JP4318061B2 - Printer device - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a printer apparatus that generates and stores image data and prints the image data on a storage medium.
[0002]
[Prior art]
A conventional printer apparatus receives print data described in a printer control language from a host computer, performs language analysis on the print data, expands it into image data via an intermediate code, and outputs the image data to a print engine. The controller includes an output controller, and a print engine that receives image data from the controller and prints (transfers and fixes) an image on recording paper or the like based on the image data.
[0003]
The controller temporarily stores the print data sent from the host computer or the like in a memory such as a RAM, analyzes the language of the stored print data, develops it into image data, and sends a print start command to the print engine.
[0004]
When the print engine receives a print start command from the controller, the print engine makes preparations for enabling printing such as raising the temperature of the fixing device, and starts printing paper when printing is possible. When the leading edge of the fed recording paper is detected by a sensor or the like, a synchronization signal in the sub-scanning direction is sent to the controller at a predetermined timing.
[0005]
The controller sends image data for one page to the print engine in synchronization with the synchronization signal in the sub-scanning direction. Thereafter, the controller passes the maximum time (hereinafter referred to as the recovery time) from when the print engine sends the synchronization signal in the sub-scanning direction until the printing ends normally and the recording paper is discharged out of the apparatus. Until then, the image data stored in the memory is held. As a result, if the printing engine does not end normally due to a malfunction in the print engine, such as a recording paper jam, the image data stored in the memory can be read and the image printed again. . That is, even when a problem occurs in the print engine, the same image data can be printed without receiving the print data again from the host computer or the like.
[0006]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in the above conventional example, it is necessary to always set the recovery time to be constant regardless of the recording paper size, or to set the recovery time according to the maximum recording paper size when the recording paper size is not known. Therefore, even when a short size recording paper is used, if this recovery time is set to the maximum recording paper size, the recovery time will elapse even after the printed recording paper is discharged outside the machine. Until then, the image data stored in the memory cannot be erased.
[0007]
On the other hand, as a method for efficiently erasing image data regardless of the recovery time, a means for detecting that the recording paper has been discharged and outputting it as a discharge signal is provided in the print engine, and the controller outputs a discharge signal output from the print engine. A method of receiving a signal and releasing a storage area for image data based on the discharge signal can be considered. However, in this method, for example, when the size of the recording paper supplied to the print engine is smaller than the size of the recording paper requested by the image data, the discharge of the recording paper ends during the transfer of the image data, and the discharge signal Will be sent. Therefore, even if an attempt is made to release the storage area after the transfer is completed, a discharge signal for the image data cannot be received, so that the storage area cannot be released based on the discharge signal.
[0008]
It is also conceivable to calculate the number of recording sheets held in the printing engine in the printing engine, and update the number of recording sheets each time recording paper is supplied or discharged and send it to the controller. However, since the CPU provided in the print engine is a CPU having a lower function than that provided in the controller, it is difficult to place a processing burden such as calculation and update of the number of sheets on the low-function CPU. Is not desirable.
[0009]
The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a printer apparatus capable of improving the memory use efficiency in the controller without imposing a processing burden on the print engine.
[0010]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
A printer apparatus according to the present invention includes a print task execution unit that executes a print task for transferring image data to a printing unit, a printing unit that performs printing on a storage medium based on the image data, and discharges the printed storage medium. The print means includes discharge detection means for detecting that the storage medium has been discharged and outputting the information as discharge information to the print task execution means, and the print task execution means includes an image An i-count (i ≠ 0) is added corresponding to the end of data transfer, and a counter is provided to subtract i-count when the discharge information is received. Based on the counter, image data that has been transferred is stored. It is characterized by releasing the area.
[0011]
Preferably, the print task execution means completes the transfer when the counter takes a non-positive value when i is a positive value (when the counter takes a non-negative value when i is a negative value). The storage area is released for the processed image data.
[0012]
Further, when the print task execution means is configured to be able to execute a plurality of print tasks in parallel, the print task execution means is configured such that when i is a positive value, the counter takes a non-positive value ( If i is a negative value (if the counter takes a non-negative value), the storage area is released for one of the transferred image data.
