera side.
[0040]
Reference numeral 501 denotes a CPU for controlling the camera device, 502 denotes a FLASH type program ROM in which a control program for the CPU 501 and display fonts, graphics data, printing font data, and the like are stored, 503 denotes a work DRAM for the CPU 501, and 504 denotes A rewritable EEPROM that stores the printing status, 505 is a circuit that controls a CF (Compact Flash Memory) that is a removable medium that stores image data captured by the camera, 506 is an I / F connector section thereof, Reference numeral 507 denotes a control circuit for communicating with the printer apparatus, and 508 denotes an I / F connector portion thereof.
[0041]
Reference numeral 510 denotes a CCD which is an image pickup device of the camera, 511 denotes an LCD for camera liquid crystal display, and 509 denotes an ASIC which performs various kinds of image processing on an image obtained by the CCD 510 and controls processing for image display on the LCD 500. is there. Reference numeral 510 denotes a function of controlling the CCD 510, which is a camera image pickup device, performing color processing and the like, generating a JPEG file to the CF memory, a function of compressing or expanding the image file, a function of resizing the image size, High-performance processing including a control circuit that performs display control on the liquid crystal display device is performed.
[0042]
FIG. 6 is a schematic memory map on the camera side. Programs used for the CPU 501 are stored in 000000h to 07FFFFh, display fonts and graphics data, and print font data are stored in 080000h to 0FFFFFh. As the work RAM of the CPU 501, 200000h to 5FFFFFh are allocated and used for image data processing, printer communication, and the like. Although detailed addresses are omitted, 800000h to 80FFFFh are allocated as I / O areas.
[0043]
First, an image to be printed recorded in the CF on the camera side is selected using a UI (not shown). The number of prints, the image path, and the file name, which are the print information of each selected image, are developed on the work RAM as entire print information and simultaneously recorded on the EEPROM 504. By repeating this operation a plurality of times, print control information for a plurality of images can be recorded as overall print information. When the selection is completed, a printing operation is started by pressing a predetermined print execution button (not shown).
[0044]
The operation will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. At first, since new printing is performed, the communication processing from S501 to S502 is started, the print image data is transferred to the printer 1 based on the entire print information, and the return of the print end status from the printer is awaited (S502). . When the printing of the image designated by the entire print information is completed, the processing of S504 is performed, and the information on the number of prints set for the image is reduced by 1. If the remaining number is not zero in S510, S502 Returning to step S1, the printing of the same image is repeated until the printing of the same number as the set number is completed. If the number of sheets to be printed is zero in S510, the number of printed sheets, pass and file name information, etc., which are print control information of the image printed in S511, are cleared.
[0045]
Further, in S503, it is checked whether another image to be printed is set for printing. If there is an image to be printed, the process proceeds to S502, and the set image is loaded into the printer and set. Repeat the number of prints. If all the prints set in the entire print information are completed (Yes in S503), the entire print information is cleared (S505) and the printing process is terminated. Note that when the number of printed sheets, the path, and the file name, which are the entire print information relating to the print image, are corrected, the data in the EEPROM 504 is also corrected in the same manner.
[0046]
However, if the camera's battery capacity is reduced during printing operation for a plurality of sheets and printing becomes impossible, it is necessary to replace the camera battery and turn on the power. For example, if the power supply capability of the camera decreases during printing according to the overall print settings as described above, and only an output of a predetermined voltage or less can be obtained, printing is interrupted, and the print setting information The interruption information so that the user can know where the printing has been completed is recorded in the EEPROM 504 on the camera side. Note that the above-described print setting information and this interruption information may be recorded on a memory card (CF) that can be inserted into and removed from the apparatus in which the image is recorded. The interruption information may be updated and recorded every time printing of one image is finished regardless of the power supply capacity. However, if it can be recognized that the power supply capacity will drop and it will soon be interrupted, the interrupt information will be updated and recorded each time printing is completed after the recognition is made. May be. Further, the recording location of the interruption information may be recorded not only in the memory card but also in a memory installed on the printer side. The interruption information may be recorded in both the memory on the camera side and the memory on the printer side. In this case, it is useful to check whether the interruption information or the entire print information has been changed before and after the interruption of printing.
[0047]
On the other hand, the printer 1 side suspends processing as an error when data is not received during reception of print data, and is in a wait state because it can print after performing a predetermined return processing. Here, the power source is replaced or switched to an AC power source or the like, the power source of the camera is turned on, and then a predetermined print execution button is pressed again to start a printing operation. In S501, it is recognized that the interruption information is recorded in the EEPROM 504, so that it is in the middle of printing, the process automatically enters the processing in S506, and printing is selected to continue. The If it is recognized in S501 that printing is in progress, the user may be allowed to select whether or not to start printing according to the print control information from the beginning.
[0048]
In step S507, the entire print information recorded in the EEPROM 504 is checked in advance. If the CF has been removed, the recorded content of the CF has changed, or the image data in the CF has been deleted, the file has been deleted. If there is no file to be accessed based on the information, an instruction S509 for checking the CF is issued to the user, and the printing process is terminated without performing the restart process. When it can be determined that the CF is the same as that before the interruption of printing and the entire printing information has not been changed, the printing process of step S502 is started, and the above process is repeated until the printing is completed. In addition, the above check is performed such as recording a copy of the print control information in the memory on the printer side before printing is interrupted or copying the FAT information on the memory card to the memory on the printer side. This is realized by checking these copies with Nishikaimochi. However, the checking method is not limited to this.
