JP4577433B2 - printer - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a printer connected to a host via USB.

  Conventionally, in a personal computer, when a printer is connected and used, an edited material to be printed by the printer is created by an editor installed in the personal computer.

At this time, the device driver of the printer is installed on the personal computer, and is interposed between the editor of the personal computer and the printer. Output to the printer while converting the data format. Thereby, the edited material created by the editor of the personal computer can be printed by the printer (see Patent Document 1 below).
JP 2007-140597 A (page 4)

Therefore, for example, when a dedicated editor that can easily use various functions of the printer is provided as an application program with the printer, the dedicated editor must be installed on the personal computer in order to use the dedicated editor. Must-have.
Further, when a dedicated device driver is provided, the dedicated device driver must be installed in the personal computer in the same manner.

  However, due to the recent increase in security awareness, information managers have been established, and there are many cases where software cannot be installed on a personal computer without the permission of the manager. In this way, in situations where it is not easy to install software on a personal computer, even if it is an edited material created on that computer, if you try to print using the various functions of that printer, If the dedicated editor and its dedicated device driver were not installed, it was very troublesome.

  In particular, if the printer is convenient to carry, its characteristics will not be utilized, so this situation is inconvenient for the user now that user-friendly products are becoming more popular. It gives a strong impression.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above-described points, and enables printing using the application program from the host even if the application program and the device driver are not installed on the host. Prevents the application program from operating when it is difficult to guarantee the operation, or even if the power is turned off automatically while creating print data in the application program, the print data created just before the power is turned off It is an object to provide a printer that can be reproduced when an application program is restarted.

  The invention according to claim 1 to solve this problem is a printer, which is placed in a USB port, a memory having a normal storage area, and a normal storage area of the memory, and is connected to the USB port. A management table for allowing a connected PC to recognize the normal storage area in the memory as a removable drive and managing access to the normal storage area in the memory, and the normal storage area of the memory by the management table And a part of the normal memory area of the memory is assigned by the management table and created by the application program. A second memory area in which an instruction file capable of containing print data is written; A printing unit that performs printing based on print data in the instruction file written in the second memory area; and a processor that controls the memory and the printing unit, wherein the processor receives (a) Update the instruction file in the second memory area based on the instruction file, (b) analyze the updated instruction file to retrieve the print data, and the execution file of the application program is read to the PC When executed on the PC, the application program executes the following control, (1) regularly accesses the normal storage area of the memory, and (2) when the access fails, The application program itself is terminated.

  The invention according to claim 2 is a printer, which is a USB port, a memory having a normal storage area, and is placed outside the normal storage area of the memory, connected to the USB port, and a temporary folder and registry. A management table for recognizing the normal storage area in the memory as a removable drive and managing access to the normal storage area in the memory, and the management table in the normal storage area of the memory And a part of the normal storage area of the memory is assigned by the management table and created by the application program. An instruction file that can contain print data is written 2 memory area, printing means for printing based on the print data in the instruction file written in the second memory area, and a part of the normal storage area of the memory by the management table. A third memory area in which a notification file including status information of the printer is written, and a processor that controls the memory and the printing unit, and the processor is configured to output a remaining battery level less than a predetermined amount. The automatic power-off process is performed to turn off the power supply from the battery after a predetermined time, and the processor (a) updates the instruction file in the second memory area based on the received instruction file, and (b ) Analyzing the updated command file and retrieving the print data, the execution file of the application program is stored in the PC When it is read and executed on the PC, the application program executes the following control after detecting the notification file, and (1) that the automatic power-off process has started as the status information. Is determined to be included in the notification file. (2) When it is determined that the information indicating that the automatic power-off process has started is included in the notification file, (2- 1) Store the print data in the temporary folder as backup print data, and (2-2) read the backup print data from the temporary folder the next time the application program is read and executed by the PC. Read-out information at startup is stored in the registry.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the printer according to the second aspect, the application program executes the following controls (I) to (V), whereby the (1) to (2) And (I) when the notification file is received, if it is determined that the notification file includes information indicating that the automatic power-off process has started as the status information, the PC "Continue", "Save and exit", and "Exit" options are displayed on the screen. (II) If it is determined that the user has selected "Continue" among the above options, the automatic power-off process is canceled. (III) If it is determined that the user has selected “Save and Exit” among the options, a file save dialog is displayed, and (IV) “End” is selected among the options. The user If it is determined that the application program itself has been selected, the application program itself is terminated. (V) If the processing of the three options is completed normally, (V-1) the backup print data is deleted from the temporary folder, and (V -2) Delete the read information at the next startup from the registry,
It is characterized by that.

  The invention according to claim 4 is the printer according to claim 3, wherein the application program executes the following controls (VI) to (VII), and (VI) the user selects among the options. If it is determined that the file save dialog has been canceled after selecting “Save and Exit”, a control command for canceling the automatic power-off process is transmitted to the printer, and (VI) “Continue” is selected from the above options. -"Save and exit" and "Exit" are not selected by the user, and the application is executed immediately before the predetermined time has elapsed from (I) and the power supply from the battery is turned off by the printer. It is characterized by terminating the program itself.

  The invention according to claim 5 is the printer according to claim 2, wherein the application program executes the following controls (i) to (ii), to thereby execute the above (1) to (2). (I) when the command file is transmitted to the printer with the print start command included, (i-1) the print data is stored as backup print data in the temporary folder. (I-2) The next startup read information that reads the backup print data from the temporary folder when the application program is read and executed next time by the PC is stored in the registry, and (ii) the When the notification file is received, printing by the print start command is normally performed by the printing unit as the status information. (Ii-1) delete the backup print data from the temporary folder, and (ii-2) read the next startup from the registry. It is characterized by deleting information.

