JP5949284B2 - Tape printer, tape cartridge, and control method of tape printer - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a tape printer, a tape cartridge, and a control method for the tape printer.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a tape printing apparatus that prints an image based on document data including a character string on a tape (label) print medium is known. In addition, as a tape-shaped print medium (print medium), a non-print surface (non-print surface) provided with print control information composed of a plurality of magnetic marks, and a label printer (tape for performing thermal printing on the print medium) Printing apparatus) is known (see Patent Document 1). Here, the print medium is obtained by continuously sticking label pieces on a belt-like mount, and on the back surface (non-print surface) of the mount, a plurality of magnetic marks having various widths, and these Print control information constituted by a plurality of space portions having intervals is formed in accordance with the pitch of the label pieces. On the other hand, the label printer includes a supply unit that supplies a print medium, a data input unit, a print unit that prints on the print medium based on the input data, a magnetic detection sensor that reads print control information of the print medium, Control means for controlling the printing means based on the reading result of the detection sensor. The magnetic detection sensor reads the print control information of the print medium, and based on this, the control means determines the type, print speed, print density, etc. of the print medium and controls the drive of the print means.

JP 2001-180134 A

In such a conventional print medium and label printer, a plurality of magnetic marks having various widths and a plurality of space portions having these intervals are arranged in the feed direction of the print medium. When printing control information is read by the sensor for printing, it is necessary to send the printing medium by the platen roller of the printing means. In other words, when the print medium is set in the label printer, the print control information cannot be read even when the power is turned on, and proper print control must be performed after printing is started (print medium feed is started). There was a problem that it could not be done.
In addition, such a print medium has a problem in that the manufacturing process requires a process for printing and recording magnetic marks on the non-printing surface in advance, which complicates the manufacturing process.

  SUMMARY An advantage of some aspects of the invention is to solve at least a part of the problems described above, and the invention can be implemented as the following forms or application examples.

  Application Example 1 A tape printer according to this application example is a tape printer that performs printing on a tape-shaped print medium provided in a tape cartridge, and uses an ink ribbon provided in the tape cartridge based on image information. Print information for printing the generated print data on the tape-shaped print medium, and attribute information for recording a code image obtained by coding the attribute information of the tape-shaped print medium on the ink ribbon using the print head And a recording unit.

  According to such a tape printer, the attribute information recording unit records the code image of the attribute information of the tape-shaped print medium on the ink ribbon using the print head. Thereby, since the tape printing apparatus records the code image of the attribute information, it is possible to eliminate the necessity of previously recording the attribute information on the ink ribbon.

  Application Example 2 In the tape printing apparatus according to the application example, the code image recorded on the ink ribbon is further provided with a predetermined sensor disposed on the downstream side of the print head in the medium feeding direction. The sensor is configured to be readable at an arbitrary timing.

  According to such a tape printing apparatus, the predetermined sensor that reads the code image recorded on the ink ribbon is disposed downstream of the print head in the medium feeding direction. The code image is configured to be readable at an arbitrary timing by a predetermined sensor. Thereby, the code image recorded on the ink ribbon by the print head can be read by a predetermined sensor. The predetermined sensor can read the attribute information at an arbitrary timing without sending the tape-shaped print medium.

  Application Example 3 In the tape printing apparatus according to the application example, an attribute information analysis unit that decodes the code image read by the predetermined sensor and analyzes the attribute information of the tape-shaped print medium; and the attribute information An attribute information generation unit that generates second attribute information based on the attribute information analyzed by the analysis unit, and the second attribute information generated by the attribute information generation unit is encoded to generate a second code A code image generation unit that generates an image, and the attribute information recording unit uses the print head to transfer the second code image generated by the code image generation unit to the ink ribbon. It is characterized by recording.

  According to such a tape printer, the attribute information analysis unit analyzes the attribute information by decoding the code image read by a predetermined sensor. The attribute information generation unit generates second attribute information based on the analyzed attribute information. The code image generation unit encodes the second attribute information to generate a second code image. The attribute information recording unit records the second code image on the ink ribbon using the print head. Thereby, 2nd attribute information can be produced | generated based on the attribute information read with the predetermined | prescribed sensor. A second code image obtained by encoding the second attribute information can be recorded on the ink ribbon. Therefore, the second attribute information based on the attribute information can be continuously recorded on the ink ribbon.

  Application Example 4 In the tape printer according to the application example, the predetermined sensor can read a print image based on the print data recorded on the ink ribbon, and the print image read by the predetermined sensor. And a determination unit that compares the print data with each other and determines whether the print result is appropriate.

  According to such a tape printer, the determination unit compares the print image read by a predetermined sensor with the print data, and determines whether the print result is appropriate. This makes it possible to determine whether printing is being performed normally.

  Application Example 5 A tape cartridge according to this application example is a tape cartridge having an ink ribbon and a tape-shaped print medium, and attribute information of the tape-shaped print medium is encoded on the ink ribbon. It is characterized by having a recording area in which the code image can be recorded so that it can be read at an arbitrary position in the extending direction of the ink ribbon.

  According to such a tape cartridge, the ink ribbon has a recording area capable of recording so that the code image of the attribute information of the tape-shaped print medium can be read at an arbitrary position in the extending direction. This makes it possible to record a code image of attribute information on the ink ribbon, thereby eliminating the need to previously record attribute information on the ink ribbon. The attribute information can be read without sending the tape-shaped print medium.

  Application Example 6 In the tape cartridge according to the application example, the recording area of the ink ribbon has an initial value recording area for recording an initial value of the attribute information.

  According to such a tape cartridge, the recording area has the initial value recording area for recording the initial value of the attribute information. Thereby, by recording the initial value of the attribute information on the ink ribbon, the attribute information can be recorded based on the initial value.

