JP5945451B2 - Printer and program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a printer and a program for performing wireless communication with a wireless device.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there has been a printer that performs communication (wireless communication) using radio wave spatial propagation with a wireless device such as a server device, and performs a recording operation based on various types of information transmitted from the wireless device. A printer that performs a recording operation through wireless communication performs pairing with a predetermined wireless device prior to the recording operation, and establishes a connection with the paired wireless device.

  In such a printer, there is a printer that restores (reconnects) the disconnected connection when the connection with the wireless device once established is disconnected due to a change in environment or the like. The reconnection between the printer and the wireless device can be performed by outputting a connection request for reconnecting the wireless device to the wireless device once established.

  Conventionally, such printers have been provided with dedicated input units such as switches and operation buttons dedicated to output connection requests, and output connection requests in response to input operations on the dedicated input units. there were. Also, in such a printer, conventionally, in response to an input operation to turn on after turning off the power switch with respect to a power switch that turns on / off the power supply to the printer, the printer is turned on according to the operation. When restarting, a connection request was output.

  Specifically, in a conventional portable printer that performs wireless communication with a wireless access point, when the input unit is operated by an operator, a response request that requests a response from the wireless access point while maintaining the power-on state There has been a technique for transmitting a signal (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below).

JP 2011-183594 A

  However, as described above, the conventional technique for outputting a connection request from the printer in response to an input operation to the connection request output dedicated input section provided in the printer provides a connection request output dedicated input section. There is a need. For this reason, there has been a problem that the structure of the printer is complicated and it is difficult to reduce the size of the printer.

  In addition, as described above, the conventional printer that outputs a connection request from the printer in response to an input operation to an input unit or a power switch dedicated to output of the connection request is provided in the printer. Depending on the location and the arrangement state of the printer, the input operation to the input unit and the power switch may be difficult, which is inconvenient.

  When a printer is downsized, the external dimensions of the printer are reduced. For this reason, when the connection request is output from the printer in response to an input operation to the input unit dedicated to output of the connection request when the printer and the wireless device are reconnected as in the conventional technique described above, the connection request is output. It may be difficult to arrange all operation units (switches, buttons, etc.) including a dedicated input unit on one surface such as the front surface of the printer housing.

  As a countermeasure, the input unit dedicated to output connection requests is less frequently used than the “FEED” switch that transports the recording medium. Therefore, the input unit is provided on the side or back of the printer housing. In this case, depending on the location where the printer is arranged and the arrangement state of the printer, an input operation on the input unit may be more difficult, which is inconvenient.

  Similarly, since the power switch is less frequently used than the “FEED” switch or the like, when the power switch is provided on the side surface or the back surface of the printer housing, the location of the printer or the printer Depending on the arrangement state, the input operation to the power switch may be difficult, and there is a problem that the convenience is inferior.

  Further, the conventional technique for outputting a connection request from the printer in response to an input operation to the power switch is a wireless communication between the printer and the wireless device when the operation of the wireless device to be connected to the printer is linked to the power state of the printer. When reconnecting to a device, in addition to turning the printer's power switch off and then on, the wireless device's power switch must be turned off and then on. There was a problem.

  In order to solve the above-described problems caused by the prior art, the present invention can easily and surely restore the connection when the connection with the wireless device is disconnected and can be downsized. An object is to provide a printer and a program.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, a printer according to the present invention is a printer that performs a recording operation on a recording medium based on a recording instruction wirelessly transmitted from an external device to which a connection has been established. A state detecting unit that detects that the printer is incapable of performing the recording operation, an operation receiving unit that receives an input operation related to the recording operation, and the recording based on a detection result of the state detecting unit. Connection request output means for outputting a first connection request for requesting connection to the external device by wireless communication when the operation accepting means accepts an input operation in a state where the operation cannot be performed, Waiting for a second connection request transmitted from the external device in response to the first connection request and requesting connection to the printer, the second connection request is requested. Characterized in that to establish a connection between the external device serving as the transmission source of the second connection request when receiving the.

  In the printer according to the present invention, in the above invention, the printer is selectively positioned in a housing that houses the printer body, an open position that opens the opening included in the housing, and a closed position that closes the opening. And the state detecting means is a sensor whose output value changes between a state where the lid member is positioned at the open position and a state where the lid member is positioned at the closed position. The request output means, based on the output value of the sensor, when the operation accepting means accepts an input operation in a state where the lid member is positioned at the open position, the first connection to the external device It is characterized by outputting a request.

  In the printer according to the present invention, in the above invention, the state detection unit is a sensor whose output value changes between a state where the recording medium is present and a state where the recording medium is absent. The first connection request is output to the external device when the operation accepting unit accepts an input operation in a state where there is no recording medium based on the output value of the sensor.

  In the above invention, the printer according to the present invention further comprises storage means for storing a connection history with the external device, and the connection request output means is specified based on the connection history stored in the storage means. The first connection request is output to an external device.

  In the printer according to the present invention, in the above invention, the operation accepting unit includes a timing unit that counts an operation time during which the operation accepting unit continuously accepts an input operation; First input operation time determining means for determining whether or not the operation time measured by the time measuring means is longer than a first predetermined time when an input operation is received, and the connection request output means comprises the connection request output means, Based on the determination result of the first operation time determination means, the first connection request is output to the external device when the operation time is longer than the first predetermined time.

  In the printer according to the present invention, in the above invention, when the operation time is longer than the first predetermined time, the operation time is further longer than the first predetermined time. The second operation time determination means for determining whether or not the operation time is longer than the second predetermined time based on the determination result of the second operation time determination means. A history erasure unit for erasing the connection history stored in the unit, and the connection request output unit sends a search request for requesting a response from a connectable external device after the history erasure unit erases the connection history. And outputting the first connection request to an external device responding to the search request.

  In the printer according to the present invention, in the above invention, the state detection unit may be in a connected state where the printer is connected to the external device, or the connection with the external device is disconnected. The connection request output means detects the input to the external device when the operation accepting means accepts an input operation while the connection with the external device is disconnected. 1 connection request is output.

  In addition, the program according to the present invention includes an operation accepting unit that accepts an input operation related to a recording operation, and executes the recording operation on the recording medium based on a recording instruction wirelessly transmitted from an external device with which connection has been established. A program executed by a printer, the state detecting step for detecting that the printer is incapable of executing the recording operation, and the state incapable of executing the recording operation based on a detection result in the state detecting step A connection request output step of outputting a first connection request for requesting connection to the external device by wireless communication when the operation receiving means receives an input operation, and outputting in the connection request output step A second connection request transmitted from the external device in response to the first connection request made to request connection to the printer. And machine, characterized in that so as to establish a connection between the source and becomes the external device of said second connection request when receiving the second connection request.

  According to the printer and the program according to the present invention, when the connection with the wireless device is disconnected, the connection can be easily and surely restored, and the size can be reduced.

It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the structure of the printer of embodiment concerning this invention. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the structure of the printer of embodiment concerning this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the hardware constitutions of the printer of embodiment concerning this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the functional structure of the printer of embodiment concerning this invention. It is a flowchart (the 1) which shows the process sequence of the printer of embodiment concerning this invention. It is a flowchart (the 2) which shows the process sequence of the printer of embodiment concerning this invention. It is a flowchart (the 3) which shows the process sequence of the printer of embodiment concerning this invention. It is a flowchart (the 4) which shows the process sequence of the printer of embodiment concerning this invention. It is a flowchart (the 5) which shows the process sequence of the printer of embodiment concerning this invention. It is a flowchart (the 6) which shows the process sequence of the printer of embodiment concerning this invention.

  Exemplary embodiments of a printer and a program according to the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

(Printer configuration)
First, the configuration of the printer according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. 1 and 2 are explanatory diagrams showing the configuration of the printer according to the embodiment of the present invention. 1 and 2, a printer 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a housing 101 that houses a printer main body (reference numerals are omitted). The housing 101 has a substantially box shape having an opening (not shown) that opens one surface on the upper side when the printer 100 is installed on a stand or the like.

  A lid member 102 is connected to the casing 101. The lid member 102 is connected to the housing 101 via a hinge mechanism 201 and is connected to the housing 101 so as to be rotatable around a connecting portion by the hinge mechanism 201. By rotating with respect to the housing 101, the lid member 102 is selectively positioned at an open position where the opening included in the housing 101 is opened and a closed position where the opening is closed. The casing 101 and the lid member 102 form a discharge port 103 for discharging a recorded recording medium on which recording has been performed in the printer main body in a state where the lid member 102 is positioned at the closed position.