  That is, in the printer of the present invention according to claim 1, the management table for managing the access to the normal storage area in the memory for the PC connected to the USB port is used. The normal storage area) is recognized as a removable drive that is a USB mass storage class device. Therefore, the execution file of the application program stored in the first memory area that is a part of the normal storage area of the memory can be read by the PC by a normal access operation from the PC. Therefore, even if the application program is not installed on the PC, the application program can be executed on the PC.

  Then, the instruction file that can include the print data created by the application program on the PC is written to the second memory area that is a part of the normal storage area of the memory by the normal access from the PC. be able to. On the other hand, the processor takes out the print data in the instruction file written in the second memory area, which is a part of the normal storage area of the memory, and causes the printing means to print it.

  In this regard, when the processor receives from the PC an instruction file that can include print data created by an application program on the PC, the processor stores the instruction in the second memory area that is a part of the normal storage area of the memory. The file is updated, the updated instruction file is analyzed, and the print data is extracted. This enables printing using the application program from the PC even if the application program and device driver are not installed in the PC.

  Furthermore, in the printer of the present invention according to claim 1, when the application program is executed on the PC, the normal storage area of the memory is periodically accessed, and when the access fails, the application program is finish. In this regard, when the periodic access failure occurs, for example, it is assumed that the printer is disconnected from the PC or that the printer is turned off. It can be said that the operation guarantee is difficult. Therefore, in the printer of the present invention according to claim 1, the end point of the application program is synchronized with the time when the connection between the printer and the PC is disconnected or the power of the printer is turned off. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the application program from operating in a state where it is difficult to guarantee the operation of the application program.

  Further, in the printer of the present invention according to claim 2, the management table for managing the access to the normal storage area in the memory for the PC connected to the USB port is used. The normal storage area) is recognized as a removable drive that is a USB mass storage class device. Therefore, the execution file of the application program stored in the first memory area that is a part of the normal storage area of the memory can be read by the PC by a normal access operation from the PC. Therefore, even if the application program is not installed on the PC, the application program can be executed on the PC.

  Then, the instruction file that can include the print data created by the application program on the PC is written to the second memory area that is a part of the normal storage area of the memory by the normal access from the PC. be able to. On the other hand, the processor takes out the print data in the instruction file written in the second memory area, which is a part of the normal storage area of the memory, and causes the printing means to print it.

  In this regard, when the processor receives from the PC an instruction file that can include print data created by an application program on the PC, the processor stores the instruction in the second memory area that is a part of the normal storage area of the memory. The file is updated, the updated instruction file is analyzed, and the print data is extracted. This enables printing using the application program from the PC even if the application program and device driver are not installed in the PC.

  In the printer of the present invention according to claim 2, a part of the normal storage area in the memory of the printer of the present invention recognized by the PC as a removable drive that is a USB mass storage class device is stored in the printer. A third memory area in which a notification file including printer status information is written is provided. Therefore, the notification file written in the third memory area which is a part of the normal storage area of the memory is read to the PC by normal access from the PC. Therefore, the operation status of the printer of the present invention can be notified to the PC.

  Furthermore, in the printer of the present invention according to claim 2, when the application program is executed on the PC, after the notification file including the status information of the printer is detected on the PC side, the automatic power off is performed as the status information. It is determined whether or not information indicating that processing has started is included in the notification file. At this time, if the notification file includes information indicating that the automatic power-off process has started, the print data is stored as backup print data in the temporary folder on the PC side, and the read information at the next start-up is stored in the registry. Is memorized.

  Therefore, when the application program is read and executed next time by the PC, the backup print data is read from the temporary folder based on the next startup read information stored in the registry. Therefore, even if the power is automatically turned off while creating the print data in the application program, the print data created immediately before the power is turned off can be reproduced when the application program is restarted.

  In the printer according to the third aspect of the present invention, when the application program is executed on the PC and the notification file is received, the notification file includes information indicating that the automatic power-off process has started as status information. If so, the options “Continue”, “Save and Exit”, and “End” are displayed on the PC. At this time, if the user selects “Continue” from the options, a control command for canceling the automatic power-off process is transmitted to the printer. If the user selects “save and exit” from the options, a file save dialog is displayed on the PC. If the user selects “Exit” from among the options, the application program ends. Therefore, the user can select whether to extend the creation of print data by the application program before the printer is automatically turned off.

  Further, if the processing of the three options is normally completed on the PC side, the backup print data is deleted from the temporary folder, and the next startup read information is deleted from the registry. Therefore, if the processing of the three options ends normally, the print data created when the notification file is received will be restored when the application program is resumed even if the application program is read and executed next time by the PC. There is no inconvenience that will be reproduced.

  In the printer of the invention according to claim 4, if the user cancels the file save dialog after selecting “Save and Exit” from the options, a control command for canceling the automatic power-off process is issued from the PC side. Sent to the printer. Therefore, even if the user selects to display a file save dialog when the printer is automatically turned off, the user can extend the creation of print data in the application program after that. Can be selected.

  Furthermore, in the printer of the invention according to claim 4, if the user does not select any of “Continue”, “Save and Exit”, and “End” among the options, and if a predetermined time elapses from the display of the options The application program ends immediately before the power supply from the battery is turned off in the printer.

  In this respect, in the printer of the present invention according to claim 4, even when the power is automatically turned off during the creation of the print data by the application program, as in the printer of the present invention according to claim 2, Print data created immediately before turning off can be reproduced when the application program is restarted. Therefore, even if the user is not aware of the option and the power is automatically turned off, the print data created immediately before the power is turned off can be reproduced when the application program is restarted.

  In the printer of the invention according to claim 5, when the command file includes a print start command and is transmitted from the PC to the printer, the print data is stored in the temporary folder as backup print data, and the registry The read information at the next start-up is stored.

  Therefore, when the application program is read and executed next time by the PC, the backup print data is read from the temporary folder based on the next startup read information stored in the registry. Therefore, even if the power is turned off while printing data is being printed by the printer, the print data created immediately before the power is turned off can be reproduced when the application program is restarted.