  Application Example 7 In the tape cartridge according to the application example, the initial value of the attribute information includes tape type information.

  The initial value of the attribute information recorded as a code image on the ink ribbon includes tape type information. Based on the initial value, the tape type information can be recorded in the recording area. As a result, the tape type information can be used to determine the conditions for printing on the tape-shaped print medium.

  Application Example 8 In the tape cartridge according to the application example, the initial value of the attribute information includes remaining tape information.

  The initial value of attribute information recorded as a code image on the ink ribbon includes remaining tape information. Based on the initial value, the remaining tape information can be updated and recorded in the recording area. This makes it possible to recognize the remaining amount of the tape-shaped print medium.

  Application Example 9 In the tape cartridge according to the application example, the initial value of the attribute information includes authentication information for identifying whether or not the tape cartridge is a genuine product.

  The initial value of the attribute information recorded as a code image on the ink ribbon includes authentication information for identifying whether the tape cartridge is a genuine product. Based on the initial value, authentication information can be recorded in the recording area. This makes it possible to recognize whether or not the tape cartridge is genuine.

  Application Example 10 In the tape cartridge according to the application example described above, the attribute information includes date information when the tape cartridge is started to be used.

  The attribute information recorded as a code image on the ink ribbon includes date information when the tape cartridge is started to be used. That is, it becomes possible to record the use start date and time information of the tape cartridge in the recording area. This makes it possible to recognize the date and time when the tape cartridge starts to be used. Further, by calculating the difference from the current date and time information, it is possible to recognize the time from the start of use of the tape cartridge.

  Application Example 11 A control method of a tape printer according to this application example includes a print head that prints print data generated based on image information on a tape-shaped print medium using an ink ribbon provided in a tape cartridge. A control method for a tape printing apparatus, comprising: an attribute information recording step of recording a code image obtained by encoding attribute information of the tape-shaped print medium on the ink ribbon using the print head. To do.

  According to such a control method of the tape printer, since the tape printer records the code image of the attribute information by itself, it is possible to eliminate the necessity of previously recording the attribute information on the ink ribbon.

A perspective view showing a tape printer of an embodiment. A perspective view showing a tape printer of an embodiment. The block diagram which shows the circuit structure of a tape printer. Explanatory drawing showing the state with which the tape cartridge is mounted in the cartridge mounting part. It is explanatory drawing showing an ink ribbon, a thermal head, and a line sensor, (a) is explanatory drawing showing the head part of an ink ribbon, (b) is explanatory drawing showing the middle part of an ink ribbon. 6 is a flowchart of attribute information reading processing when the tape printer is powered on. 6 is a flowchart of attribute information reading processing at the start of printing in the tape printer. 10 is a flowchart of attribute information recording processing during printing by the tape printer. It is explanatory drawing showing an ink ribbon, a thermal head, and a line sensor, (a) is explanatory drawing showing the head part of an ink ribbon, (b) is explanatory drawing showing the middle part of an ink ribbon. 6 is a flowchart of attribute information reading processing when the tape printer is powered on. 10 is a flowchart of attribute information recording processing during printing by the tape printer. 10 is a flowchart of print result suitability determination processing.

  Hereinafter, embodiments will be described.

  In the present embodiment, a tape-like print medium (hereinafter simply referred to as “tape”) and a tape cartridge having an ink ribbon, and printing can be performed by mounting the tape cartridge and performing a printing operation. A simple tape printer will be described.

1 and 2 are perspective views showing the tape printer of this embodiment.
As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the tape printing apparatus 1 has a configuration in which a main body is accommodated in a housing 10, and a keyboard 11 is provided on the upper surface side of the housing 10. The keyboard 11 is an input unit that accepts various input operations by the user, such as input of a character string, a number of character keys that can input a character string made up of kana, kanji, alphabet, numbers, symbols, and the like, and a tape printer. 1 has a plurality of control keys for instructing various operations to 1. Control keys provided on the keyboard 11 include a power key for switching the power on and off, a conversion key for converting the input kana to kanji, a decision key for determining the input character string, and the like. A cursor key used for movement, a print key for executing printing, and the like are included.

  A display unit 12 made of a liquid crystal display device or the like is provided on the back side of the upper surface of the housing 10. The display unit 12 forms an image with a large number of pixels arranged in a matrix, and is used for displaying characters input from the keyboard 11, displaying a menu screen, a message screen, and the like.

  A cartridge mounting portion 13, which is a recess for mounting the tape cartridge 2, is formed on the back side of the upper surface of the housing 10, adjacent to the display portion 12. An opening / closing lid 14 is provided on the opening of the cartridge mounting portion 13 so as to be openable / closable. By opening the opening / closing lid 14, the tape cartridge 2 can be attached and detached. In addition, the opening / closing lid 14 is provided with a translucent confirmation window 14a so that whether or not the tape cartridge 2 is mounted on the cartridge mounting portion 13 can be visually recognized from the outside. On the bottom surface of the cartridge mounting portion 13, a thermal head 15 as a print head and rotating shafts 16a and 16b constituting a transport mechanism 16 (see FIG. 3) are provided. When the tape cartridge 2 is mounted on the cartridge mounting portion 13, the thermal head 15 and the line sensor 19 are fitted to the hole-shaped head fitting portion 21 provided on the tape cartridge 2, and the platen roller 24 and the winding core are fitted. The rotary shafts 16a and 16b engage with the shaft 27, respectively.

