JP4109889B2 - PRINT CONTROL DEVICE, PRINT CONTROL METHOD, PROGRAM, AND STORAGE MEDIUM - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides a printing system having a printer or an image forming apparatus as an output side, and in particular, obtains information about a recording medium to be printed before transporting paper, and generates print data and print control and print settings based on the information. The present invention relates to a print control apparatus, a printing system, a print control method, a computer-readable program, and a recording medium storing the program, which have a function of notifying a user of the contents when a problem occurs.
[0002]
[Prior art]
2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a printing system that forms a color image and obtains a printed matter in an office or personal is composed of a printer that enables color output, a host computer that controls the printer and generates print data, and a communication interface that connects both of them. It is common. Among color printers, inkjet printers eject ink directly from a recording head onto a recording medium, and have the advantages of low running costs, suitable for color recording, and quiet recording operations. It is attracting attention and used in a wide range of markets.
[0003]
Inkjet printers use a variety of papers depending on the application. Gloss used to form photographic images such as coated paper with a coating of silica, etc. on the surface to prevent ink bleeding and improve color development from plain paper used in copiers, etc. There are paper, OHP film for transparent originals, and other transfer paper and back print film for iron printing on T-shirts. In addition, there is a great variety of paper, such as a postcard dedicated to inkjet printing for New Year's card printing, which is a type of coated paper.
[0004]
When printing on such paper, the user selects or inputs the type and size of the recording medium (paper) to be printed in advance as print settings on the printer driver, and performs appropriate printing on the paper based on the settings. It was configured as follows.
[0005]
The processing flow of such a general inkjet printer will be described below with reference to FIG.
[0006]
In step 3701, the user instructs a print request to the PC. A print request instruction is generally performed using a mouse or a keyboard. The configuration may be such that instructions are given via a voice input device such as a microphone.
[0007]
In step 3702, a printer driver for managing print settings and the like is activated. In actuality, it is activated when the print setting screen displayed in response to a print request instruction is shifted to a screen display for performing detailed settings.
[0008]
In step 3703, the print setting contents preset in the printer driver are displayed using a display device such as a monitor.
[0009]
In step 3704, if the user wants to obtain the printer status, a status request is instructed. The status request here is not necessarily performed.
[0010]
In step 3705, when the status acquisition request in step 3704 is executed, a status request is made to the printer.
[0011]
In step 3706, when the status request in step 3705 is executed, various status information such as the presence / absence of paper, the remaining amount of ink, and the state of the communication interface between the PC and the printer are returned to the PC.
[0012]
In step 3707, if the user has requested acquisition of status information, the contents are displayed on a monitor or the like.
[0013]
In step 3708, the status information displayed in step 3707 and the preset print settings displayed in step 3703 are confirmed, and an instruction to change is given when changing.
[0014]
In step 3709, if there is an instruction to change in step 3708, print setting update information reflecting the content is displayed on a monitor or the like. In some cases, the user can repeat steps 3708 and 3709 to make desired settings.
[0015]
In step 3710, the user instructs the start of printing. This starts the actual printing operation. If printing is started directly from an application operating on the PC without displaying a detailed setting screen for printing, the process starts from this step.
[0016]
In step 3711, the printer driver on the PC receives print start instructions and generates print data corresponding to the print settings. Specifically, various image processing such as color conversion and binarization, and command generation for printer control are performed.
[0017]
In step 3712, a print start request is issued from the PC to the printer.
[0018]
In step 3713, in response to a request to start printing, paper feeding is started in order to transport the paper set in the printer tray or cassette to the printing position. If no paper is set, the information is grasped and notified to the PC at the time of status inquiry.
[0019]
In step 3714, a paper feeding operation is performed. At this time, the sheet is conveyed to the printing start position.
[0020]
In step 3715, the status request that was left to the user's will in step 3704 is always made here. As a result, various status information such as the presence or absence of paper is obtained.
[0021]
In step 3716, the obtained status information is returned to the PC.
[0022]
In step 3717, if the status information obtained in step 3716 indicates that a failure that may cause a problem in printing such as no paper or power off has occurred, the user is warned of the occurrence of an error. The warning may be displayed on a monitor or the like, or sound output using a sound source may be used.
[0023]
In step 3718, the print data generated in step 3711 is transmitted to the printer. In the figure, transmission is performed at a certain point and completed by one transfer, but in actuality, it is divided according to the memory capacity and data processing capability of the printer, or transmitted during generation.
[0024]
In step 3719, the printer sends the received print data to the printer engine for printing.
[0025]
The above is a rough flow of processing of a general inkjet printer.
[0026]
In this way, when the user determines the selection of a large number of paper types, printing is performed in the print mode set as a default unless the user feels the necessity to select the paper type. This is the case when printing is performed without calling the detailed print setting screen from the application. In addition to this, factors such as the complexity of selecting the paper type from among many options for each printing, the input different from the selection intention, or the fact that the user does not have knowledge about the paper to be printed As a result, printing suitable for the type of paper may not be possible. Printing according to the type of paper is for the convenience of the printer vendor and is never intended to be selected by the user. Users want high-quality and high-speed printing on any type of paper.
[0027]
The following problems may occur when improper printing is performed on paper, such as incorrect paper type settings or printing with default settings. In other words, if you print with the setting of coated paper or glossy paper, which is originally used for the purpose of high-quality printing on plain paper, the amount of ink is so large that it will bleed and waste ink, and at the same time print It takes extra time. Further, if printing is performed on a relatively expensive medium such as glossy paper with plain paper setting without high print quality, a desired image quality cannot be obtained, and this time, the paper is wasted.
[0028]
In view of these, a printer equipped with a sensor called a media sensor for specifying the type of paper has been considered.
[0029]
The processing flow of the ink jet printer equipped with the media sensor will be described below with reference to FIG.
[0030]
Steps 3801 to 3810 are the same as steps 3701 to 3710 in FIG.
[0031]
In step 3811, the printer driver on the PC receives the print start instruction and generates primary data corresponding to the print settings. What is different from a general ink jet printer is that in this system, print data corresponding to the type of paper is generated by the printer body, not by the host PC. Here, the data generation does not depend on the type of paper. Specifically, since various image processing such as color conversion and binarization is performed by the printer main body, it is limited to positioning of a print object and command generation for printer control. When printing image data such as a photograph, RGB multi-value data is transmitted to the printer.
[0032]
In step 3812, a print start request is issued from the PC to the printer.
[0033]
In step 3813, in response to a request to start printing, paper feeding is started in order to transport the paper set in the printer tray or cassette to the sense position.
[0034]
In step 3814, a paper feed operation is performed in response to the start of paper feed in step 3813. At this time, the paper is transported to a position where it can be sensed by the media sensor.
[0035]
In step 3815, the type of the conveyed paper (media type) is sensed. It is assumed that the media sensor is provided on the carriage on which the ink cartridge or the print head is mounted or in the middle of the conveyance path.
[0036]
In step 3816, the type of paper currently being conveyed is specified from the output result of the media sensor. The identification may be performed using the obtained parameters or by referring to a table. The principle of sensing the media type is not limited as long as an output that can identify the type is obtained. Here, it is assumed that an optical sensor is mounted.
[0037]
In step 3817, the status request that was left to the user's will in step 3804 is always made here. As a result, various status information such as the presence or absence of paper is obtained.
[0038]
In step 3818, the obtained status information is returned to the PC.
[0039]
In step 3819, if the status information obtained in step 3818 indicates that a failure that may cause a problem in printing such as no paper or power off has occurred, the user is warned of the occurrence of an error. The notification method to the user may be anything as in the case of FIG.
[0040]
In step 3820, the primary data generated in step 3811 is transmitted to the printer. The method of data transfer is the same as in FIG.
[0041]
In step 3821, secondary data corresponding to the type of the corresponding sheet is generated based on the information for specifying the sheet in step 3816. More specifically, the received RGB data is converted into YMCK, and multivalue data is converted into binary data.
[0042]
In step 3822, the printer sends the print data (secondary data) generated by itself to the printer engine to perform printing. At that time, printing control according to the media type is also performed in the printer body.
[0043]
The above is a rough processing flow of an ink jet printer equipped with a media sensor.
[0044]
Next, the processing flow of the laser beam printer equipped with the media sensor will be described with reference to FIG.
[0045]
Steps 3901 to 3910 are the same as steps 3701 to 3710 in FIG.
[0046]
In step 3911, the printer driver on the PC receives the print start instruction and generates print data corresponding to the print setting. In general, an electrophotographic page printer using a laser beam or the like often describes print data in a page description language such as Postscript. Similarly, data is generated using a page description language (PDL) corresponding to the printer.
[0047]
In step 3912, a print start request is issued from the PC to the printer.
[0048]
In step 3913, in response to a request to start printing, paper feeding is started in order to transport the paper set in the printer cassette or the manual feed tray to the sense position and the image forming position.
[0049]
In step 3914, a paper feeding operation is performed in response to the paper feeding start in step 3913. At this time, the sheet is conveyed to a position where a sense can be made by the media sensor or an image forming position (specifically, a transfer position).
[0050]
In step 3915, the type (media type) of the conveyed paper is sensed. It is assumed that the media sensor is provided in the middle of the conveyance path. Unlike the case of an inkjet printer, the sensor output information is not used to correct the print data itself, but the conditions of the electrophotographic image forming process, specifically the transfer voltage and fixing temperature control, etc. Used to optimize.
[0051]
In step 3916, the type of paper currently being conveyed is specified from the output result of the media sensor. Any specific method and type of sensor may be used as long as they can be realized in the same manner as in FIG.
[0052]
In step 3917, the status request that was left to the user's will in step 3904 is always made here. As a result, various status information such as the presence or absence of paper is obtained.
[0053]
In step 3918, the obtained status information is returned to the PC.
[0054]
In step 3919, if the status information obtained in step 3818 indicates that a failure that may cause a problem in printing such as no paper or power off has occurred, the user is warned of the occurrence of an error. The notification method to the user may be anything as in the case of FIGS.
[0055]
In step 3920, the print data generated in step 3911 is transmitted to the printer. The method of data transfer is the same as in FIGS.
[0056]
In step 3921, various conditions of the electrophotographic process are changed based on the information specifying the paper type obtained in step 3916.
[0057]
In step 3922, image formation using the received print data is performed according to the process conditions set in step 3921.
[0058]
The above is the processing flow of the laser beam printer equipped with the media sensor.
[0059]
An outline of processing when a media sensor is mounted on an ink jet or electrophotographic printer will be described with reference to FIG.
[0060]
In step 4001, the start of printing is instructed. In this case, the sheet information cannot be obtained until the start of printing is instructed.
[0061]
In step 4002, print data and control commands are generated in accordance with the print setting conditions.
[0062]
In step 4003, printing is started after the print data is generated. The start of printing does not have to end the data generation. Simultaneously with the start of printing, the conveyance of the recording medium is started.
[0063]
In step 4004, sensing by a media sensor is performed in order to obtain information for specifying the type of paper during conveyance or in a state where the paper is stopped at a specific location on the conveyance path.
[0064]
In step 4005, the sense result is reflected on each printer in accordance with the information obtained in step 4004. In the case of an inkjet printer, the correction of print data and the printing control method are changed. If it is a laser beam printer, various conditions of the electrophotographic process are changed.
[0065]
In step 4006, image formation which is an actual printing operation is performed.
[0066]
In this way, image formation according to the type of paper is performed based on information obtained using the media sensor.
[0067]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, the conventional techniques described above have the following problems.
[0068]
In a general inkjet printer that does not include a media sensor, that is, cannot automatically grasp the type of paper, the user must set the type of paper to be printed and the print quality in advance as described above. Otherwise, printing is performed under the conditions set by default. In this case, it is difficult to form an optimal image on the paper. Also, it is suitable for the paper type due to the complexity of selecting the paper type from among many choices, input that is different from the selection intention, or lack of knowledge about the paper to be printed by the user I was unable to print. As a result, expensive media and ink can be wasted, and the printing time can be increased more than necessary. Furthermore, in the normal flow, until the start of printing, the printer status, for example, it is possible to communicate unless it is requested by the user, such as whether communication is possible, paper is loaded, or ink remains. There was also a problem that it was not possible.
[0069]
In order to solve some of the above problems, a printer has been devised that is equipped with a media sensor that can specify the paper type and automatically sets the print mode suitable for the paper. Became a problem.
[0070]
1. A printer equipped with a media sensor generally receives data that does not depend on the type of paper, then generates print data suitable for the paper, that is, performs heavy processing such as image processing. Is required. Specifically, dedicated hardware such as a high-speed CPU, DSP, and ASIC is essential, and there is a problem that the capability of a high-speed and high-performance PC that is one of the components of the printing system cannot be fully utilized. For this reason, the cost increases significantly because the printer main body is provided with the capability.
[0071]
2. In order to specify the paper type on the printer side, it is necessary to have a reference table and a comparison parameter as a determination standard in the internal ROM. Since changing the specific condition involves rewriting the ROM, it cannot be easily changed. This is because rewriting the ROM of a peripheral device such as a printer involves the risk that it will not work if it fails.
[0072]
3. Once printing is started, printing is performed in a mode most suitable for the paper. This is also a merit, but for example, when you want to print a print target that does not require high print quality such as printing on plain paper, glossy paper is set on the printer side, and the media sensor If the paper identification result is also glossy paper, high-quality printing suitable for glossy paper is performed without permission. Although the print quality after printout is sufficient, the ink is wasted and at the same time the print time is increased. Also, the user will not want to perform sufficient printing with plain paper on such relatively expensive paper. One of the causes of these problems is that they do not have means or procedures for identifying the type of paper and notifying the user of the result and confirming the user's will.
[0073]
4). Since the paper type specifying operation starts after printing is started, the total printing time increases accordingly. There is no problem if sensing is possible during the conveyance of the paper, but in the case of a configuration in which the conveyance is stopped halfway and sensing is performed, the time from the stop to the end of the sense becomes a problem. Also, if it takes a certain amount of time to sense each sheet of paper when printing multiple pages, it is not practical to specify the sheet each time each sheet is printed. When printing a page, there is a possibility that subsequent processing such as sensing only the first page may be omitted. In such a case, if the type changes in the middle of the loaded paper, it cannot be handled. Also, when sensing in the middle of conveyance, it is necessary to immediately feed back the result to the processing system of the printer main body, which increases the processing load.
[0074]
5. Depending on the configuration on the printer side, the type of paper cannot often be determined until paper is fed. This is because an optical sensor is often used as a mounted media sensor, so it is necessary to keep the distance between the paper and the media sensor within a set range of appropriate values. This is because the state where the sheet in the middle of the road is pressed is the only sensing position.