  Further, in the printer of the present invention according to claim 5, when the application program is executed on the PC and the notification file is received, the printing means that the printing by the print start command is normally performed as the status information. If the information is included in the reception notification file, the backup print data is deleted from the temporary folder, and the read information at the next startup is deleted from the registry. Therefore, if the print data is normally printed by the printer, even if the application program is read and executed next time by the PC, the normally printed print data is reproduced when the application program is restarted. There is no inconvenience.

[1. System configuration of the present invention]
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 2 shows a state in which the printer 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention is connected to a personal computer 111 (corresponding to “PC”). As shown in FIG. 2, the printer 1 according to the present embodiment forms a printing system 101 by being connected to a personal computer 111 via a USB cable L. In this respect, the printer 1 according to the present embodiment is a so-called label printer that performs printing on the printing tape 2 and is a compact printer that can be installed around a desk, and thus is easy to carry. The personal computer 111 is a host of the printing system 101, and is a desktop computer including a main body 112, a display 113, a keyboard 114, a mouse 115, and the like.

  The personal computer 111 includes a registry 122 and a temporary file 123 as shown in FIG.

[2. Internal configuration of the present invention]
Next, the internal configuration of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 3, in the printer 1 according to the present embodiment, an operation key 51, a display controller (hereinafter referred to as “LCDC”) 52, two drive circuits 54 and 56, and a USB are connected to the input / output interface 31. The port P and the power supply circuit 61 are connected.

  The operation key 51 allows the CPU 32 to input control signals for causing various desired operations according to user operations. An LCD 53 is connected to the LCDC 52, and a display RAM for displaying display data on the LCD 53 is provided. The drive circuit 54 is connected to a thermal head 55 and drives the thermal head 55 when printing data is printed on the print tape 2. The drive circuit 56 is connected to a tape feed motor 57, and drives the tape feed motor 57 when the print tape 2 is fed out.

  The connector C of the USB cable L is attached to and detached from the USB port P. Therefore, by inserting the connector C of the USB cable L into the USB port P, the personal computer 111 can be USB-connected to the printer 1 according to the present embodiment.

  A battery 62 is connected to the power supply circuit 61. The power supply circuit 61 is a power supply circuit with an on / off function. The battery 62 is a power source of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment. The CPU 32 constantly monitors the remaining amount of the battery 62 through the A / D input. When the remaining amount of the battery 62 becomes less than the predetermined amount, the automatic power-off process is started. When the first predetermined time has elapsed since the start of the off process, the CPU 32 turns off the power supply circuit 61 and turns off the power supply to the peripheral circuit portion from the battery 62. However, the CPU 32, the ROM 33, and the RAM 34 are supplied with power and enter a sleep mode. The next time the power key of the printer 1 is pressed, an interrupt is generated, the CPU 32 is activated, and the power circuit 61 is turned on.

  In the printer 1 according to this embodiment, a CPU 32, a ROM 33, a RAM 34, a FLASH / ROM 36, and the like are connected to the input / output interface 31.

  The CPU 32 executes each program and the like to be described later, and has a built-in cache memory or the like in which control programs other than those related to printing are stored.

  Further, the CPU 32 executes the following control program 37 to operate the drive circuits 54 and 56 and the like, while printing the print data stored in the normal storage area 40 below on the print tape 2, The printing tape 2 can be discharged outside. Accordingly, the “printing means” is constituted by the two drive circuits 54 and 56, the thermal head 55, the tape feed motor 57, and the like.

  In addition, the ROM 33 stores control programs other than those related to printing. The RAM 34 provides a work area when the CPU 32 executes various control programs.

  The FLASH / ROM 36 stores a print-related control program 37, a management table 39, and the like, and further includes a normal storage area 40 and the like. Further, the normal storage area 40 is provided with an application program storage area 41, an instruction file arrangement area 42, a notification file arrangement area 43, a setting file arrangement area 44, and the like.

  The management table 39 manages writing to the normal storage area 40 in the FLASH / ROM 36 according to the USB standard. The management table 39 stores the normal storage area 40 in the FLASH / ROM 36 for the personal computer 111 connected to the USB port P. Make it recognized as a removable drive.

  In the application program storage area 41, a part of the normal storage area 40 in the FLASH ROM 36 is fixedly assigned, and an application program execution file 200 (see FIG. 1 below) is stored. The application program is software developed as a dedicated editor for the printer 1 according to the present embodiment.

  The instruction file allocation area 42 is a part of the normal storage area 40 in the FLASH ROM 36 assigned by the management table 39, and stores the instruction file 202 (see FIG. 1 below). The command file 202 (see FIG. 1 below) is generated by the application program, includes a print command, and further includes print data created by the application program.

  The notification file arrangement area 43 is a part of the normal storage area 40 in the FLASH / ROM 36 assigned by the management table 39, and stores the notification file 203 (see FIG. 1 below). The notification file 203 (see FIG. 1 below) includes status information of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment.

  The setting file arrangement area 44 is a part of the normal storage area 40 in the FLASH / ROM 36 assigned by the management table 39, and stores the setting file 201 (see FIG. 1 below). Note that the setting file 201 (see FIG. 1 below) is generated by the application program and includes setting information indicating a use environment set by the user using the application program.

  Therefore, in the FLASH ROM 36, the management table 39 and the normal storage area 40 function as a mass storage area 45 of the USB standard.

[3. Operation of the present invention (part 1)]
Next, the operation of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a flowchart showing a program for controlling the operation of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment in accordance with the operation of the personal computer 111. First, the operation of the personal computer 111 will be described.

  When the personal computer 111 is USB-connected by the printer 1 according to the present embodiment, as described above, the normal storage area 40 in the FLASH / ROM 36 of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment is recognized as a removable drive.

  Therefore, in the personal computer 111 in S10, the user accesses the application program storage area 41 to which a part of the normal storage area 40 in the FLASH / ROM 36 of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment is assigned by a normal operation. The application program execution file 200 stored in the application program storage area 41 is read and activated.