  The tape cartridge 2 has a belt-like tape T and an ink ribbon R built in the cartridge case 20. The tape T is a printing medium of the tape printer 1 and has a configuration in which an adhesive layer is formed on the back surface of a base material made of PET (polyethylene terephthalate) or a paper material and is covered with release paper. . The tape printing apparatus 1 can cope with a plurality of types of tape cartridges 2 having different widths, materials (materials of the base material), colors, and the like of the tape T, and the user uses the tape cartridge 2 according to the application and preference. be able to.

  The ink ribbon R is a thermal transfer type (thermal melting type) ink ribbon. In the present embodiment, the length of the ink ribbon R built in the tape cartridge 2 is the same as that of the tape T built in the tape cartridge 2. The width of the ink ribbon R is larger than that of the tape T, and a code image in which attribute information for identifying the tape cartridge 2 is encoded can be recorded in an area that does not overlap the tape T. This area corresponds to the recording area.

  When printing on the tape T, the ink material of the ink ribbon R is thermally melted by the thermal head 15 to transfer the ink material to the tape T. Further, when recording a code image on the recording area of the ink ribbon R, the thermal head 15 performs recording by thermally melting the ink material of the ink ribbon R and removing the ink material. Therefore, the printing process of the print data on the tape T and the recording process of the code image on the ink ribbon R can be simultaneously and similarly executed by the thermal head 15.

In the present embodiment, the attribute information that can be recorded in the recording area of the ink ribbon R is tape type information, tape remaining amount information, genuine product authentication information (authentication information), and date / time information when the tape cartridge 2 is started to be used. . The attribute information recorded as the code image is not limited to these, and other information can be recorded.
The attribute information and the print image recorded as the code image can be read by the line sensor 19 provided in the vicinity of the thermal head 15 of the tape printer 1. Details of the attribute information reading process will be described later.

  When the tape cartridge 2 is mounted on the cartridge mounting portion 13, the surface of the tape T faces the thermal head 15 via the ink ribbon R at the head fitting portion 21. The thermal head 15 is formed with a large number of heating elements (not shown) arranged in a line in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction (conveying direction) of the tape T, and selectively heats each heating element. As a result, the ink on the ink ribbon R is transferred (thermally transferred) to the surface of the tape T. That is, dots are formed on the surface of the tape T at positions corresponding to the heat generating elements that have generated heat. Here, when the rotary shafts 16 a and 16 b are rotationally driven, the tape T and the ink ribbon R are conveyed, the tape T is discharged to the outside of the cartridge case 20, and the ink ribbon R is taken up inside the cartridge case 20. Then, by repeating the above thermal transfer while transporting the tape T and the ink ribbon R little by little, an image composed of a plurality of dots is printed on the surface of the tape T. At this time, the ink ribbon R is in a state where the transferred portion of the ink is peeled off.

  A slit 17 is provided on the side surface of the housing 10 to communicate the outside of the housing 10 with the cartridge mounting portion 13, and the printed tape T discharged from the cartridge case 20 passes through the slit 17 to the housing. A predetermined amount is conveyed toward the outside of the body 10. A cutter unit 18 for cutting the tape T that crosses the slit 17 is disposed inside the housing 10, and the printed portion of the tape T is cut by the cutter unit 18 and a tape piece ( The label is discharged from the opening (tape discharge port) of the slit 17.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a circuit configuration of the tape printer 1.
As shown in FIG. 3, the tape printer 1 includes a keyboard 11, a display unit 12, a thermal head 15, a transport mechanism 16 including rotating shafts 16 a and 16 b (see FIG. 2), a cutter unit 18, and a line sensor 19. In addition, a control unit 30 that performs overall control of the operation of the tape printer 1, a display drive unit 41 that displays an image on the display unit 12, a head drive unit 42 that drives the thermal head 15 to generate heat, and a transport drive that drives the transport mechanism 16. A unit 43, a cutter driving unit 44 for driving the cutter unit 18, a clock unit 50 for measuring time, and the like.

  The control unit 30 functions as a computer, and is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 31, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 32, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 33, a CGROM (character generator) connected to each other via a bus 30a. ROM) 34, input interface (I / F) 35, output interface (I / F) 36, and the like.

  The CPU 31 operates according to a control program stored in the ROM 33 and controls various operations of the entire tape printer 1.

  The RAM 32 is a storage unit configured with a volatile storage device, and prints the various processing results of the CPU 31, character code strings input from the keyboard 11, display image data to be displayed on the display unit 12, and the thermal head 15. Print image data and the like are temporarily stored. It also stores document data composed of character code strings. These document data and the like may be stored in a flash memory or the like that is a nonvolatile storage device.

  The ROM 33 and the CGROM 34 are storage units configured by a nonvolatile storage device such as a mask ROM or a flash memory. The ROM 33 stores the above-described control program, various data, and the like.

  The CGROM 34 stores font data of characters that can be printed by the tape printer 1. The font data is bitmap format data for generating characters to be printed on the thermal head 15 and characters to be displayed on the display unit 12. Bitmap font data is composed of a large number of dots, and each dot corresponds to a heating element of the thermal head 15 or a pixel of the display unit 12. The CGROM 34 stores font data of a plurality of fonts. The CPU 31 acquires corresponding font data from the CGROM 34 by designating the font type, character size, and character code, and uses the font data. Display image data and print image data are formed. As the font data, outline-format font data that can easily correspond to various character sizes may be used.

  The input interface 35 is connected to the keyboard 11, the line sensor 19, and the clock unit 50. When the user operates the keyboard 11, the keyboard 11 receives this operation and outputs key information corresponding to the operated key to the CPU 31 via the input interface 35.

  The line sensor 19 includes an image sensor array in which image sensors such as a charge coupled device (CCD) and a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) are arranged in a line in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (transport direction) of the tape T. ing. The line sensor 19 images the ink ribbon R of the mounted tape cartridge 2 to record attribute information (tape type information, remaining tape information, genuine product authentication information, use start date / time information) recorded as a code image. The print image is read and output to the CPU 31 via the input interface 35. The line sensor 19 corresponds to a predetermined sensor.