[0049]
In addition, since it is usually known which CF image data the user intends to print, the process S507 is not necessarily required, but it is better to have it. Further, instead of the EEPROM 504 for recording print information, it is also possible to write in a FLASH type ROM 502 and use it.
[0050]
<Second Example>
A second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected about the part which performs the operation | movement same as the process shown to the operation | movement diagram of a 1st Example, and description is abbreviate | omitted.
[0051]
First, an image to be printed recorded in the CF on the camera side is selected using a UI (not shown). The number of prints as the print information of the selected image, the path and file name of each image are developed on the work RAM and simultaneously recorded on the EEPROM 504. By repeating this operation a plurality of times, print control information for a plurality of images can be recorded as overall print information. Further, file information recorded in the CF is also recorded in the EEPROM 504. When the selection is completed, a printing operation is started by pressing a predetermined print execution button (not shown).
[0052]
In the following, the printing operation is executed as in the flowchart of FIG. 7 of the first embodiment. However, when the battery on the camera side runs out during the printing operation for a plurality of sheets and printing becomes impossible, it is necessary to turn on the power by taking measures such as battery replacement or switching to an AC power source. On the other hand, the printer 1 side suspends processing as an error when data is lost during reception of print data, and is in a wait state because it can print after performing predetermined processing. Here, the operation when the power of the camera is turned on by taking measures such as battery replacement or switching to AC power will be described with reference to FIG. When the power is turned on, the connection with the printer 1 is automatically confirmed. If the connection is confirmed, the next process is started. If it is determined in step S531 that the print process remains from the entire print information already recorded in the EEPROM 504 and the interruption information, the process enters step S501. Thereafter, the same processing as in the first embodiment is performed.
[0053]
In this way, when the battery runs out, it is expected that measures such as battery replacement or switching to AC power will be taken promptly, and it is normal to want to continue printing after such treatment. Since this embodiment can smoothly return to printing, usability is improved.
[0054]
The time at the time of the interruption is recorded in the interruption information, and this is referred to when returning, and the second embodiment is applied when returning within a predetermined time from the time of interruption. Is more preferable. In this case, the printing control information is automatically restarted from printing of an image that has not been printed due to interruption. This is because it is clear that the user wished to return immediately, and in such a case, the above embodiment is preferable.
[0055]
<Third embodiment>
A third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 6 and FIG. It should be noted that the same reference numerals are assigned to portions that perform the same operations as those shown in the same operation diagram as in the first embodiment, and description thereof is omitted.
[0056]
First, an image to be printed recorded in the CF on the camera side is selected using a UI (not shown). The number of prints as the print information of the selected image, the path and file name of each image are expanded on the work RAM as entire print information, and at the same time, a CF memory for recording a camera image connected to the CF I / F 506. Recorded as a print information file in the root directory.
[0057]
When the selection is completed, a printing operation is started by pressing a predetermined print execution button (not shown). The operation will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. When the printing operation is started, the entire print information is read in S541, and based on the entire print information, the communication processing of S544 is started, the data is transferred to the printer 1, and the return of the print end status from the printer is awaited. (At first, since interruption information is not recorded, it is determined that there is no remaining printing in S542, and the process proceeds to S544.) When one sheet of printing is completed, printing is still performed through the processing of S545 and S546. If YES in step S545, the flow advances to processing in step S545. If not, processing in step S547 is performed to clear the information on the printed image from the entire print information. Further, it is determined whether there is an image to be printed from the entire print information. The process is entered, the entire print information is cleared, and the print process is terminated. If an image to be printed remains, the process goes to step S544 to continue printing.
[0058]
When corrections are made to the total number of prints related to the print image, the number of copies, the path, and the file name, the print information in the root directory of the CF memory is also corrected in the same way.
[0059]
However, when the battery on the camera side runs out during the printing operation for a plurality of sheets and printing becomes impossible, it is necessary to replace the camera battery and turn on the power. On the other hand, the printer 1 side suspends processing as an error when data is lost during reception of print data, and is in a wait state because it can print after performing predetermined processing. Here, the operation when the power of the camera is turned on will be described. When the power is turned on and the print operation is selected, the print information file at the root of the CF memory is analyzed in S541, and when the subsequent print process is selected by the user in process S543, the print process in S544 and subsequent steps is entered and set. Repeat until the number of prints is complete.
[0060]
Further, as shown in the second embodiment, when the connection with the printer 1 is confirmed when the power is turned on, the continuous printing process can be automatically started.
[0061]
<Fourth embodiment>
A fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. Note that portions that perform the same operations as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted. The apparatus of the fourth embodiment is assumed to be an apparatus having a printer unit integrated with a digital camera and capable of printing immediately on the spot according to photographing. This device employs an inkjet recording system in the printer unit, performs electronic imaging, stores the obtained image data in a memory, and prints out video information stored in an arbitrary memory for an arbitrary number of prints. It can be done. This apparatus will be described according to the procedure.
[0062]
FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram of the ink jet recording apparatus IJRA to which the camera with a printer of the present invention is applied. Here, the carriage HC has a pin (not shown) that engages with the spiral groove 1005 of the lead screw 1004 that rotates via the driving force transmission gears 1011, 1010, and 1009 in conjunction with forward and reverse rotation of the driving motor 1013. And is reciprocated in the directions of arrows a and b.