  Further, in S11, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, the setting file 201 is read from the setting file arrangement area 42 to which a part of the normal storage area 40 in the FLASH / ROM 36 of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment is assigned. Based on the setting information of the application program included in the read setting file 201, the usage environment of the application program is set.

  In the personal computer 111 in S12, the user creates print data to be printed by the printer 1 according to the present embodiment, using the dedicated editor that is the application program.

  In S13, the personal computer 111 determines whether or not to end the application program. This determination is based on a user operation in the application program. If the application program is to be terminated (S13: YES), the process proceeds to S19 below. On the other hand, when the application program is continued (S13: NO), the process proceeds to S14.

  In S14, the personal computer 111 determines whether to cause the printer 1 according to the present embodiment to print. This determination is also based on a user operation in the application program. Here, when the printer 1 according to the present embodiment has not yet been printed (S14: NO), the process returns to S12. On the other hand, when printing is to be performed by the printer 1 according to the present embodiment (S14: YES), the process proceeds to S15.

  In S15, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, a command file 202 including a print command command for the printer 1 according to the present embodiment and print data created by the application program is generated. Further, the generated instruction file 202 is transmitted to the printer 1 according to the present embodiment.

  In S16, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, the notification file 203 is read from the notification file arrangement area 42 to which a part of the normal storage area 40 in the FLASH / ROM 36 of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment is assigned. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S16-2.

  In step S16-2, it is determined whether or not the notification file 203 includes status information indicating a printing error. If there is print error status information in the notification file 203 (S16-2: YES), the process proceeds to S16-3. In step S16-3, a print error is displayed on the LCD 53. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S18 below.

  On the other hand, if there is no print error status information in the notification file 203 (S16-2: NO), the process proceeds to S17.

  In S17, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, based on the status of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment detected from the status information included in the notification file 203 read in S16, the print data included in the command file 202 transmitted in S15. It is determined whether or not printing has been normally completed by the printer 1 according to the present embodiment. If the printing has been normally performed and has not been completed (S17: NO), the process returns to S16. On the other hand, when the printing is normally performed and finished (S17: YES), the process proceeds to S18.

  In S18, the personal computer 111 determines whether or not to continue the application program. This determination is based on a user operation in the application program. If the application program is to be continued (S18: YES), the process returns to S12. On the other hand, when ending the application program (S18: NO), the process proceeds to S19.

  In S19, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, the setting file 201 including setting information indicating the use environment of the application set by the user while the application is running is created. Further, the created setting file 201 is transmitted to the printer 1 according to the present embodiment.

  In S20, the personal computer 111 terminates the application program and deletes the application program. Thereby, the application program does not remain in the personal computer 111.

  On the other hand, in the printer 1 according to the present embodiment, when the personal computer 111 is connected by USB, a program for controlling each operation of S101 to S108 is executed. This program is stored in the ROM 33, and the CPU 32 reads it into its own cache memory and executes it.

  First, the CPU 32 determines whether or not the command file 202 has been received from the personal computer 111 in S101. If the command file 202 has not been received from the personal computer 111 (S101: NO), the process proceeds to S107 below. On the other hand, when the command file 202 is received from the personal computer 111 (S101: YES), the process proceeds to S102.

  In S102, the CPU 32 causes the instruction file 202 to be overwritten and stored in the instruction file arrangement area 42 to which a part of the normal storage area 40 in the FLASH ROM 36 is assigned.

  In S <b> 103, the CPU 32 analyzes the instruction file 202 overwritten in the instruction file arrangement area 42 to which a part of the normal storage area 40 in the FLASH / ROM 36 is assigned. In this analysis, print data included in the command file 202 is extracted.

  In S <b> 104, the CPU 32 prints the print data extracted from the instruction file 202 in S <b> 103 according to the print-related control program 37 stored in the FLASH / ROM 36. At this time, the CPU 32 operates the drive circuits 54 and 56 and the like.

  In S105, the CPU 32 creates a notification file 203 including status information indicating the current printing status, and the created notification file 203 is assigned to a part of the normal storage area 40 in the FLASH / ROM 36. Store in the arrangement area 43 by overwriting.

  In S <b> 106, the CPU 32 determines whether printing has ended. If printing has not been completed (S106: NO), the process proceeds to S105. On the other hand, when printing is completed (S106: YES), the process proceeds to S107.

  In S <b> 107, the CPU 32 determines whether the setting file 201 has been received from the personal computer 111. If the setting file 201 has not been received from the personal computer 111 (S107: NO), the process returns to S101. On the other hand, when the setting file 201 is received from the personal computer 111 (S107: YES), the process proceeds to S108.

  In S <b> 108, the CPU 32 stores the setting file 202 by overwriting in the setting file arrangement area 44 to which a part of the normal storage area 40 in the FLASH / ROM 36 is assigned. Thereafter, the CPU 32 ends this program.

[4. Operation of the present invention (part 2)]
Further, in the personal computer 111, the operation shown in FIG. 8 is performed at a time point R immediately after S11 in FIG. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a program for controlling the operation of the personal computer 111.

  In S61 of FIG. 8, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, it is determined whether or not read information at the next startup described later is stored in the registry 122. If the next startup read information is not stored in the registry 122 (S61: NO), the process proceeds to S12 in FIG. On the other hand, when the next startup read information is stored in the registry 122 (S61: YES), the process proceeds to S62.

  In S62, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, backup print data to be described later is read from the temporary folder 123. The read backup print data is reproduced by a dedicated editor which is the application program. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S12 of FIG.

  Further, in the personal computer 111, the operation shown in FIG. 9 is performed at a time point S immediately before S15 in FIG. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a program for controlling the operation of the personal computer 111.

  In S71 of FIG. 9, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, the print data created by the application program is stored in the temporary folder 123 as backup print data. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S72.