  The printer main body is accommodated in a space formed by the housing 101 and the lid member 102 positioned at the closed position. The printer body includes a holding unit 202 that holds a recording medium (not shown). The holding unit 202 holds the outer peripheral surface of a long recording medium wound in a roll shape and accommodates it in a rotatable state. The recording medium wound in a roll shape is held by the holding unit 202 in a state where it can be pulled out from the end in the longitudinal direction and from the end on the outer peripheral side.

  The printer 100 is configured to open and close the holding unit 202 in the printer body as the lid member 102 opens and closes with respect to the housing 101. In the state where the lid member 102 is positioned at the open position, the printer main body opens the holding unit 202 so as to allow the recording medium to be attached to and detached from the printer main body. Further, the printer main body forms a conveyance path for guiding the recording medium held by the holding unit 202 to the discharge port 103 via the recording unit and the cutter unit (both not shown).

  The recording unit is provided between the holding unit 202 and the discharge port 103 in the transport path. The recording unit performs a recording operation for recording characters and the like on the recording medium drawn out from the holding unit 202 into the conveyance path. The recording unit is not limited to recording characters, and can record non-characters such as symbols, predetermined logo marks, and other images. The recording method in the recording unit can be, for example, a thermal method.

  A recording unit that performs thermal recording includes a thermal print head (thermal head). Specifically, the thermal head includes a plurality of heating elements (heating resistors) arranged in a line in the width direction of the recording medium, a driver IC (see FIG. 3) that drives the heating resistors, and the like. .

  The driver IC heats the heating elements corresponding to the energized electrode wiring by selectively energizing the electrode wiring corresponding to each heating element in the thermal head from a power supply (not shown). The thermal head can print characters, symbols, various images, and the like on the thermal coloring surface of the recording medium by transferring the heat generated in the heating element to the thermal coloring type recording medium.

  As in this embodiment, a printer 100 having a recording unit that performs thermal printing uses a recording medium having thermal color development. Since the thermal head and the control method of the thermal head can be easily realized by using various known techniques, description thereof will be omitted.

  The recording unit may perform impact printing instead of thermal printing. A recording unit that performs printing by an impact method includes an impact type print head (impact print head) and a mechanism for holding an ink ribbon interposed between the impact print head and the recording medium (all not shown) To do). The recording unit that performs printing by the impact method may include a driving source such as a motor that applies a driving force to reciprocate the impact print head in the scanning direction (width direction of the recording medium).

  The impact print head includes a plurality of bundled wire pins, and has a structure in which tips of the plurality of wire pins are arranged in a matrix. The plurality of wire pins can protrude independently toward the recording medium. The impact print head prints characters or the like by selectively hitting a plurality of wire pins on a recording medium via an ink ribbon and printing small dots (dots) on the recording medium. Since the impact print head can be easily realized by using a known technique, the description thereof is omitted.

  In addition, the recording unit includes a platen 203 that is disposed to face the thermal head with a conveyance path in between. The platen 203 supports a recording medium to which a printing pressure is applied by a thermal head during printing from the side opposite to the thermal head with a conveyance path in between. The platen 203 has a function of conveying a recording medium.

  The platen 203 is provided so as to be rotatable about an axis extending in the width direction of the recording medium drawn out to the conveyance path (a direction orthogonal to the conveyance direction of the recording medium), and is connected to a platen via a gear (not shown). It can be provided so as to be connected to a drive source such as a motor (see FIG. 3). As a result, when the platen 203 rotates in response to the driving force transmitted from the platen motor, friction is generated between the recording medium sandwiched between the platen 203 and the thermal head and the platen 203, and the friction is caused by the friction. A recording medium can be conveyed.

  The cutter unit is provided downstream of the recording unit in the conveyance direction of the recording medium in the conveyance path. The cutter unit includes a fixed blade (not shown) whose position is fixed, and a movable blade (not shown) provided at a position facing the fixed blade with the conveyance path in between. The movable blade is provided so as to be movable in a direction in which the movable blade is in contact with or separated from the fixed blade. The movable blade is positioned at a position away from the fixed blade when not operating, such as when waiting for cutting of the recording medium.

  The cutter unit includes a drive source such as a cutter motor (see FIG. 3), a power transmission mechanism (not shown) that transmits a driving force generated by the motor to the movable blade, and the like. . The movable blade can move back and forth so that it moves closer to the fixed blade by the driving force generated by the cutter motor, and then moves away from the fixed blade after contacting the fixed blade. It is configured.

  The printer 100 can cut the recording medium by reciprocating the movable blade as described above in a state where the recording medium is positioned between the fixed blade and the movable blade. Specifically, the printer 100 completely cuts the recording medium by reciprocating the movable blade so that the entire blade of the movable blade is brought into contact with the entire blade of the fixed blade in the cutter unit. Can be done.

  Further, in the printer 100, in a state where a part of the recording medium is connected by reciprocating the movable blade so that a part of the blade of the movable blade does not contact a part of the blade of the fixed blade in the cutter unit. A so-called partial cut can be performed. By performing the partial cut, the cut recording medium does not become individual pieces but is connected to a roll-shaped recording medium held by the printer 100.

  Thereby, it is possible to prevent the cut recording medium from being scattered around the printer 100. The partial cut cuts the recording medium in a state where one end portions in the width direction of the recording medium are connected. Moreover, the partial cut may cut the recording medium in a state where the central portions in the width direction of the recording medium are connected.

  The printer 100 may include a blade 204 that cuts the recording medium manually by an operator. The blade 204 can be used in combination with the cutter unit. Further, the blade 204 may be provided in a printer that does not include a cutter unit and that cuts the recording medium only by a manual operation by an operator.

  An operation panel 104 is provided on the upper surface (upper surface of the housing 101) of the housing 101 in a state where the printer 100 is installed. The operation panel 104 can be provided in the vicinity of the discharge port 103 on the top surface of the housing 101. The operation panel 104 includes various status notification lamps 104 a, 104 b, and 104 c that notify the status of the printer 100.

  The various state notification lamps 104 a, 104 b, and 104 c are driven and controlled by a control unit (not shown) provided in the printer 100, and are turned on according to the state of the printer 100. Specifically, the status notification lamp is a “POWER” lamp 104 a that is turned on in accordance with a power supply state to the printer 100, a “ERROR” lamp 104 b that is turned on when an error occurs in the printer 100, and a holding function. This includes a “PAPER” lamp 104c that is turned on when the recording medium held by the section 202 runs out.

  The various state notification lamps 104a, 104b, and 104c have different emission colors. Specifically, the emission color of the “POWER” lamp 104a is set to “green”, the emission color of the “ERROR” lamp 104b is set to “red”, the emission color of the “PAPER” lamp 104c is set to “orange”, and so on. be able to. By lighting various state notification lamps 104a, 104b, and 104c having different emission colors according to the state of the printer 100 (including blinking), the state of the printer 100 can be reliably notified.

  The status of the printer 100 can be notified by lighting each of the various status notification lamps 104a, 104b, and 104c independently. Specifically, the state of the printer 100 can be notified, for example, by continuously lighting the corresponding state notification lamp. More specifically, the status of the printer 100 can be notified by turning on or off the corresponding status notification lamps 104a, 104b, and 104c in a predetermined pattern.

  When the corresponding status notification lamps 104a, 104b, and 104c are blinked, a plurality of states of the printer 100 can be notified by adjusting the blinking pattern. Specifically, for example, it blinks in a pattern such as “1 second lighting → 0.5 second off → 1 second lighting →...” Or “0.5 second lighting → 0.1 second off → 0. A plurality of states of the printer 100 can be notified by blinking in a pattern such as “lights for 5 seconds →.

  Further, the status of the printer 100 may be notified by simultaneously lighting a plurality of status notification lamps 104a, 104b, 104c among various status notification lamps 104a, 104b, 104c. Specifically, the status of the printer 100 can be notified by turning on the green “POWER” lamp 104a and the red “ERROR” lamp 104b at the same time.

  When notifying the status of the printer 100 using the plurality of status notification lamps 104a, 104b, and 104c, the respective status notifications such as “turn on one status notification lamp and blink another status notification lamp” are performed. The lighting (flashing) patterns of the lamps 104a, 104b, and 104c may be different. Specifically, the status of the printer 100 may be notified by continuously turning on the green “POWER” lamp 104a and blinking the red “ERROR” lamp 104b in a predetermined pattern.