[0063]
The inkjet head cartridge 400 is mounted on the carriage HC. Reference numeral 1003 denotes a guide rod, and 1002 denotes a paper pressing plate that presses the paper against the platen 1000 in the moving direction of the carriage. Reference numerals 1007 and 1008 denote photo couplers, which are home position detection means for confirming the presence of the carriage lever 1006 in this region and switching the rotation direction of the motor 1013.
[0064]
Reference numeral 1016 denotes a member that supports a cap member 1022 that caps the front surface of the recording head. Reference numeral 1015 denotes suction means that sucks the inside of the cap. The suction recovery of the recording head 400 is performed through the opening 1023 in the cap.
[0065]
Reference numeral 1017 denotes a cleaning blade, and 1019 denotes a member that enables the blade to move in the front-rear direction. These members are supported by a main body support plate 1018. Needless to say, the blade is not in this form, and a known cleaning method can be applied to this example.
[0066]
Reference numeral 1021 denotes a lever for starting suction for suction recovery, which contacts the surface 1014 of the suction means. The lever 1021 moves as the cam 1020 engaged with the carriage moves, and the driving force from the driving motor is controlled to move by a known transmission means such as clutch switching. These capping, cleaning, and suction recovery are configured such that when the carriage HC is positioned in the home position side region, desired processing can be performed at the corresponding position by the action of the lead screw 1005. If this operation is performed, the present embodiment can be applied to any of them. The image advance button 110 and the image return button 109 are used when selecting an image to be printed or selecting an image to be reproduced, and are used when switching an image displayed on the display unit 511.
[0067]
FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram of the central section of the camera with a printer of the present invention. In the camera unit, lens units 1028a and 1028b of the photographing optical system are arranged for the retractable two-stage lens barrels 1029 and 1030, respectively. Reference numeral 1031 denotes an aperture unit that controls the photographing light flux and also controls the exposure amount, and is also disposed in the lens barrel 1029. Reference numeral 1032 denotes a helicoid member that rotates the lens barrel 1030, and is engaged with the cam convex portion 1030 a of the lens barrel 1030. The helicoid member 1032 is driven by a helicoid drive motor (not shown). The light beams that have passed through the photographing optical systems 1028 a and 1028 b and the shutter unit 1031 form an image on the solid-state image sensor 1040.
[0068]
Reference numerals 1037a, 1037b, 1037c, 1038d, and 1039e denote optical lenses constituting the viewfinder. Of these, 1037b, 1037c, and 1038d move in accordance with the adjustment of the angle of view (zoom operation) of the photographic optical system, so that the angle of view substantially the same as the angle of view of the photographic optical system can be confirmed. This optical viewfinder is effective for preventing power consumption by using a liquid crystal display panel 2014 for image display. The aperture unit 1031 is driven so as to keep the exposure amount of the solid-state imaging device (CCD) 1040 appropriately by feedback control.
[0069]
The imaged signal is processed by the image processing board 1026. The processed signal is sent to the printer control board 1027 and transmitted to a drive motor or the like necessary for the printing operation together with information such as a position control signal of the ink jet head cartridge 400 of the printer unit. The printing operation is started by a print button 2013, and the printing paper 1024b is drawn from the printing paper 1024 wound in a roll shape through the platen 1000 and printed. Reference numeral 1041 denotes a paper cutter portion formed of an exterior cover, which is used to cut off the printed paper 1024a after printing. Reference numeral 1025 denotes a power source.
[0070]
First, the flow related to basic shooting and printing will be described. FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram of the photographing apparatus with a printer, and FIG. 11 is a basic flowchart. Note that the printing operation described with reference to FIG. 11 assumes a case in which a plurality of images are not automatically printed in accordance with the entire print information, but are printed on the spot of selectively displayed images. ing. When the photographer inputs the power switch 2000 (S2001), the CPU 501 elapses a predetermined time or longer (here, 72 hours or longer, but not limited to this) since the apparatus was last used and the power was turned off. Judge whether or not. (S2002) If 72 hours or more have elapsed, the CPU 501 issues a recovery pumping instruction to the printer ASIC 515 responsible for controlling the printer unit, and drives the printer unit 4. (S2003) Here, recovery pumping is to make recording more effective in an ink jet recording type apparatus, which will be described later, and to clean the recording head by means such as a suction pump before recording on paper. . As a guideline for this cleaning, in this embodiment, this is performed at the time of power input when there is an unused period of 72 hours or more.
[0071]
When the photographer performs photographing, the photographer sets the photographing mode using the photographing mode setting unit 517 (S2004). In this embodiment, there are several modes such as a normal shooting mode and a portrait mode. Specifically, the shooting mode setting means 517 is performed by the mode change switch 2015 and this signal is transmitted to the CPU 501. When the photographer presses SW518 (corresponding to the shutter button 2012 in FIG. 12) to the first stroke after adjusting the angle of view by the zoom lever 2016 at the time of photographing, the SW1 signal is input (S2005). The CPU 501 drives the imaging unit 510 via the ASIC 509 serving as an imaging control unit, and determines exposure control values, distance measurement information, various conditions necessary for the exposure operation such as the presence or absence of strobe light emission (S2006). . When the photographer further presses the SW 518 (corresponding to the shutter button 2012 in FIG. 12) in order to actually perform photographing, the SW2 signal is input to the CPU 501 (S2007). The CPU 501 drives the imaging unit 510 via an ASIC 509 as an imaging control unit to drive a lens for focusing, shutter speed control, aperture opening amount control, and if necessary, a series of flash emission, etc. An exposure operation is performed (S2008), and image information input to the solid-state imaging device 1040 is taken into the RAM 503 serving as a temporary storage memory unit (S2009). Thereafter, the CPU 501 drives the display means 511, specifically, the liquid crystal display panel 2014 of FIG. 13 to display image information taken (S2010). As the photographing operation, the above is repeated.