  The clock unit 50 has a calendar function and a clock function, and measures the date and time. Specifically, the clock unit 50 has a real-time clock and measures time with a built-in battery or the like. The date and time information to be timed is read by the control unit 30 as current date and time information.

  A display drive unit 41, a head drive unit 42, a conveyance drive unit 43, and a cutter drive unit 44 are connected to the output interface 36, and these are based on the control of the CPU 31, the display unit 12, the thermal head 15, Each of the transport mechanism 16 and the cutter unit 18 is driven.

  In the tape printing apparatus 1 configured as described above, when the user operates the power key, the tape printing apparatus 1 starts operation, and can input characters using the character keys and various instructions using the control keys. It becomes a state.

  Here, when the user operates a character key to input a character, the keyboard 11 receives this input and outputs key information to the control unit 30. The control unit 30 specifies the character code of the input character based on the key information input from the keyboard 11 and stores this character code in the RAM 32. Then, font data corresponding to the character code is acquired from the CGROM 34, and display image data is formed using the font data. When the control unit 30 supplies the display image data to the display driving unit 41, the input characters are displayed on the display unit 12. When the user repeats character input a plurality of times, a character code string (text data) including a plurality of character codes is stored in the RAM 32, and a character string composed of a plurality of characters is displayed on the display unit 12. Is done.

  When a print key is operated by the user after a character (character string) is input, the tape printer 1 executes a printing process.

Here, a state where the tape cartridge 2 is mounted on the cartridge mounting unit 13 of the tape printer 1 will be described.
FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a state in which the tape cartridge 2 is mounted on the cartridge mounting portion 13.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the tape cartridge 2 is configured by accommodating a tape T, an ink ribbon R, and a platen roller 24 in a cartridge case 20 having a delivery port 23 for the tape T. The tape T is wound around the tape core 25 and can be fed toward the delivery port 23. Similarly, the ink ribbon R is wound around the feeding core 26 and wound around the winding core 27 via the positions of the thermal head 15 and the line sensor 19. On the other hand, a head fitting portion 21 (see FIG. 2) is formed at a position corresponding to the thermal head 15 in the cartridge case 20, and the platen roller 24 is loosely inserted into the head fitting portion 21. It is arrange | positioned so that it may contact.

  When the tape cartridge 2 is mounted on the cartridge mounting portion 13, the tape T and the ink ribbon R are sandwiched between the thermal head 15 and the platen roller 24. During printing, printing by thermal transfer is performed while running the tape T and the ink ribbon R side by side. The thermal head 15 has a heating element array in which a plurality of heating elements are arranged in the tape width direction, and the length of the heating element array corresponds to the width of the ink ribbon R. That is, the thermal head 15 selectively drives a plurality of heat generating elements constituting the heat generating element array based on the print data, and performs dot printing line by line in synchronization with the feeding of the tape T. Further, also for the recording area of the ink ribbon R, a plurality of heating elements are selectively driven to generate heat based on the code image indicating the attribute information, and one line at a time in synchronization with the feeding of the tape T and the ink ribbon R. Dot recording is performed.

  The cartridge mounting unit 13 includes a feed motor (not shown) and a transport mechanism 16 that is driven by the feed motor and rotates the platen roller 24 and the winding core 27. Although not shown in the drawing, the transport mechanism 16 has a gear train, and the two final gears are provided with rotating shafts 16 a and 16 b that project into the cartridge mounting portion 13. When the tape cartridge 2 is mounted on the cartridge mounting portion 13, the platen roller 24 is mounted on the rotating shaft 16a and the take-up core 27 is mounted on the rotating shaft 16b, and the tape T and the ink ribbon R can be fed.

  Then, when the feed motor is driven from this state, the tape T and the ink ribbon R overlap with each other at the positions of the thermal head 15 and the line sensor 19. Here, by driving the thermal head 15, printing on the tape T and recording of a code image on the ink ribbon R are performed. The tape T that has passed through the thermal head 15 is sent out of the tape printer 1 from the tape outlet through the outlet 23 of the tape cartridge 2. On the other hand, the ink ribbon R passes through the line sensor 19 and is wound around the winding core 27.

The line sensor 19 is disposed so as to cross the ink ribbon R on the downstream side of the thermal head 15 in the tape feeding direction. More specifically, the line sensor 19 is disposed so as to extend in a direction orthogonal to the feeding direction of the ink ribbon R. Then, the attribute information recorded as a code image on the ink ribbon R is read.
The line sensor 19 can also detect the width of the ink ribbon R. Thereby, based on the width of the ink ribbon R, the control unit 30 can calculate the tape width information. Further, the line sensor 19 can detect color information of the ink ribbon R. And the control part 30 can display the tape width information and the color information of the ink ribbon R on the display part 12, and can use it for determination of printing conditions.

Example 1
Here, a mode in which the tape type information and the remaining tape information are recorded on the ink ribbon R of the tape cartridge 2 as the attribute information will be described.

5A and 5B are explanatory views showing the ink ribbon R, the thermal head 15, and the line sensor 19, wherein FIG. 5A is an explanatory view showing the leading portion of the ink ribbon R, and FIG. 5B is a halfway portion of the ink ribbon R. It is explanatory drawing showing.
In Example 1 (FIG. 5), the attribute information recorded as a code image on the ink ribbon R is tape type information and remaining tape information. The tape type information is fixed information, and the remaining tape information is variable information.