[0075]
6). Depending on the type of paper, the transport amount varies even with motor drive control using the same torque. This is because the amount of friction between the paper and the roller differs depending on the type of paper. If there is no means for grasping in advance, a separate sensor for determining the leading position of the paper is required. In addition, when a high-quality image is formed, a slight difference in the transport amount may appear in the image quality and become a problem.
[0076]
7). In the case of an electrophotographic printer, data is generated on the PC side. However, since the paper specifying process needs to be completed within a very short time during the conveyance, the processing load becomes very large. In order to realize this, the printer body must have a faster and higher performance arithmetic processing unit.
[0077]
An object of the present invention is to solve the above-described problems. Information necessary for paper setting among print settings such as paper type and size is set in a tray or a cassette. In other words, a data processing device, a printing device, a printing system, a data processing method, a printing method, and a program capable of automatically performing print settings suitable for the paper by using the information obtained at the stage before paper feeding are provided. There is.
[0078]
In addition, by presenting paper information to the user, it is possible to automatically perform print settings suitable for paper without wasting the user's hand and consuming ink and media wastefully. Data processing apparatus, printing apparatus, printing system, data processing method, printing method, and program.
[0079]
In particular, when print data is generated or a printer is controlled on a high-speed and high-performance data processing apparatus such as a PC, a printing system can be constructed at a higher speed and at a lower cost.
[0080]
In addition, by determining the inconsistency between the print settings based on the paper information obtained as a result of the sense and the print quality arbitrarily set by the user, the user's intention can be grasped and improper printing can be reduced as much as possible. In other words, a printing system capable of performing desirable image formation at any time is provided.
[0081]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to achieve the above object, the printing control apparatus of the present invention provides:
First determination means for determining whether there is a difference between a media type based on a sense result on the printer side and a media type designated by a user;
When it is determined by the first determination means that there is a difference between the media type based on the sense result on the printer side and the media type specified by the user, the media type based on the sense result on the printer side and the user specify A first display means for displaying a first screen for indicating whether there is a difference between the media type and the media type according to the sense result;
If the media type is selected to match the sense result on the first screen, the media type of the sense result on the printer side is set to paper print setting, and the media type is selected not to match the sense result on the first screen. A paper setting means for setting the media type specified by the user to paper printing,
Second discriminating means for discriminating whether or not there is a mismatch between the media type set by the paper setting means and the print quality;
If it is determined by the second determination means that there is an inconsistency between the media type and the print quality, this indicates that there is an inconsistency between the media type and the print quality, and the second selection means selects whether to match the print quality with the media type. A second display means for displaying two screens;
When it is selected that the print quality matches the media type on the second screen, the print quality based on the media type is set as the print setting, and when it is selected that the print quality does not match the media type on the second screen, it is specified by the user. Print quality setting means for setting the print quality by the print setting,
Generating means for generating print data based on the print settings;
Output means for outputting the print data generated by the generating means to a printer.
[0082]
The printing control method of the present invention includes
A first determination step of determining whether there is a difference between a media type based on a sense result on the printer side and a media type designated by a user;
If it is determined in the first determination step that there is a difference between the media type based on the sense result on the printer side and the media type specified by the user, the media type based on the sense result on the printer side and the user specify A first display step for displaying a first screen indicating that there is a difference between the selected media type and selecting whether to match the media type to the sense result;
If the media type is selected to match the sense result on the first screen, the media type of the sense result on the printer side is set to paper print setting, and the media type is selected not to match the sense result on the first screen. A paper setting step in which the media type specified by the user is set to print the paper;
A second determination step of determining whether there is a mismatch between the media type set in the paper setting step and the print quality;
If it is determined in the second determination step that there is an inconsistency between the media type and the print quality, this indicates that there is an inconsistency between the media type and the print quality, and a step for selecting whether to match the print quality with the media type. A second display step for displaying two screens;
When it is selected that the print quality matches the media type on the second screen, the print quality based on the media type is set as the print setting, and when it is selected that the print quality does not match the media type on the second screen, it is specified by the user. A print quality setting step in which the print quality by the print setting is set,
Generating the print data based on the print settings;
An output step of outputting the print data generated by the generation step to a printer.
[0083]
The program of the present invention is
A first determination step of determining whether there is a difference between a media type based on a sense result on the printer side and a media type designated by a user;
If it is determined in the first determination step that there is a difference between the media type based on the sense result on the printer side and the media type specified by the user, the media type based on the sense result on the printer side and the user specify A first display step for displaying a first screen indicating that there is a difference between the selected media type and selecting whether to match the media type to the sense result;
If the media type is selected to match the sense result on the first screen, the media type of the sense result on the printer side is set to paper print setting, and the media type is selected not to match the sense result on the first screen. A paper setting step in which the media type specified by the user is set to print the paper;
A second determination step of determining whether there is a mismatch between the media type set in the paper setting step and the print quality;
If it is determined in the second determination step that there is an inconsistency between the media type and the print quality, this indicates that there is an inconsistency between the media type and the print quality, and a step for selecting whether to match the print quality with the media type. A second display step for displaying two screens;
When it is selected that the print quality matches the media type on the second screen, the print quality based on the media type is set as the print setting, and when it is selected that the print quality does not match the media type on the second screen, it is specified by the user. A print quality setting step in which the print quality by the print setting is set,
Generating the print data based on the print settings;
And an output step of outputting the print data generated in the generation step to a printer.
[0093]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
(First embodiment)
An example of a first embodiment for realizing the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the printing system according to the first embodiment.
[0094]
A data processing apparatus 301 generates print data and controls a connected printer. Here, a PC is assumed. It also plays a role of receiving instructions and input from the user regarding print settings.
[0095]
A color printer 302 is connected to the PC 301. An image is formed based on the print data generated by the PC 301. The type of printer is not particularly limited, but here, an ink jet color printer is assumed.
[0096]
A communication interface 303 connects the PC 301 and the color printer 302. There are several types of serial interfaces such as USB, IEEE1394, Ethernet (R), IrDA, IEEE802.11, and power lines, and parallel interfaces such as Centronics and SCSI. Any interface can be used regardless of wired or wireless.
[0097]
As described above, the printing system here is not a single device but a configuration in which a data processing device and a color printer for image formation are connected by a specific bidirectional interface.
[0098]
FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram of the printing system according to the first embodiment.
[0099]
Reference numeral 401 denotes an ink-jet color printer that performs image formation. It is composed of various functional blocks 404 to 410.
[0100]
A PC 402 controls the color printer 401. It consists of various functional blocks from 411 to 418. However, in the color printer 401 and the PC 402, functions that are not particularly necessary for explaining the features of this embodiment are omitted.
[0101]
A communication interface 403 connects the printer 401 and the PC 402. Here, it is assumed that USB (Universal Serial Bus) is used.
[0102]
Reference numeral 404 denotes a paper recognition sensor (media sensor) that obtains information for specifying the type and size of the recording medium P. It is assumed that the recording medium P is stacked on a paper feed tray or cassette provided in the printer 401. As means for specifying the type and size of the paper, a means for marking the paper as a recording medium in advance and optically detecting the mark, a means for using a dedicated paper cassette, a means for embedding an IC card in the paper , Means for optically detecting reflected light (regular reflection light and diffuse reflection light) of specific light irradiated on the paper, means for directly or indirectly measuring surface roughness, means for measuring light transmittance There are many different things. There are other implementation means such as paper weight, thickness, friction coefficient, dielectric constant, electrical resistance value, water absorption rate, and means for taking a two-dimensional image and discriminating from the feature amount. These detection means can realize a paper recognition function by combining them alone or in combination. Here, although the principle and configuration of the media sensor are not particularly limited, it is assumed that the media sensor has a function capable of determining the type and size of a sheet to be described later.
[0103]
Reference numeral 405 denotes a sheet identification processing unit that identifies a sheet based on the output result of the media sensor 404. In this embodiment, the type and size of the paper are specified using a reference table.
[0104]
Reference numeral 406 denotes a reference table used when the paper specification processing unit 405 specifies paper. It is possible to update the value of the table from the PC 402.
[0105]
Reference numeral 407 denotes a paper information storage unit that stores information on the paper specified in 405. A plurality of sheet information may be stored together with the history.
[0106]
Reference numeral 408 denotes an I / F control unit that controls the interface function of the printer 401. Here, since the assumed interface is USB, it is assumed to be configured by a controller on the USB peripheral device side. Transmission of paper information and reception of print data and control commands are performed. Also, if there is a request regarding status information such as an error or a communication state occurring in the printer body, it is returned to the PC 402.
[0107]
A print control unit 409 receives print data transmitted from the PC 402 and develops the print data on the printer engine. The print data to be transmitted is data that has already undergone image processing on the PC 402 side based on the print settings including the type and size of the paper. Here, the printer engine is in accordance with a print control command included in the print data. Control. Specifically, data composed of binary data for printing (in some cases, intermediate data before binarization) and various commands for controlling the ink ejection amount, the number of passes, the printing direction, and the paper conveyance amount. use.
[0108]
Reference numeral 410 denotes a printing unit. Also called a printer engine. Printing is performed on the recording medium P based on the print data developed by the print control unit 409. Since the color printer 401 is an ink jet printer, image formation is performed by ejecting ink.
[0109]
Reference numeral 411 denotes an I / F control unit that controls the interface function of the PC 402. It is configured by a USB host-side controller and has a function as a USB host. Some functions as a USB host are also configured by software such as an OS and a driver.
[0110]
A printer driver 412 is software for performing various settings for printing, print data generation, and printer control on the PC 402. It is composed of various functional blocks from 413 to 415.
[0111]
Reference numeral 413 denotes a print setting processing unit that performs various print settings including paper settings and print quality settings. It has a function of receiving instructions and inputs from the user and displaying or notifying the set contents. This functional block is the basis of the present invention, and has a function of automatically setting paper based on paper information sent from the printer 401. The contents relating to the automatic print setting function including paper setting and the determination of inconsistency will be described later.
[0112]
Reference numeral 414 denotes a print data generation processing unit. Specifically, various image processing such as color conversion and binarization is performed in accordance with print settings performed by the printer 401 and the print setting processing unit 413. It also generates a printer control command for performing print control based on the created data.
[0113]
Reference numeral 415 denotes a table used when the data generation processing unit 414 generates data. These tables can also be updated and contents can be added.
[0114]
A central control unit 416 controls various functions of the PC 402. This is the function of the CPU.
[0115]
Reference numeral 417 denotes a print setting input operation unit. It consists of various input devices for reflecting the user's intention in the print settings.
[0116]
A setting information notification unit 418 notifies the user of print settings. As a notification method, a case where a display device such as a monitor is used or a voice notification is considered.
[0117]
As described above, the printing system of the present invention includes a color printer equipped with a media sensor and a function for specifying paper, paper information specified on the printer side, and print data and control commands based on user instructions and selections. A data processing device such as a PC having a function to be generated and a bidirectional communication interface for connecting the two devices.
[0118]
FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the printing system according to the first embodiment.
[0119]
A color printer 501 is a device that can be connected to a USB serial bus. It is composed of various blocks 504 to 510 shown below and a power source (not shown).
[0120]
A PC 502 is a device that can be connected to a USB serial bus. It is composed of various blocks 511 to 516 shown below and a power source (not shown). The blocks that are not necessary for the description of the present embodiment are omitted as in the description of FIG.
[0121]
Reference numeral 503 denotes a USB serial bus. Although not specifically shown here, other USB devices may be connected on the same bus.
[0122]
Reference numeral 504 denotes a CPU (central control unit) that controls each unit in accordance with firmware stored in the ROM 505 and the RAM 506. The CPU 504 executes program code for performing paper specifying processing, which is a part of the characteristic function of the present embodiment.
[0123]
Reference numeral 505 denotes a ROM that stores a program code of firmware that realizes a part of the functions of the present embodiment read by the CPU 504. Although a flash ROM is assumed here, the type is not limited as long as it is a nonvolatile storage medium. In addition, a sheet determination table is also stored here.
[0124]
The CPU 504 writes and reads data as necessary, reads and stores data from the USB control unit 510 by direct memory access, or reads data and writes data to the USB control unit 510 as necessary. This is a RAM (memory). It is also used for storing paper information.
[0125]
Reference numeral 507 denotes a printer engine that performs printing. It is composed of an ink jet head, a cartridge on which ink is mounted, and its control circuit.
[0126]
Reference numeral 508 denotes an ASIC including a dedicated circuit that performs print control, a DMA controller, and the like.
[0127]
Reference numeral 509 denotes a media sensor for obtaining information for specifying a sheet. Information for specifying the type and size of the paper can be obtained by the sensor. The type of sensor is not limited as long as the above functions can be realized.
[0128]
A USB control unit 510 controls communication with the USB host. Transfer of print data is mainly performed using bulk transfer. It is assumed that the USB control unit supports a low speed of 1.5 Mbps, a full speed of 12 Mbps, and a high speed of 480 Mbps conforming to the USB 2.0 standard. It does not matter even if it corresponds to full speed.
[0129]
Reference numeral 511 denotes a CPU (central control unit) that controls each unit in accordance with programs stored in the hard disk drive 516 and the RAM 512. The program code of the printer driver that realizes part of the functions of the present embodiment is executed by the CPU 511.
[0130]
512 indicates that the CPU 511 writes and reads data as needed, reads and stores data from the USB control unit 513 by direct memory access, or reads data and writes data to the USB control unit 513. This is a RAM (memory). When the printer driver is activated, the driver program code is loaded onto the RAM 512.
[0131]
A USB control unit 513 controls communication with the USB device. It has a function of controlling and managing other USB devices including the printer 501.
[0132]
An input device control unit 514 controls various input devices 517 such as a keyboard and a mouse, which are extremely important for the user interface. A serial interface such as PS / 2 or USB is used as an interface between the input device 517 and the PC 502. Moreover, you may consider an audio | voice as an input means.
[0133]
Reference numeral 515 denotes a display device control unit that generates and converts a signal to be sent to the display device 518.
[0134]
Reference numeral 516 denotes a hard disk drive that stores program codes that realize some of the functions of the present embodiment read by the CPU 511. Here, a hard disk drive is assumed, but any type may be used as long as it is a non-volatile storage medium and an apparatus using the storage medium. For example, FD, MO, CD-RW, DVD-RAM, flash memory, tape device, etc. correspond to this.
[0135]
Reference numeral 517 denotes an input device that transmits instructions from the user. Here, a keyboard and a mouse are assumed. In the case of voice input, a microphone is assumed.