[0072]
If the user desires print output, the mode setting for print output is performed by the mode setting means 517 (S2011). Next, the image information fetched in the memory means 503 is retrieved by looking at the liquid crystal display board 2014 with the image advance button 110 and the image return button 109, and the image information to be printed out is displayed. When the print button 2013 is pressed here, a print signal PR is input, and the CPU 501 starts a print operation (S2012). In order to make the printing operation more effective at the home position of the recording head 400, the printer control unit 515 first performs preliminary ejection to eliminate clogging of the recording head 400 and to recover the evaporated nozzles ( S2013). Next, the printer control unit 515 outputs the image information stored in the memory unit 503 from the printer engine unit 516 after performing image processing for printer output (S2014). The printed printer paper 1024a printed by the printer engine unit 516 is automatically fed to a position where it is separated from the print paper 1024 wound in a roll shape and discharged (S2015).
[0073]
Now, the contents related to the present invention will be described in more detail.
[0074]
First, an image to be printed recorded in the CF on the camera side is selected using a UI (not shown). The number of prints, which is the print information of the selected image, and the path and file name of each image are developed on the work RAM as overall print information and simultaneously recorded on the EEPROM 504. By repeating this operation a plurality of times, print control information for a plurality of images can be recorded as overall print information. When the selection is completed, a printing operation is started by pressing a predetermined print execution button (not shown).
[0075]
The operation will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Initially, since new printing is performed, communication processing S572 with the printer unit is entered from S571, data is transferred, and the end of printing is awaited. When one print is completed, the processing of S574 is performed, and the current print number is reduced by 1. If the remaining number is not zero in S580, the process returns to S572, and if it is zero, the print information of the image printed in S581. Clear the number of prints, path and file name information. Further, in S573, it is checked whether or not an image to be printed remains from the entire print information. If there is a print image remaining, the process proceeds to S572. If no print image remains, the entire print information is cleared S575 and the print process is performed. finish. When correction is made to the number of printed sheets, the path, and the file name, which are the entire print information relating to the print image, the data in the EEPROM 504 is also corrected in the same manner.
[0076]
However, if the camera battery capacity is reduced during the printing operation for a plurality of sheets and printing becomes impossible, it is necessary to replace the camera battery and turn on the power. After the battery replacement, the printer unit is ready to print after performing a predetermined process and is in a wait state. Here, a predetermined print execution button is pressed again to start the printing operation. The camera UI (not shown) enters the processing of S571 and S576, and selects to continue printing. In step S577, the file information recorded in the EEPROM 504 is checked in advance. If it can be determined that the CFs are the same, the process proceeds to step S572, where the number of prints, the path and file name information are checked and the print process is started. Repeat until printing is complete.
[0077]
In addition, since it is usually known which CF image data the user uses for printing, there is no problem even if the process S507 is not provided. Furthermore, instead of the EEPROM 504 for recording print information, it is also possible to write and use it in a FLASH type ROM 502, and as shown in the second embodiment, it is possible to start continuous printing processing when the power is turned on. is there.
[0078]
The present invention includes means for generating thermal energy (for example, an electrothermal converter, laser light, etc.) as energy used for performing ink discharge, particularly in an ink jet recording system, and changes in the state of ink by the thermal energy. In the recording head and the recording apparatus of the system that causes the occurrence of the above, an excellent effect is brought about. As for the typical configuration and principle, for example, those performed using the basic principle disclosed in US Pat. Nos. 4,723,129 and 4,740,796 are preferable. In the case of the on-demand type, this method corresponds to the recorded information on the sheet that holds the liquid (ink) and the electrothermal transducer disposed on the liquid path, and rapidly exceeds the nucleate boiling. By applying at least one drive signal that gives a high temperature rise, heat energy is generated in the electrothermal transducer, causing film boiling on the heat acting surface of the recording head, resulting in a one-to-one correspondence to this drive signal. It is effective because bubbles in the liquid (ink) can be formed. By the growth and contraction of the bubbles, liquid (ink) is ejected through the ejection opening to form at least one droplet. It is more preferable that the drive signal has a pulse shape, since the bubble growth and contraction is performed immediately and appropriately, and thus it is possible to achieve discharge of a liquid (ink) having particularly excellent responsiveness. As this pulse-shaped drive signal, those described in US Pat. Nos. 4,463,359 and 4,345,262 are suitable. Further excellent recording can be performed by using the conditions described in US Pat. No. 4,313,124 of the invention relating to the temperature rise rate of the heat acting surface.
[0079]
As the configuration of the recording head, in addition to the combination configuration (linear liquid channel or right-angle liquid channel) of the discharge port, the liquid channel, and the electrothermal transducer as disclosed in each of the above specifications, there is a thermal action unit. Configurations using US Pat. No. 4,558,333 and US Pat. No. 4,459,600, which disclose configurations disposed in the bending region, are also included in the present invention. In addition, for a plurality of electrothermal transducers, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 123,670, which discloses a configuration in which a common slit is used as a discharge portion of the electrothermal transducer, or an open type that absorbs pressure waves of thermal energy. The present invention is also effective as a configuration based on Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 138461, which discloses a configuration in which a hole corresponds to a discharge portion.