  The operation panel 104 further includes an operation reception unit 104d that receives an operator's input operation. The operation receiving unit 104d can be a “FEED” switch that receives a transport input operation for transporting a recording medium in accordance with an operation. When the printer 100 receives an operation on the “FEED” switch 104 d, the printer 100 drives the platen motor to rotate the platen 203, thereby conveying the recording medium in the direction of discharging from the discharge port 103.

  The printer 100 drives the platen motor only while the “FEED” switch 104d is being operated. As a result, the conveyance amount of the recording medium (the length for conveying the recording medium) can be adjusted in accordance with the operation time for the “FEED” switch 104d. In addition, the printer 100 may drive the platen motor by a certain amount each time the “FEED” switch 104d is operated. Accordingly, the conveyance amount of the recording medium (the length for conveying the recording medium) can be adjusted according to the number of operations on the “FEED” switch 104d.

  The “FEED” switch 104d is provided at a position where the operator can easily operate, such as the top surface of the housing 101. The “FEED” switch 104 d is provided in the vicinity of the discharge port 103. Since the printer 100 is generally installed in an easy-to-access state for the operator to collect the recording medium discharged from the discharge port 103, by providing a “FEED” switch 104 d in the vicinity of the discharge port 103, The operator's operability for the “FEED” switch 104d can be ensured.

  The printer 100 includes a power switch. For example, the power switch can be provided at a position on the side surface of the housing 101 in a state where the printer 100 is installed on a table or the like. Since the outer dimensions of the printer 100 (housing 101) become smaller as the printer 100 becomes smaller, an operation unit with a low operation frequency such as a power switch is provided at a position on the side surface of the housing 101. As a result, the limited surface of the casing 101 can be used effectively, and the printer 100 can be reduced in size.

(Hardware configuration of printer 100)
Next, a hardware configuration of the printer 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing a hardware configuration of the printer 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention. 3, a printer 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a CPU 301, a flash memory 302, a RAM 303, a thermal head driver IC 304, a communication module 305, a “FEED” switch 104d, and a platen motor 306. A cutter motor 307, an open / close sensor 308, a remaining amount sensor 309, a thermo sensor 310, and various state notification lamps 104a, 104b, 104c.

  The CPU 301 controls the entire printer 100. The flash memory 302 stores a program such as a boot program. The RAM 303 is used as a work area for the CPU 301. The RAM 303 is used, for example, when the CPU 301 expands image data related to printing based on the print data.

  The communication module 305 includes a communication I / F (interface) 305a, a communication state detection module 305b, and a flash memory 305c. The communication I / F 305a, the communication state detection module 305b, and the flash memory 305c constitute one module. ing.

  The communication I / F 305a controls an interface that performs wireless communication with an external device (not shown). The communication module 305 controls input / output of data in the computer apparatus using the communication I / F 305a. The external device generates various command information for the printer 100 and outputs the generated command information to the printer 100. Specifically, the external device can be realized by a server device that accepts order information transmitted from a terminal that accepts an input of an order at a restaurant such as a family restaurant.

  The communication state detection module 305b detects the connection state between the external device and the printer 100. The communication module 305 outputs the detection result by the communication state detection module 305b to the CPU 301. The communication module 305 periodically detects the connection state between the external device and the printer 100 using the communication state detection module 305b, and detects that the connection between the external device and the printer 100 is disconnected. The detection result is output to the CPU 301. Alternatively, the communication module 305 periodically detects the connection state between the external device and the printer 100 using the communication state detection module 305b, and the CPU 301 outputs the detection result regardless of the connection state between the external device and the printer 100. May be output.

  The flash memory 305c stores a pairing information database (not shown). The flash memory 305c is realized by a non-volatile storage medium in which stored information (pairing information database information) does not volatilize even when the printer 100 is turned off. The flash memory 305c stores a connection history (pairing information) indicating a connection history between the printer 100 and an external device (server device) connected to the printer 100 in the pairing information database.

  In the pairing information database, device information such as identification information of a server apparatus that has established a connection in the past is stored as a connection history (pairing information). In the pairing information database, it is possible to store device information such as identification information of a server device that has established a connection in the order in which the connection was established. In the pairing information database, for example, device information such as identification information of a server device that has established a connection in the past and information related to the date and time when the connection with the server device has been established are stored in association with each other. May be. Furthermore, in the pairing information database, for example, device information such as identification information of a server device that has established a connection in the past, the date and time when the connection with the server device was established, and the connection with the server device was disconnected The date and time information may be stored in association with each other.

  In this embodiment, the printer 100 and the external device (server device) are connected using the communication module 305 including the communication I / F 305a, the communication state detection module 305b, and the flash memory 305c. It is not limited to. In the printer 100 according to the present invention, the communication I / F 305a, the communication state detection module 305b, and the flash memory 305c may be provided independently.

  In this embodiment, the pairing information database is provided in the flash memory 305c constituting the communication module 305 together with the communication I / F 305a and the communication state detection module 305b. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Instead of the flash memory 305c having the above configuration, a pairing information database may be provided in the flash memory 302. In the printer 100, when the communication I / F 305a, the communication state detection module 305b, and the flash memory 305c are provided independently, the pairing information database may be provided in the flash memory 305c provided independently. The flash memory 302 may be provided.

  The thermal head driver IC 304 is driven and controlled by the CPU 301 and selectively energizes the electrode wiring corresponding to each of the plurality of heat generating elements included in the thermal head to selectively heat each heat generating element. As described above, the printer 100 prints characters, symbols, various images, and the like on the heat-sensitive coloring surface of the recording medium by transmitting the heat generated in the heating element of the thermal head to the heat-sensitive coloring recording medium. Can do.

  When the “FEED” switch 104 d receives an operator operation, the “FEED” switch 104 d outputs a signal indicating that the operator operation has been received to the CPU 301. The “FEED” switch 104d can be configured to output a signal indicating that the operator's operation has been received to the CPU 301 while the operator's operation is being received. In this case, the CPU 301 drives and controls the platen motor 306 while a signal indicating that the operator's operation has been accepted is output from the “FEED” switch 104d.

  The platen motor 306 and the cutter motor 307 convert electrical energy into mechanical energy and generate a rotational driving force. The platen motor 306 can be realized by a stepping motor, for example. The cutter motor 307 can be realized by, for example, a DC motor.

  The platen motor 306 and the cutter motor 307 are driven and controlled by the CPU 301, respectively, and switch the rotation direction according to the excitation sequence and the direction of the applied current. That is, by controlling the excitation sequence and the direction of current applied to the platen motor 306 and the cutter motor 307 by the CPU 301, the rotational directions of the platen motor 306 and the cutter motor 307 can be arbitrarily switched.

  The output value of the open / close sensor 308 changes according to the position of the lid member 102 with respect to the housing 101. The output value of the open / close sensor 308 differs between the state where the lid member 102 is positioned at the open position and the state where the lid member 102 is positioned at the closed position. The open / close sensor 308 can be realized by a micro switch, for example.

  Based on the output value from the open / close sensor 308, the CPU 301 can determine whether the lid member 102 is positioned at the open position or the closed position. When the CPU 301 determines that the lid member 102 is positioned at the open position based on the output value of the open / close sensor 308, the CPU 301 turns on the green “POWER” lamp 104a among the various status notification lamps, The “ERROR” lamp 104b is turned on. The CPU 301 always turns on the green “POWER” lamp 104a when the printer 100 is powered on.

  The remaining amount sensor 309 has different output values depending on the remaining amount of the recording medium in the holding unit 202 and the presence or absence of the recording medium in the holding unit 202. The remaining amount sensor 309 outputs a first output value when the remaining amount of the recording medium in the holding unit 202 becomes equal to or less than a predetermined amount (when paper near end is reached). The remaining amount sensor 309 outputs the second output value when the recording medium in the holding unit 202 runs out (when the paper end is reached). Based on the output value from the remaining amount sensor 309, the CPU 301 can determine whether the remaining amount of the recording medium in the holding unit 202 is equal to or less than a predetermined amount or whether there is no recording medium in the holding unit 202.

  When the CPU 301 determines that the paper near end has been reached based on the output value from the remaining amount sensor 309, the CPU 301 turns on the green “POWER” lamp 104a and the orange “PAPER” lamp 104c among the various status notification lamps. If the CPU 301 determines that the paper end has been reached based on the output value from the remaining amount sensor 309, the CPU 301 sets the green “POWER” lamp 104a, the red “ERROR” lamp 104b, and the orange “PAPER” lamp 104c. Light up.