[0136]
Reference numeral 518 denotes a display device (monitor) composed of a cathode ray tube, liquid crystal, or the like. In this embodiment, the means for notifying the user is a display device. However, when audio is used, 515 is an audio output control unit and 518 is an audio output device such as a speaker that outputs an audio signal.
[0137]
As described above, the printing system according to the present invention includes a color printer equipped with a media sensor, a general PC having a display device, an input device, and the like, and a USB interface that connects the two devices. Except for sensors, no special equipment or mechanism is required.
[0138]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a flow of overall processing and control when there is a print instruction in the first embodiment.
[0139]
In step 101, information for specifying the type and size of the paper is obtained by the media sensor. The media sensor is provided so that it can sense the type and size of the paper loaded in the paper feed tray or dedicated cassette, and it can be sensed before paper is fed. . The sense timing may be any timing as long as it is before the paper information acquisition request from the printer driver. Here, it is assumed that the printer is turned on.
[0140]
In step 102, the type and size of the paper are specified from the output result of the media sensor. The identification may be performed using parameters or referring to a table. In addition, regarding the principle of sensing the type and size of the paper, as long as an output capable of specifying is obtained, the type, the number of sensors, and the use of plural types of sensors are not limited.
[0141]
In step 103, the paper information specified in step 102 is stored in the memory. The sheet information stored here is returned in response to a request from the PC side.
[0142]
In step 104, the user issues a print request to the PC. The print request is generally instructed by executing a print command from the menu of the application being used, and is instructed using a mouse or a keyboard. In addition, a configuration realized through voice input instead of a pointing device such as a keyboard or a mouse may be used.
[0143]
In step 105, a printer driver, which is software for managing print settings and the like, is activated when shifting from a print setting screen displayed in response to a print request instruction to a screen display for performing detailed settings.
[0144]
In step 106, in response to the activation of the printer driver in step 105, a request for obtaining paper information is obtained for the printer that is supposed to perform printing in order to confirm what paper is loaded on the printer itself. I do. At this time, it is possible to request not only the paper information but also the information on the printer engine section such as the presence / absence of paper to be set, the interface state, the type of ink cartridge, and the remaining amount of ink. .
[0145]
In step 107, in response to the paper information acquisition request in step 106, the paper information stored in step 103 is transmitted to the PC. It is also performed when information other than paper information is returned.
[0146]
In step 108, automatic printing is set based on the obtained paper information. Details of the print settings and the flow of processing will be described later. It is also determined here whether or not there is a discrepancy between the paper setting and the paper setting arbitrarily designated by the user when performing paper setting based on the paper information in the print settings.
[0147]
In step 109, print setting information including the contents automatically set in step 108 is displayed using a display device such as a monitor. If there is a discrepancy between the contents of the automatic paper setting and the user settings in step 108, this is displayed and a warning or warning is given.
[0148]
In step 110, it is determined whether or not there is a mismatch between the paper setting based on the paper information and the print quality arbitrarily set by the user. The criteria for determining the occurrence of inconsistency and the processing flow for determination will be described later. Further, it is also determined whether or not the change instruction by the user is appropriate when a mismatch occurs between the contents of the automatic paper setting and the user-specified paper setting. However, the determination in this case is performed when the setting contents are fed back in step 113.
[0149]
In step 111, when it is determined that inconsistency has occurred in step 110, the user is warned or warned to that effect. Attention and warning are performed by displaying a dialog, but may be displayed with a voice when the dialog is opened so as to call the user's attention. The contents of the dialog to be displayed will be described later.
[0150]
In step 112, when the print setting information displayed in step 109 is confirmed or the content of the print setting is changed in accordance with the warning displayed in step 111, the user is instructed about the changed part and content.
[0151]
In step 113, if the setting is changed in step 112, the process returns to step 110 to confirm again whether or not there is a mismatch between the changed content and the paper setting. The same applies to the case where the user instructs automatic paper setting and resolution of inconsistency by the user.
[0152]
In step 114, when there is no problem in the setting change result, the updated print setting information reflecting the instruction received in step 112 is displayed on the monitor. The user can repeat steps 112 and 114 as necessary to make desired settings.
[0153]
In step 115, the user instructs the start of printing. This starts the actual printing operation. Note that a case where printing is started directly from an application being operated on the PC without displaying a detailed setting screen for printing will be described in detail with reference to FIG.
[0154]
In step 116, the printer driver on the PC receives the print start instruction and generates print data corresponding to the print settings. Specifically, execution of various image processing such as color conversion and binarization, generation of commands for printer control such as a printing method and a conveyance amount, and the like are performed.
[0155]
In step 117, a print start request is issued from the PC to the printer.
[0156]
In step 118, in response to a request to start printing, paper feeding is started in order to transport the paper set in the printer tray or cassette to the printing position.
[0157]
In step 119, a paper feeding operation is performed. At this time, the sheet is conveyed to the printing start position.
[0158]
In step 120, the print data generated in step 116 is transmitted to the printer. In the figure, transmission is performed at a certain point, and data transmission seems to be completed by one transfer, but in actuality, data divided according to the memory capacity and data processing capacity of the printer is transmitted. As for the transmission timing and the number of times, the print data is sequentially transmitted during the generation of the print data.
[0159]
In step 121, the printer sends the received print data to the printer engine to perform printing. Since the paper has already been conveyed to the printing start position, image formation is performed by ejecting ink while feeding the paper according to the printing width from that position.
[0160]
As described above, the processing flow shown in FIG. 1 forms the basis of the present invention. By holding the paper information before starting the printer driver, the subsequent printing time is shortened. Yes. In addition, since print data can be generated on the PC side, the printer body can be configured inexpensively and simply. In addition, the driver determines the inconsistency between the paper setting based on the sense result and the setting by the user and communicates with the user to maximize the user's intention and to prevent incorrect print settings. It is possible to construct a printing system that can perform less and preferable image formation. This frees the user from complicated operations, prevents wasteful consumption of ink and media, and provides an efficient printing environment.
[0161]
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a flow of overall processing and control when there is no print instruction in the first embodiment.
[0162]
Since the contents from step 201 to step 203 are the same as those from step 101 to step 103 in FIG. 1, detailed description is omitted. During this time, paper information is obtained and stored in the printer. The configuration for holding the paper information before starting the printer driver is the same as in FIG.
[0163]
In step 204, the user instructs the start of printing. As a result, the actual printing operation starts, but the print settings are not changed in this case, and the subsequent processing is advanced based on the preset contents. As shown in the conventional example, with a general ink jet printer, print data is generated and printed without being able to confirm or change the contents of the print settings.
[0164]
Steps 205 to 207 are not different from steps 105 to 107 in FIG. During this time, the printer driver is activated to obtain the paper information held in the printer main body.
[0165]
In step 208, it is determined whether or not there is a discrepancy between the paper setting based on the paper information and the setting content set in advance by the user or default setting. The criteria for determining the occurrence of inconsistency and the processing flow for determination will be described later.
[0166]
Steps 209 to 212 are not different from steps 111 to 114 in FIG. During this time, if it is determined in step 208 that an inconsistency has occurred, a warning to that effect is given and the user's instructions and determinations are sought.
[0167]
In step 213, if the print setting has been changed so far, a trigger to start printing is applied under the changed condition. Re-request to start printing by the user.
[0168]
Since steps 214 to 219 are the same as steps 116 to 121 in FIG. 1, detailed description thereof is omitted. When there is a change in the setting contents, a print request is re-requested and subsequent print data generation and print control are performed.
[0169]
As described above, even when printing is started directly from the application being operated on the PC without displaying a detailed setting screen for printing, the paper information is set before starting the printer driver, as described with reference to FIG. By holding this, the subsequent printing time is shortened. The same applies to other effects.
[0170]
Compared with the conventional example, it seems that the load on the user increases because it is necessary to change the setting contents again after printing starts or to give an instruction to start it. However, as long as there is actually no inconsistency in the settings, the user The load of will not increase.
[0171]
FIG. 6 is a table showing the paper type (media type) in the first embodiment.
[0172]
As shown in the figure, there are a great many types of paper that can be set by the printer driver of the inkjet printer. Here, papers that can be selected by the user from general papers to special papers are listed. These papers can be selected from the paper type list of the printer driver. The printer driver list selection screen will be described later.
[0173]
FIG. 7 is a table showing the paper size (media size) in the first embodiment.
[0174]
Similar to FIG. 6, there are many types of paper sizes that can be set, and the media size shown in the table can be selected. In addition, for a non-standard size paper not included in the selection list, a media size can be arbitrarily input and designated by selecting a user-defined size. Similarly, the list selection screen and the media size input screen will be described later.
[0175]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a flow of determination of paper type (media type) and print setting reflecting the determination in the first embodiment.
[0176]
In step 801, the paper type (media type) is grasped based on the sense result by the media sensor. Here, it is assumed that the paper is classified into six categories according to a reference table described later.
[0177]
In step 802, it is determined whether the media type is set to the automatic setting mode. The automatic setting mode is a mode in which paper setting is automatically performed according to the result sensed on the printer side. If this mode is not selected, the user must arbitrarily select the paper type. If the media type automatic setting mode is selected, the process proceeds to step 803. If the manual setting mode specified by the user is selected, the process proceeds to step 804.
[0178]
In step 803, it is determined whether the print quality is in the automatic setting mode. In the print quality automatic setting mode, paper settings are made according to the paper information including the type and size of the paper, and the optimum print mode for printing the corresponding paper is automatically selected based on the paper settings. . If this mode is not selected, the user must arbitrarily select the print quality. If the print quality automatic setting mode is selected, the process proceeds to step 809. If the manual setting mode by the user is selected, the process proceeds to step 810.
[0179]
In step 804, it is determined whether there is a difference between the media type paper setting based on the sense result and the paper setting arbitrarily designated by the user. However, since the number of paper types that can be arbitrarily selected or input by the user is larger than the number of categories 6 automatically set as shown in the table of FIG. 6, the judgment as to whether they are different does not completely match the paper types. Cases need to be considered. In that case, it judges by whether it belongs to the category of the same kind. For example, gloss film and glossy paper may be classified into the same category in the sense of forming the same photographic image. If it is determined that there is no difference in the category of the paper type and it completely matches the set value, the paper type selected from the list is reflected as the set value. If the set values are different, the process proceeds to step 805.
[0180]
In step 805, in response to the fact that the media type automatic setting value based on the sense result in step 804 is different from the user setting value, the user is notified of this.
[0181]
In step 806, the user determines whether to select automatic or user setting according to the notification content. If the media type setting matches the automatic setting based on the sense result, the process proceeds to step 807. If the media type setting matches the user-specified setting value, the process proceeds to step 808.
In step 807, the media type automatic setting value based on the sense result is set as the media type setting.
[0182]
In step 808, the setting contents set by the user are set as the media type. At this time, it is possible not only to select an already set value but also to select another media type and change the setting.
[0183]
In step 809, the print quality is set based on the paper setting in response to the print quality being set in the automatic setting mode in step 809. After setting the print quality, the processes for paper setting and print quality setting are terminated.
[0184]
In step 810, it is determined whether there is a mismatch between the previously set media type and the print quality set by the user in response to the print quality setting being the user-specified manual setting mode. The criteria for determining inconsistency will be described later. If it is determined that inconsistency has occurred, the process proceeds to step 811. If it is determined that consistency has been achieved, the process proceeds to step 813.
[0185]
In step 811, the occurrence of inconsistency is notified to the user.
[0186]
In step 812, the user determines which print quality to match in accordance with the notification content. If the print quality matches the paper setting, the process proceeds to step 809. If the print quality selected by the user is to be specified, the process proceeds to step 813.
[0187]
In step 813, the setting content set by the user is adopted as the print quality setting. At this time, it is possible not only to select a value that has already been set, but also to select another print quality and change the setting.
[0188]
When both the media type and the print quality are automatically set, the paper setting is made based on the sense result by the media sensor, and the optimum print quality for the paper setting is selected. In this case, the user does not need to make any settings or input.
[0189]
When the media type setting is a manual setting, the paper setting of the media type specified by the user is compared with the paper setting based on the sense result in the driver. If it is determined that the comparison results are the same, the user moves in the same manner as in the automatic setting mode. By notifying the user of the fact only when they are different, it is possible to avoid erroneous paper setting while confirming the user's intention.
[0190]
When the print quality setting is a manual setting, the contents of the print quality setting specified by the user and the print quality setting based on the paper setting are compared in the driver. If the comparison results are determined to be the same, the user sees the same behavior as in the automatic setting mode, and no action occurs. If they are different, by notifying the user of that fact, it is possible to set the optimum printing quality in accordance with the user's intention.
[0191]
In this way, the paper setting (among these settings) and the print quality are set based on the paper information based on the sense result.
[0192]
FIG. 9 is an example of a media type reference table according to the first embodiment. Here, what is classified into six types will be described.
[0193]
Here, six types of paper (media type) are assumed: plain paper / thick paper, coated paper, glossy paper, glossy film, OHP, T-shirt transfer paper / cloth. This classification varies depending on the performance and function of the media sensor, and even when more separation is possible, there is no need to divide it if there is no difference in final printing quality and control contents. The example here is just an example. It is assumed that three types of print quality are prepared: high quality, standard, and high speed. Similar to the type classification, this print quality level may have any number of stages such as five stages or two stages.
[0194]
The following explains how to read the table.
[0195]
◎ is a setting specified by default, and is the print quality set when the user does not specify anything or when the print quality setting is set to the automatic setting mode and the optimal print quality is selected for the paper.
[0196]
○ is the print quality that can be selected for the paper.
[0197]
Δ indicates that there is a possibility that a problem may occur if printing is performed on the paper with this print quality. In this embodiment, attention is paid to the user.
[0198]
X indicates a print quality that cannot be selected when setting manually and cannot be selected in general. In the combination of the paper setting and the print quality specified by the user himself, a combination of the paper setting which becomes the setting notice Δ or the setting impossible × is also conceivable. In such a case, a warning or warning can be issued to the user, and guidance can be provided so that erroneous printing is not performed while following the user's intention.
[0199]
Here, a description will be given taking a certain sheet as an example.
[0200]
It is assumed that glossy paper is selected as the paper setting. The glossy paper may be selected either as a result of automatic setting based on the paper information based on the sense result or as arbitrarily specified by the user. At this time, the print quality setting is not the automatic mode but the manual mode designated by the user. Assume that the print quality specified in the manual mode is the high speed mode. This may be because the settings made when printing before that remain.