[0080]
Furthermore, as a full-line type recording head having a length corresponding to the width of the maximum recording medium that can be recorded by the recording apparatus unit, the length is satisfied by a combination of a plurality of recording heads as disclosed in the above-mentioned specification. Either the configuration or the configuration as a single recording head formed integrally may be used, but the present invention can be more effectively exhibited by adopting these configurations. In addition, it can be attached to the main body of the device so that it can be electrically connected to the main body of the device and supplied with ink from the main body of the device. The present invention is also effective when a cartridge type recording head is used. In addition, it is preferable to add recovery means for the recording head, preliminary auxiliary means, etc. provided as a configuration of the recording apparatus unit of the present invention, since the effects of the present invention can be further stabilized. .
[0081]
Specifically, for the recording head, a capping unit, a cleaning unit, a pressurizing or suction unit, a preheating unit using an electrothermal converter or a heating element other than this, or a combination thereof, recording and the like In addition, it is effective to perform a preliminary discharge mode in which discharge is performed separately in order to perform stable recording. Further, as a recording mode of the recording apparatus unit, not only recording of mainstream colors such as black, but also a recording head may be integrated or a plurality of combinations may be used. It is extremely effective that the apparatus has at least one of the following.
[0082]
As described above, the printer and digital still camera have the same housing configuration, and by driving the battery, electronic images can be printed anytime and anywhere, but because the battery is driven, there is no battery in the middle of printing, so it is easy to interrupt. It is desirable to apply the present invention. In particular, as compared with a case where only a printer is driven by a battery, electric power used for photographing is also required, and the configuration consumes a lot of power. Therefore, the application of the present invention is desirable.
[0083]
<Fifth embodiment>
Embodiments of the printing system according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a print system according to the present invention. Captured image data is recorded in the CF 3101. The user performs various operations by operating the GUI operation unit 3110. The GUI operation unit 3110 is connected to the GUI control unit 3107. The GUI control unit 3107 interprets the user's operation according to the situation, and sends a command to each unit via the bus 3104 to realize the user's request.
[0084]
To print a recorded image, an image to be printed is selected and the number of prints is designated. Specifically, the user operates the GUI operation unit 3110 to display an image selection screen. At this time, the user operation is interpreted by the GUI operation unit 3107, and the GUI operation unit 3107 issues an image display command to the image selection unit 3106. The image selection unit 3106 issues an instruction to the IO control unit 3102 to read out the currently selected image data. The IO control unit 3102 reads the designated image data from the CF 3101, and sends the image data to the display unit 3108 through the bus 3104. A display unit 3108 displays the sent image data.
[0085]
The user can select the display format of the screen using the GUI operation unit 3107. There are a format in which one image is displayed using almost the entire display unit 3108 and a format in which a plurality of reduced images are displayed on the display unit 3108 at the same time. When a format for displaying a plurality of images at a time has been selected, the image selection unit 3106 sends necessary image data to the IO control unit 3102 and sends the necessary image data to the display unit 3108.
[0086]
The user selects an image to be printed while viewing the image displayed on the display unit 3108. If an image being displayed is to be printed, the selection button on the GUI operation unit 3110 is pressed, and the number of sheets is subsequently designated. In order to select the next image, the image feed button of the GUI operation unit 3110 is pressed to display the next image, and the same operation is repeated as necessary. When the selection of the image is finished, the selection end button of the GUI operation unit 3110 is pressed to finish the image selection operation, and the print designation file shown in FIG. .
[0087]
FIG. 16 is a print designation file of the print system according to the present invention. The print designation file is composed of a text character string, and it is considered that a print designation file created by a different device can be handled. The print specification file handles one line from the beginning of a sentence to a line feed character, and handles one line as one record. A section is composed of a plurality of records, and a print designation file is composed of a plurality of sections. Reference numeral 3201 denotes a character string indicating the start of a header section that is allowed to exist only in one print designation file. In the header section, as shown by 3202, the creation date and time of this print designation file is recorded. Reference numeral 3203 denotes a character string indicating the start of the job section. The job section includes a job ID 3204, a print type 3205, the number of prints 3206, and an image file name 3207. One job section is formed for each image for which printing is designated, and a plurality of job sections are repeated as necessary.
[0088]
FIG. 19 shows a screen for starting or resuming printing. When the user presses the print button on the GUI operation unit 3110 after finishing the print designation, a screen as shown in FIG. 19 is displayed on the display unit 3108. Here, when the cursor key of the GUI operation unit 3110 is operated to select “OK” and the determination button of the GUI operation unit 3110 is pressed, a print command is issued by the GUI control unit 3107, and the image selection unit 3106 displays the IO control unit. A print designation file as shown in FIG. 16 is read from the CF 3101 through 3102. Subsequently, the read print designation file is analyzed to obtain the designated image file name and the number of prints. The image selection unit 3106 reads the designated image file from the CF 3101 through the IO control unit 3102 and sends it to the print data generation unit 3105 together with the number of prints. A print data generation unit 3105 generates print data from the sent image data, and sends the print data to the printer through the communication unit 3109. If the instructed number of prints is plural, print data is repeatedly transmitted to the printer for that number. This is performed for all job sections described in the print designation file.
[0089]
FIG. 17 is a data configuration diagram showing the printing status of the printing system according to the present invention. One data block is created corresponding to the print designation file shown in FIG. 16, and is stored in the CF 3101 in the same manner as the print designation file. Each piece of data 3301 to 3306 has a data length of 4 bytes.