[0013]
The print task may be configured to perform an i-count addition process for the counter and a storage area release process based on the counter. In addition, with respect to the print task execution means, a counter task for managing a counter can be executed so that the counter task performs an i-count addition process for the counter and a storage area release process based on the counter. Can be configured.
[0014]
The printer device of the present invention performs printing on both sides of a storage medium based on the image data, and discharges the storage medium printed on both sides based on the image data. A printing apparatus that includes a discharge detection unit that detects that the storage medium has been discharged and outputs the information as discharge information to the print task execution unit. The means includes a counter that is incremented by i count (i ≠ 0) corresponding to the end of transfer of image data, and subtracted by 2i count when the discharge information is received, and is configured to be able to execute in parallel for a plurality of printing tasks. When i is a positive value, the transfer is completed when the counter takes a non-positive value (when i is a negative value, the counter takes a non-negative value). Characterized in that to release the two for storage areas in the image data.
[0015]
A printer apparatus according to the present invention includes a print task execution unit that executes a print task for transferring image data to a printing unit, a printing unit that performs printing on a storage medium based on the image data, and discharges the printed storage medium. And a first counter for adding a j count (j ≠ 0) every time a discharge is detected. The print task execution means includes a second counter updated based on the value of the first counter, and a third counter to which i count (i ≠ 0) is added corresponding to the start of printing And a fourth counter to which i count is added in response to the start of printing, a first counter task for controlling the second counter and the third counter, a third counter and a fourth counter A second counter task that controls the counter, and the first counter task periodically acquires a counter value from the first counter, and the acquired counter value and the second counter When the values are different, the obtained counter value is substituted for the second counter and the i-count is subtracted to the third counter, and the second counter task determines the value of the third counter and the value of the fourth counter. If the values are different, the i-count is subtracted from the fourth counter, and the storage area is released for the transferred image data based on the timing of the subtraction.
[0016]
Preferably, the print task execution unit is configured to be able to execute a plurality of print tasks in parallel, and the print task execution unit is configured to transfer one of the image data transferred based on the subtraction timing. Free up storage space.
[0017]
The printer device of the present invention performs printing on both sides of a storage medium based on the image data, and discharges the storage medium printed on both sides based on the image data. A printing device comprising: a printing device comprising: a printing device for detecting that printing of one surface of the storage medium has been completed; and j count ( j ≠ 0), and the print task execution means includes a second counter that is updated based on the value of the first counter, and an i count (i ≠ 0), a fourth counter to which i count is added in response to the start of printing, a region for storing a printing surface state variable having at least two values, and a second counter Mosquito The first counter task for controlling the counter and the third counter and the second counter task for controlling the third counter and the fourth counter can be executed, and the first counter task is a first counter task. The counter value is periodically acquired from the second counter, and when the acquired counter value is different from the value of the second counter, substitution of the acquired counter value for the second counter, 2i count subtraction for the third counter, and The printing surface state variable is updated according to the front and back sides of the printed surface, and the second counter task is configured such that the printing surface state variable takes a predetermined value and the third counter value and the fourth counter value are changed. When the counter values are different, 2i count is subtracted from the fourth counter, and two of the image data that have been transferred are recorded based on the subtraction timing. Characterized in that the area is released.
[0018]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
(First embodiment)
(Configuration of printer device)
A first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. The printer apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes a print task execution unit 2 and a printing unit 3. The print task execution unit 2 includes a control table 21 and a counter 22, and the print unit 3 includes a print execution unit 31 and a discharge detection unit 32. In addition to the print task execution means 2 and the print means 3, the printer apparatus 1 has a configuration provided in a normal printer apparatus (for example, print data is received from a host computer, developed into image data, and stored in a predetermined storage area. Image data generating means for storing).
[0019]
The print task execution unit 2 generates and executes a print task for each print data. Here, the print task is a task for performing processing for transmitting image data stored in a predetermined storage area to the printing unit 3.
[0020]
The print task execution means 2 may be physically realized by either a system dedicated to printer control and data processing, or a general-purpose information processing apparatus. For example, in an information processing apparatus having a general configuration including a calculation unit and a storage unit, a print task can be generated on a computer by activating software that defines the operation of the print task. The print task execution means 2 is configured to execute a plurality of print tasks in parallel.