[0201]
If printing is started in this state, printing is performed in a high-speed mode that realizes a low print quality in which characteristics of the paper cannot be utilized even though relatively expensive glossy paper is set in the printer. This is a waste of media and at the same time wastes ink and time used for erroneous printing.
[0202]
In such a case, in this embodiment, it is possible to prevent various kinds of waste by pointing out to the user that the print quality “high speed” that cannot be set with glossy paper is selected. FIG. 15 shows an example of a dialog displayed when an inconsistency is pointed out. The dialog is configured to display information on what the current paper settings and print quality settings are, the combination of the current settings causes problems, and how to change the settings. .
[0203]
FIG. 10 is an example of a media type reference table according to the first embodiment. Here, what is classified into four categories will be described.
[0204]
Here, four types of paper (media type) are assumed: plain paper / thick paper / others, coated paper, glossy paper / glossy film, and OHP. The number of print quality levels and how to read the table are the same as in FIG. In general, these four types of categories are often assumed.
[0205]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the flow of the paper size (media size), the presence / absence of paper, and the media size setting in the first embodiment.
[0206]
In step 1101, it is determined whether paper is set in the printer based on the sense result.
[0207]
In step 1102, it is determined whether paper is set in the printer according to the contents grasped in step 1101. If a sheet is set, the process proceeds to step 1103. If a sheet is not set, the process proceeds to step 1104.
[0208]
In step 1103, the size of the paper (media size) is grasped based on the sense result.
[0209]
In step 1104, in response to the fact that no paper is set, the user is notified that there is no paper.
[0210]
In step 1105, the user determines whether or not to cancel the printing upon receiving a notification that there is no paper. When canceling printing, the process is terminated. When printing is performed, the process proceeds to step 1106.
[0211]
In step 1106, the user sets paper to continue printing. The resumption of processing after the paper is set may be performed via a PC after displaying a dialog for confirming whether the paper is set, or may be configured to automatically detect that the paper is set. . A button for resuming processing may be attached to the printer. At this time, the resume button is configured not only to resume printing but also to share other functions.
[0212]
In step 1107, the size of the set paper is grasped by a sensor. Normally, the media size is sensed before the printer driver is activated. However, in the flow when there is no paper, the paper is set after the driver is activated, so that it is necessary to perform the subsequent processing.
[0213]
In step 1108, whether or not the paper size grasped in advance or in step 1107 matches the size in the media size table of the printer driver shown in FIG. 7, that is, the standard size or the irregular size. Determine whether or not. If the size is a fixed size, the process proceeds to step 1109. If the size is an indeterminate size, the process proceeds to step 1110.
[0214]
In step 1109, it is determined whether or not it is a paper size automatic setting mode in which the paper size is automatically set. The automatic setting mode is a mode for setting the paper size according to sensed paper information. If the automatic setting mode is selected, the process proceeds to step 1113. If the manual setting mode designated by the user is selected, the process proceeds to step 1114.
[0215]
In step 1110, in response to the media size being indefinite, an input dialog for allowing the user to input an arbitrary paper size is displayed. The configuration of the input dialog will be described later with reference to FIG.
[0216]
In step 1111, the user inputs the media size according to the display screen.
[0217]
In step 1112, the media size is set according to the value input in step 1111.
[0218]
In step 1113, it is determined whether or not a function for enlarging or reducing the image or document to be printed according to the media size, that is, whether the enlarging / reducing setting is enabled. When the enlargement / reduction function is enabled, the enlargement / reduction process will be performed according to the printing paper even if the paper size set in the printer and the media size specified by the application being used are different. Thus, it is possible to perform printing in which the margin is appropriate and the printing area does not exceed the paper size. If the enlargement / reduction setting is valid, the media size setting process ends. If the enlargement / reduction setting is invalid, the process proceeds to step 1119.
[0219]
In step 1114, in response to the setting of the media size being the manual mode, it is determined whether the media size automatically set based on the sense result is different from the media size arbitrarily designated by the user. If the settings are different, the process proceeds to step 1115, and if they are the same, the process proceeds to step 1113.
[0220]
In step 1115, the user is notified of the fact that each media size setting is different in the determination in step 1114.
[0221]
In step 1116, according to the notification content, the user determines whether the media size setting is to be matched with the sense result or user designation. If it matches the automatic setting contents of the media size based on the sense result, the process proceeds to step 1117. If the setting contents arbitrarily selected or input by the user are used, the process proceeds to step 1118.
[0222]
In step 1117, the contents of the automatic setting based on the sense result are adopted as the media size setting.
[0223]
In step 1118, the setting contents set by the user are adopted as the media size setting. At this time, it is possible not only to select an already set value as the set value, but also to select another paper size and change the setting contents.
[0224]
In step 1119, it is determined whether the media size set by the driver is different from the media size specified in the application. If the media size settings are different, the process proceeds to step 120. If they are the same, the setting process is terminated.
[0225]
In step 1120, the user is notified that the media size settings are different.
[0226]
In step 1121, it is determined whether to cancel the printing itself. When canceling printing, the media size setting process ends. When the processing is continued as it is, the routine proceeds to step 1122.
[0227]
In step 1122, the user manually sets the media size. Specifically, the application is opened and the designated media size is adjusted to the media size set by the driver.
[0228]
If no paper is set, the user is informed before starting printing and asked whether or not to continue printing. In the case of continuing, the user interface of the driver supports the procedure until the user sets paper in the printer and restarts the process.
[0229]
When the media size is set in the automatic setting mode and enlargement / reduction is valid, paper setting is performed based on the sense result by the media sensor, and image formation is performed in accordance with the set media size. Even if the media size specified by the application and the paper setting by the driver are different, printing with an appropriate size can be performed without any trouble of the user by performing enlargement / reduction.
[0230]
When enlargement / reduction is disabled, the media size based on the paper setting of the driver is compared with the media size defined by the application. When the comparison results are the same, the user need not be aware of the media size setting. If they are different, the media size can be set according to the user's intention by notifying the user of that fact. If the media size on the application side is set to be larger than the media size set by the driver's paper setting without performing such processing, an inkjet printer uses a platen or transport guide to form an image larger than the paper. Ink adheres to the inside of the printer. This adhered ink will contaminate the next paper to be fed, which is a serious problem.
[0231]
In this manner, the media size is set based on the paper information based on the sense result.
[0232]
FIG. 12 is an example of a print dialog displayed when a print command is executed from the application according to the first embodiment.
[0233]
Reference numeral 1201 denotes a print dialog. Each display area includes 1202 to 1208.
[0234]
An area 1202 displays the name and status of a printer to be printed.
[0235]
A list 1203 displays manufacturer names and model names of a plurality of usable printers. The user selects a printer from the list in this field. The printer set as the default printer is displayed by default.
[0236]
Reference numeral 1204 denotes a button for displaying the properties of the printer selected in 1203. Pressing this button activates the printer driver. When making detailed settings such as the paper type, size, and print quality, the above settings can be made by opening this property, and at the same time, the detailed contents of the print settings can be displayed.
[0237]
Reference numeral 1205 denotes an area for displaying a print range. You can choose to print all, print only the specified pages, or print only the pages that are currently open in the application.
[0238]
An area 1206 displays the number of copies to be printed. The user can specify the number of copies by entering a value.
[0239]
Reference numeral 1207 denotes an “OK” button. If it is determined that there is no problem with these setting conditions, printing is started by pressing this “OK” button.
[0240]
Reference numeral 1208 denotes a “cancel” button. If there is a problem with this setting condition, printing is canceled by pressing this “cancel” button.
[0241]
The display content here is merely an example, and it may have an area for displaying paper settings that cannot be set unless properties are normally displayed. The important thing is that when the user tries to print, the printer driver starts at a certain timing.
[0242]
The functions for determining various settings and inconsistencies described so far are assumed to be realized by the program code that configures the printer driver, but some or all of them are OS (operating system), applications, etc. It may be realized by software other than the printer driver. Rather, when the function is included in the OS, the contents of the invention described in the present embodiment can be realized not in a specific printer but in any printer and its connection environment.
[0243]
FIG. 13 is an example of a setting dialog displayed when performing the print mode and various paper settings in the first embodiment.
[0244]
Reference numeral 1301 denotes a print setting dialog. Each display area includes 1302 to 1326. This dialog is displayed by opening the property 1204 shown in FIG. Since there are a large number of items to be displayed in the print settings, it is common to use a tab sheet to divide the setting items according to the contents so that they are easy to see. Tabs are also used in this embodiment.
[0245]
Reference numeral 1302 denotes an overall setting tab. Display contents related to printing in general. Details will be described later.
[0246]
Reference numeral 1303 denotes a page setting tab. It displays the contents related to various page settings such as paper size, printing direction, number of copies, print layout (multi-page printing) and the like. At the same time, the user accepts an instruction to change or input the setting contents.
[0247]
Reference numeral 1304 denotes a special effect tab. Displays a selection screen for functions to be used to give images special effects such as various image corrections and sepia tones.
[0248]
Reference numeral 1305 denotes a utility tab. Displays a screen for selecting functions such as head adjustment and cleaning.
[0249]
Reference numeral 1306 denotes a simple display area for overall settings. The set information is displayed in a form that appeals visually as well as text information.
[0250]
Reference numeral 1307 denotes an area for displaying the set paper type (media type).
[0251]
Reference numeral 1308 denotes a field for displaying the type of paper. In the case of automatic setting described below, the paper type specified based on the sense result is displayed here. When the media type shown in the table of FIG. 6 is arbitrarily designated by the user, it is selected from the list in this field. It is also possible to adopt a configuration in which a new sheet can be additionally input to the list.
[0252]
A check box 1309 is selected when the paper type is automatically set. There is an exclusive relationship with the manual setting check box described below, and only one of them can be selected. When this check box is selected, the paper type specified based on the sense result is displayed in the media type field 1308.
[0253]
A check box 1310 is selected when the paper type is manually set. When this check box is selected, the user can arbitrarily select the paper type. Even if the automatic setting check box 1309 is selected, when a media type is selected from the list of the media type field 1308, manual setting is performed, and this check box is selected.
[0254]
Reference numeral 1311 denotes an area for displaying the set paper size (media size).
[0255]
Reference numeral 1312 denotes a field for displaying the media size. In the case of the automatic setting described below, the media size specified based on the sense result is displayed here. When the user arbitrarily designates the media size shown in the table of FIG. 7, the user selects from the list in this field. Similarly, it is possible to adopt a configuration in which a new paper size can be additionally input to the list.
[0256]
Reference numeral 1313 denotes a check box selected when the paper size is automatically set. There is an exclusive relationship with the manual setting check box described below, and only one of them can be selected. When this check box is selected, the size of the sheet specified based on the sense result is displayed in the media size field 1312.
[0257]
Reference numeral 1314 denotes a check box to be selected when manually setting the paper size. When this check box is selected, the user can arbitrarily select the paper size. Even if the automatic setting 1313 is selected, if a media size is selected from the list of the media size field 1312, the manual setting is performed, and this check box is selected as in the description of 1310.
[0258]
Reference numeral 1315 denotes a check box selected when enlarging / reducing automatically. If it is checked, as described in the flowchart of FIG. 11, even if there is a setting mismatch between the paper setting by the printer driver and the paper setting specified by the application, the setting on the driver side matches. You can turn on.
[0259]
Reference numeral 1316 denotes an area for displaying the set print quality.
[0260]
Reference numeral 1317 denotes a field for displaying the print quality. In the case of automatic setting, the optimum print quality for the paper type displayed in the media type field 1308 is automatically selected and set. In the case of manual setting, a plurality of print qualities such as those described in the paper reference table shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 are displayed as a list, and the user selects from the list.
[0261]
A check box 1318 is selected when the print quality is automatically set. There is an exclusive relationship with the manual setting check box described below, and only one of them can be selected. When this check box is selected, the print quality defined based on the set paper type is displayed in the print quality field 1317.
[0262]
A check box 1319 is selected when the print quality is set manually. When this check box is selected, the user can arbitrarily select the print quality. Even if the automatic setting of the check box 1318 is selected, if the print quality is selected from the list of the print quality field 1317, the manual setting is made, and this check box is selected similarly.
[0263]
A button 1320 is used to set the print quality in detail. When this button is selected, the screen shifts to a detailed setting screen. In this embodiment, the print quality that can be automatically set is three stages. However, it is assumed that a higher level of print quality can be set by manual setting. However, since the print quality that can be selected is defined depending on the type of paper, not all prepared print quality levels can be set.
[0264]
Reference numeral 1321 denotes a list for selecting a paper feeding method. The user selects either manual feed or auto sheet feeder.
Reference numeral 1322 denotes a check box to be selected when color adjustment is automatically performed. There is an exclusive relationship with the manual setting check box described below, and only one of them can be selected. When this check box is selected, color adjustment is performed automatically. If not selected, perform color adjustment manually.
[0265]
Reference numeral 1323 denotes a check box to be selected when the color adjustment is set manually. When this check box is selected, the user can adjust an arbitrary color tone on a detailed setting screen (not shown).
[0266]
Reference numeral 1324 denotes an “OK” button. If the user determines that there is no problem with these setting conditions, the open properties are closed by pressing this “OK” button, and the display returns to the print dialog shown in FIG.
Reference numeral 1325 denotes a “cancel” button. If the user determines that it is safe to return to the initial setting after various settings, the properties are closed by pressing this “Cancel” button, and the print dialog shown in FIG. 12 is also closed.
[0267]
Reference numeral 1326 denotes a “help” button. If there are unclear points regarding the contents related to various print settings managed by the printer driver, the details of the related settings are shown by pressing this button.
[0268]
Although not described here, an “update” button for updating the setting contents may be added.
[0269]
As described above, the setting dialog has a screen configuration in which items necessary for the user are gathered together, and can be instantly confirmed as to what print settings are made.
[0270]
By selecting the automatic setting mode prepared for the paper setting and print quality setting shown in the figure, the setting can be automated. At that time, it is configured to be able to confirm what kind of determination is made by the printer or the printer driver, and communication with the user can be made. As a result, it is possible to realize a printing system capable of forming a preferable image with less erroneous printing while giving priority to the user's intention.
[0271]
FIG. 14 is an example of a warning dialog displayed when the media type specified based on the sense result in the first embodiment is different from the setting by the user.
[0272]
1401 is an example of a warning dialog. Each display area includes 1402 to 1405.
[0273]
Reference numeral 1402 denotes an area that expresses the gist of the warning. Not only text information but also an image such as an illustration that conveys the meaning of the warning is displayed.