3301 is a flag indicating the validity of the entire data block. When a value other than 0 is entered here, this data is valid. When 0 is entered, the data from 3302 to 3306 are assumed to be meaningless. Be treated. A value other than 0 is always stored when printing is newly started, and 0 is stored when printing for all jobs designated in the print designation file is normally completed.
3302 stores the file creation date and time indicated by 3202 of the print designation file in FIG.
3303 stores the file size of the print designation file.
3304 stores the number of job sections existing in the print designation file.
3305 stores the total number of prints of all job sections existing in the print designation file.
Each data of 3302 to 3305 is updated when printing is started with the flag 3301 being 0.
3306 stores the number of prints already completed in the print currently being executed. However, if the currently executed print is resumed from the middle, it indicates how many prints have been completed, counting from the first sheet in the print designation file.
The data 3306 is updated every time one print is completed.
[0090]
FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the flow of print restart processing of the print system according to the present invention.
In 3401, if the print status data as shown in FIG. If it does not exist, create a new one. When it is newly created, it is treated as if there was no print job to be resumed.
The print designation file is also read out simultaneously to check whether the image file designated in each job section exists in the CF 3101. If there is an image file that does not exist, the job section is deleted. In this case, since the file creation date and time, the number of jobs, and the total number of prints are different, the restart job check in 3402 is started.
In 3402, the validity of the print status data read in 3401 is checked. If the print status data does not exist in 3401 and data is newly created, it is handled that there is no resume job. If the print status data can be read in 3401, the content is checked by the 3103 data comparison unit. Here, not only checking whether the flag 3301 is 0 but also reading the print designation file from the CF 3101 and printing all the items of the print designation file creation date and time, file size, number of jobs, and total number of prints. Compare with the value stored as data. If any one of them is different, the read print status data is discarded as not being able to resume a valid print, the print restart is not permitted, and all the prints can only be started from the beginning. If the print settings are re-executed between when printing is interrupted and restarted, or if the image file that was specified for printing is deleted, data that does not match the saved print status data will be detected and restarted. It is treated as if there was no print job to be performed.
[0091]
By doing this, it is possible to flexibly cope with operations such as redoing the print designation between suspending and resuming printing, deleting the file that was designated for printing, and data before and after the interruption. When the change or the like has been performed, the printing that is not intended by the user can be prevented from being performed arbitrarily by not restarting the printing.
[0092]
As a method of checking whether the print specification has been changed while printing is interrupted, the print specification file is duplicated when starting a new print, saved to the camera or printer, and duplicated and saved when printing is resumed. In comparison, if it is the same, a method of permitting resumption of printing may be used. However, as the number of images to be specified for printing increases, the size of the print specification file increases accordingly, the storage area required for copying and storage increases, and the processing time for comparing files also increases. End up. If the necessary storage area becomes large, the storage area becomes insufficient and information necessary for resuming printing cannot be stored, and printing may not be resumed. According to the method of the present embodiment, since the amount of information to be stored is constant and smaller than the size of the print designation file, there is an advantage that less storage area is required and the time required for the data comparison process is shorter.
If it is determined in 3402 that there is no resume job, the “Resume” button in FIG. 19 is not displayed, and the user cannot select resume printing.
If it is determined in 3402 that there is a resume job, “Resume” in FIG. 19 is displayed, and the cursor selects “Resume”. As a result, the user can select resumption of printing only by performing a single input using the “SET button” or the like, and the operation at the time of resumption is smooth.
[0093]
This not only means that the operation can be performed smoothly, but also prevents the printing from being started from the beginning just because it was not mistakenly restarted. In other words, it is possible to reduce erroneous operations such as selecting “cancel” by omitting the operation of selecting “resume” even a little.
[0094]
When the user selects and executes “Resume” using the GUI operation unit 3110, a job section to be resumed is searched in 3403. Since the number of sheets already printed by the previous print job is stored in 3306, the job section of the print designation file in FIG. 16 is searched from the top of the file, and the print designation number for each job section is added. Compared with the number of printed pages stored in 3306, the job section to be resumed is determined.
[0095]
If the job section where the previous print processing is interrupted is interrupted in the middle of printing, the sum of the number of printed sheets and the designated number of prints for each job section will not match. In that case, the job section when the sum of the number of prints specified for each job section exceeds the number of prints for the first time is set as the current job section, and the total number of prints specified up to the job section before the job section and the number of prints Is the number of printed sheets in the current job section. In 3405, the value is subtracted from the number of prints designated in the current job section to determine the current number of printed sheets in the current job section. At this point, the point for resuming the print job on the print designation file is determined. When a point for resuming the print job is determined, printing is performed in 3406. The image file name is read from the current job section, print data is transmitted to the printer as described in detail with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16, and printing is executed. When printing of one sheet is completed, it is checked in 3407 whether a print interruption instruction has been issued.
[0096]
During printing, a screen during printing as shown in FIG. 20 is displayed on the display unit 3108. The user can interrupt printing by selecting the “CANCEL” button by operating the GUI operation unit and pressing the OK button.
[0097]
When the user presses the print stop button on the GUI operation unit 3110 and when the print system is driven by a battery, it is determined that there is not enough battery power left to continue printing by battery check. Issued by the system. The reason why the print interruption instruction is delayed until the printing of one sheet is completed is that if printing is interrupted during printing of one sheet, the printing will be completed unfinished, and printing paper and ink are wasted. This is to avoid it. If the battery capacity is suddenly reduced, etc., and it is likely to be interrupted before the printing of one sheet is finished, the paper is discharged preferentially, and the paper is being printed in the middle of printing. It is better to prevent it from stopping. In particular, in the thermal transfer recording type printer used in the above description, if the thermal sublimation ink or overcoat is pressed against the paper and interrupted in the middle of printing, the ink and the paper will be caught and cannot be removed. There is a risk that. This causes a failure of the apparatus and makes the ink film unusable.