[0021]
The control table 21 stores information for efficiently releasing a storage area in which image data is stored for a plurality of print tasks. FIG. 2 shows an example of the control table 21. The control table 21 includes records corresponding to the maximum number of print tasks that can be executed in parallel, and each record is provided with an area for storing a print task ID and a semaphore flag variable. The print task ID is a number for specifying the print task. The semaphore flag is a variable used to perform exclusive control for a plurality of print tasks. The semaphore flag can be used for exclusive control by taking 1 or 0, for example, and controlling so that only one semaphore flag is always 1 among the semaphore flags of each record.
[0022]
The counter 22 is given 0 as an initial value. When the discharge signal 300 is received from the printing unit 3, the counter value is decremented by one. When the transfer of image data is completed, the counter value is incremented by one. In addition, regarding the operation of the counter, a configuration in which the sign is reversed is also conceivable. In this case, the direction of the inequality sign is reversed in condition determination based on the counter described later. Further, the value of addition / subtraction with respect to the counter may be other than ± 1.
[0023]
The print execution unit 31 prints an image based on the received image data. When a plurality of image data are received, the images are printed in the order received. The print execution unit 31 includes units (not shown) included in a conventional laser printer, such as a paper feed tray, a paper feed mechanism, a photoreceptor, an electrostatic latent image forming unit, a developing / fixing unit, and a paper discharge port. Yes.
[0024]
The discharge detection means 32 is provided in the vicinity of the paper discharge port of the print execution means 31 and detects when the recording paper is discharged from the print execution means 31 and is sent to the counter 22 in the print task execution means 2 as a discharge signal. Send.
(Processing flow in the print task execution means)
(First example of the first embodiment)
A processing flow of the first example of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing by the print task. Assume that the counter value is 0, the semaphore flag is set to 1 only for the top record of the control table, and 0 is set to the semaphore flags of other records. The counter 22 is decremented by −1 (+1 count subtraction) based on the discharge signal received from the printing unit 3.
[0025]
In step S101, the print task outputs a print start command to the printing means 2, and writes its own task ID in an empty record (record in which no task ID is written) in the control table.
[0026]
Here, it is assumed that records corresponding to the maximum number of tasks that can be executed in parallel are prepared in the control table, and task IDs are written in the order from top to bottom in the figure. When the record is written to the bottom, it is assumed that the record is written back to the top record again.
[0027]
In step S <b> 102, the print task receives the print preparation completion signal from the printing unit 3, and then transfers the image data to the printing unit 3. After the transfer of the image data is completed, the process proceeds to step S103.
[0028]
In step S103, the print task checks the semaphore flag included in the record in which the task ID is written. If the value of the semaphore flag is 0, for example, 100 msec Delay is executed, and the process returns to step S103. If the value of the semaphore flag is 1, the process proceeds to step S104.
[0029]
In step S104, the printing task counts the counter 22 by +1.
[0030]
In step S105, when the value of the counter 22 is a positive value, for example, 100 msec Delay is executed, and the process returns to step S105. If not (ie, a non-positive value), the process proceeds to step S106. Here, since the counter value is decremented by 1 by receiving the discharge information, if the value of the counter 22 is a non-positive value, printing is completed for the image data of the print task, and the recording paper is discharged. Means that Therefore, the printing task can determine whether printing has been completed and the recording paper has been discharged based on the counter 22 with respect to its own image data.
[0031]
In step S106, the print task changes the semaphore flag included in the record in which the task ID is written to 0, and changes the semaphore flag included in the next record (the lower record in FIG. 2) to 1. Then, the task ID is deleted from the control table, the storage area where the image data is expanded is released, and the process ends.
[0032]
By configuring the print task executed by the print task execution unit 2 in this way, the print unit 3 can efficiently release the storage area only by transmitting the discharge information without performing any calculation or the like. it can. Further, since the discharge information is statically stored in the counter 22, it can be determined that the recording paper has been discharged based on the counter value even if the discharge information is received before the transfer of the image data is completed. Compared with the case where the signal is simply received and used, it is possible to eliminate the loss of the signal. Further, by performing exclusive control for a plurality of print tasks using the semaphore flag of the control table 21, access to the counter 22 and release of the storage area can be sequentially executed according to the order of the records. The storage area is not released for image data for which no recording paper has been discharged.