  The thermo sensor 310 changes its output value according to the temperature of the thermal head. The thermo sensor 310 changes its output value when the temperature of the thermal head becomes equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature. The predetermined temperature related to the output value of the thermosensor 310 can be, for example, the upper limit value of the temperature at which the temperature of the thermal head can obtain a normal recording result.

  Based on the output value from the thermosensor 310, the CPU 301 determines whether or not the state of the printer 100 is a state in which a recording operation can be performed. When the CPU 301 determines that the temperature of the thermal head is equal to or higher than a predetermined temperature based on the output value from the thermosensor 310 (a state where an overheat error has occurred), the CPU 301 turns on the green “POWER” lamp 104a. At the same time, the red “ERROR” lamp 104b blinks in a predetermined pattern.

(Functional configuration of printer 100)
Next, a functional configuration of the printer 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of the printer 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention. 4, the printer 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention includes a state detection unit 401, a storage unit 402, an operation reception unit 403, a time measurement unit 404, a first operation time determination unit 405, and a second operation unit. Operation time determination unit 406, history deletion unit 407, connection request output unit 408, response reception unit 409, and connection establishment unit 410.

  The state detection unit 401 detects that the printer 100 is in a state where the recording operation cannot be performed. The state detection unit 401 can be realized by an open / close sensor 308 that is a sensor whose output value changes between a state where the lid member 102 is positioned at the open position and a state where the lid member 102 is positioned at the closed position. In this case, when the state detection unit 401 determines that the lid member 102 is in the open position based on the output value of the open / close sensor 308, the printer 100 cannot perform the recording operation. Can be determined.

  In addition, the state detection unit 401 can be realized by a remaining amount sensor 309 that is a sensor whose output value changes between a state with a recording medium and a state without the recording medium. In this case, based on the output value of the remaining amount sensor 309, the state detection unit 401 determines that the printer 100 is incapable of performing the recording operation when it is determined that there is no recording medium. Can do.

  The storage unit 402 stores a connection history (pairing information) with an external device 450 such as a server device. The storage unit 402 can be realized by the above-described pairing information database or a storage medium such as the flash memory 305c including the pairing information database. The storage unit 402 stores the stored connection history (pairing information) without loss even when the printer 100 is turned off.

  The operation accepting unit 403 accepts an input operation related to the recording operation. In the printer 100 of this embodiment, the operation accepting unit 403 can be realized by the “FEED” switch 104d. The time measuring unit 404 measures the operation time during which the operation receiving unit 403 continuously receives input operations. For example, the timing unit 404 uses a timing function provided in the CPU 301 to receive an input operation when the “FEED” switch 104d that realizes the operation reception unit 403 is pressed by the operator, and then performs the “FEED” by the input operation. Time is measured until the switch 104d is released.

  The first operation time determination unit 405 determines whether the operation time measured by the time measuring unit 404 is longer than the first predetermined time when the operation receiving unit 403 receives an input operation in a state where the recording operation cannot be performed. Judging. The first predetermined time is preferably a time sufficient for the operator to determine that the “FEED” switch 104d is intentionally operated. Specifically, for example, “2 seconds” is set. can do. The first predetermined time can be arbitrarily set by the designer of the printer 100, for example, and is not limited to “2 seconds”.

  Based on the determination result of the first operation time determination unit 405, the second operation time determination unit 406 determines that the operation time is longer than the first predetermined time when the operation time is longer than the first predetermined time. It is determined whether it is longer than the second predetermined time. The second predetermined time is preferably sufficient to determine that the operator has intentionally operated the “FEED” switch 104d for a time longer than the first predetermined time. For example, “5 seconds” can be set. The second predetermined time can be arbitrarily set by the designer of the printer 100, for example, and is not limited to “5 seconds”.

  Based on the determination result of the second operation time determination unit 406, the history deletion unit 407 deletes the connection history (pairing information) stored in the storage unit 402 when the operation time is longer than the second predetermined time. . In the printer 100 of this embodiment, the history erasing unit 407 receives the input operation by pressing the “FEED” switch 104d by the operator, and then continuously presses the “FEED” switch 104d for 5 seconds or more. When the connected state continues, the connection history (pairing information) stored in the storage unit 402 is deleted.

  Based on the detection result of the state detection unit 401, the connection request output unit 408 requests a connection to the external device 450 when the operation reception unit 403 receives an input operation when the recording operation cannot be performed. The connection request is output by wireless communication. When the state detection unit 401 is realized by the open / close sensor 308, the connection request output unit 408 determines that the “FEED” switch 104 d is in the state where the lid member 102 is positioned at the open position based on the output value of the open / close sensor 308. When an input operation by being pressed is received, a first connection request is output to the server device that is the external device 450.

  When the state detection unit 401 is realized by the remaining amount sensor 309, the connection request output unit 408 is based on the output value of the remaining amount sensor 309 when the “FEED” switch 104d is pressed when there is no recording medium. When an input operation is accepted, a first connection request is output to the server device that is the external device 450.

  In addition, the connection request output unit 408 outputs a first connection request to the server device specified based on the connection history (pairing information) stored in the storage unit 402. Specifically, the connection request output unit 408 sends a first connection request to the server device connected most recently among the server devices specified based on the connection history (pairing information) stored in the storage unit 402. Is output. Specifically, the connection request output unit 408 outputs the first connection request to all the server devices specified based on the connection history (pairing information) stored in the storage unit 402. Good.

  Further, the connection request output unit 408 outputs the first connection request to the server device when the operation time is longer than the first predetermined time based on the determination result of the first operation time determination unit 405. To do. Thereby, the first connection request to the server apparatus is output only when the “FEED” switch 104d is continuously pressed for a time longer than the first predetermined time. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the first connection request to the external device 450 from being inadvertently output when the operator erroneously operates the operation reception unit 403 in a state where the recording operation cannot be performed.

  Further, the connection request output unit 408, when the history deletion unit 407 deletes the connection history (pairing information) stored in the storage unit 402 based on the determination result of the second operation time determination unit 406, the connection history (pair After the ring information is deleted, a search request for requesting a response from the connectable external device 450 is output. In this case, the connection request output unit 408 outputs a first connection request to the external device 450 that has responded to the search request output after deleting the connection history (pairing information).

  As a result of the connection request output unit 408 outputting the first connection request, the response receiving unit 409 waits for the second connection request transmitted from the external device 450 (server device) that has received the first connection request. . The second connection request is a response that the server apparatus that has received the first connection request output from the connection request output unit 408 transmits to the printer 100 in response to the first connection request. It contains information requesting a connection to. The second connection request includes, for example, identification information of the external device (server device) 450 that requests connection, and information such as a device name of the external device (server device) 450.

  In addition, the response reception unit 409 waits for the second connection request, and the second connection request transmitted from the external device (server device) 450 in response to the first connection request output from the connection request output unit 408. Receive. The response receiving unit 409 outputs a response (search response) transmitted from the external device 450 that has received the search request to the printer 100 in response to the search request as a result of the connection request output unit 408 outputting the search request. Receive. The search response includes, for example, information such as identification information of the external device (server device) 450 that is a transmission source of the search response and a device name of the external device (server device) 450.

  When the response reception unit 409 receives a response (search response) transmitted from the external apparatus 450 to the printer 100 as a result of outputting the search request, the connection request output unit 408 transmits the response (search response). The original external device 450 is the external device 450 that has responded to the search request, and the first connection request is output to the external device 450.

  As a result of outputting the search request, the connection establishment unit 410 communicates with the external device 450 that is a transmission source of a response (second connection request) according to the search request, thereby communicating with the external device 450. Establish a connection between them. The storage unit 402 stores the established connection history (pairing information) when the connection with the external device 450 that is the transmission source of the response (second connection request) is established.

(Processing procedure of the printer 100)
Next, a processing procedure of the printer 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described. 5, FIG. 6, FIG. 7, FIG. 8, FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 are flowcharts showing the processing procedure of the printer 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention. In the flowchart of FIG. 5, first, it is determined whether or not there is a corresponding connection history (pairing information) in the pairing information database (step S501).

  If there is a connection history (pairing information) corresponding to the pairing information database in step S501 (step S501: Yes), the process proceeds to step S507. On the other hand, if there is no corresponding connection history (pairing information) in the pairing information database in step S501 (step S501: No), the slave that is the external device 450 around the printer 100 is searched (step S502). In step S502, for example, a search request for requesting a response from the external device 450 that can be connected to the printer 100 is output to search for the surrounding external device 450.