[0098]
If it is determined in 3407 that there is no print interruption instruction, printing is continued. In 3408, it is checked whether the number of prints to be executed in the current job section has been printed. That is, it is determined whether the same image should be further printed. If printing with the same image is not yet completed, the process returns to 3406, and printing is repeated by the same processing.
[0099]
If it is determined in 3408 that the same image has already been printed, the next job section is read in 3409. A job section described next to the current job section on the print designation file in FIG. 16 is set as a new current job section. If the new current job section can be read, the next print job is present, so it is determined in 3410 that the print process should be continued, and the process returns to 3406 to continue the print process. If a plurality of prints are designated in the new current job section, the processes 3406, 3407, and 3408 are repeated as many times as necessary.
[0100]
If it is determined in 3410 that there is no next job, the print status data is updated in 3411, stored in the CF 3101, and the print process is terminated. When 3411 is reached via 3410, all the print jobs designated in the print designation file have been completed, so there is no resume job for the next time. For this reason, it is only necessary to set the flag 3301 of the print status data to 0 and invalidate the other data. Therefore, it is not necessary to update the other data only by setting the flag 3301 to 0.
[0101]
If a print interruption instruction is detected at 3407 during execution of the print process, the next print is not started, and print status data is updated at 3411. At this time, if the number of printed sheets and the total number of prints of 3305 match, all the prints have been completed, so the flag 3301 is set to 0, and other data is not updated, and the print status data Is stored in the CF 3101 and the printing process is terminated.
[0102]
If all the printing has not been completed, the flag 3301 of the print status data in FIG. 17 is set to other than 0, the number of printed pages up to the present is stored in 3306 printed counts, and the print status data is saved in the CF 3101 Then, the print process ends. If it is determined in 3402 that there is no resume job, the print designation data shown in FIG. 16 is read from the beginning in 3404, and printing is started from 3406 with the first job section as the current job. After this, the process is the same as when a resume job exists.
[0103]
The present invention is particularly effective when a plurality of jobs are described in the print control information for printing a plurality of images. This is because, compared with the case of printing a plurality of images of the same type, it is necessary to develop a compressed and recorded image a plurality of times, so that power consumption is higher and printing is likely to be interrupted. The present invention is not limited to the interruption of printing due to power consumption, but can also be applied to interruptions due to a shortage of printing paper or deterioration of printing conditions such as condensation or heat generation.
[0104]
In the above-described embodiment, the interruption information is recorded in the RAM or the memory card in the camera when the battery voltage becomes low, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, every time printing of one image is completed, the setting contents that have been completed so far may be recorded. This is because the voltage may suddenly drop when it is cold or the battery performance itself has deteriorated. In such a case, it is better to record each time printing of one image is completed. This is because it is possible to reliably leave interruption information.
[0105]
It should be noted that the present invention is particularly effective when the camera and printer are connected with a cable having a power line in the above embodiment. This is because, since the power line is provided, it is possible to flexibly cope with a mode in which the power of one device is used and the battery is excessively consumed. The type of printer to which the present invention is applied may be an ink jet printer or an electrophotographic laser beam printer.
[0106]
The present invention can be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices (for example, a host computer, interface device, reader, printer, etc.) or to an apparatus composed of a single device (for example, a copying machine, a facsimile machine). May be.
[0107]
In addition, a software program code for realizing the functions of the embodiment is provided in a computer in an apparatus or a system connected to the various devices so as to operate the various devices so as to realize the functions of the above-described embodiments. What is implemented by operating the various devices according to a program stored in a computer (CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus supplied is also included in the scope of the present invention.
[0108]
In this case, the software program code itself realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the program code itself and means for supplying the program code to the computer, for example, the program code are stored. The storage medium constitutes the present invention.
[0109]
As a storage medium for storing the program code, for example, a floppy disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, a ROM, or the like can be used.
[0110]
Further, when the computer executes the supplied program code, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also the OS (operating system) or other application in which the program code is running on the computer. It goes without saying that such program code is also included in the embodiment of the present invention even when the functions of the above-described embodiment are realized in cooperation with software or the like.
[0111]
Further, the supplied program code is stored in the memory provided in the function expansion board of the computer or the function expansion unit connected to the computer, and then the CPU provided in the function expansion board or function storage unit based on the instruction of the program code However, it is needless to say that the present invention also includes a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by performing part or all of the actual processing.
[0112]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, even when printing of a plurality of sheets is interrupted, continuous printing is possible based on the interruption information, and only unprinted image data is selectively printed out. It becomes possible. It is also possible to immediately enter the continuous printing mode by checking the interruption information and print setting information at the time of starting up the system.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a first embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a flowchart 1 of the first embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a diagram of a sheet of the first embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a diagram of the connection state of the first embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a schematic system block diagram of the camera of the first embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a schematic memory map of the camera system of the first embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart for printing according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a printing flowchart when starting the system of the second embodiment.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart for printing according to the third embodiment.
FIG. 10 is a schematic system block diagram of the fourth embodiment.
FIG. 11 is an operation flowchart of the fourth embodiment.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart for printing according to the fourth embodiment.
FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram of an ink jet recording apparatus according to a fourth embodiment.
FIG. 14 is a conceptual diagram of a central sectional view of the fourth embodiment.
FIG. 15 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a print system according to the present invention.
FIG. 16 is a print designation file of the print system according to the present invention.
FIG. 17 is a data configuration diagram illustrating a print status of the print system according to the present invention.
FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of print restart processing of the print system according to the present invention.
FIG. 19 is a screen for resuming printing in the printing system according to the present invention.
FIG. 20 is a screen for interrupting printing of the printing system according to the present invention.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 Main unit
2 Paper cassette
3 Feed roller
4 Conveying roller pair
5 Platen roller
6 Thermal head
7 Ink cassette
8 Ink sheet
9-1 Paper discharge roller 1
9-2 Paper discharge roller 2
10 Recording paper tip detection sensor
11 SW2 signal
12 perforations
13 Temporarily saved image memory means
14 Print information memory means
4-2 Pinch roller
4-1 Grip roller
15 Guide section
16 Margin
17 Print area
18 Processing circuit
19 Control means
20 Spring
21 Push-up plate
22 Head Arm
23 Head cover A
24 Head cover B
25 Paper transport guide
26 Output tray section
27 Cable
DC digital camera
DCLCD Digital camera LCD screen
501 CPU
502 ROM
503 RAM
504 EEPROM
505 CF controller
506 CF I / F connector
507 Printer communication control unit
508 Printer I / F connector
509 Camera control unit
510 CCD
511 LCD
515 Printer control unit
516 Printer Engine
517 Mode setting section
518 Various switches
3101 CF (memory card)
3102 IO control unit
3103 Data comparison unit
3104 bus
3105 Print data generation unit
3106 Image selection unit
3107 GUI control unit
3108 display unit
3109 Communication Department
3110 GUI operation unit
3201 to 3207 Items described in the print designation file
3301-3306 Print status data items
3401 to 3411 Steps in the flowchart showing the processing flow

Claims (15)

A digital camera for outputting a plurality of images to a printer based on print designation information having information for designating an image to be printed,
An input means for inputting print designation information;
Output means for continuously outputting a plurality of images to a printer in order to print an image based on the print designation information;
Recording means for recording interruption information in a memory when printing based on the print designation information is interrupted;
Control means for resuming printing based on the print designation information based on the interruption information;
The digital camera according to claim 1, wherein the control means does not resume printing based on the interruption information when the print designation information has changed before and after the interruption.   The digital camera according to claim 1, wherein the recording unit updates and records the interruption information every time printing of one image is completed. Furthermore, it has mounting means for mounting the recording medium on which the print designation information is recorded,
2. The digital camera according to claim 1, wherein the control unit does not resume printing based on the interruption information when different recording media are mounted on the mounting unit before and after the interruption. 3.   2. The printing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a detecting unit that detects whether a print interruption instruction is issued when printing of one image is completed, and interrupts printing in response to detection of the interruption instruction. Digital camera.   2. The digital camera according to claim 1, wherein when the image designated by the print designation information has been deleted after the interruption, the control unit does not resume printing based on the interruption information. . A print control method for outputting a plurality of images based on print designation information having information for designating an image to be printed,
An input process for inputting print designation information;
An output step of continuously outputting a plurality of images in order to print an image based on the print designation information;
A recording step of recording interruption information in a memory when printing based on the print designation information is interrupted;
A control step of resuming printing based on the print designation information based on the interruption information,
The printing method according to claim 1, wherein the control step does not resume printing based on the interruption information when the print designation information has changed before and after the interruption.   The printing method according to claim 6, wherein the recording step updates and records the interruption information every time printing of one image is completed.   7. The printing method according to claim 6, further comprising a detection step of detecting whether a print interruption instruction is issued when printing of one image is completed.   The printing method according to claim 6, wherein the control unit does not resume printing based on the interruption information when an image designated by the print designation information is deleted after the interruption. . A digital camera for outputting a plurality of images to a printer based on print designation information having information for designating an image to be printed,
An input means for inputting print designation information;
Output means for continuously outputting a plurality of images to a printer in order to print an image based on the print designation information;
Recording means for recording interruption information in a memory when printing based on the print designation information is interrupted;
Control means for resuming printing based on the print designation information based on the interruption information;
Determining means for determining whether the recording medium on which the print designation information is recorded has changed before and after the interruption;
The digital camera according to claim 1, wherein the control means does not resume printing based on the interruption information when the recording medium is changed.   The digital camera according to claim 10, wherein the recording unit updates and records the interruption information every time printing of one image is completed.   11. The apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising detection means for detecting whether a print interruption instruction is issued when printing of one image is completed, and interrupting printing in response to detection of the interruption instruction. Digital camera. A printing method for outputting a plurality of images based on print designation information having information for designating an image to be printed,
An input process for inputting print designation information;
An output step of continuously outputting a plurality of images in order to print an image based on the print designation information;
A recording step of recording interruption information in a memory when printing based on the print designation information is interrupted;
A control step of resuming printing based on the print designation information based on the interruption information;
Determining whether the recording medium on which the print designation information is recorded has changed before and after the interruption,
In the control step, when the recording medium is changed, printing is not resumed based on the interruption information.   The printing method according to claim 13, wherein the recording step updates and records the interruption information every time printing of one image is completed.   The printing method according to claim 13, further comprising a detection step of detecting whether a print interruption instruction is issued when printing of one image is completed.

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