  In S72, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, the read information at the next startup is stored in the registry 122. The read information at the next startup includes a control command for reading the backup print data from the temporary folder 123 when the application program is read and executed next time by the personal computer 111. Accordingly, when the application program is read and executed next time by the personal computer 111 and the read information at the time of next startup is stored in the registry 122, the backup print data is set to be read from the temporary folder 123. . Thereafter, the process proceeds to S15 of FIG.

  In the personal computer 111, the operation shown in FIG. 10 is performed at a time T immediately after S17 in FIG. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a program for controlling the operation of the personal computer 111.

  In S71 of FIG. 10, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, the backup print data is deleted from the temporary folder 123. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S82.

  In S82, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, the next startup read information is deleted from the registry 122. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S18 of FIG.

[5. Operation of the present invention (part 3)]
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a program for controlling the operation of the personal computer 111 in accordance with the operation of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment. This program is executed as a periodic interrupt process at any point in S10 to S18 in FIG. 1 by the application program.

  In S21 of FIG. 4, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, it is determined whether the second predetermined time has elapsed. Here, only when the second predetermined time has elapsed (S21: YES), the process proceeds to S22.

  In S22, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, the normal storage area 40 in the FLASH / ROM 36 of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment is accessed, and an attempt is made to access any file stored in the normal storage area 40. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S23.

  In S23, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, it is determined whether or not the access in S22 has failed. In this determination, it is determined that the access in S22 has failed when access has not been made in S22, and it has been determined that the access in S22 has not failed if access has been made in S22.

  If the access in S22 has not failed (S23: NO), the process proceeds to S24. In S24, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, the determination target time in S21 is reset, and the time measurement in S21 is restarted. Note that the time to be determined in S21 is started when the application program execution file 200 is activated in S10.

  On the other hand, if the access in S22 fails (S23: YES), the process proceeds to S25. In S25, the personal computer 111 terminates the application program and deletes the application program. Thereby, the application program does not remain in the personal computer 111.

[6. Operation of the present invention (part 4)]
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a program for controlling the operation of the personal computer 111 in accordance with the operation of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment. Of these programs, a program relating to the operation of the personal computer 111 is performed as a periodic interrupt process at any point in S10 to S18 in FIG. 1 by the application program. Of these programs, the program relating to the operation of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment is performed as a periodic interrupt process at any point up to S108 in FIG.

  First, the operation of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment will be described. In S111 of FIG. 5, the CPU 32 determines whether or not the remaining amount of the battery 62 is less than a predetermined amount. This determination is made based on the remaining amount of the battery 62 monitored by the CPU 32. Here, only when the remaining amount of the battery 62 is less than the predetermined amount (S111: YES), the process proceeds to S112.

  In S112, the CPU 32 starts an automatic power-off process. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S113.

  In S113, the CPU 32 creates a notification file 203 including status information indicating that the automatic power-off process has started, and assigns the created notification file 203 to a part of the normal storage area 40 in the FLASH / ROM 36. The notification file placement area 43 is overwritten and stored.

  On the other hand, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program in S31. That is, it is determined whether the third predetermined time has elapsed. Here, only when the third predetermined time has elapsed (S31: YES), the process proceeds to S32.

  In S32, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, the notification file 203 is read from the notification file arrangement area 42 to which a part of the normal storage area 40 in the FLASH / ROM 36 of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment is assigned. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S33.

  In S33, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, it is determined whether or not the notification file 203 has status information indicating that the automatic power-off process has started. If there is no status information indicating that the automatic power-off process has started in the notification file 203 (S33: NO), the process proceeds to S37.

  In S37, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, the determination target time in S31 is reset, and the measurement of the determination target time in S31 is restarted. Note that the time to be determined in S31 is started when the application program execution file 200 is started in S10.

  On the other hand, if the notification file 203 has status information indicating that the automatic power-off process has started (S33: YES), the process proceeds to S34. In S34, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, the print data being created by the application program is stored in the temporary folder 123 as backup print data. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S35.

  In S35, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, the read information at the next startup is stored in the registry 122. Accordingly, when the application program is read and executed next time by the personal computer 111 and the read information at the time of next startup is stored in the registry 122, the backup print data is set to be read from the temporary folder 123. . Thereafter, the process proceeds to S36.

  In S36, the personal computer 111 terminates the application program and deletes the application program. Thereby, the application program does not remain in the personal computer 111.

[7. Operation of the present invention (part 5)]
Further, the personal computer 111 performs the operation shown in FIG. 6 at a time point P immediately after S35 in FIG. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a program for controlling the operation of the personal computer 111 in accordance with the operation of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment.

  In S41 of FIG. 6, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, options are displayed. Specifically, the window 300 shown in FIG. In the window 300, “Continue”, “Save and Exit”, and “Exit” selection buttons 301, 302, and 303 are displayed.

  In S <b> 42, the personal computer 111 determines whether or not the user has selected the “continue” selection button 301. This determination is based on a user operation in the application program.

  If the user selects the “Continue” selection button 301 (S42: YES), the process proceeds to S51 described below. On the other hand, if the user has not selected the “Continue” selection button 301 (S42: NO), the process proceeds to S43. In S <b> 43, the personal computer 111 determines whether or not the user has selected the “save and exit” selection button 302. This determination is based on a user operation in the application program.

  If the user selects the “save and exit” selection button 302 (S43: YES), the process proceeds to S44. In S44, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, a file save dialog is displayed on the display 113. Thus, the print data being created by the application program can be saved while allowing the user to input information necessary for saving the file. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S45.

  In S45, the personal computer 111 determines whether or not the user cancels the file save dialog. This determination is based on a user operation in the application program. If the user does not cancel the file save dialog (S45: NO), the process proceeds to S48 described later. On the other hand, when the user cancels the file saving dialog (S45: YES), the process proceeds to S51 described later.

  On the other hand, if the user has not selected the “Save and End” selection button 302 (S43: NO), the process proceeds to S46. In S <b> 46, the personal computer 111 determines whether or not the user has selected the “end” selection button 303. This determination is based on a user operation in the application program.