(Second example of the first embodiment)
A processing flow of the second example of the present embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, the counter task is generated in the print task execution means 2 independently of the print task, and the transfer end flag variable is set in each record of the control table in place of the area for storing the semaphore flag variable. This is different from the first embodiment in that a storage area is provided. The counter task is a task for referring to / changing the counter 22, and includes a pointer that can point to one record in the control table.
[0033]
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing of the print task in the second embodiment, and FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing of the counter task in the second embodiment.
[0034]
As an initial state, it is assumed that the counter value of the counter 22 is 0, the transfer end flag of the control table is 0 for all records, and the top record of the control table is set as the counter task pointer. The counter 22 counts −1 based on the discharge signal received from the printing unit 3.
[0035]
First, the flow of processing of the print task will be described.
[0036]
In step S201, the print task outputs a print start command to the printing unit 3, and writes its own task ID in an empty record (a record in which no task ID is written) in the control table.
[0037]
Here, it is assumed that records corresponding to the maximum number of tasks that can be executed in parallel are prepared in the control table, and task IDs are written in the order from top to bottom in the figure. When the record is written to the bottom, it is assumed that the record is written back to the top record again.
[0038]
In step S <b> 202, the printing task receives the print preparation completion signal from the printing unit 3, and then transfers the image data to the printing unit 3.
[0039]
In step S203, after the transfer of the image data is completed, the transfer end flag included in the record in which the task ID is written is changed to 1, and the process ends.
[0040]
Next, the processing flow of the counter task will be described.
[0041]
In step S301, the counter task checks the transfer end flag for the record pointed to by the pointer. If the value of the transfer end flag is 0, for example, 100 msec Delay is executed, and the process returns to step S301. If the value of the transfer end flag is 1, the process proceeds to step S302.
[0042]
In step S302, the counter task counts the value of the counter 22 by +1.
[0043]
In step S303, when the value of the counter 22 is positive, for example, 100 msec Delay is executed, and the process returns to step S303. Otherwise (in the case of a non-positive value), the process proceeds to step S304.
[0044]
In step S304, the counter task deletes the task ID for the record pointed to by the pointer, changes the transfer end flag to 0, and releases the storage area where the image data is expanded for the print task having the task ID. Then, the pointer value is changed to the next record (the lower record in FIG. 2), and the process returns to step S301. If the pointer points to the lowest record, the record is changed to the top record.
[0045]
In the above processing, the counter 22 is incremented only once for each print task. This means that the counter 22 is incremented by 1 corresponding to the generation of the print task.
[0046]
By configuring the print task and the counter task executed by the print task execution unit 2 in this way, the print unit 3 can efficiently release the storage area only by transmitting the discharge information without performing any calculation. It can be carried out. Further, since the discharge information is statically stored in the counter 22, it can be used regardless of before and after the transfer of the image data regarding the reception of the discharge information in the print task execution means 2, and simply by receiving the signal and using it. This makes it possible to eliminate signal loss compared to the case of doing so. Furthermore, by performing exclusive control for a plurality of print tasks using the pointer of the counter task, it is possible to sequentially release the storage area according to the order of the records, so that the recording paper has not yet been accidentally ejected. Data is never freed.
[0047]
Furthermore, since each print task can be completed when the transfer of the image data is completed, the number of print tasks executed simultaneously can be reduced and the processing efficiency can be improved.
(Third example of the first embodiment)
A processing flow of the third example of the present embodiment will be described. The present embodiment is the same as the second embodiment in that a counter task is generated, a transfer end flag is provided in the control table 21, and the counter task includes a pointer.
[0048]
However, the control table 21 is further provided with a front / back flag for each record, and the operation flow of the counter 22 and the processing flow of the counter task correspond to the case where double-sided printing is executed in the printing means 3. This is different from the second embodiment. Here, double-sided printing means that image data transferred from two printing tasks is printed on the front and back of one recording sheet. In this embodiment, it is assumed that printing is performed in the order of the back surface and the front surface.