[0274]
Reference numeral 1403 denotes an area for displaying the content of the warning. Here, the warning content and the content for confirming which of the media type setting based on the sense result and the user-specified setting are selected are displayed. If you want to prioritize the setting by the driver, ask the user to select the detection result as shown in the figure.
[0275]
Reference numeral 1404 denotes an “OK” button. By pressing the “OK” button, priority is given to the media type setting based on the sense result confirmed in 1403.
[0276]
Reference numeral 1405 denotes a “cancel” button. By pressing this “cancel” button, the setting of the media type arbitrarily designated by the user is given priority instead of the sense result.
[0277]
As described above, when there is a difference between the media type setting based on the sense result and the user-specified setting, this is notified and the user is asked to determine which setting has priority.
[0278]
FIG. 16 is an example of a dialog displayed when the absence of paper is detected in the first embodiment.
[0279]
This dialog is configured to display an image that briefly expresses the gist of the warning, the content of the warning, and a procedure for resuming the processing by setting paper from the absence of paper as described in the flowchart of FIG. Yes.
[0280]
In this way, it is possible to provide a user-friendly printing environment by not only displaying the detected result but also indicating the subsequent recovery procedure.
[0281]
FIG. 17 is an example of an input dialog displayed when the user selects a non-standard size paper in the first embodiment.
[0282]
Reference numeral 1701 denotes an input dialog. Each display area includes 1702 to 1709.
[0283]
Reference numeral 1702 denotes an area for selecting and displaying a value unit when the user arbitrarily inputs the media size. Here, it is possible to select from two unit systems of “mm” and “inch”.
[0284]
A check box 1703 is selected when “mm” is used as the unit of the input size. A check box having “inch” as a unit described below is in an exclusive relationship, and only one of them can be selected.
[0285]
A check box 1704 is selected when “inch” is used as the unit of the input size.
[0286]
Reference numeral 1705 denotes an area where the user actually inputs the media size. In this embodiment, the input is performed by a pointing device such as a keyboard or a mouse. Voice input may be used.
[0287]
Reference numeral 1706 denotes a field that defines the length in the width direction of the paper among the media sizes.
[0288]
Reference numeral 1707 denotes a field that defines the length of the sheet in the longitudinal direction of the media size.
[0289]
Reference numeral 1708 denotes an “OK” button. By pressing this “OK” button, the input value is confirmed. Then, the value is reflected in the paper setting.
Reference numeral 1709 denotes a “cancel” button. By pressing this “cancel” button, the currently set size and value are used without entering a value. However, when an irregular media size is selected, some value is input and the media size setting cannot be completed unless specified.
[0290]
In this way, the user can use paper of any size. The size setting once entered and set may be stored with a name and used in subsequent print settings.
[0291]
FIG. 18 is a warning dialog displayed when the media size in the first embodiment is different from the setting by the user.
[0292]
This dialog is configured to display an image that expresses the main point of the warning, the content of the warning, and the content for confirming whether the media size specified based on the sense result is used as the print setting.
[0293]
As described above, when there is a difference between the media size setting based on the sense result and the user-specified setting, this is notified and the user is asked to determine which setting has priority.
[0294]
FIG. 19 is a warning dialog displayed when it is determined that a mismatch has occurred between the media size and the size specified by the application in the first embodiment.
[0295]
This dialog is configured to display an image that expresses the main purpose of the warning, the content of the warning, and the content to confirm whether to change the size setting on the application side, giving priority to the paper size set in the printer driver. Yes.
[0296]
As described above, when there is a difference between the media size setting by the driver and the setting specified by the application, this is notified and the user is asked to determine which setting has priority.
[0297]
As explained above, information necessary for paper setting among print settings such as paper type and size is obtained in the state set in the tray or cassette, that is, before feeding, and used. , A printing system, method, and computer-readable program that do not bother users, waste ink and media, and can automatically perform print settings suitable for paper and have excellent operability and convenience. Software that is a storage medium in which the code is stored and the program code itself can be provided.
[0298]
In particular, when print data is generated and a printer is controlled on a high-speed and high-performance data processing apparatus such as a PC, a printing system can be constructed at a higher speed and at a lower cost.
[0299]
Also, paper information is presented to the user before printing is started, and inconsistencies between the print settings based on the paper information obtained as a result of the sense and the print quality arbitrarily set by the user are determined. As a result, it is possible to provide a printing system that captures the user's intention and minimizes improper printing as much as possible.
[0300]
In the present embodiment, the flow of setting the sensing target as the paper type (media type) and the paper size (media size) has been described. However, only the media type that is one of the information is sensed. In addition, the functions that characterize the present embodiment, such as automatic setting of print quality and notification to the user according to inconsistency determination, can be realized. That is, since the size cannot be automatically set, it is not possible to realize complete automation of the print setting, but the purpose of setting the print quality can be sufficiently achieved.
[0301]
(Second Embodiment)
An example of a second embodiment for realizing the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
[0302]
The printing system for realizing the present embodiment is basically the same as the printing system and the functional block components described in the first embodiment. Since the first embodiment has been described sufficiently, description of similar parts is omitted.
[0303]
The feature of this embodiment is that the data processing apparatus side is provided with the sheet specifying processing function and the sheet determination table provided in the printer side in the first embodiment. The content of this part, which is different from the first embodiment, will be described with reference to a functional block diagram and an overall process and control flow diagram.
[0304]
FIG. 20 is a functional block diagram of a printing system according to the second embodiment.
[0305]
As described in the above description, the difference from the first embodiment is that the sheet identification processing unit 405 and the sheet determination table 406 that existed on the printer side are eliminated, and the function is included in the printer driver 2010 instead. Is included.
[0306]
Reference numeral 2001 denotes an ink-jet color printer that performs image formation. It is composed of various functional blocks 2004 to 2008. Since the various functional blocks have been described in the first embodiment, description thereof is omitted here. The output of the media sensor 2004 is directly stored in the sense information storage unit 2005. That is, the printer side has only data necessary for specifying the paper.
[0307]
Reference numeral 2002 denotes a PC that controls the color printer 2001. It is composed of various functional blocks from 2009 to 2018. Since the contents of the printer driver 2010 and the table associated therewith have been described in the first embodiment, a description thereof is omitted here.
[0308]
Reference numeral 2003 denotes a communication interface that connects the printer 2001 and the PC 2002.
[0309]
A printer driver 2010 is software for performing various settings for printing, print data generation, and printer control on the PC 2002. It is composed of various functional blocks from 2011 to 2015.
[0310]
Reference numeral 2013 denotes a paper identification processing unit that identifies paper based on the output result of the media sensor 2004. In this embodiment, the type and size of the paper are specified using the reference table 2015. Output information from the media sensor 2004 necessary for specifying a sheet is sent to the PC 2002 via the I / F 2003. Based on the received paper information, the printer driver performs paper identification processing.
[0311]
As described above, the printing system according to the present invention includes a color printer having a function of outputting a parameter for specifying a sheet by mounting a media sensor, a function of identifying a sheet based on sheet information obtained on the printer side, and A data processing device such as a PC having a function of generating print data and control commands based on an instruction or selection by a user, and a bidirectional communication interface connecting the two devices.
[0312]
In this configuration, since the paper identification processing unit is provided not on the printer side but on the data processing apparatus side, it is possible to easily change parameters and criteria for identifying the paper by updating the driver software.
[0313]
FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a flow of overall processing and control when there is a print instruction in the second embodiment.
[0314]
The difference from the first embodiment is that, in the first embodiment, the specification of the paper set on the printer side is finished before the user issues a print request instruction. Then, it is a point performed after the request is instructed. Specifically, the paper specifying process that has been performed after the sensing operation in step 2101 is performed immediately before the print setting in step 2108.
[0315]
In such control, since the data such as the determination parameter obtained by the output of the media sensor used for specifying is larger than the amount of information after specifying the sheet, the sense result performed in step 2102 is stored. This leads to an increase in memory. Further, since the paper specifying process 2107 is performed on the PC side, the total print processing time and the processing load are increased as compared with the first embodiment. However, both of these are not so big problems. Rather, by adopting such a configuration, it was realized on the printer side, such as changing the judgment table and judgment algorithm used when making paper specific judgments. There is an advantage that it can take a flexible response.
[0316]
FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a flow of overall processing and control when there is no print instruction in the second embodiment.
[0317]
The difference from the first embodiment is that the sheet specifying process is not performed after the sensing operation in step 2201 but immediately before the inconsistency determination in step 2208, as described in FIG. The other flow for determining the inconsistency after receiving an instruction to start printing is the same as in the first embodiment.
[0318]
As described above, even in the case where printing is started directly from the application being operated on the PC without displaying a detailed setting screen for printing, the media sense result before starting the printer driver is the same as described with reference to FIG. By holding (data), a sufficient effect can be obtained.
[0319]
Similar to the first embodiment, the present embodiment is configured such that the printing time thereafter is shortened by holding the paper information before the printer driver is activated. In addition, since print data can be generated on the PC side, the printer body can be configured inexpensively and simply. Furthermore, by determining inconsistencies with the user settings within the driver and communicating with the user, it is possible to construct a printing system that reflects the user's intentions to the maximum and has very few erroneous print settings. This frees the user from complicated operations, prevents wasteful consumption of ink and media, and provides an efficient printing environment.
[0320]
In particular, in the present embodiment, since the paper specifying process is performed on the data processing apparatus side, not on the printer side, the processing content and criteria for determination can be easily changed. The point that it was difficult to deal with on the printer body side, such as recognition of new media, can be realized simply by updating the printer driver on the data processing device side.
[0321]
(Third embodiment)
An example of the third embodiment for realizing the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
[0322]
In the printing system that realizes the present embodiment, the constituent elements of the functional blocks are basically not much different from the printing system described in the first embodiment. Since the first embodiment has been described sufficiently, description of similar parts is omitted.
[0323]
The feature of the present embodiment is that the media sensing operation performed before the print request is instructed in the first and second embodiments is performed after the print request is instructed. The content of this part, which is different from the first embodiment, will be described with reference to the overall processing and control flow diagrams.
[0324]
FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating a flow of overall processing and control when there is a print instruction according to the third embodiment.
[0325]
The difference from the first embodiment is that in the first embodiment, the sense of the paper set on the printer side is performed before the user issues a print request instruction, and the specification of the paper based on the sense is finished. In the present embodiment, the sheet information is stored after the print request is instructed. Specifically, the sensing operation and the paper specifying process performed before the print request instruction in step 2301 are performed after the paper information acquisition request in step 2303 is received.
[0326]
In such control, since the sheet information is not grasped at the time when the print request is issued, the user waits for the time required for the sheet information acquisition operation by the media sensor. However, if the time required to identify the sensing operation and the paper is sufficiently short, this is not a problem. The effect that can be obtained is greater. Further, since the sheet specifying information determined based on the immediately sensed result is returned to the PC, the storing operation of the sheet specifying result which is necessary in the first embodiment is omitted, and the memory space for storing is stored. There is a merit that it becomes unnecessary.
[0327]
FIG. 24 is a diagram showing a flow of overall processing and control when there is no print instruction in the third embodiment.
[0328]
The difference from the first embodiment is that the sensing operation and the paper specifying process are not performed before the print request instruction in step 2301 but in response to the paper information acquisition request in step 2303, as described in FIG. It is a point made from. The flow of determining inconsistency after receiving other paper information is the same as in the first embodiment.
[0329]
As described above, even when the printing is started directly from the application being operated on the PC without displaying the detailed setting screen for printing, the configuration can provide a sufficient effect as described with reference to FIG. ing.
[0330]
Unlike the first embodiment, the present embodiment is configured to acquire paper information after the printer driver is activated. However, since the print data can be generated on the PC side as in the first embodiment, the printer main body can be configured inexpensively and simply. Furthermore, it is also possible to build a printing system that reflects the user's intention to the maximum and has very few erroneous print settings by judging inconsistencies with the user settings within the driver and communicating with the user. . This frees the user from complicated operations, prevents wasteful consumption of ink and media, and provides an efficient printing environment.
[0331]
In particular, in the present embodiment, since the paper information acquisition operation is performed after the user issues a print request, information on the paper set in the printer can be obtained at the exact timing of printing. That means that it is possible to prevent errors such as different paper information depending on the set timing. Further, since the sheet specifying information determined based on the sensed result is returned to the PC immediately after the sheet information request, the storing operation of the sheet specifying result is omitted, and the memory space for storing is not required.
[0332]
(Fourth embodiment)
An example of the fourth embodiment for realizing the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
[0333]
In the printing system that realizes the present embodiment, the constituent elements of the functional blocks are basically not much different from the printing system described in the first embodiment. Since the first embodiment has been described sufficiently, description of similar parts is omitted.
[0334]
The feature of the present embodiment is that the data processing apparatus side has the sheet specifying processing function provided on the printer side with the same configuration as that of the third embodiment. That is, the configuration is a combination of the second and third embodiments. The content of this part, which is different from the third embodiment, will be described with reference to the overall processing and control flow diagrams.
[0335]
FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating the flow of overall processing and control when there is a print instruction in the fourth embodiment.
[0336]
The difference from the third embodiment is that the sheet specifying process 2506 performed after the sensing operation 2504 of the sheet set on the printer side is performed not on the printer body but on the PC side.
[0337]
By such control, it is possible to obtain information on the paper set in the printer reliably at the timing when the user performs printing, and it is possible to effectively use the memory by omitting the storing operation of the paper specifying result. In addition, it is possible to flexibly deal with new media that can update the contents of specific processes.
[0338]
FIG. 26 is a diagram showing a flow of overall processing and control when there is no print instruction in the third embodiment.
[0339]
The difference from the third embodiment is that the sheet specifying process 2606 is performed on the PC side as in the description of FIG. Even in the case where printing is started directly from an application being operated on the PC without displaying a detailed setting screen for printing, the configuration can provide a sufficient effect as described with reference to FIG.
[0340]
As in the third embodiment, the present embodiment is configured to acquire paper information after the printer driver is activated. Similarly, since print data can be generated on the PC side, the printer main body can be configured inexpensively and simply. Furthermore, it is also possible to build a printing system that reflects the user's intention to the maximum and has very few erroneous print settings by judging inconsistencies with the user settings within the driver and communicating with the user. . This frees the user from complicated operations, prevents wasteful consumption of ink and media, and provides an efficient printing environment.
[0341]
In particular, in this embodiment, it is possible to obtain information on the paper set in the printer at the exact timing of printing, and to flexibly handle new media.
[0342]
(Fifth embodiment)
An example of the fifth embodiment for realizing the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
[0343]
FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a printing system according to the fifth embodiment.