  Next, as a result of searching the surrounding external device 450 by outputting a search request in step S502, it is determined whether the surrounding external device 450 of the printer 100 has been detected (step S503). In step S503, for example, it is determined whether or not the external device 450 around the printer 100 has been detected by determining whether or not a response (search response) corresponding to the search request transmitted in step S502 has been received. To do.

  If the external device 450 around the printer 100 is not detected in step S503 (step S503: No), the process proceeds to step S502, and the slave (server device) that is the external device 450 around the printer 100 is searched again. To do. As a result, the search is performed until a slave (server device) which is a new external device 450 is found.

  On the other hand, when the external device 450 around the printer 100 is detected in step S503 (step S503: Yes), it is determined whether there is a connection history (pairing information) with the searched external device 450 (step S504). ). In step S504, for example, referring to the pairing information database, identification information of the external device 450 included in the response (search response) transmitted from the external device 450 around the printer 100 detected in step S503: Yes. Can be realized by determining whether or not is stored in the pairing information database.

  If there is a connection history (pairing information) with the searched external apparatus 450 in step S504 (step S504: Yes), the process proceeds to step S507. On the other hand, if there is no connection history (pairing information) with the searched external device 450 in step S504 (step S504: No), a pairing process is executed (step S505).

  In step S505, for example, authentication is performed between the printer 100 and the searched external device 450, or mutual device information is exchanged to identify the communication partner, thereby performing pairing processing. Run. Since the pairing process is a known technique, a description thereof will be omitted.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the pairing process performed in step S505 is successful (step S506). In step S506, for example, it is determined whether or not the pairing process is successful by determining whether or not predetermined test data and the like can be transmitted to and received from the searched external device 450. Since the method for confirming the success or failure of the pairing process can be easily realized using a known technique, the description thereof is omitted. In step S506, when the pairing process is not successful and fails (step S506: No), the process proceeds to step S502, and the slave that is the external device 450 around the printer 100 is searched again.

  On the other hand, when the pairing process is successful in step S506 (step S506: Yes), the first connection request is transmitted to the external device (server device) 450 that has been successfully paired (step S507), The process ends.

  In the flowchart of FIG. 6, as a result of transmitting the first connection request in step S507 in FIG. Judgment is made (step S601).

  In step S601, when the connection with the external apparatus (server apparatus) 450 that is the transmission destination of the connection request transmitted in step S507 is successful (step S601: Yes), the series of processing ends. On the other hand, when the connection with the external device (server device) 450 that is the transmission destination of the connection request transmitted in step S507 is not successful (step S601: No), the process proceeds to step S1002 (see FIG. 10).

  In the flowchart of FIG. 7, first, it is determined whether or not the lid member 102 is closed (step S701). In step S701, based on the output value of the open / close sensor 308, it can be determined whether or not the lid member 102 is closed by determining whether or not the lid member 102 is positioned at the closed position. In step S701, when the lid member 102 is not closed (step S701: No), a series of processing is ended.

  In step S701, when the lid member 102 is closed (step S701: Yes), it is determined whether a recording instruction transmitted from the external device (server device) 450 with which the connection has been established has been received (step S702). ). In step S702, when the recording instruction transmitted from the external device (server device) 450 with which the connection is established is received with the lid member 102 closed (step S702: Yes), the recording operation is executed. (Step S703), a series of processing ends. In step S703, the platen motor 306 is driven, and the recording operation is performed by sequentially energizing the corresponding heating elements in the thermal head under the control of the driver IC 304 based on the recording information included in the recording instruction.

  On the other hand, in step S702, when the lid member 102 is closed and the recording instruction transmitted from the external apparatus (server apparatus) 450 with which the connection is established is not received (step S702: No), “FEED It is determined whether or not the switch 104d has been turned on (step S704). In step S704, the operator presses the “FEED” switch 104d to determine whether or not the output value from the “FEED” switch 104d has changed, so that the “FEED” switch 104d is turned on. It can be determined whether or not.

  In step S704, when the “FEED” switch 104d is not in the ON state (step S704: No) when the lid member 102 is closed, the process proceeds to step S701 to determine whether the lid member 102 is closed. to decide. In step S704, when the "FEED" switch 104d is turned on with the lid member 102 closed (step S704: Yes), the platen motor 306 is driven according to the operation on the "FEED" switch 104d. (Step S705), and a series of processing ends.

  In step S705, the pressing of the “FEED” switch 104d due to the input operation is released according to the elapsed time (operation time) since the input operation due to the “FEED” switch 104d being pressed by the operator is received. Until then, the platen motor 306 is driven in the direction in which the recording medium is discharged from the discharge port 103.

  In the flowchart of FIG. 8, it is first determined whether or not the lid member 102 is open (step S801). In step S801, based on the output value of the open / close sensor 308, it can be determined whether or not the lid member 102 is open by determining whether or not the lid member 102 is positioned at the open position. In step S801, when the lid member 102 is not open (step S801: No), a series of processing ends.

  In step S801, when the lid member 102 is open (step S801: Yes), it is determined whether or not the “FEED” switch 104d is turned on (step S802). In step S802, as in step S704 in FIG. 7, the operator presses the “FEED” switch 104d to determine whether or not the output value from the “FEED” switch 104d has changed. It can be determined whether the “FEED” switch 104d is turned on.

  When the printer 100 receives an input operation by pressing the “FEED” switch 104d by the operator in step S802: Yes, the printer 100 starts measuring the elapsed time (operation time) in which the input operation is continuously performed. . In addition, in step S <b> 802: Yes, the printer 100 accepts an input operation by pressing the “FEED” switch 104 d by the operator, and then releases the press of the “FEED” switch 104 d by the input operation. Measure elapsed time (operation time).

  When the input operation to the “FEED” switch 104d is received after the pressing of the “FEED” switch 104d by the input operation is released, the printer 100 re-measures the elapsed time (operation time). That is, each time the “FEED” switch 104d is pressed by an input operation, the printer 100 resets the elapsed time (operation time) counted so far, and every time an input operation to the “FEED” switch 104d is accepted. Measure the elapsed time (operation time) newly.

  In step S802, when the “FEED” switch 104d is not in the ON state with the lid member 102 open (step S802: No), the process proceeds to step S801, and whether or not the lid member 102 is open. Judging. In step S802, when the “FEED” switch 104d is turned on while the lid member 102 is open (step S802: Yes), an input operation is accepted when the “FEED” switch 104d is pressed by the operator. It is determined whether or not 2 seconds have passed (step S803). In step S803, whether or not the elapsed time (operation time) after receiving the input operation by pressing the “FEED” switch 104d by the operator is 2 seconds or more (the elapsed time (operation time) reaches 2 seconds). By determining whether or not 2 seconds have elapsed, it can be determined whether or not 2 seconds have elapsed.

  In step S <b> 803, when the pressing of the “FEED” switch 104 d due to the input operation is released before 2 seconds have elapsed since the input operation to the “FEED” switch 104 d was received in a state where the lid member 102 is open ( Step S803: No), the process proceeds to Step S801.

  On the other hand, in step S803, when 2 seconds have elapsed since the input operation to the “FEED” switch 104d was received in a state where the lid member 102 is open (step S803: Yes), in a state where the lid member 102 is open, It is determined whether or not 5 seconds have elapsed since the input operation due to the “FEED” switch 104d being pressed by the operator was received (step S804). In step S804, whether the elapsed time (operation time) after receiving the input operation by pressing the “FEED” switch 104d by the operator is 5 seconds or more (the elapsed time (operation time) has reached 5 seconds). It is possible to determine whether or not 5 seconds have elapsed.

  In step S804, 2 seconds have elapsed since the input operation due to the operator pressing the “FEED” switch 104d with the lid member 102 open, and 5 seconds have elapsed since the input operation was received. If the pressing of the “FEED” switch 104d by the input operation is released before the operation (step S804: No), the connection history (pairing information) stored in the pairing information database is referenced with reference to the pairing information database. ) Is acquired (step S805).

  Then, based on the connection history (pairing information) acquired in step S805, a connection request is transmitted to the corresponding external device (server device) 450 (step S806), and the series of processing ends. In step S806, for example, among the external devices (server devices) 450 identified based on the connection history (pairing information) acquired in step S805, the connection is made to the external device (server device) 450 connected most recently. Output the request.