[0049]
The front / back flag is a flag indicating which side of the front / back image data is transferred by the print task. In this embodiment, the front / back flag is 0 for the front side and the back side. Take 1
[0050]
In the third embodiment, the counter 22 is decremented by -2 (+2 count subtraction) based on the discharge signal received from the printing means 3.
[0051]
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing of the counter task in the third embodiment. Note that the flow of processing of the print task in the third embodiment is substantially the same as the flow in the second embodiment shown in FIG. However, each print task writes a value to the front and back flags according to the front and back of the image data to be transferred, for example, when writing the task ID.
[0052]
In step S401, the counter task checks the transfer end flag for the record pointed to by the pointer. If the value of the transfer end flag is 0, for example, 100 msec Delay is executed, and the process returns to step S401. If the value of the transfer end flag is 1, the process proceeds to step S402.
[0053]
In step S402, the counter task counts the value of the counter 22 by +1.
[0054]
In step S403, if the front and back flag value is 1, the process proceeds to step S406, and if 0, the process proceeds to step S404. This step only needs to be configured to proceed to step S404 when printing on both sides is completed. When printing is performed in the order of the front side and the back side, the reverse operation (step S406 in the case of 0) is performed. Go to step S404 if 1).
[0055]
If the counter value of the counter 23 is positive in step S404, for example, 100 msec Delay is executed, and the process returns to step S404. Otherwise, the process proceeds to step S405.
[0056]
In step S405, the counter task stores a storage area in which the image data of the print task having the written task ID is expanded for the record pointed to by the pointer and the record before the record pointed by the pointer (the record at the top in FIG. 2). release. Then, the task ID is erased and the transfer end flag is changed to 0 for the record pointed to by the pointer and the record before the record pointed by the pointer (the record above).
[0057]
In step S406, the counter task changes the pointer value to the next record (the record below), and returns to step S401. If the pointer points to the lowest record, the record is changed to the top record.
[0058]
By configuring the counter task executed by the print task execution means 2 in this way, it is possible to cope with double-sided printing in the printing means 3 in addition to the effects of the second embodiment. That is, the storage area is released only when the front / back flag is 1, so that the storage area of the image data printed on the back side of the recording paper is released at the stage where the back side of the recording paper has been printed. In other words, the storage areas of the two image data printed on the front and back sides are released at the stage where the printing on the surface of the recording paper is finished and the recording paper is discharged.
(Second Embodiment)
(Configuration of printer device)
A second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. The printer apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment of the present invention includes a print task execution unit 2 and a printing unit 3. The print task execution unit 2 includes a control table 21, a second counter 23, a third counter 24, and a fourth counter 25. The print unit 3 includes a print execution unit 31, a surface print detection unit 33, and a first counter 34. I have. In addition to the print task execution means 2 and the print means 3, the printer apparatus 1 has a configuration provided in a normal printer apparatus (for example, print data is received from a host computer, developed into image data, and stored in a predetermined storage area. Image data generating means for storing).
[0059]
The print task execution unit 2 generates and executes a print task for each print data. Further, the first counter task and the second counter task are executed independently of the print task. Here, the print task is a task for performing processing for transmitting image data stored in a predetermined storage area to the printing unit 3. The first counter task is a task for referring to and changing the second counter and the third counter. The second counter task is a task for referring to and changing the third counter and the fourth counter, and includes a pointer that can point to one record in the control table.
[0060]
The print task execution means 2 may be physically realized by either a system dedicated to printer control and data processing, or a general-purpose information processing apparatus. For example, in an information processing apparatus having a general configuration including a calculation unit and a storage unit, a print task can be generated on a computer by activating software that defines the operation of the print task. The print task execution means 2 is configured to execute a plurality of print tasks in parallel.
[0061]
The control table 21 stores information for efficiently releasing a storage area in which image data is stored for a plurality of print tasks. The control table 21 includes records corresponding to the maximum number of print tasks that can be executed in parallel, and each record has an area for storing a print task ID and a transfer end flag variable. The print task ID is a number for specifying the print task. The transfer end flag variable is, for example, a variable that takes 0 when the transfer is not completed for the corresponding print task, and takes 1 when the transfer is completed.