[0344]
Reference numeral 2701 denotes a digital camera that generates a digital image with a CCD or CMOS image sensor. In addition to the imaging function, it has functions for generating data for printing captured images with a printer directly connected to the digital camera and for controlling the connected printer. It also plays a role of displaying the setting contents in response to an instruction or input from the user regarding the print setting.
[0345]
Reference numeral 2702 denotes a color printer connected to the digital camera 2701. An image is formed based on the print data and control generated by the digital camera 2701. The type of multi-value data is not particularly limited as long as it can be handled in the printer body.
[0346]
Reference numeral 2703 denotes a communication interface for connecting the digital camera 2701 and the color printer 2702. Generally, a serial interface with a small connector shape is used. A plurality of types of interfaces such as USB, IEEE 1394, IrDA, IEEE 802.11b, and Bluetooth are assumed, but any interface may be used regardless of wired or wireless as long as it realizes bidirectional communication. Further, after recording an image taken on a storage medium such as a memory card built in the digital camera 2701, the memory card itself may be removed and inserted into a slot of the printer body for printing. The type of memory card in that case is not questioned.
[0347]
As described above, the printing system here is not a single device, but has a configuration in which a digital camera and a color printer for forming an image are connected by a specific bidirectional interface or a similar function.
[0348]
FIG. 28 is a functional block diagram of a system according to the fifth embodiment.
[0349]
A color printer 2801 performs image formation. Here, an ink jet printer is assumed. It is composed of various functional blocks 2804 to 2811.
[0350]
Reference numeral 2802 denotes a digital camera that sends image data to the color printer 2801. It is composed of various functional blocks from 2812 to 2818. However, in the color printer 2801 and the digital camera 2802, functions that are not particularly necessary for explaining the features of this embodiment are omitted.
[0351]
Reference numeral 2803 denotes a communication interface for connecting the printer 2801 and the digital camera 2802. Here, Bluetooth, which is a wireless standard that uses the 2.4 GHz band, is assumed.
[0352]
Reference numeral 2804 denotes a paper recognition sensor (media sensor) that obtains information for specifying the type and size of the recording medium P. It is assumed that the recording medium P is stacked on a paper feed tray or a cassette provided in the printer 2801. The description of the means for specifying the type and size of the paper is the same as in the first embodiment, and is omitted here.
[0353]
Reference numeral 2805 denotes a sheet identification processing unit that identifies a sheet based on the output result of the media sensor 2804. In this embodiment, the type and size of the paper are specified by numerical calculation using the sensor output value as a parameter.
[0354]
Reference numeral 2806 denotes a paper information storage unit that stores information related to the paper specified by the paper specification processing unit 2805. A plurality of paper information may be stored together with the history.
[0355]
An I / F control unit 2807 manages the interface function of the printer 2801. Here, since the assumed interface is Bluetooth, it is assumed to be composed of a baseband chip, an RF module, and a link controller. Transmission of paper information and reception of print data and control commands are performed. In addition, status information such as an error generated in the printer main body and communication status is returned to the digital camera 2802 if requested.
[0356]
A color conversion processing unit 2808 converts RGB multi-valued color image data sent from the digital camera 2802 into YMCK data. At that time, various image corrections are also performed.
[0357]
Reference numeral 2809 denotes a binarization processing unit that converts image data that has been converted into YMCK multi-value data by the color conversion processing unit 2808 into binary data. There are many methods for binarization, but here, an error diffusion method is used.
[0358]
A print control unit 2810 develops data to be printed on the printer engine. Using the print data binarized by the binarization processing unit 2809, the printer engine is controlled in accordance with a print control command sent from the digital camera 2802. Specifically, various types of control that is changed in accordance with the characteristics of the paper, for example, control of the ink ejection amount and change of the number of passes are executed.
[0359]
Reference numeral 2811 denotes a printing unit. Also called a printer engine. Printing is performed on the recording medium P based on the print data developed by the print control unit 2810.
[0360]
Reference numeral 2812 denotes an I / F control unit that controls the interface function of the digital camera 2802. It is composed of a Bluetooth controller. Some functions may be realized by firmware.
[0361]
A printer driver 2813 is software for performing various settings for printing, print data generation, and printer control on the digital camera 2802. Each block is composed of various functional blocks 2814 and 2815. Unlike the PC described in the first embodiment, different software is not configured as a printer driver, and it functions as a part of the firmware function inside the digital camera.
[0362]
A print setting processing unit 2814 performs various print settings including paper settings and print quality settings. It has a function of receiving instructions and inputs from the user and displaying or notifying the set contents. This functional block is the basis of the present invention and has a function of automatically setting paper based on paper information sent from the printer 2801. The contents relating to the automatic print setting function including paper setting and the determination of the occurrence of inconsistency are the same as in the first embodiment.
[0363]
Reference numeral 2815 denotes a print data generation processing unit. Specifically, a printer control command for performing print control is generated.
[0364]
Reference numeral 2816 denotes a central control unit that controls various functions of the digital camera 2802. This is the function of the CPU.
[0365]
Reference numeral 2817 denotes a print setting input operation unit. It consists of buttons for reflecting the user's intention in the print settings. In the case of a digital camera, unlike the PC, both the operation unit and the display unit are small, and the input buttons often have other functions.
[0366]
A setting information notification unit 2818 notifies the user of print settings. Here, it is assumed that a liquid crystal display device provided for previewing a captured image or displaying a menu is used.
[0367]
As described above, the printing system of the present invention includes a color printer having a function of specifying a paper by mounting a media sensor and a function of converting multi-value image data into binary data for printing, and a paper specified on the printer side. It is composed of information, a digital camera having a function of generating image data and a control command based on an instruction or selection by a user, and a bidirectional communication interface connecting the two devices.
[0368]
FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a flow of overall processing and control when there is a print instruction in the fifth embodiment.
[0369]
The difference from the first embodiment is that, in the first embodiment, binary data that can be used immediately on the printer side is generated on the data processing apparatus side. Thus, conversion from multi-value data including image processing is performed.
[0370]
Since the contents from step 2901 to step 2915 are the same as those from step 101 to step 115 in FIG. 1, detailed description will be omitted. During this time, paper information is obtained, a mismatch is determined, and the user issues a final print start instruction. The configuration in which the paper information is acquired and held before the user starts printing is the same as that in the first embodiment.
[0371]
In step 2916, the printer driver on the digital camera receives a print start instruction and generates primary data corresponding to the print settings. The difference from the first embodiment is that in this system, print data that matches the type of paper is generated not by the digital camera that is the data processing apparatus but by the printer body. Inside the digital camera, print data generation is not dependent on the type of paper. However, a control command corresponding to the type of paper is generated. Specifically, since various image processing such as color conversion and binarization is performed in the printer main body, positioning of a print object, generation of a printer control command suitable for paper, and the like are performed. When printing image data such as photographs, RGB multi-value data is transmitted to the printer as it is.
[0372]
In step 2917, the digital camera issues a print start request to the printer.
[0373]
In step 2918, in response to a request to start printing, paper feeding is started.
[0374]
In step 2919, the paper feeding operation is performed in response to the paper feeding start in step 2918. At this time, the sheet is conveyed to a position where printing is possible.
[0375]
In step 2920, the primary data generated in step 2916 is transmitted to the printer.
[0376]
In step 2921, secondary data corresponding to the corresponding paper type is generated based on the control command generated in step 2916. More specifically, the received RGB data is converted into YMCK, and multivalue data is converted into binary data.
[0377]
In step 2922, the printer sends the print data (secondary data) generated by itself to the printer engine to perform printing. At that time, printing control suitable for the paper information is also performed.
[0378]
In such control, since it is necessary to process multi-value data on the printer body side, it is necessary to provide a higher-speed arithmetic processing device or dedicated hardware on the printer side. Although this is disadvantageous in terms of cost, when considered as a printing system, it is sufficiently practical because a PC having a high processing function is not used as a data processing apparatus as in the first embodiment. This is because when a general-purpose digital camera is provided with a printing function, it is extremely impossible to perform various image processing depending on the printer model with the digital camera. Many printer profiles are held on the digital camera side, and it is necessary to perform data processing equivalent to that of a PC. Unlike PCs, profile updating is not easy. Rather, by adopting such a configuration, the same effect can be obtained in a printing system that uses a device such as a PC that does not have high processing capability as a data processing apparatus. Even when compared with the conventional example, by acquiring paper information in advance, it is possible to construct a printing system that reflects the user's intention as much as possible and extremely rarely performs undesired printing.
[0379]
FIG. 30 is a diagram showing a flow of overall processing and control when there is no print instruction in the fifth embodiment.
[0380]
The difference from the first embodiment is that the processing up to binarization, which has been performed on the data processing apparatus side, is performed on the printer side, similar to the description in FIG. The other steps up to step 3013 for re-requesting the start of printing are the same as those in the first embodiment.
[0381]
As described above, even in the case of starting printing directly from the digital camera without confirming the setting, by holding the media sense result (data) before instructing the request to start printing, as described in FIG. 29, It is the structure which can raise the same effect.
[0382]
In this embodiment, part of the effects described in the first embodiment can be realized. Even if it is configured to perform conversion from multi-value data within the printer main body, it can determine the user's intention by determining inconsistencies with the user settings and communicating with the user as in the other embodiments. It is possible to construct a printing system that reflects the maximum amount and does not perform undesirable printing. In addition, the printing system as a whole has the advantages that it can be configured at low cost and that a general-purpose digital camera can be used. This frees the user from complicated operations, prevents wasteful consumption of ink and media, and provides an efficient printing environment.
[0383]
In the present embodiment, the effect has been described by taking a digital camera as an example, but the same effect can be obtained even if a PC is used as the data processing apparatus as in the first embodiment.
[0384]
(Sixth embodiment)
An example of the sixth embodiment for realizing the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
[0385]
The feature of the present embodiment is that print settings including inconsistency determination performed on the data processing apparatus side in the first to fifth embodiments are performed on the printer side.
[0386]
FIG. 31 is a functional block diagram of a system in the sixth embodiment.
[0387]
A color printer 3101 performs image formation. Here, an ink jet printer is assumed. It is composed of various functional blocks 3105 to 3113.
[0388]
A digital camera 3102 sends image data and a print control command to the color printer 3101. It is composed of various functional blocks 3114 to 3119. However, in the color printer 3101 and the digital camera 3102 as well, functions that are not particularly necessary for describing the features of this embodiment are omitted.
[0389]
A communication interface 3103 connects the printer 3101 and the digital camera 3102. Here, Bluetooth, which is a wireless standard that uses the 2.4 GHz band, is assumed. This interface is mainly used for communication with a small amount of data such as transmission / reception of print setting contents and status response.
[0390]
A memory card 3104 is used when image data is transferred between the printer 3101 and the digital camera 3102. It doesn't matter about the type of memory card.
[0390]
Reference numeral 3105 denotes a paper recognition sensor (media sensor) that obtains information for specifying the type and size of the recording medium P. It is assumed that the recording medium P is stacked on a paper feed tray or a cassette provided in the printer 3101. The description of the means for specifying the type and size of the paper is the same as in the first embodiment, and is omitted here.
[0392]
A sheet identification processing unit 3106 identifies a sheet based on the output result of the media sensor 3105. In the present embodiment, the type and size of the paper are specified by numerical calculation using the sensor output value as a parameter.
[0393]
A print setting processing unit 3107 performs various print settings including paper settings and print quality settings. Various print settings including paper settings are made based on the specified paper information. The contents relating to the automatic print setting function including paper setting and the determination of the occurrence of inconsistency are the same as in the first embodiment.
[0394]
An I / F control unit 3108 manages an interface function of the printer 3101. Here, since the assumed interface is Bluetooth, it is assumed to be composed of a baseband chip, an RF module, and a link controller. The print settings are transmitted. Also, status information such as an error generated in the printer main body and communication status is returned to the digital camera 3102 if requested.
[0395]
Reference numeral 3109 denotes a card slot into which a memory card is inserted.
[0396]
A color conversion processing unit 3110 converts RGB multi-valued color image data passed from the digital camera 3102 via a memory card into YMCK multi-value data. At that time, various image corrections are also performed.
[0397]
Reference numeral 3111 denotes a binarization processing unit that converts image data that has become YMCK multi-value data in the color conversion processing unit 3110 into binary data. There are many methods for binarization, but here, an error diffusion method is used.
[0398]
Reference numeral 3112 denotes a print control unit that develops data to be printed on the printer engine. Using the print data binarized by the binarization processing unit 3111, the printer engine is controlled according to the print control command generated by the print setting processing unit 3107. Specifically, various controls that are changed in accordance with the characteristics of the paper, for example, control of the ink ejection amount, change of the number of passes, and the like are executed.
[0399]
Reference numeral 3113 denotes a printing unit. Also called a printer engine. Printing is performed on the recording medium P based on the print data developed by the print control unit 3112.
[0400]
Reference numeral 3114 denotes an I / F control unit that controls the interface function of the digital camera 3102. It is composed of a Bluetooth controller.
[0401]
Reference numeral 3115 denotes a card slot into which a memory card is inserted.
[0402]
Reference numeral 3116 denotes a central control unit that controls various functions of the digital camera 3102. This is the function of the CPU.
[0403]
Reference numeral 3117 denotes a setting information storage unit for storing the contents of print settings set by the printer 3101 in the built-in memory.
[0404]
Reference numeral 3118 denotes a print setting input operation unit. It consists of buttons for reflecting the user's intention in the print settings. In the case of a digital camera, unlike the PC, both the operation unit and the display unit are small, and the input buttons often have other functions. Here, it is used when changing various settings such as print quality and print settings set on the printer side.
[0405]
A setting information notification unit 3119 notifies the user of the contents of the print settings. Here, it is assumed that a liquid crystal display device provided for previewing a captured image or displaying a menu is used.
[0406]
As described above, the printing system according to the present invention includes a color printer having a function of specifying a sheet from output from a media sensor and performing various print settings, and a function of converting multi-value image data into binary data for printing, and image data. It is composed of a digital camera having a function for generating the image, a bidirectional communication interface for connecting the two devices, and a memory card.
[0407]
FIG. 32 is a diagram showing the flow of overall processing and control when there is a print instruction in the sixth embodiment.
[0408]
The difference from the fifth embodiment is that, in the fifth embodiment, print settings including paper settings are made on the digital camera side which is a data processing apparatus. In this point, all processes including data generation are performed. Another difference is that large-capacity image data and other data are divided and exchanged via another means.
[0409]
Since the contents from step 3201 to step 3203 are the same as those from step 2901 to step 2903 in FIG. 29, detailed description will be omitted. During this time, paper information is obtained and stored in the printer. The configuration for holding the paper information before the start of printing is the same as in the fifth embodiment.