  If the user selects the “END” selection button 303 (S46: YES), the process proceeds to S48 described later. On the other hand, if the user has not selected the “end” selection button 303 (S46: NO), the process proceeds to S47.

  In S47, the personal computer 111 determines whether or not a fourth predetermined time has elapsed from the display of the options in S41. As for the fourth predetermined time, the power supply of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment is caused by the start of the automatic power-off process in S112 even after the fourth predetermined time has elapsed from the display of the option in S41. Is preset in such a time that is not turned off. Here, when the fourth predetermined time has not elapsed since the display of the option of S41 (S47: NO), the process returns to S42. On the other hand, when the fourth predetermined time has elapsed from the display of the option in S41 (S47: YES), the process proceeds to S50 described later.

    On the other hand, as described above, when the user does not cancel the file saving dialog (S45: NO), or when the user selects the “end” selection button 303 (S46: YES), the process proceeds to S48. move on. In S48, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, the backup print data is deleted from the temporary folder 123. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S49.

  In S49, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, the next startup read information is deleted from the registry 122. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S50.

  In S50, the personal computer 111 terminates the application program and deletes the application program. Thereby, the application program does not remain in the personal computer 111.

  On the other hand, as described above, when the user selects the “Continue” selection button 301 (S42: YES) or when the user cancels the file saving dialog (S45: YES), the process proceeds to S51. In S51, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, a release control command is transmitted to the printer 1 according to the present embodiment. The release control command is a command for canceling the automatic power-off process. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S52.

  In S52, the personal computer 111 performs the following operations according to the application program. That is, the backup print data is deleted from the temporary folder 123. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S53.

  In S53, the personal computer 111 performs the following operation according to the application program. That is, the next startup read information is deleted from the registry 122. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S37 in FIG.

  On the other hand, in the printer 1 according to the present embodiment, the CPU 32 determines whether or not a release control command is received in S121. Here, only when the release control command is received (S121: YES), the process proceeds to S122. In S122, the CPU 32 cancels the automatic power-off process. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S123.

  In S123, the CPU 32 creates a notification file 203 including status information indicating that the automatic power-off process has been canceled, and assigns the created notification file 203 to a part of the normal storage area 40 in the FLASH / ROM 36. The notification file placement area 43 is overwritten and stored.

[8. Summary]
As described in detail above, as shown in FIG. 3, the printer 1 according to the present embodiment has a management table 39 for managing writing to the normal storage area 40 in the FLASH ROM 36 according to the USB standard. It is placed outside the normal storage area 40 in the ROM 36. The management table 39 allows the personal computer 111 connected to the USB port P to connect the printer 1 according to the present embodiment (the normal storage area 40 in the FLASH ROM 36) as a USB mass storage class device. It is recognized as a drive.

  Therefore, the execution file 200 of the application program stored in the application program storage area 41 which is a part of the normal storage area 40 of the FLASH / ROM 36 is read by the personal computer 111 by the user's normal access operation in the personal computer 111. (S10). Therefore, the application program can be executed on the personal computer 111 without being installed on the personal computer 111 (S10).

  An instruction file 202 that can include print data created by an application program on the personal computer 111 is generated by the application program and is stored in the normal storage area 40 of the FLASH ROM 36 by normal access from the personal computer 111. Are written in the instruction file placement area 42 which is a part of the file (S15, S102).

  On the other hand, the CPU 32 takes out the print data in the instruction file 202 written in the instruction file arrangement area 42 which is a part of the normal storage area 40 of the FLASH ROM 36. The CPU 32 ejects the print tape 2 to the outside while printing the extracted print data on the print tape 2 by operating the drive circuits 54, 56 and the like (S104).

  In this regard, when the CPU 32 receives from the personal computer 111 an instruction file 202 that can include print data created by an application program on the personal computer 111 (S101: YES), the CPU 32 stores the command file 202 in the normal storage area 40 of the FLASH ROM 36. The instruction file 202 is overwritten and updated in the instruction file placement area 42 (S102), and the updated instruction file 202 is analyzed and print data is taken out (S103). Thereby, even if the application program and the device driver are not installed in the personal computer 111, printing using the application program from the personal computer 111 becomes possible.

  In the printer 1 according to the present embodiment, the PC 111 recognizes the removable drive that is a USB mass storage class device in the normal storage area 40 of the FLASH ROM 36 of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment. Is a notification file placement area 43. In the notification file arrangement area 43, a notification file 203 including status information of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment is written. Accordingly, the notification file 203 written in the notification file arrangement area 43 which is a part of the normal storage area 40 of the FLASH / ROM 36 is read out to the personal computer 111 by normal access from the personal computer 111 (S16). Therefore, it is possible to notify the personal computer 111 of the operation status of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment.

  Further, in the printer 1 according to the present embodiment, when the application program is executed on the personal computer 111 (S10), the regular storage area 40 of the FLASH / ROM 36 of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment is periodically accessed. When the access fails (S23: YES), the application program ends (S25). In this regard, when the periodic access failure occurs (S23: YES), for example, the USB cable L connecting the printer 1 and the personal computer 111 according to the present embodiment is disconnected from the USB port P, It is assumed that the printer 1 according to the present embodiment is powered off, and at least it can be said that it is difficult to guarantee the operation of the application program. Therefore, in the printer 1 according to the present embodiment, when the connection between the printer 1 according to the present embodiment and the personal computer 111 is disconnected, or when the power of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment is turned off, etc. On the other hand, since the end point of the application program can be synchronized, it is possible to prevent the application program from operating in a state where it is difficult to guarantee the operation of the application program.

  Further, in the printer 1 according to the present embodiment, when the application program is executed on the personal computer 111 (S10), the notification file 203 including the status information of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment is read on the personal computer 111 side. After being issued (S32), it is determined whether or not the notification file 203 includes status information indicating that the automatic power-off process has started (S33). If the notification file 203 includes status information indicating that the automatic power-off process has started (S33: YES), the print data being created by the application program is stored in the temporary folder as backup print data. 123 (S34). Further, the read information at the next activation is stored in the registry 122 (S35).