  In step S804, when 5 seconds have elapsed since the input operation by the operator pressing the “FEED” switch 104d with the lid member 102 opened (step S804: Yes), the pairing information database The stored connection history (pairing information) is deleted (step S807), and then the process proceeds to step S502 shown in FIG.

  In the flowchart of FIG. 9, first, based on the output value from the remaining amount sensor 309, it is determined whether or not a paper end has been detected (paper end has been reached) (step S901). If a paper end is detected in step S901 (step S901: Yes), the green “POWER” lamp 104a, the red “ERROR” lamp 104b, and the orange “PAPER” lamp 104c are turned on (step S902).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the “FEED” switch 104d is in an ON state in a state where a paper end is detected (step S903). In step S903, similarly to step S802 in FIG. 8 and step S704 in FIG. 7 described above, whether or not the output value from the “FEED” switch 104d has changed as the operator presses the “FEED” switch 104d. It is possible to determine whether or not the “FEED” switch 104d has been turned on.

  When the printer 100 accepts an input operation by pressing the “FEED” switch 104d by the operator in step S903: Yes, the printer 100 starts measuring the elapsed time (operation time) in which the input operation is continuously performed. . In step S903: Yes, the printer 100 accepts an input operation by pressing the “FEED” switch 104d by the operator until the press of the “FEED” switch 104d by the input operation is released. Measure elapsed time (operation time). Further, when the printer 100 receives an input operation to the “FEED” switch 104d after the pressing of the “FEED” switch 104d by the input operation is released, every time the press of the “FEED” switch 104d by the input operation is released. In addition, the elapsed time (operation time) measured until then is reset, and the elapsed time (operation time) is newly measured every time an input operation to the “FEED” switch 104d is accepted.

  In step S903, when the paper end is detected and the "FEED" switch 104d is not in the ON state (step S903: No), the process proceeds to step S901 to determine whether the paper end is detected. to decide. In step S903, when the “FEED” switch 104d is turned on in a state where the paper end is detected (step S903: Yes), an input operation due to the “FEED” switch 104d being pressed by the operator is accepted. It is determined whether or not 2 seconds have elapsed (step S904). In step S904, as in step S803 in FIG. 8 above, is the elapsed time (operation time) from when the “FEED” switch 104d is received by the operator pressing the input operation being 2 seconds or more ( By determining whether or not the elapsed time (operation time) has reached 2 seconds, it is possible to determine whether or not 2 seconds have elapsed.

  In step S904, when the input of the “FEED” switch 104d is received and the press of the “FEED” switch 104d by the input operation is released 2 seconds after the input operation to the “FEED” switch 104d is received (step S904) Step S904: No), the process proceeds to step S901, and it is determined whether or not a paper end is detected.

  On the other hand, in step S904, in a state where the paper end is detected and two seconds have elapsed since the input operation to the “FEED” switch 104d has been received (step S904: Yes), in a state where the paper end is detected, It is determined whether or not 5 seconds have elapsed since the input operation due to the “FEED” switch 104d being pressed by the operator was received (step S905). In step S905, as in step S804 in FIG. 8 above, is the elapsed time (operation time) from when the “FEED” switch 104d is received by the operator pressing the input operation being 5 seconds or more ( By determining whether or not the elapsed time (operation time) has reached 5 seconds, it is possible to determine whether or not 5 seconds have elapsed.

  In step S905, two seconds have elapsed since the input operation by pressing the “FEED” switch 104d by the operator while the paper end is detected, and five seconds have elapsed since the input operation was received. If the pressing of the “FEED” switch 104d due to the input operation is released (step S905: No), the connection history (pair pair) stored in the pairing information database is referred to with reference to the pairing information database. Ring information) is acquired (step S906).

  Then, based on the connection history (pairing information) acquired in step S906, a connection request is transmitted to the corresponding external device (server device) 450 (step S907), and the series of processing ends. In step S907, as in step S806 in FIG. 8, the external device connected most recently among the external devices (server devices) 450 specified based on the connection history (pairing information) acquired in step S906. (Server apparatus) A connection request is output to 450.

  In step S905, when the paper end is detected and 5 seconds have elapsed after receiving an input operation by pressing the “FEED” switch 104d by the operator (step S905: Yes), the pairing information database The stored connection history (pairing information) is deleted (step S908), and then the process proceeds to step S502 shown in FIG.

  In step S901, when the paper end is not detected (step S901: No), it is determined whether the paper near end is detected (the paper near end is reached) based on the output value from the remaining amount sensor 309 (step S901). S909). In step S909, when the paper near end is not detected (step S909: No), the process proceeds to step S911, and whether or not the recording instruction transmitted from the external apparatus (server apparatus) 450 with which the connection is established is received. Is determined (step S911). On the other hand, when a paper near end is detected in step S909 (step S909: Yes), among the various status notification lamps, the green “POWER” lamp 104a and the orange “PAPER” lamp 104c are turned on (step S910). A series of processing ends.

  In step S911, when neither the paper end nor the paper near end is detected, and the recording instruction transmitted from the external device (server device) 450 with which the connection is established is not received (step S911: No), the process proceeds to step S901, and it is determined whether a paper end is detected. On the other hand, when the recording instruction transmitted from the external device (server device) 450 with which the connection is established is received in step S911 in which neither the paper end nor the paper near end is detected (step S911: Yes). Then, the recording operation is executed based on the received recording instruction (step S912), and the series of processes is terminated. In step S912, similarly to step S703 in FIG. 7 described above, the platen motor 306 is driven, and the corresponding heating elements in the thermal head are sequentially applied under the control of the driver IC 304 based on the recording information included in the recording instruction. The recording operation is executed by energizing.

  The flowchart in FIG. 10 is performed in a state where a connection with the external device (server device) 450 is established. In the flowchart of FIG. 10, first, in a state where the connection with the external device (server device) 450 is established, the process waits until it is determined that the connection is disconnected (No in step S1001). In step S1001, when the connection with the external device (server device) 450 is established and the connection is disconnected (step S1001: Yes), among the various status notification lamps, the green “POWER” lamp 104a. Blinks (step S1002).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the first connection request has been transmitted (step S1003). If the first connection request has not been transmitted (step S1003: No), the process proceeds to step S1002. As a result, the green “POWER” lamp 104a among the various status notification lamps blinks until the first connection request is transmitted.

  In step S1003, when the first connection request is transmitted (step S1003: Yes), the green “POWER” lamp 104a among the various status notification lamps is turned on (step S1004), and the series of processes is terminated. In step S1004, when the first connection request is transmitted, the “POWER” lamp 104a that has been blinking until then is continuously lit.

  As described above, when the printer 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention receives an input operation by pressing the “FEED” switch 104d in a state in which the recording operation cannot be performed, the server device that is the external device 450 A connection request is output by wireless communication, and a response (second connection request) transmitted from the server device that is the external device 450 is waited for in response to the output connection request, and the second connection request is received. In this case, the connection with the external device 450 that is the transmission source of the second connection request is established.

  According to the printer 100 of the embodiment of the present invention, in a state where the recording operation cannot be executed, the operation accepting unit 403 that accepts an input operation related to the recording operation is used to output a connection request to the external device 450. Can do. Accordingly, the connection between the printer 100 and the external device 450 can be restored without providing a dedicated operation unit such as a button for restoring the connection when the connection with the external device 450 such as the server device is disconnected. Can do. Thus, the connection with the external device 450 can be restored with a simple configuration, and the printer 100 can be downsized.

  Further, the printer 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention performs an input operation by pressing the “FEED” switch 104d in a state where the lid member 102 is positioned at the open position based on the output value of the open / close sensor 308. When accepted, a connection request is output to the server device which is the external device 450.

  According to the printer 100 of the embodiment according to the present invention, the operation receiving unit 403 that receives an input operation related to the recording operation when the recording operation cannot be performed because the lid member 102 is positioned at the open position. By using this, a connection request to the external device 450 can be output. Accordingly, the state of the printer 100 can be detected without providing a dedicated detection unit for detecting the state of the printer 100. Thus, the connection with the external device 450 can be restored with a simple configuration, and the printer 100 can be downsized.

  In addition, the printer 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention, when receiving an input operation by pressing the “FEED” switch 104d in a state where there is no recording medium based on the output value of the remaining amount sensor 309, It is characterized in that a connection request is output to a server device that is the device 450.