[0410]
In step 3204, if the contents of the print settings are to be changed, the user gives an instruction regarding the changed portion and contents.
[0411]
In step 3205, a print request is instructed to the digital camera.
[0412]
In step 3206, in response to the print request instruction in step 3205, a print setting information acquisition request is sent to the printer. At this time, it is necessary to request not only the print setting information but also the information on the printer engine section such as the presence / absence of paper that will be set, the interface status, ink cartridge type and ink remaining amount, etc. it can. Also, basic print setting conditions such as print quality and media size set on the digital camera side are transmitted to the printer side.
[0413]
In step 3207, printing is automatically set based on the paper information obtained in step 3202. The contents of the print settings and the flow of processing are the same as in the other embodiments. It is also determined here whether or not there is a discrepancy between the paper setting and the paper setting arbitrarily designated by the user when performing paper setting based on the paper information in the print settings.
[0414]
In step 3208, print setting information including the contents automatically set in step 3207 is transmitted to the digital camera.
[0415]
In step 3209, the received print setting information is displayed using a display device such as a liquid crystal monitor. If there is a discrepancy between the contents of the automatic paper setting and the user settings in step 3207, that fact is displayed and a warning or warning is given.
[0416]
In step 3210, it is determined whether or not there is a mismatch between the paper setting based on the paper information and the print quality arbitrarily set by the user. Since the criteria for determining the occurrence of inconsistency and the processing for determination are the same as those in the other embodiments, description thereof is omitted.
[0417]
In step 3211, if it is determined in step 3210 that a mismatch has occurred, the fact is transmitted to the digital camera.
[0418]
In step 3212, if it is determined in step 3210 that an inconsistency has occurred, the user is warned or warned to that effect. Attentions and warnings are displayed by display on the screen, but warnings may be displayed with sound so as to call the user's attention.
[0419]
In step 3213, when the print setting information displayed in step 3209 is confirmed or the content of the print setting is changed in accordance with the warning displayed in step 3212, the user is instructed about the changed part and content.
[0420]
In step 3214, when the contents of the print setting are changed in step 3213, the changed part and contents are transmitted to the printer.
[0421]
In step 3215, the printer changes the contents of the print setting in response to the change instruction. Although not described in detail here, there may be a case where there is a deficiency in the setting contents by the user instruction. Therefore, the inconsistency may be determined again after the setting is changed in this step.
[0422]
In step 3216, the updated print setting information reflecting the instruction received in step 3213 is transmitted to the digital camera.
[0423]
In step 3217, the received updated print setting information is displayed on the monitor. The user can make a desired setting by repeating between step 3213 and step 3217 in some cases.
[0424]
The contents of steps 3218 to 3225 are the same as those of steps 2915 to 2922 of FIG. During this time, printing is started, data matching the paper is generated, and printing is performed.
[0425]
As described above, since almost all processing relating to print settings is performed on the printer side, it is very easy to configure and change the digital camera so that the present embodiment can be realized.
[0426]
FIG. 33 is a diagram illustrating a flow of processing and control when there is no print instruction according to the sixth embodiment.
[0427]
The difference from the fifth embodiment is that, like the description in FIG. 32, print settings including paper settings are made on the printer side, not on the digital camera side which is the data processing apparatus.
[0428]
As described above, even when printing is started directly without displaying a detailed setting screen for printing, the same effect as described with reference to FIG. 32 can be obtained.
[0429]
In this embodiment, an effect equivalent to that of the fifth embodiment can be realized. By determining the inconsistency with the user settings and communicating with the user, it is possible to construct a printing system that reflects the user's intention to the maximum and does not perform undesirable printing. Further, there is an advantage that the entire system can be configured at low cost and a more general-purpose digital camera can be used. This frees the user from complicated operations, prevents wasteful consumption of ink and media, and provides an efficient printing environment.
[0430]
In the present embodiment, the effect has been described using a digital camera as an example. However, the same effect can be obtained when a PC is used as the data processing apparatus as in the first embodiment.
[0431]
In this embodiment, two types of image data and print setting confirmation are used as the interface between the data processing apparatus and the printer. However, only one type of interface can be used if large-capacity data communication is possible. There is no problem even if it is implemented.
[0432]
(Seventh embodiment)
An example of the seventh embodiment for realizing the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
The feature of this embodiment is that the printer which is a component of the printing system is not an ink jet type but an electrophotographic type laser beam printer. In this case, the paper information acquired before printing is used not for generating print data but for setting process conditions of the printer body.
[0433]
FIG. 34 is a diagram showing the flow of overall processing and control when there is a print instruction in the seventh embodiment.
[0434]
Steps 3401 to 3403 are the same as steps 101 to 103 in FIG. During this time, paper information is obtained and stored in the printer. The configuration for holding the paper information before the start of printing is the same as in the first embodiment. The obtained paper information includes the thickness and the like that affect the process conditions in addition to the paper type and size.
[0435]
In step 3404, a print request is instructed to the PC. A print request instruction is generally performed by executing a print command from a menu of an application being used, and a mouse or a keyboard is used as a device. Further, instead of a pointing device such as a keyboard or a mouse, a configuration realized through a voice input device such as a microphone may be used.
[0436]
In step 3405, a printer driver, which is software for managing print settings and the like, is activated when the screen shifts from a print setting screen displayed in response to a print request instruction to a screen display for performing detailed settings.
[0437]
In step 3406, the printer driver is activated in step 3405, and a paper information acquisition request is issued to the printer assumed to perform printing in order to confirm what paper is loaded on the printer itself. I do. At this time, it is possible to request not only the paper information but also the information of the printer engine unit such as the presence or absence of paper that will be set, the interface state and the remaining amount of toner.
[0438]
In step 3407, in response to the paper information acquisition request in step 3406, the paper information stored in step 3403 is transmitted to the PC. It is also performed when information other than paper information is returned.
[0439]
In step 3408, automatic printing is set based on the obtained paper information.
[0440]
In step 3409, print setting information including the contents automatically set in step 3408 is displayed using a display device such as a monitor.
[0441]
In step 3410, various conditions of the electrophotographic process are changed based on the information specifying the paper type obtained in step 3402. Specifically, settings such as transfer voltage and fixing temperature control are adjusted according to the paper. In addition, settings are made to finely adjust the paper transport speed.
[0442]
In step 3411, when the user confirms the print setting information displayed in step 3409 and changes the contents of the print settings, the user receives an instruction for the changed portion and contents.
[0443]
In step 3412, if there is an instruction to change settings in step 3411, the updated print setting information reflecting the contents of the instruction is displayed on the monitor.
[0444]
In step 3413, if there is a setting change instruction in step 3411, the setting of various conditions of the electrophotographic process is reviewed.
[0445]
In step 3414, the user instructs the start of printing. This starts the actual printing operation. A case where printing is directly started without displaying a detailed setting screen for printing from an application being operated on the PC will be described with reference to FIG.
[0446]
In step 3415, the printer driver on the PC receives the print start instruction and generates print data corresponding to the print settings. In general, laser beam printers often describe print data in a page description language such as Postscript. Similarly, data is generated using a description language (PDL) adapted to the printer.
[0447]
In step 3416, a print start request is issued from the PC to the printer. At the same time, the contents of the process conditions set in step 3410 are transmitted to the printer side.
[0448]
In step 3417, in response to a request to start printing, paper feeding is started in order to transport the paper set in the cassette or manual feed tray of the printer to the image forming position. Also, based on the process condition setting received in step 3416, various process condition settings are changed.
[0449]
In step 3418, a paper feeding operation is performed. At this time, the sheet is conveyed to the printing start position.
[0450]
In step 3419, the print data generated in step 3415 is transmitted to the printer.
[0451]
In step 3420, image formation is performed using the received print data in accordance with the process conditions set in step 3410. The printer sends the received print data to the printer engine for printing.
[0452]
As described above, by holding the paper information before starting the printer driver, the subsequent printing time is shortened. Further, it is possible to take time for sensing as compared with the case of sensing during conveyance.
[0453]
FIG. 35 is a diagram showing a flow of overall processing and control when there is no print instruction in the seventh embodiment.
[0454]
Steps 3501 to 3503 are the same as steps 3401 to 3403 in FIG. During this time, paper information is obtained and stored in the printer.
[0455]
In step 3504, the user issues a print request to the PC. The print request instruction is also the same as described in FIG.
[0456]
In step 3505, a paper information acquisition request is issued to the printer that performs printing in order to confirm what paper is loaded on the printer itself.
[0457]
In step 3506, the paper information stored in step 3503 is transmitted to the PC.
[0458]
In step 3507, various conditions of the electrophotographic process are changed based on the information specifying the paper type obtained in step 3502. The contents that are specifically set are the same as described in FIG.
[0459]
Steps 3508 to 3513 are the same as steps 3415 to 3420 in FIG. During this time, printing is started, data matching the paper is generated, and printing is performed.
[0460]
In this way, even when printing is started directly without displaying a detailed setting screen for printing, the same effect as described in FIG. 34 can be obtained.
[0461]
In the present embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the printing time after that is shortened by holding the paper information before starting the printer driver. Further, it is possible to take time for sensing as compared with the case of sensing during conveyance. Furthermore, since the time until the sensing result is reflected is sufficiently longer than when sensing in the middle of conveyance, an unreasonable load is not applied in the middle of the processing, and a cheaper CPU or hardware can be configured.
[0462]
(Eighth embodiment)
An example of an eighth embodiment for realizing the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
[0463]
FIG. 36 is a diagram showing a memory map of the recording medium in the eighth embodiment.
[0464]
An object of the present invention is to supply a storage medium recording software program codes for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus stores the storage medium. It is also achieved by reading and executing the stored program code.
[0465]
In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.
[0466]
As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, an FD (floppy disk), a hard disk, a CD-ROM, a CD-R, a CD-RW, a DVD-RAM, an optical disk such as a DVD + RW, a magneto-optical disk such as an MO, Non-volatile memory cards such as magnetic tape and flash memory, ROM, and the like are applicable, and these can be used.
Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS (operating system) operating on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. Needless to say, a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by performing part or all of the actual processing and the processing is also included.
[0467]
Furthermore, after the program code read from the storage medium is written to a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function is based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that the CPU of the expansion board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.
[0468]
When the present invention is applied to the storage medium, the storage medium stores program codes corresponding to the flowcharts described above. Briefly describing this, each module shown in the memory map example of FIG. 36 is stored in a storage medium. That is, at least the program codes of the print setting module 3601, the inconsistency determination module 3602, the print data generation module 3603, the communication module 3604, and the user interface module 3605 may be stored in the storage medium.
[0469]
As described above, even if the configuration for realizing the function is a storage medium storing a program code that can be read by a computer and software that is the program code itself, it is not possible to change the paper type among the print settings such as the paper type and size. By collecting and using the information necessary for setting in a tray or cassette, that is, at the stage before feeding, it does not bother the user and wastes ink and media. Therefore, it is possible to realize a printing system with excellent operability and convenience that can automatically perform print settings suitable for paper.
[0470]
Particularly when printing data is generated and a printer is controlled on the side of a high-speed and high-performance data processing apparatus such as a PC, a printing system that is faster, cheaper, and flexible can be constructed.
[0471]
In addition, by presenting paper information to the user before starting printing, or judging the mismatch between the print settings based on the paper information obtained as a result of the sense and the print quality set by the user, Similarly, it is possible to provide a printing system that captures intent and minimizes improper printing.
[0472]
(Other embodiments)
Another embodiment for realizing the present invention will be described below.
[0473]
As a feature of the present invention, a data processing apparatus which is one of the components of a printing system will be described. In the first to fourth and seventh embodiments, a PC is used, and the fifth and sixth embodiments are used. In this case, digital cameras have been assumed. However, nothing has functions unique to these PCs and digital cameras.
[0474]
As described in the first to fourth embodiments, any type of data processing apparatus can be used as long as it has a function capable of automatically setting printing and determining inconsistency with print quality. In addition, as described in the fifth and sixth embodiments, assuming that the generation of print data including image processing is performed on the printer side, fewer functions are required on the data processing apparatus side. The effects can also be realized with existing electrical appliances, Internet connection devices, and communication tools such as mobile phones that are widely used. The individual devices and apparatuses are not limited as long as the total functions of the printing system are satisfied.
[0475]
From the above, it can be seen that there are many data processing apparatuses that can implement the present invention other than PCs and digital cameras. For example, there are various types such as a set-top box, a digital video camera, a digital TV, a BS / CS tuner, a game machine, a mobile phone, and a PDA.
[0476]
It is also denied that if you try to print on a digital device that is not usually considered to be connected to the printer, the print settings will be very complicated and undesired printing may occur. Can not. Even in such a case, it is possible to obtain a great effect by surely grasping information on the recording medium to be printed before printing and automating complicated print settings so as to reduce the load on the user as much as possible. In addition, by providing only the part that is left to the user's will, such as the print quality, a printing system that can realize more favorable image formation from the correspondence with the paper information while following the intention. It becomes possible to do.
[0477]
In particular, it is very important to prepare a mechanism for printing the content of a device such as a mobile phone that is expected to handle a large amount of content in the future. The present embodiment greatly contributes to the construction of a printing system that meets such user expectations.
[0478]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the embodiment of the present invention, the following effects can be achieved.
[0479]
1. By mounting a media sensor, grasping information about the paper in advance and presenting it to the user, it is possible to perform image formation optimal for the paper. As a result, expensive ink and media are not wasted. In addition, it can be prevented that printing takes more time than necessary.
[0480]
2. There is no need for a complicated process in which the user selects paper set in the printer from many types of paper. There is no need for the user to have knowledge of the paper and there is no need to worry about setting it incorrectly.
[0481]
3. A high-speed and high-performance data processing device such as a PC is used as a component of the printing system, and various image processing such as color conversion and binarization according to the paper is performed on the PC side. This eliminates the need for a dedicated arithmetic processing unit and hardware such as a dedicated DSP or ASIC, and allows a system to be constructed at a lower cost.
[0482]
4). The media sensor itself is mounted on the printer. However, as shown in the second and fourth embodiments, when the paper is specified by having a part for specifying the paper on the data processing apparatus side instead of the printer, The PC side can have various values such as a reference table as a necessary determination standard and parameters used for numerical calculation. When changing the parameters inside the printer, there was a risk of rewriting the ROM. However, it is only necessary to change the software on the PC, so that new media can be handled safely and flexibly.