  Therefore, in the printer 1 according to the present embodiment, when the application program is read and executed next time on the personal computer 111 (S10), it is based on the next-time startup read information stored in the registry 122 (S61). : YES), the backup print data is read from the temporary folder 133 (S62). Therefore, even if the power is automatically turned off while creating the print data in the application program, the print data created immediately before the power is turned off can be reproduced when the application program is restarted.

  In the printer 1 according to the present embodiment, when the application program is executed on the personal computer 111 (S10), the notification file 203 is read when the notification file 203 is read on the personal computer 111 side (S32). If the status information indicating that the automatic power-off process has been started is included (S33: YES), “continue”, “save and exit”, and “end” are selected on the display 113 of the personal computer 111. A window 300 including buttons 301, 302, and 303 is displayed (S41). At this time, until the power of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment is turned off by the automatic power-off process (S47: NO), on the personal computer 111 side, “continue”, “save and end”, “end” The selection buttons 301, 302, and 303 can be selected by the user. If the user selects the “Continue” selection button 301 (S42: YES), a release control command for canceling the automatic power-off process is transmitted to the printer 1 according to the present embodiment (S51). If the user selects the “Save and Exit” selection button 302 (S43: YES), a file save dialog is displayed on the display 113 of the personal computer 111 (S44). If the user selects the “END” selection button 303 (S46: YES), the application program ends (S50). Therefore, the printer 1 according to the present embodiment determines whether to extend the creation of print data with the application program before the printer 1 according to the present embodiment is automatically turned off. It becomes possible to select.

  Furthermore, in the printer 1 according to the present embodiment, if the processing of the “Continue”, “Save and Exit”, and “Exit” selection buttons 301, 302, and 303 is normally completed on the personal computer 111 side, The backup print data is deleted from the folder 123 (S48), and the read information at the next activation is deleted from the registry 122 (S49). Therefore, if the processing of each of the “Continue”, “Save and Exit”, and “Exit” selection buttons 301, 302, and 303 ends normally, the application program is read to the PC 111 next time and executed. However, there is no inconvenience that the print data created when the notification file 203 is received (stored as backup print data in S34) is reproduced when the application program is restarted.

  In the printer 1 according to the present embodiment, after the user selects the “Save and Exit” selection button 302 on the personal computer 111 side (S43: YES), the user cancels the file save dialog ( (S45: YES), a release control command for canceling the automatic power-off process is transmitted to the printer 1 according to the present embodiment (S51). Therefore, even when the user selects to display a file save dialog when the printer 1 according to the present embodiment is automatically turned off (S43: YES), the application program is subsequently displayed. It is possible to select to extend the creation of print data.

  Furthermore, in the printer 1 according to the present embodiment, on the personal computer 111 side, none of the “Continue”, “Save and exit”, and “Exit” selection buttons 301, 302, and 303 is selected by the user. When the fourth predetermined time has elapsed from the display of each of the selection buttons 301, 302, and 303 (S47: YES), the printer 1 according to the present embodiment does not delete the backup print data or the next startup read information. The application program ends before the power supply from the battery 62 is turned off (S50).

  In this regard, in the printer 1 according to the present embodiment, as described above, even if the power is automatically turned off while the print data is being created by the application program, the application program is next read by the personal computer 111 and executed. (S10), the backup print data is read from the temporary folder 133 (S62) and created immediately before the power is turned off, based on the next startup read information stored in the registry 122 (S61: YES). The print data that has been printed can be reproduced when the application program is restarted. Therefore, even if the power is automatically turned off without being aware of the “Continue”, “Save and Exit”, and “Exit” selection buttons 301, 302, 303, it is created immediately before the power is turned off. The print data that has been printed can be reproduced when the application program is restarted.

  Further, in the printer 1 according to the present embodiment, on the personal computer 111 side, the application program 202 is transmitted immediately before the command file 202 is transmitted to the printer 1 according to the present embodiment with the print start command included (S15). In step S71, the print data being created is stored as backup print data in the temporary folder 123 (S71), and read information at the next startup is stored in the registry 122 (S72).

  Therefore, in the printer 1 according to the present embodiment, when the application program is read and executed next time by the personal computer 111 (S10), it is based on the next startup read information stored in the registry 122 (S61: YES), the backup print data is read from the temporary folder 133 (S62). Therefore, even if the printer 1 according to the present embodiment is turned off while printing data is being printed, the print data created immediately before the power is turned off can be reproduced when the application program is resumed.

  Furthermore, in the printer 1 according to the present embodiment, when the application program is executed on the personal computer 111 (S10), when the notification file 203 is read on the personal computer 111 side (S16), the notification file 203 is displayed. The printer according to the present embodiment prints the print data included in the command file 202 transmitted at S15 based on the status of the printer 1 according to the present embodiment detected from the status information included in the printer. If it is determined in step 1 that the process has been completed normally (S17: YES), the backup print data is deleted from the temporary folder 123 (S81), and the next startup read information is deleted from the registry 122 (S81). S82). Therefore, if the print data is normally printed by the printer 1 according to the present embodiment, even if the application program is read and executed next time by the personal computer 111, the normally printed print data (S71). In this case, there is no inconvenience that the data stored in the backup print data is reproduced when the application program is restarted.

[9. Others]
In addition, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment, A various change is possible in the range which does not deviate from the meaning.
For example, the printer 1 according to the present embodiment is a so-called label printer that performs printing on the printing tape 2, but may be a printer that performs printing on a roll-shaped or sheet-shaped printing paper.
Further, instead of reading information at the time of next startup stored in the registry 122, the application program may read or not read the backup print data from the temporary folder 123 depending on the presence or absence of the backup print data stored in the temporary folder 123. It may be determined when it is read and executed next time at 111.