[0062]
The second counter 23 is given 0 as an initial value, and is updated at a predetermined cycle based on the value of the first counter in the printing unit 3. The third counter 24 is given 0 as an initial value, and +1 count is added corresponding to the generation of the print task, and −1 is counted as the second counter is updated. The fourth counter 25 is given 0 as an initial value, and +1 count is added corresponding to the generation of the print task, and -1 is counted when a predetermined condition is satisfied. In addition, regarding the operation | movement of each counter, the structure which reverses positive / negative is also considered. Further, the value of addition / subtraction with respect to the counter may be other than ± 1.
[0063]
The print execution unit 31 prints an image based on the received image data. When a plurality of image data are received, the images are printed in the order received. The print execution unit 31 includes units (not shown) included in a conventional laser printer, such as a paper feed tray, a paper feed mechanism, a photoreceptor, an electrostatic latent image forming unit, a developing / fixing unit, and a paper discharge port. Yes.
[0064]
The surface printing detection means 33 is provided in the vicinity of the paper discharge mechanism of the printing execution means 31, and detects when the printing execution means 31 has finished printing on a single surface, and with respect to the first counter 34 (initial value 0). Add +1 count. The first counter 34 is composed of, for example, 4 bits, and is configured to return to 0 when the counter value reaches 15.
(Processing flow in the print task execution means)
(First example of the second embodiment)
A processing flow of the first example of the present embodiment will be described. FIG. 8 shows the flow of processing of the print task in this embodiment, FIG. 9 shows the flow of processing of the first counter task in this embodiment, and FIG. 10 shows the flow of processing of the second counter task in this embodiment. It is a flowchart.
[0065]
As an initial state, the counter value of the second counter 23 to the fourth counter 25 is 0, the transfer end flag of the control table 21 is 0 for all records, and the top record of the control table 21 is set to the pointer of the second counter task. Suppose that
[0066]
First, the flow of processing of the print task will be described.
[0067]
In step S501, the print task outputs a print start command to the printing unit 3, and writes its own task ID in an empty record (record in which no task ID is written) in the control table 21.
[0068]
Here, it is assumed that records corresponding to the maximum number of tasks that can be executed in parallel are prepared in the control table 21, and task IDs are written in the order from top to bottom in the figure. When the record is written to the bottom, it is assumed that the record is written back to the top record again.
[0069]
In step S502, the print task adds +1 to the third counter and the fourth counter. This means that the third counter and the fourth counter are incremented by +1 corresponding to the generation of the print task.
[0070]
In step S <b> 503, the print task receives the print preparation completion signal from the printing unit 3, and then transfers the image data to the printing unit 3.
[0071]
In step S504, after the transfer of the image data is completed, the transfer end flag included in the record in which the task ID is written is changed to 1, and the process ends.
[0072]
The execution order of step S501, step S502, and step S503 is not limited to this order, and can be executed in any order.
[0073]
Next, the processing flow of the first counter task will be described.
[0074]
In step S <b> 601, the first counter task outputs a first counter value request command to the printing unit 3, and acquires the first counter value from the printing unit 3.
[0075]
In step S602, the first counter task compares the first counter value with the second counter value. If they do not match, the process proceeds to step S603. If they match, the process proceeds to step S604.
[0076]
In step S <b> 603, the first counter task assigns the value of the first counter to the second counter and counts −1 (subtracts +1) from the third counter.
[0077]
In step S604, the first counter task executes, for example, 100 msecDelay so that the processing from steps S601 to S603 is executed at a constant cycle. Thereafter, the process returns to step S601.
[0078]
Next, the processing flow of the second counter task will be described.
[0079]
In step S701, the second counter task checks the transfer end flag for the record pointed to by the pointer. When the value of the transfer end flag is 0, for example, 100 msec Delay is executed, and the process returns to step S701. If the value of the transfer end flag is 1, the process proceeds to step S702.
[0080]
In step S702, the second counter task compares the third counter value with the fourth counter value. If they do not match, the process proceeds to step S703. If the two match, for example, 100 msec Delay is executed, and the process returns to step S702.
[0081]
In step S703, the second counter task counts -1 (subtracts +1) from the fourth counter.