[0483]
5. Before starting printing and processing, the information such as the type and size of the paper loaded in the printer can be obtained, so it is automatically checked whether the print quality suitable for the paper is set. If there is a possibility that an undesired image may be formed, it is possible to perform printing more suitable for paper by alerting the user and requesting an instruction.
[0484]
6). Since information such as the type and size of the paper loaded in the printer can be obtained before printing starts, the time required for the sensing operation compared to the case of sensing the media after printing is started plus the subsequent paper. The printing time is shortened by the time for image processing. When printing a plurality of pages, the time difference is particularly remarkable. Further, in a system in which only the first page is sensed, even if another sheet is mixed in from the middle, it cannot be dealt with, but the present invention makes it possible.
[0485]
7). Although the type of sensor is not specified, information on paper can be obtained before paper feeding. As a result, various effects described in each embodiment can be obtained.
[0486]
8). With a configuration that accurately grasps the transport amount that varies depending on the type of paper before the start of transport, a sensor for determining the leading position of the paper becomes unnecessary. Also, controlling an appropriate transport amount leads to an improvement in image quality.
[0487]
9. When an electrophotographic printer is used as a system component, the time required for sensing operation and specification can be reduced by grasping information on the paper loaded in the cassette in advance, compared to sensing during conveyance. It can be taken long enough. As a result, it can be realized by an arithmetic processing device having a processing capability that is not so high as compared with the case of sensing during conveyance. It also makes it easier to design the system inside the printer.
[0488]
In this way, users can obtain and use information necessary for paper settings, such as paper type and size, in the stage before paper feeding that is set in a tray or cassette. A printing system, method, and method that are easy to use and convenient to automatically perform appropriate print settings according to the paper without wasting ink or media wastefully. A computer callable storage medium and software are provided. By generating print data and controlling the printer on a high-speed and high-performance data processing apparatus such as a PC, a printing system can be constructed at a lower cost and at a higher speed.
[0489]
In addition, it is preferable that the intent between the print setting based on the paper information obtained as a result of the sense and the print quality arbitrarily set by the user is determined, thereby realizing the user's intention and reducing erroneous printing. A printing system capable of image formation is provided.
[0490]
In addition, the printing time can be shortened because the time required for the sensing operation is not included in the printing time, and a flexible response to new media can be achieved.
[0491]
In particular, in the first invention, since the print quality is inferred and defined based on the paper information, it is possible to realize a printing system that enables fully automatic setting of printing that does not bother the user. .
[0492]
In the second invention, since the user can select the print quality, the print setting is made on the basis of the paper information obtained by the sensor and the print quality selected by the user. It is possible to realize a printing system that can perform printing that reflects the will.
[0493]
Furthermore, in the third invention, when performing print settings based on the paper information obtained by the sensor and the print quality selected by the user, it is determined whether or not there is a mismatch in the print settings. Accordingly, it is possible to realize a printing system that can prevent a mistake that is not made and can perform preferable image formation.
[0494]
As described above, according to the present invention, information necessary for paper setting out of print settings such as paper type and size is obtained in a state in which it is set in a tray or a cassette, that is, before feeding. By utilizing this, it is possible to provide a data processing apparatus, printing apparatus, printing system, data processing method, printing method, and program capable of automatically performing print settings suitable for paper.
[0495]
In addition, by presenting paper information to the user, it is possible to automatically perform print settings suitable for paper without wasting the user's hand and consuming ink and media wastefully. Data processing apparatus, printing apparatus, printing system, data processing method, printing method, and program can be provided.
[0496]
In particular, when print data is generated or a printer is controlled on a high-speed and high-performance data processing apparatus such as a PC, a printing system can be constructed at a higher speed and at a lower cost.
[0497]
In addition, by determining the inconsistency between the print settings based on the paper information obtained as a result of the sense and the print quality arbitrarily set by the user, the user's intention can be grasped and improper printing can be reduced as much as possible. In other words, it is possible to provide a printing system that can perform desirable image formation at any time.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a flow of processing and control when there is a print instruction in the first embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a flow of processing and control when there is no print instruction according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a printing system according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram of a printing system according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a printing system according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a table indicating a paper type (media type) in the first embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a table indicating a paper size (media size) in the first embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of media type determination and print setting reflecting the determination in the first embodiment.
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a first example of a media type reference table according to the first embodiment; (6 types)
FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a second example of a media type reference table according to the first embodiment; (4 types)
FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of determination of media size and presence / absence of paper and setting of media size in the first embodiment.
FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a print dialog displayed when a print command is executed from an application according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a setting dialog displayed when performing a print mode and various paper settings in the first embodiment.
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a warning dialog displayed when the media type set based on the sense result in the first embodiment is different from the setting by the user.
FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a warning dialog displayed when a mismatch occurs between a media type and a print quality setting by a user according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a dialog displayed when the absence of paper is detected in the first embodiment.
FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of an input dialog displayed when a user selects a non-standard size paper according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a warning dialog displayed when the media size in the first embodiment is different from the setting by the user.
FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a warning dialog displayed when a mismatch occurs between the media size and the size specified by the application in the first embodiment.
FIG. 20 is a functional block diagram of a printing system according to a second embodiment.
FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a flow of processing and control when there is a print instruction in the second embodiment.
FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a flow of processing and control when there is no print instruction in the second embodiment.
FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating a flow of processing and control when there is a print instruction in the third embodiment.
FIG. 24 is a diagram showing a flow of processing and control when there is no print instruction in the third embodiment.
FIG. 25 is a diagram showing a flow of processing and control when there is a print instruction in the fourth embodiment.
FIG. 26 is a diagram showing a flow of processing and control when there is no print instruction in the fourth embodiment.
FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a printing system according to a fifth embodiment.
FIG. 28 is a functional block diagram of a printing system according to a fifth embodiment.
FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a flow of processing and control when there is a print instruction in the fifth embodiment.
FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating a flow of processing and control when there is no print instruction in the fifth embodiment.
FIG. 31 is a functional block diagram of a printing system according to a sixth embodiment.
FIG. 32 is a diagram showing a flow of processing and control when there is a print instruction in the sixth embodiment.
FIG. 33 is a diagram illustrating a flow of processing and control when there is no print instruction in the sixth embodiment.
FIG. 34 is a diagram showing a flow of processing and control when there is a print instruction in the seventh embodiment.
FIG. 35 is a diagram illustrating a flow of processing and control when there is no print instruction in the seventh embodiment.
FIG. 36 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a recording medium according to an eighth embodiment.
FIG. 37 is a diagram showing a flow of processing of a general inkjet printer in a conventional embodiment.
FIG. 38 is a diagram showing a process flow of an ink jet printer equipped with a media sensor according to a conventional embodiment.
FIG. 39 is a diagram showing a process flow of a laser beam printer equipped with a media sensor according to a conventional embodiment.
FIG. 40 is a flowchart illustrating an outline of processing of a printer equipped with a media sensor according to a conventional embodiment.
[Explanation of symbols]
S101 Sense of media
S102 Specify paper type and size
S103 Storage of paper information
S104 Print request instruction
S105 Start the printer driver
S106 Paper information acquisition request
S107 Send paper information
S108 Print settings
S109 Print setting information display (notification)
S110 Judgment whether inconsistency has occurred
S111 Warning display (notification) when inconsistency occurs
S112 Print setting change instruction
S113 Redetermination of inconsistency occurrence
S114 Display of updated print setting information (notification)
S115 Print start request instruction
S116 Generation of print data
S117 Print start request
S118 Paper feed start
S119 paper feed
S120 Send print data
S121 printing

Claims (19)

First determination means for determining whether there is a difference between a media type based on a sense result on the printer side and a media type designated by a user;
When it is determined by the first determination means that there is a difference between the media type based on the sense result on the printer side and the media type specified by the user, the media type based on the sense result on the printer side and the user specify A first display means for displaying a first screen for indicating whether there is a difference between the media type and the media type according to the sense result;
If the media type is selected to match the sense result on the first screen, the media type of the sense result on the printer side is set to paper print setting, and the media type is selected not to match the sense result on the first screen. A paper setting means for setting the media type specified by the user to paper printing,
Second discriminating means for discriminating whether or not there is a mismatch between the media type set by the paper setting means and the print quality;
If it is determined by the second determination means that there is an inconsistency between the media type and the print quality, this indicates that there is an inconsistency between the media type and the print quality, and the second selection means selects whether to match the print quality with the media type. A second display means for displaying two screens;
When it is selected that the print quality matches the media type on the second screen, the print quality based on the media type is set as the print setting, and when it is selected that the print quality does not match the media type on the second screen, it is specified by the user. Print quality setting means for setting the print quality by the print setting,
Generating means for generating print data based on the print settings;
An output means for outputting the print data generated by the generating means to a printer. The first determining means determines whether there is a difference between the paper setting of the media type based on the sense result on the printer side and the paper setting designated by the user when the media type automatic setting mode is not selected. The print control apparatus according to claim 1.   The second determination means determines whether or not there is a mismatch between the print setting of the paper set by the paper setting means and the print quality when the print quality automatic setting mode is not selected. The printing control apparatus according to 1.   The second determining means is based on a table indicating whether or not each print quality can be set for the media type, and the print setting and print quality of the paper set by the paper setting means are not acceptable. The print control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein it is determined whether there is a match. The second determination unit determines whether there is a mismatch between the print setting of the paper set by the paper setting unit and the print quality when the print quality automatic setting mode is not selected;
2. The print control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the print quality setting unit sets the print quality based on the media type as the print setting when the print quality automatic setting mode is selected. When the media type automatic setting mode is selected and the print quality automatic setting mode is not selected, the second determination unit has a mismatch between the print setting of the paper set by the paper setting unit and the print quality. Determine whether
2. The print quality setting unit according to claim 1, wherein when the media type automatic setting mode is selected and the print quality automatic setting mode is selected, the print quality based on the media type is set as the print setting. Print control device. A first determination step of determining whether there is a difference between a media type based on a sense result on the printer side and a media type designated by a user;
If it is determined in the first determination step that there is a difference between the media type based on the sense result on the printer side and the media type specified by the user, the media type based on the sense result on the printer side and the user specify A first display step for displaying a first screen indicating that there is a difference between the selected media type and selecting whether to match the media type to the sense result;
If the media type is selected to match the sense result on the first screen, the media type of the sense result on the printer side is set to paper print setting, and the media type is selected not to match the sense result on the first screen. A paper setting step in which the media type specified by the user is set to print the paper;
A second determination step of determining whether there is a mismatch between the media type set in the paper setting step and the print quality;
If it is determined in the second determination step that there is an inconsistency between the media type and the print quality, this indicates that there is an inconsistency between the media type and the print quality, and a step for selecting whether to match the print quality with the media type. A second display step for displaying two screens;
When it is selected that the print quality matches the media type on the second screen, the print quality based on the media type is set as the print setting, and when it is selected that the print quality does not match the media type on the second screen, it is specified by the user. A print quality setting step in which the print quality by the print setting is set,
Generating the print data based on the print settings;
An output step of outputting the print data generated by the generation step to a printer. In the first determining step, when the media type automatic setting mode is not selected, it is determined whether there is a difference between the media type paper setting based on the sense result on the printer side and the paper setting designated by the user. The printing control method according to claim 7.   The second determination step determines whether or not there is a mismatch between the print setting of the paper set by the paper setting step and the print quality when the print quality automatic setting mode is not selected. 8. The printing control method according to 7.   In the second determination step, the print setting and print quality of the paper set by the paper setting step are not determined based on a table indicating whether the print quality can be set for each media type. The print control method according to claim 7, wherein it is determined whether there is a match. The second determining step determines whether there is a mismatch between the print setting of the paper set by the paper setting step and the print quality when the print quality automatic setting mode is not selected,
8. The print control method according to claim 7, wherein the print quality setting step sets the print quality based on the media type as the print setting when the print quality automatic setting mode is selected. In the second determination step, when the media type automatic setting mode is selected and the print quality automatic setting mode is not selected, there is a discrepancy between the print setting of the paper set by the paper setting step and the print quality. Determine whether
8. The print quality setting step according to claim 7, wherein the media type automatic setting mode is selected, and when the print quality automatic setting mode is selected, the print quality based on the media type is set as the print setting. Print control method. A first determination step of determining whether there is a difference between a media type based on a sense result on the printer side and a media type designated by a user;
If it is determined in the first determination step that there is a difference between the media type based on the sense result on the printer side and the media type specified by the user, the media type based on the sense result on the printer side and the user specify A first display step for displaying a first screen indicating that there is a difference between the selected media type and selecting whether to match the media type to the sense result;
If the media type is selected to match the sense result on the first screen, the media type of the sense result on the printer side is set to paper print setting, and the media type is selected not to match the sense result on the first screen. A paper setting step in which the media type specified by the user is set to print the paper;
A second determination step of determining whether there is a mismatch between the media type set in the paper setting step and the print quality;
If it is determined in the second determination step that there is an inconsistency between the media type and the print quality, this indicates that there is an inconsistency between the media type and the print quality, and a step for selecting whether to match the print quality with the media type. A second display step for displaying two screens;
When it is selected that the print quality matches the media type on the second screen, the print quality based on the media type is set as the print setting, and when it is selected that the print quality does not match the media type on the second screen, it is specified by the user. A print quality setting step in which the print quality by the print setting is set,
Generating the print data based on the print settings;
A program for causing a computer to execute an output step of outputting print data generated by the generation step to a printer. In the first determining step, when the media type automatic setting mode is not selected, it is determined whether there is a difference between the media type paper setting based on the sense result on the printer side and the paper setting designated by the user. The program according to claim 13.   The second determination step determines whether or not there is a mismatch between the print setting of the paper set by the paper setting step and the print quality when the print quality automatic setting mode is not selected. 13. The program according to 13.   In the second determination step, the print setting and print quality of the paper set by the paper setting step are not determined based on a table indicating whether the print quality can be set for each media type. 14. The program according to claim 13, wherein it is determined whether there is a match. The second determining step determines whether there is a mismatch between the print setting of the paper set by the paper setting step and the print quality when the print quality automatic setting mode is not selected,
14. The program according to claim 13, wherein the print quality setting step sets the print quality based on the media type as the print setting when the print quality automatic setting mode is selected. In the second determination step, when the media type automatic setting mode is selected and the print quality automatic setting mode is not selected, there is a discrepancy between the print setting of the paper set by the paper setting step and the print quality. Determine whether
14. The print quality setting step according to claim 13, wherein when the media type automatic setting mode is selected and the print quality automatic setting mode is selected, the print quality based on the media type is set as the print setting. Program.   A computer-readable storage medium storing the program according to claim 13.

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