  Further, the personal computer 111 connected to the printer 1 according to the present embodiment via the USB port P may be a tower type, an all-in-one type, a notebook type personal computer, or a large computer, Further, it may be connected to another personal computer via a LAN or the like.

  The present invention relates to a control technique for a printer connected to a host via a USB.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a program for controlling the operation of the printer according to the embodiment of the present invention in accordance with the operation of the personal computer. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a state where the printer is connected to a personal computer. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an internal configuration of the printer. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a program for controlling the operation of the personal computer in accordance with the operation of the printer. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a program for controlling the operation of the personal computer in accordance with the operation of the printer. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a program for controlling the operation of the personal computer in accordance with the operation of the printer. It is the figure which showed the window used with the exclusive editor of the printer. It is the flowchart figure which showed the program which controls operation | movement of a personal computer. It is the flowchart figure which showed the program which controls operation | movement of a personal computer. It is the flowchart figure which showed the program which controls operation | movement of a personal computer.

Explanation of symbols

1 Printer 32 CPU
34 RAM
36 FLASH ROM
39 Management Table 40 Normal Storage Area 41 Application Program Storage Area 42 Instruction File Storage Area 43 Notification File Placement Area 44 Setting File Placement Area 45 Mass Storage Area 54 Drive Circuit 55 Thermal Head 56 Drive Circuit 57 Tape Feed Motor 61 Power Supply Circuit 62 Battery 111 Personal computer 122 Registry 123 Temporary folder 200 Application program execution file 201 Setting file 202 Command file 203 Notification file 301 Window 302 “Continue” selection button 303 “Save and exit” selection button 303 “Exit” button P USB port

Claims (5)

USB port,
A memory having a normal storage area;
To allow a PC placed outside the normal storage area of the memory and connected to the USB port to recognize the normal storage area in the memory as a removable drive and to manage access to the normal storage area in the memory Management table,
A first memory area in which a part of the normal storage area of the memory is assigned by the management table, and an execution file of an application program is stored;
A second memory area in which a part of the normal storage area of the memory is assigned by the management table, and an instruction file capable of including print data created by the application program is written;
Printing means for performing printing based on print data in the instruction file written in the second memory area;
A processor for controlling the memory and the printing means;
The processor is
(A) updating the instruction file in the second memory area based on the received instruction file;
(B) Analyzing the updated command file to retrieve the print data;
When the execution file of the application program is read by the PC and executed on the PC, the application program executes the following control:
(1) Regular access to the normal storage area of the memory,
(2) Terminate the application program itself when the access fails.
A printer characterized by that. USB port,
A memory having a normal storage area;
A normal storage area in the memory, which is placed outside the normal storage area of the memory, connected to the USB port and having a temporary folder and registry, recognizes the normal storage area in the memory as a removable drive. A management table to manage access to
A first memory area in which a part of the normal storage area of the memory is assigned by the management table, and an execution file of an application program is stored;
A second memory area in which a part of the normal storage area of the memory is assigned by the management table, and an instruction file capable of including print data created by the application program is written;
Printing means for performing printing based on print data in the instruction file written in the second memory area;
A third memory area in which a part of the normal storage area of the memory is assigned by the management table, and a notification file including status information of the printer is written;
A processor for controlling the memory and the printing means,
The processor performs an automatic power-off process to turn off the power supply from the battery after a predetermined time from when the remaining amount of the battery becomes less than a predetermined amount,
The processor is
(A) updating the instruction file in the second memory area based on the received instruction file;
(B) Analyzing the updated command file to retrieve the print data;
When the execution file of the application program is read by the PC and executed on the PC, the application program executes the following control after detecting the notification file,
(1) It is determined whether or not information indicating that the automatic power-off process has started is included in the notification file as the status information;
(2) If it is determined that the information that the automatic power-off process has started is included in the notification file,
(2-1) storing the print data as backup print data in the temporary folder;
(2-2) When the application program is read to the PC next time and executed, the next startup read information for reading the backup print data from the temporary folder is stored in the registry.
A printer characterized by that. A printer according to claim 2, wherein
The application program realizes the controls (1) to (2) by executing the following controls (I) to (V):
(I) When the notification file is received, if it is determined that the notification file includes information indicating that the automatic power-off process has been started as the status information, “continue” / “store” is stored in the PC. And exit ”and“ Exit ”options.
(II) If it is determined that the user has selected “Continue” among the options, a control command for canceling the automatic power-off process is transmitted to the printer,
(III) If it is determined that the user has selected “Save and Exit” from the above options, a file save dialog is displayed,
(IV) If it is determined that the user has selected “Exit” among the options, the application program itself is terminated,
(V) If the processing of the three options ends normally,
(V-1) deleting the backup print data from the temporary folder,
(V-2) deleting the read information at the next startup from the registry;
A printer characterized by that. A printer according to claim 3,
The application program executes the following controls (VI) to (VII):
(VI) If the user determines that the file save dialog is canceled after selecting “Save and Exit” from among the options, a control command for canceling the automatic power-off process is transmitted to the printer,
(VI) Among the options, “Continue”, “Save and exit”, and “Exit” are not selected by the user, and the predetermined time has elapsed from (I), and the printer Close the application program itself just before the power supply is turned off.
A printer characterized by that. A printer according to claim 2, wherein
The application program realizes the controls (1) to (2) by executing the following controls (i) to (ii):
(I) When sending the command file to the printer with a print start command included,
(I-1) storing the print data as backup print data in the temporary folder;
(I-2) When the application program is read and executed next time on the PC, the backup print data is read from the temporary folder when the next startup information is stored in the registry.
(Ii) When the notification file is received, if it is determined that the reception information file includes information indicating that the printing according to the print start command has been normally performed by the printing unit as the status information,
(Ii-1) deleting the backup print data from the temporary folder;
(Ii-2) deleting the read information at the next startup from the registry;
A printer characterized by that.

Images