[0082]
In step S704, the second counter task deletes the task ID for the record pointed to by the pointer, changes the transfer end flag to 0, and releases the storage area in which the image data is expanded for the print task having the task ID. . Then, the pointer value is changed to the next record (the lower record in FIG. 2), and the process returns to step S701. If the pointer points to the lowest record, the record is changed to the top record.
[0083]
By configuring the printing task, the first counter task, and the second counter task executed by the printing task execution unit 2 in this way, the printing unit 3 has a first counter that is simply added upon completion of single-sided printing. The storage area can be efficiently released simply by providing. Further, since the number-of-surfaces information in the printing means 3 is statically stored in the third counter, it is possible to eliminate the signal loss compared to the case where the signal is simply received and used. Furthermore, by performing exclusive control for a plurality of printing tasks using the pointer of the second counter task, it is possible to sequentially release the storage area according to the order of the records. There is no need to free up missing image data.
[0084]
Furthermore, since each print task can be completed when the transfer of the image data is completed, the number of print tasks executed simultaneously can be reduced and the processing efficiency can be improved.
(Second Example of Second Embodiment)
A processing flow of the second example of the present embodiment will be described. This embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the operation of each counter and the flow of processing of each counter task correspond to the case where double-sided printing is executed in the printing unit 3. The print task execution means 2 is different from the first embodiment in that the print task execution means 2 includes an area that is changed by the first counter task and stores a print surface state variable referred to by the second counter task. The printing surface state variable is a variable used for specifying whether the surface on which printing has recently been completed in the printing unit 3 is the front surface or the back surface.
[0085]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing of the first counter task in this embodiment, and FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing of the second counter task in this embodiment. Note that the flow of processing of the print task in this embodiment is the same as the flow in the first embodiment shown in FIG.
[0086]
As an initial state, the counter value of the second counter to the fourth counter is 0, the printing surface state variable is 1, the transfer end flag of the control table is 0 for all records, and the pointer of the second counter task is set to the top of the control table. Suppose a record is set.
[0087]
First, the flow of processing of the first counter task will be described.
[0088]
In step S <b> 801, the first counter task outputs a first counter value request command to the printing unit 3, and acquires the first counter value from the printing unit 3.
[0089]
In step S802, the first counter task compares the first counter value with the second counter value. If they do not match, the process proceeds to step S803. If they match, the process proceeds to step S804.
[0090]
In step S803, the first counter task assigns the value of the first counter to the second counter and counts −2 (subtracts +2) from the third counter. Also, the printing surface state variable is multiplied by -1.
[0091]
In step S804, the first counter task executes, for example, 100 msec Delay so that the processes from steps S801 to S803 are executed at a constant cycle. Thereafter, the process returns to step S801.
[0092]
Next, the processing flow of the second counter task will be described.
[0093]
In step S901, the second counter task checks the transfer end flag for the record pointed to by the pointer. If the value of the transfer end flag is 0, for example, 100 msec Delay is executed, and the process returns to step S901. If the value of the transfer end flag is 1, the process proceeds to step S902.
[0094]
In step S902, the second counter task proceeds to step S906 if the printing surface state variable is -1, and proceeds to step S903 if it is 1.
[0095]
In step S903, the second counter task compares the third counter value with the fourth counter value. If they do not match, the process proceeds to step S904. If the two match, for example, 100 msec Delay is executed, and the process returns to step S903.
[0096]
In step S904, the second counter task counts −2 (subtracts +2) from the fourth counter.
[0097]
In step S905, the counter task releases the storage area in which the image data of the print task having the written task ID is expanded for the record pointed to by the pointer and the record before the record pointed by the pointer. Then, the task ID is erased and the transfer end flag is changed to 0 for the record pointed to by the pointer and the record before the record pointed by the pointer.
[0098]
In step S906, the counter task changes the pointer value to the next record, and returns to step S901. If the pointer points to the lowest record, the record is changed to the top record.
[0099]
By configuring the counter task executed by the print task execution means 2 in this way, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, it is possible to cope with double-sided printing in the printing means 3. In other words, since the storage area is released only when the printing surface state variable is 1, the storage area of the image data printed on the back surface of the recording paper at the stage where the printing on the back surface of the recording paper is completed. Is not released, and the storage areas of the two image data printed on the front and back sides are released at the stage when the printing on the surface of the recording paper is finished and the recording paper is discharged.