  The line sensor 19 has a length corresponding to the width of the ink ribbon R, faces the ink ribbon R, and captures a code image and a print image of the attribute information of the tape T recorded on the ribbon surface. ,read. Therefore, the reading resolution in the image sensor array of the line sensor 19 is equal to or higher than the resolution in the attribute information and the print image.

  As shown in FIG. 5A, the ink ribbon R is provided with a recording area A in which attribute information of the tape T is recorded. The recording area A is provided in a portion that does not overlap the tape T in the width direction of the ink ribbon R. The recording area A is continuously provided from the beginning to the end in the extending direction of the ink ribbon R. The head portion of the ink ribbon R in the storage area A, that is, the portion from the head of the ink ribbon R to the thermal head 15 is an initial value recording area A0 in which a code image representing the initial value of the attribute information is recorded in advance. The portion from the initial value recording area A0 to the end is the normal recording area A1 where the code image is recorded by the thermal head 15.

  In the initial value recording area A0, a code image representing the initial value of the attribute information is recorded in advance. In the present embodiment, the code image representing the initial value of the attribute information is recorded in advance in the manufacturing process of the tape cartridge 2. On the other hand, nothing is recorded in the normal recording area A1 when the tape cartridge 2 is not used. When the printing operation is performed, as shown in FIG. 5B, the code image representing the attribute information of the tape T together with the print image is sequentially recorded in the normal recording area A1 by the thermal head 15.

  As shown in FIG. 5, the tape type information and the tape remaining amount information are recorded as a plurality of lines parallel to the length direction of the ink ribbon R. The tape type information and the remaining tape information are represented by bit information based on the thickness and number of the lines and the position. That is, the tape type information is recorded as a barcode code image. Therefore, the line sensor 19 can read the tape type information at an arbitrary timing. Similarly, the remaining tape information is also recorded as a barcode code image. Therefore, the line sensor 19 can read the remaining tape amount (remaining length) at an arbitrary timing.

  In the tape type information, for example, tape width information, tape color information, tape material information, and the like are recorded. Moreover, you may include the transfer tape information showing whether it is a reverse printing tape (transfer tape). The information recorded in the tape type information is not limited to these, and other tape type information may be recorded.

Next, in the first embodiment (a mode in which the tape type information and the tape remaining amount information are recorded as attribute information), the tape T attribute information reading process performed when the tape printer 1 is turned on will be described. To do. This reading process is also performed when the tape cartridge 2 is replaced.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart of the attribute information reading process when the tape printer 1 is turned on.

  When the power key provided on the keyboard 11 is pressed to turn on the tape printer 1, the control unit 30 reads the code image recorded on the ink ribbon R by the line sensor 19 (step S101). Then, the control unit 30 analyzes attribute information (tape type and remaining tape amount) based on the code image (step S102). The control unit 30 at this time corresponds to an attribute information analysis unit. The control unit 30 instructs the display driving unit 41 to display attribute information (tape type and remaining tape amount) (step S103). Then, the attribute information reading process when the power is turned on ends.

Next, a tape attribute information reading process performed when the tape printer 1 starts printing in the first embodiment (a mode in which tape type information and remaining tape information are recorded as attribute information) will be described. .
FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the attribute information reading process when the tape printer 1 starts printing.

  When the print key provided on the keyboard 11 is pressed and the tape printer 1 starts printing, the control unit 30 reads the code image recorded on the ink ribbon R by the line sensor 19 (step S201). Then, the control unit 30 analyzes the attribute information (tape type and remaining tape amount) based on the code image (step S202). The control unit 30 instructs the display driving unit 41 to display attribute information (tape type and remaining tape amount) (step S203). Then, the control unit 30 determines whether or not the length of the tape T to be printed is equal to or less than the remaining tape amount (step S204).

  When the tape length to be printed is equal to or less than the remaining tape amount (step S204: YES), the control unit 30 determines printing conditions such as printing speed and printing density based on the attribute information (step S205). Then, the control unit 30 issues an instruction to the transport driving unit 43 and the head driving unit 42, and starts printing (step S206). Then, the attribute information reading process at the start of printing ends.

  If the tape length to be printed is not less than or equal to the remaining tape amount (step S204: NO), the control unit 30 instructs the display drive unit 41 to display a warning image indicating that the remaining tape amount is insufficient (step S207). Then, the attribute information reading process at the start of printing ends.

Next, in Example 1 (a mode in which tape type information and remaining tape information are recorded as attribute information), the tape printer 1 reads and records tape attribute information for each line during printing. Will be described.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart of attribute information recording processing during printing by the tape printer 1.

  When the print key provided on the keyboard 11 is pressed and the tape printer 1 starts printing, the control unit 30 reads the code image recorded on the ink ribbon R by the line sensor 19 (step S301). Then, the control unit 30 analyzes attribute information (tape type and remaining tape amount) based on the code image (step S302). The control unit 30 instructs the display driving unit 41 to display attribute information (tape type and remaining tape amount) (step S303).

  The control unit 30 subtracts one line from the remaining tape amount of the attribute information (step S304). The control unit 30 encodes the tape type information and the tape remaining amount information to generate a code image (step S305). The tape type information and the remaining tape information correspond to the second attribute information, and the code image corresponds to the second code image. The control unit 30 at this time corresponds to an attribute information generation unit and a code image generation unit.

  The control unit 30 issues an instruction to the transport driving unit 43 and the head driving unit 42 to print one line of print data (print image) and record a code image (step S306). At this time, the control unit 30, the conveyance driving unit 43, the conveyance mechanism 16, the head driving unit 42, and the thermal head 15 correspond to the attribute information recording unit. Then, the control unit 30 determines whether or not the print data is finished (step S307).