  According to the printer 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention, when the recording operation cannot be executed because there is no recording medium, the operation receiving unit 403 that receives an input operation related to the recording operation is used for the external device 450. A connection request can be output. Accordingly, the state of the printer 100 can be detected without providing a dedicated detection unit for detecting the state of the printer 100. Thus, the connection with the external device 450 can be restored with a simple configuration, and the printer 100 can be downsized.

  In addition, the printer 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention has an external device specified based on the connection history stored in the pairing information database that realizes the storage unit 402 that stores the connection history with the server device that is the external device 450. A feature is that a connection request is output to the device 450.

  According to the printer 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention, a connection request can be output to the external device 450 that has been connected to the printer 100 before the recording operation becomes impossible. . Accordingly, it is possible to shorten the time required to establish a connection between the printer 100 and the external device 450 as compared with a case where the external device 450 that can be connected is searched prior to outputting the connection request. As a result, the connection between the printer 100 and the external device 450 that has been disconnected from the external device 450 can be restored early.

  Further, in the printer 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention, the operation time in which the input operation by continuously pressing the “FEED” switch 104d is received is longer than the first predetermined time (for example, “2 seconds”). In this case, a connection request is output to the server device which is the external device 450.

  According to the printer 100 of the embodiment of the present invention, only when the operation time that the operation receiving unit 403 continuously receives the input operation in a state where the recording operation cannot be executed is longer than the first predetermined time. The connection request to the external device 450 can be output. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent a connection request to the external device 450 from being inadvertently output when an operator erroneously operates the operation receiving unit 403 in a state where the recording operation cannot be performed. As a result, only when the operator intends, the connection between the printer 100 and the external device 450 that has been disconnected from the external device 450 can be reliably restored.

  Further, in the printer 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention, the operation time in which the input operation by continuously pressing the “FEED” switch 104d is received is longer than the second predetermined time (for example, “5 seconds”). In this case, the connection history stored in the pairing information database is erased, and a connection request is output to the external device 450 around the printer 100.

  According to the printer 100 of the embodiment of the present invention, when the operation time that the operation receiving unit 403 continuously receives an input operation in a state where the recording operation cannot be performed is longer than the second predetermined time, the recording is performed. Regardless of the external device 450 that has been connected until the operation becomes unexecutable, the external device 450 that can be connected to the printer 100 can be established as a new connection target to establish a connection with the external device 450.

  In the above-described embodiment, the operation time for which the input operation by continuously pressing the “FEED” switch 104d is accepted is a predetermined time (for example, “2 seconds which is the first operation time” or the second operation time). The operation pattern for returning the connection is selected according to whether it is longer than “5 seconds” or the like. However, the present invention is not limited to this. Instead of the length of the operation time, when an input operation by pressing the “FEED” switch 104d is performed a predetermined number of times, an operation pattern for restoring the connection is selected according to the number of input operations. Good. In this case, the number of input operations can be counted, for example, by providing a counting unit (not shown) that counts the number of times of input in place of the timing unit 404 described above.

  In this case, specifically, when the input operation by pressing the “FEED” switch 104d is continuously performed “twice”, the external device 450 is deleted without deleting the connection history stored in the pairing information database. When the connection operation is performed “5 times” continuously, the connection history stored in the pairing information database is deleted and then the external device 450 to be connected is searched and searched. A connection request to the external device 450 may be output. In this case, a state where the input operation is performed again within a predetermined time (for example, “1 second”) after the previous input operation can be counted as a continuous input operation.

  Accordingly, when another external device 450 and the printer 100 are connected in place of the external device 450 connected until the recording operation cannot be executed, another external device 450 to be newly connected. It is a simple configuration without providing a dedicated operation unit such as a button for setting the device, and it is simple without performing an input operation for searching for another external device 450 to be newly connected. By the operation, the connection between the printer 100 disconnected from the external device 450 and the external device 450 can be reliably restored. As a result, the printer 100 can be reduced in size and operability can be improved.

  As described above, according to the printer 100 of the embodiment of the present invention, an input operation for pressing the “FEED” switch 104d that is normally used for transporting a recording medium is performed with the lid member 102 positioned at the open position. Therefore, in a state where the recording operation cannot be performed, it is not used for transporting the recording medium but can be used for reconnection operation of wireless communication. This eliminates the need for a dedicated operation unit such as a button for returning the connection when the connection with the external device 450 such as the server device is disconnected.

  In the printer 100, the “FEED” switch 104d is an important mechanism for transporting a recording medium, and is generally provided at a position where the printer 100 is easy to operate. Further, in the printer 100, the positioning of the lid member 102 in the open position is necessary for the exchange of the recording medium, and generally, it is assumed that the lid member 102 is opened (cover open). An object is not always placed on the lid member 102. Further, for the same reason, in the printer 100, an object is always placed in a position that blocks access to a mechanism (for example, a lever or a switch) for performing an operation (cover open operation) for positioning the lid member 102 in the open position. There is also no place.

  For this reason, according to the printer 100 of the embodiment of the present invention, the “FEED” switch 104d is used for the operation for restoring the disconnected connection, so that the external device 450 such as a server device can be used. When the connection is disconnected, the operation for restoring the connection is not performed, and the connection can be restored easily and reliably.

  Also, the reconnection operation is not performed frequently, but it is one means when the connection cannot be made such as when the connection (pairing) with the external device 450 such as a server device is disconnected. For this reason, it is desirable that the printer 100 cannot operate in a normal operation state (a state in which a recording operation is possible).

  According to the printer 100 of the embodiment of the present invention, the operation of positioning the cover member 102 in the open position (opening the cover) is performed, and “FEED” is performed only when the cover member 102 is positioned in the open position. The connection restoration operation by operating the switch 104d becomes effective. For this reason, it is possible to suppress an erroneous operation of performing an operation to restore the connection and a malfunction due to the erroneous operation while being connected to the external device 450 such as a server device.

  If an operation to restore the connection is performed while connected to an external device 450 such as a server device, the normal operation (recording operation) of the printer 100 cannot be performed while the operation to restore the connection is performed. However, according to the printer 100 of the embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to prevent an erroneous operation as described above, and to perform a normal operation state (recording operation) of the printer 100 without causing an unnecessary return operation. Can be maintained).

  In the above-described embodiment, when an input operation by pressing the “FEED” switch 104d is received in a state where the recording operation cannot be performed, a connection request is transmitted to the server device which is the external device 450 by wireless communication. Although it was made to output, it is not restricted to this. The printer 100 according to the present invention changes the state of the printer 100 according to whether the connection with the external device 450 is established or the connection with the external device 450 is disconnected. You may make it detect. In this case, when the operation receiving unit 403 receives an input operation in a state where the connection with the external device 450 is disconnected, a connection request may be output to the server device that is the external device 450. Good.

  In this case, in addition to the various effects described above, the contents of the input operation that can be accepted by the operation accepting unit 403 can be switched according to the connection state between the printer 100 and the external device 450. When the operation receiving unit 403 receives an input operation in a state where the connection is disconnected, a connection request to the external device 450 can be output.

  Thus, the input that can be accepted by the operation accepting unit 403 according to the connection state between the printer 100 and the external device 450 without performing a special operation to switch the contents of the input operation that can be accepted by the operation accepting unit 403. The content of the operation can be switched. As a result, the printer 100 can be reduced in size and operability can be improved.