(Modification)
Note that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be variously modified and applied. For example, when double-sided printing is executed, the print execution unit 31 uses the back surface of the first recording paper, the back surface of the second recording paper, the front surface of the first recording paper, and the second recording paper. You may comprise so that it may print in the order of the surface. In this configuration, for example, the order of writing to the record is a print task corresponding to the back surface of the first recording paper, a print task corresponding to the back surface of the second recording paper, and the front surface of the first recording paper. This can be realized by controlling the corresponding printing task in order of the printing task corresponding to the surface of the second recording sheet. Alternatively, the printing surface state variable is configured to be updated in the order of 1, 2, 3, 4, 1, 2,... According to the end of single-side printing, and the value is set in step S902 in FIG. Instead of proceeding to step S904 when 1 is 1, it may be configured to proceed to step S904 when the value is 3 or 4. By printing in this order, it is possible to perform the printing operation on the back side of the second recording sheet while performing the paper feeding operation for turning the front and back sides after the back side printing for the first recording sheet. Therefore, printing efficiency can be improved.
[0100]
【The invention's effect】
According to the printer device of the present invention, the printing unit detects the discharge of the recording paper and outputs the discharge information, or includes the first counter that is simply increased by the discharge. Calculation such as calculation of the number of recording sheets is not required, and the processing load on the printing unit can be reduced.
[0101]
Further, by providing the control table and counter in the print task execution means, it is possible to improve the memory use efficiency in the controller for a plurality of print tasks.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a printer apparatus according to a first embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a control table.
FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing of a print task in the first example of the first embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing of a print task in a second example of the first embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the flow of counter task processing in the second example of the first embodiment;
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the flow of counter task processing in a third example of the first embodiment;
FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a printer apparatus according to a second embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing of a print task in the first example of the second embodiment.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing of a first counter task in the first example of the second embodiment.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing of a second counter task in the first example of the second embodiment.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing of a first counter task in a second example of the second embodiment.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing of a second counter task in the second example of the second embodiment.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 Printer device
2 Print task execution means
21 Control table
22 counter
23 Second counter
24 Third counter
25 4th counter
3 Printing means
31 Print execution means
32 Discharge detection means
33 surface printing detection means
34 First counter

Claims (6)

A printer apparatus comprising: a print task executing unit that executes a print task for transferring image data to a printing unit; and a printing unit that performs printing on a storage medium based on the image data and discharges the printed storage medium. And
The printing means includes discharge detection means for detecting that the storage medium has been discharged and outputting the information as discharge information to the print task execution means,
The print task execution means includes a counter that is said when receiving the ejection information i count (i ≠ 0) subtracting, in response to an end of transfer of the image data by adding the i count in said counter, based on said counter A printer device configured to execute a task of releasing a storage area for image data that has been transferred.   The print task execution unit is configured to transfer image data for which transfer has ended when the counter has a non-positive value when i is a positive value (when the counter has a non-negative value when i is a negative value). 2. The printer apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the storage area is released.   The print task execution means is configured to be able to execute a plurality of print tasks in parallel. The print task execution means is configured such that when i is a positive value, the counter takes a non-positive value (i is a negative value). 2. The printer apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a storage area is released for one of the transferred image data when the counter takes a non-negative value.   The printer apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the print task performs an i-count addition process for the counter and a storage area release process based on the counter.   The print task execution means is configured to be able to execute a counter task for managing a counter, and the counter task performs an i-count addition process for the counter and a storage area release process based on the counter. The printer apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3. Print task execution means for executing a print task for transferring image data to a printing means, and printing means for performing printing on both sides of a storage medium based on the image data and discharging the storage medium printed on both sides A printer device,
The printing means includes discharge detection means for detecting that the storage medium has been discharged and outputting the information as discharge information to the print task execution means,
The print task execution means includes a counter that is said when receiving the ejection information 2i count (i ≠ 0) subtracting, in response to an end of transfer of the image data by adding the i count in the counter, i is a positive value If the counter takes a non-positive value (if i is a negative value, the counter takes a non-negative value), the task of releasing the storage area for two of the transferred image data is A printer device configured to be executable.

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