  If the print data has not been completed (step S307: NO), the process proceeds to step S301, and printing for each line is continued. If the print data is finished (step S307: YES), the attribute information recording process during printing is finished.

(Example 2)
Next, an aspect in which authentic product authentication information and use start date / time information are recorded on the ink ribbon R of the tape cartridge 2 as attribute information will be described.

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing the ink ribbon R, the thermal head 15, and the line sensor 19. FIG. 9A is an explanatory diagram showing the leading portion of the ink ribbon R, and FIG. 9B is an intermediate portion of the ink ribbon R. It is explanatory drawing showing.
In the second embodiment (FIG. 9), the attribute information recorded as a code image on the ink ribbon R is genuine product authentication information and use start date / time information. The genuine product authentication information and the use start date / time information are fixed information.

  As shown in FIG. 9A, the ink ribbon R is provided with a recording area B in which attribute information of the tape T is recorded. The head portion of the ink ribbon R in the storage area B, that is, the portion from the head of the ink ribbon R to the thermal head 15 is an initial value recording area B0 in which a code image representing the initial value of attribute information is recorded. The portion from the initial value recording area B0 to the end is the normal recording area B1 in which the code image is recorded by the thermal head 15.

  The initial value recording area B0 is an area in which a code image representing the initial value of attribute information is recorded in advance. As shown in FIG. 9A, in this example, genuine product authentication information is recorded. The use start date / time information is not recorded. The use start date / time information is recorded by the tape printer 1 when printing is first performed on the tape T of the tape cartridge 2.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the genuine product authentication information and the use start date / time information are recorded as a plurality of lines parallel to the length direction of the ink ribbon R. The authentic product authentication information and the use start date / time information are represented by bit information based on the thickness and number of the line and the position. That is, the genuine product authentication information is recorded as a barcode code image. Accordingly, the line sensor 19 can read the genuine product authentication information at an arbitrary timing. In the genuine product authentication information, information for authenticating whether or not the tape cartridge 2 is a genuine product is recorded. Similarly, the use start date / time information is recorded as a barcode code image. Therefore, the line sensor 19 can read the use start date / time information at an arbitrary timing. The use start date / time information cannot be read in the initial value recording area B0.

Next, in the second embodiment (a mode in which authentic product authentication information and use start date / time information are recorded as attribute information), the tape T attribute information reading process performed when the tape printer 1 is powered on. explain. This reading process is also performed when the tape cartridge 2 is replaced.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart of the attribute information reading process when the tape printer 1 is turned on.

  When the power key provided on the keyboard 11 is pressed and the tape printer 1 is turned on, the control unit 30 reads the code image recorded on the ink ribbon R by the line sensor 19 (step S401). Then, the control unit 30 analyzes the attribute information (genuine product authentication information and use start date / time information) based on the code image (step S402). The control unit 30 at this time corresponds to an attribute information analysis unit. Then, the control unit 30 refers to the genuine product authentication information of the attribute information and determines whether or not the tape cartridge 2 is a genuine product (step S403).

  If the tape cartridge 2 is a genuine product (step S403: YES), the control unit 30 determines whether or not use start date / time information is recorded in the attribute information (step S404). If the use start date / time information has been recorded (step S404: YES), the control unit 30 inputs the current date / time information from the clock unit 50, and subtracts the use start date / time from the current date / time. The elapsed time is calculated (step S405). The control unit 30 instructs the display drive unit 41 to display the elapsed time from the start of use (step S406). Then, the attribute information reading process when the power is turned on ends.

  If the use start date / time information is not recorded (step S404: NO), the elapsed time from the start of use is not displayed, and the attribute information reading process at power-on is terminated.

  If the tape cartridge 2 is not genuine (step S403: NO), the control unit 30 instructs the display driving unit 41 to display a warning image indicating that the tape cartridge 2 is not genuine (step S407). Then, the attribute information reading process when the power is turned on ends.

Next, in Example 2 (a mode in which authentic product authentication information and use start date / time information are recorded as attribute information), the tape printer 1 reads and records tape attribute information for each line during printing. Processing will be described.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart of attribute information recording processing during printing by the tape printer 1.

  When the print key provided on the keyboard 11 is pressed and the tape printer 1 starts printing, the control unit 30 reads the code image recorded on the ink ribbon R by the line sensor 19 (step S501). Then, the control unit 30 analyzes the attribute information (genuine product authentication information and use start date / time information) based on the code image (step S502). Then, the control unit 30 refers to the genuine product authentication information of the attribute information and determines whether or not the tape cartridge 2 is a genuine product (step S503).

  If the tape cartridge 2 is a genuine product (step S503: YES), the control unit 30 determines whether or not use start date / time information is recorded in the attribute information (step S504). If the use start date / time information is recorded (step S504: YES), the control unit 30 inputs the current date / time information from the clock unit 50, and subtracts the use start date / time from the current date / time. The elapsed time is calculated (step S505). The control unit 30 instructs the display driving unit 41 to display the elapsed time from the start of use (step S506).

  The control unit 30 encodes the genuine product authentication information and the use start date / time information to generate a code image (step S507). The genuine product authentication information and the use start date / time information correspond to the second attribute information, and the code image corresponds to the second code image. The control unit 30 at this time corresponds to an attribute information generation unit and a code image generation unit.

  The control unit 30 issues an instruction to the transport driving unit 43 and the head driving unit 42 to print one line of print data (print image) and record a code image (step S508). Then, the control unit 30 determines whether the print data has been completed (step S509).

  If the print data has not been completed (step S509: NO), the process proceeds to step S501 and printing for each line is continued. If the print data is finished (step S509: YES), the attribute information recording process during printing is finished.