  As described above, the printer and the program according to the present invention are useful for a printer that performs a recording operation based on a recording instruction received from an external device and a program executed by the printer. Suitable for communicating printers and programs.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Printer 401 Status detection part 402 Memory | storage part 403 Operation reception part 404 Time measuring part 405 1st operation time judgment part 406 2nd operation time judgment part 407 History deletion part 408 Connection request output part 409 Response reception part 410 Connection establishment part

Claims (11)

A printer that performs a recording operation on a recording medium based on a recording instruction wirelessly transmitted from an external device with which a connection has been established;
A housing for housing the printer body;
A lid member that is selectively positioned at an open position that opens the opening provided in the housing and a closed position that closes the opening;
A sensor whose output value changes between a state where the lid member is positioned at the open position and a state where the lid member is positioned at the closed position;
An operation receiving means for receiving an input operation related to the recording operation;
Based on the output value of the sensor, a first connection request for requesting a connection to the external device when the operation receiving means receives an input operation in a state where the lid member is positioned at the open position Connection request output means for outputting by wireless communication;
With
The second connection is transmitted when the second connection request is received from the external apparatus in response to the first connection request, and the second connection request for requesting the connection to the printer is received. A printer that establishes a connection with the external device that is a transmission source of a request. A printer that performs a recording operation on a recording medium based on a recording instruction wirelessly transmitted from an external device with which a connection has been established;
A sensor whose output value changes between the state where the recording medium is present and the state where the recording medium is absent;
An operation receiving means for receiving an input operation related to the recording operation;
A connection for outputting, by wireless communication, a first connection request for requesting connection to the external device when the operation receiving means receives an input operation in the absence of the recording medium based on the output value of the sensor Request output means;
With
The second connection is transmitted when the second connection request is received from the external apparatus in response to the first connection request, and the second connection request for requesting the connection to the printer is received. A printer that establishes a connection with the external device that is a transmission source of a request. Storage means for storing a connection history with the external device;
The printer according to claim 1, wherein the connection request output unit outputs the first connection request to an external device specified based on a connection history stored in the storage unit. Clocking means for clocking an operation time during which the operation receiving means continuously receives an input operation;
First operation time determination for determining whether or not the operation time measured by the time measuring means is longer than a first predetermined time when the operation receiving means receives an input operation in a state where the recording operation cannot be executed. Means,
With
The connection request output means sends the first connection request to the external device when the operation time is longer than the first predetermined time based on the determination result of the first operation time determination means. The printer according to claim 3, wherein the printer outputs. When the operation time is longer than the first predetermined time, a second operation time for determining whether or not the operation time is longer than a second predetermined time longer than the first predetermined time. Judgment means,
Based on the determination result of the second operation time determination means, when the operation time is longer than the second predetermined time, history erasure means for erasing the connection history stored in the storage means;
With
The connection request output means outputs a search request for requesting a response from a connectable external device after the history erasure means erases the connection history, and sends the first request to the external device responding to the search request. The printer according to claim 4, wherein the connection request is output. A printer that performs a recording operation on a recording medium based on a recording instruction wirelessly transmitted from an external device with which a connection has been established;
State detecting means for detecting that the printer is in a state where the recording operation cannot be performed;
An operation receiving means for receiving an input operation related to the recording operation;
Clocking means for clocking an operation time during which the operation receiving means continuously receives an input operation;
Based on the detection result of the state detection unit, if the operation reception unit receives an input operation in a state where the recording operation cannot be performed, whether or not the operation time counted by the time measurement unit is longer than a predetermined time. An operation time judging means for judging;
Storage means for storing a connection history with the external device;
Based on the determination result of the operation time determination means, if the operation time is longer than the predetermined time, history erasure means for erasing the connection history stored in the storage means;
After the history erasure unit erases the connection history, a search request for requesting a response from a connectable external device is output, and a first connection request for requesting connection to the external device responding to the search request is output. Connection request output means for outputting by wireless communication;
With
The second connection is transmitted when the second connection request is received from the external apparatus in response to the first connection request, and the second connection request for requesting the connection to the printer is received. A printer that establishes a connection with the external device that is a transmission source of a request. A printer that performs a recording operation on a recording medium based on a recording instruction wirelessly transmitted from an external device with which a connection has been established;
State detecting means for detecting that the printer is incapable of executing the recording operation; operation receiving means for receiving an input operation related to the recording operation;
Clocking means for clocking an operation time during which the operation receiving means continuously receives an input operation;
If the operation accepting unit accepts an input operation in a state where the recording operation cannot be performed based on the detection result of the state detecting unit, is the operation time counted by the time measuring unit longer than a first predetermined time? First operating time determining means for determining whether or not,
Storage means for storing a connection history with the external device;
Based on the determination result of the first operation time determination means, when the operation time is longer than the first predetermined time, the storage means to an external apparatus specified based on the connection history is stored a connection request output means for outputting a first connection request,
When the operation time is longer than the first predetermined time, a second operation time for determining whether or not the operation time is longer than a second predetermined time longer than the first predetermined time. Judgment means,
Based on the determination result of the second operation time determination means, when the operation time is longer than the second predetermined time, history erasure means for erasing the connection history stored in the storage means;
With
The connection request output means outputs a search request for requesting a response from a connectable external device after the history erasure means erases the connection history, and requests a connection from the external device responding to the search request. Outputting the first connection request to be performed by wireless communication;
The second connection is transmitted when the second connection request is received from the external apparatus in response to the first connection request, and the second connection request for requesting the connection to the printer is received. A printer that establishes a connection with the external device that is a transmission source of a request. A housing that accommodates the printer main body, a lid member that is selectively positioned at an open position that opens the opening included in the housing and a closed position that closes the opening, and the lid member is positioned at the open position And an operation accepting means for accepting an input operation related to a recording operation, and wirelessly transmitted from an external device with a connection established. A program executed by a computer of a printer that executes the recording operation on the recording medium based on the recorded instruction,
Based on the output value of the sensor, a first connection request for requesting a connection to the external device when the operation receiving means receives an input operation in a state where the lid member is positioned at the open position Including a connection request output step of outputting by wireless communication,
In response to the first connection request output in the connection request output step, the second connection request transmitted from the external device for requesting connection to the printer is waited for and the second connection request is received. In this case, the program establishes a connection with the external device that is the transmission source of the second connection request. A sensor that changes an output value between a state where a recording medium is present and a state where the recording medium is not present, and an operation accepting unit that accepts an input operation related to a recording operation, and is wirelessly transmitted from an external device that has established a connection A program executed by a computer of a printer that executes the recording operation on the recording medium based on a recording instruction,
A connection for outputting, by wireless communication, a first connection request for requesting connection to the external device when the operation receiving means receives an input operation in the absence of the recording medium based on the output value of the sensor Including required output process,
In response to the first connection request output in the connection request output step, the second connection request transmitted from the external device for requesting connection to the printer is waited for and the second connection request is received. In this case, the program establishes a connection with the external device that is the transmission source of the second connection request. An operation receiving unit that receives an input operation related to a recording operation; a time measuring unit that measures an operation time during which the operation receiving unit continuously receives an input operation; and a storage unit that stores a connection history with an external device. A program that is executed by a computer of a printer that executes the recording operation on a recording medium based on a recording instruction wirelessly transmitted from the external device with which a connection has been established,
A state detection step of detecting that the printer is in a state incapable of performing the recording operation;
Based on the detection result in the state detection step, when the operation receiving unit receives an input operation in a state where the recording operation cannot be performed, it is determined whether or not the operation time measured by the time measuring unit is longer than a predetermined time. An operation time determining step for determining;
Based on the determination result in the operation time determination step, if the operation time is longer than the predetermined time, a history erasure step of erasing the connection history stored in the storage means;
After erasing the connection history in the history erasing step, a search request for requesting a response from a connectable external device is output, and a first connection request for requesting connection to the external device responding to the search request A connection request output step for outputting by wireless communication;
Including
The second connection is transmitted when the second connection request is received from the external apparatus in response to the first connection request, and the second connection request for requesting the connection to the printer is received. A program characterized in that a connection is established with the external device as a request transmission source. An operation receiving unit that receives an input operation related to a recording operation; a time measuring unit that measures an operation time during which the operation receiving unit continuously receives an input operation; and a storage unit that stores a connection history with an external device. A program that is executed by a computer of a printer that executes the recording operation on a recording medium based on a recording instruction wirelessly transmitted from the external device with which a connection has been established,
A state detection step of detecting that the printer is in a state incapable of performing the recording operation;
If the operation accepting unit accepts an input operation in a state where the recording operation cannot be performed based on the detection result in the state detecting step, is the operation time counted by the time measuring unit longer than a first predetermined time? A first operation time determination step for determining whether or not;
Based on the determination result in the first operation time determination step, when the operation time is longer than the first predetermined time, the external device specified based on the connection history stored in the storage means A connection request output step for outputting a first connection request;
When the operation time is longer than the first predetermined time, a second operation time for determining whether or not the operation time is longer than a second predetermined time longer than the first predetermined time. A decision process;
Based on the determination result in the second operation time determination step, when the operation time is longer than the second predetermined time, a history deletion step of deleting the connection history stored in the storage means;
With
The connection request output step outputs a search request for requesting a response from a connectable external device after erasing the connection history in the history erasing step, and requests a connection to the external device responding to the search request Outputting the first connection request to be performed by wireless communication;
The second connection is transmitted when the second connection request is received from the external apparatus in response to the first connection request, and the second connection request for requesting the connection to the printer is received. A program characterized in that a connection is established with the external device as a request transmission source.

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