  If the use start date / time information is not recorded (step S504: NO), the control unit 30 sets the current date / time as the use start date / time information (step S510). In step S507, a code image is generated, print data for one line is printed, and the code image is recorded.

  If the tape cartridge 2 is not a genuine product (step S503: NO), the control unit 30 instructs the display drive unit 41 to display a warning image indicating that the tape cartridge 2 is not a genuine product (step S511). Then, the attribute information recording process during printing ends.

Next, the ink ribbon R on which the print data and the code image are printed and recorded by the thermal head 15 is read by the line sensor 19, and it is determined whether printing or recording is normally performed based on the read result. Will be described. This process can be performed in either the first embodiment or the second embodiment.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart of print result suitability determination processing.

  At the time of printing, the control unit 30 instructs the transport driving unit 43 and the head driving unit 42 to print the print image based on the print data on the ink ribbon R and the tape T, and to assign the attribute to the ink ribbon R. A code image is recorded based on the information (step S601). The line sensor 19 reads a print image and a code image printed and recorded on the ink ribbon R (step S602). The control unit 30 compares the print data and attribute information with the result read by the line sensor 19 line by line (step S603). Then, the control unit 30 determines whether or not the printing result and the recording result are correct (normal) (step S604). The control unit 30 at this time corresponds to a determination unit.

  If the print result and the record result are correct (step S604: YES), the print result suitability determination process is terminated. When the printing result or the recording result is not correct (step S604: NO), the control unit 30 instructs the display driving unit 41 to display a warning image indicating that the printing is not performed correctly (step S605). . In addition to these displays, countermeasures such as head cleaning and reprinting may be displayed. Then, the print result suitability determination process ends.

According to the above-described embodiment (Examples 1 and 2), the following effects can be obtained.
(1) The tape printer 1 records a code image obtained by encoding the attribute information of the tape T on the ink ribbon R of the tape cartridge 2 by the thermal head 15. Thereby, since the code image of the attribute information is recorded by the tape printer 1, it is not necessary to previously record the attribute information on the entire ink ribbon R, which is useful. Further, since it is recorded as a code image, a lot of information can be recorded.

  (2) A line sensor 19 that reads a code image recorded on the ink ribbon R is disposed downstream of the thermal head 15 in the medium feeding direction of the tape printer 1. Thereby, the code image recorded on the ink ribbon R by the thermal head 15 can be read by the line sensor 19. The control unit 30 can control the tape printer 1 by reading the attribute information of the tape T recorded as a code image by the thermal head 15. Thus, since the position of the line sensor 19 is on the downstream side of the thermal head 15 in the medium feeding direction, the code image recorded on the ink ribbon R can be constantly read. Further, since the code image is in the form of a barcode, the line sensor 19 can read the attribute information without sending (conveying) the tape T, and the tape T is unnecessarily used. It is beneficial because it can avoid the situation.

  (3) The tape printer 1 decodes the code image read by the line sensor 19, analyzes the attribute information, generates and codes attribute information (second attribute information) based on the attribute information, and generates the code image. Is recorded on the ink ribbon R using the thermal head 15. If the attribute information is tape type information, genuine product authentication information, and use start date / time information, the analyzed attribute information is recorded on the ink ribbon R as a code image as it is. Therefore, it is possible to continue recording the same attribute information on the ink ribbon R. If the attribute information is tape remaining amount information, a code image is generated by subtracting the analyzed attribute information (tape remaining amount) and recorded on the ink ribbon R. Therefore, it is possible to continue recording on the ink ribbon R while performing a subtraction process on the attribute information. As described above, the attribute information (second attribute information) can be continuously recorded on the ink ribbon R based on the attribute information read by the line sensor 19, and therefore the attribute information is recorded in advance on the entire ink ribbon R. There is no need to keep it. That is, since it is not necessary to print and record the code image in all the recording areas in the extending direction of the ink ribbon R in advance, the manufacturing process of the tape cartridge 2 can be simplified.

  (4) The tape printer 1 can read the attribute information when the power is turned on or when the tape cartridge 2 is replaced. And since attribute information can be displayed on the display part 12 and a user can recognize it, the convenience improves.

  (5) The tape printer 1 reads the attribute information at the start of printing. Accordingly, it is useful because it is possible to determine and display whether printing is possible or to determine printing conditions.

  (6) The ink ribbon R of the tape cartridge 2 has recording areas A and B in which a code image of attribute information of the tape T can be recorded. Thereby, since it is possible to record the code image of the attribute information on the ink ribbon R, it is not necessary to previously record the attribute information on the entire ink ribbon R. The recording areas A and B are arranged outside the area for thermal transfer printing on the tape T. Therefore, since the recording of the code image does not affect the printing on the tape T, it is beneficial.

  (7) The recording areas A and B of the ink ribbon R of the tape cartridge 2 are provided with initial value recording areas A0 and B0 in which initial values of attribute information are recorded. As described above, since the initial value of the attribute information is recorded on the ink ribbon R, the tape printer 1 can continue to record the attribute information based on the initial value.

  (8) The attribute information recorded as a code image on the ink ribbon R of the tape cartridge 2 and its initial value include tape type information. The tape printer 1 can continue to record the tape type information on the ink ribbon R. Thereby, when the tape printer 1 prints on the tape T, the printing condition can be determined based on the tape type information. Conventionally, there has been known an aspect in which the tape type is discriminated based on the outer shape of the tape cartridge 2, but in this embodiment, the outer shape of the tape cartridge 2 can be made common. Furthermore, if the external shape of the tape cartridge 2 is made common, it is not necessary to provide the tape printer 1 with a switch for detecting the external shape of the tape cartridge 2, and the product cost and manufacturing cost can be reduced.

(9) The attribute information recorded as a code image on the ink ribbon R of the tape cartridge 2 and its initial value include remaining tape information. The tape printer 1 can continue recording on the ink ribbon R while updating (subtracting) the remaining tape information. Thereby, the tape printer 1 can display the remaining amount of the tape T and allow the user to recognize the remaining amount of the tape. Further, the tape printer 1 can display a warning image indicating that the tape is insufficient when the printing is started and the length of the tape to be printed is not less than the remaining amount of the tape so that the user can recognize it. In addition, when the length of the tape to be printed is not less than or equal to the remaining amount of the tape, it is beneficial to avoid the situation where the tape T becomes insufficient during printing by not starting printing. Also, it is possible to read the tape remaining amount information in real time and display the tape remaining amount in real time even during printing.
In addition, a mode in which a memory IC or the like is mounted on a tape cartridge and information on the remaining amount of tape (usage amount) is recorded is known. However, the remaining amount of tape information is recorded on the ink ribbon R as in this embodiment. Thus, the product cost can be reduced.

  (10) The attribute information recorded as a code image on the ink ribbon R of the tape cartridge 2 and its initial value include genuine product authentication information for identifying whether or not the tape cartridge 2 is a genuine product. The tape printer 1 can continue to record authentic product authentication information on the ink ribbon R. The tape printer 1 identifies whether the tape cartridge 2 is a genuine product with reference to the genuine product authentication information. When the tape cartridge 2 is not a genuine product, the tape printer 1 is useful because it can display a warning image indicating that the tape cartridge 2 is not a genuine product or can prevent printing. Then, by allowing the user to use a genuine product, it is possible to maintain the print quality of the tape T properly and to maintain the durability of the tape printer 1.

  (11) The attribute information recorded as a code image on the ink ribbon R of the tape cartridge 2 includes date information when the tape cartridge 2 is started to be used. The tape printer 1 can continue to record use start date / time information of the tape cartridge 2. Then, by subtracting the use start date and time from the current date and time, the user can recognize the elapsed time from the start of use of the tape cartridge 2. As a result, the user can be prevented from using the tape cartridge 2 whose expiration date has passed, and the print quality of the tape T can be maintained appropriately.

  (12) The control unit 30 of the tape printer 1 compares the print image and code image read by the line sensor 19 with the print data and attribute information, and determines whether the print result and the record result are appropriate. Thereby, the control unit 30 can determine whether printing and recording are normally performed. Then, when printing or recording is not performed normally, a warning image can be displayed and recognized by the user. For example, it is possible to detect (determine) and notify a failure of the thermal head 15 or the transport mechanism 16, a malfunction of the ink ribbon R, a jamming of the tape T, or the like.

  In addition, the above-described embodiment can be configured in the form of a recording medium or the like in which a program for realizing the above functions is recorded so as to be readable by a computer. As a recording medium, a flexible disk, a hard disk, a CD-ROM (Compact Disk Read Only Memory), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), a Blu-ray Disc (registered trademark), a magneto-optical disk, a nonvolatile memory card, a tape printing apparatus 1 Various computer-readable media such as an internal storage device (semiconductor memory such as RAM and ROM) and an external storage device (USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory, etc.) can be used.

  In addition, it is not limited to embodiment mentioned above, It is possible to implement by adding various change, improvement, etc. A modification will be described below.

  (Modification 1) In the above embodiment, the tape printer 1 has the line sensor 19 as a predetermined sensor. However, the predetermined sensor is not limited to the line sensor, and may be an area sensor or the like. Further, when the process for determining the suitability of the printing result is not performed, the line sensor 19 does not have to have a length corresponding to the width of the ink ribbon R, and a code image in which attribute information is coded can be read. I just need it.

  (Modification 2) In the above embodiment, the recording areas A and B of the ink ribbon R of the tape cartridge 2 are provided with the initial value recording areas A0 and B0, and the initial values of the attribute information are recorded. However, when the initial value is not recorded, the tape printer 1 may display the fact on the display unit 12. And you may make a user input the initial value of attribute information using the keyboard 11. FIG. Thereby, the tape printer 1 can record the code image based on the initial value of the attribute information input by the user on the ink ribbon R by the thermal head 15.

  (Modification 3) In the above embodiment, the ink ribbon R of the tape cartridge 2 is recorded with the code image in which the attribute information is coded by peeling off the ink material by thermally melting the ink material. However, the code image of the attribute information is not limited to such a recording method. The code image may be recorded so as to be readable by a predetermined sensor.

  (Modification 4) In the above embodiment, when the printing tape length is not less than or equal to the remaining tape amount, a warning image indicating that the remaining tape amount is insufficient is displayed at the start of printing. Not what you want. For example, when the user inputs characters or symbols for printing with the keyboard 11, the tape length when printing is calculated at any time, and when the tape length becomes longer than the remaining tape amount, the remaining tape amount is insufficient. A warning image may be displayed.

  (Modification 5) In the above embodiment, when the date and time information when the use of the tape cartridge 2 is recorded as the attribute information of the tape T, the elapsed time from the start of use is displayed. If the elapsed time has passed a predetermined elapsed time (for example, the expiration date after opening), a warning image indicating that may be displayed. Moreover, you may display the date which started use as it is.

  (Modification 6) In the above embodiment, the date / time information of the start of use of the tape cartridge 2 is recorded as the attribute information of the tape T. However, the manufacturing date / time of the tape cartridge 2 is recorded in the initial value recording area of the ink ribbon R. Information may be recorded. In this way, the elapsed time from the manufacturing date can be displayed by subtracting the manufacturing date from the current date. In addition, when the elapsed time from the manufacturing date and time has passed a predetermined elapsed time (for example, the expiration date from the manufacturing), a warning image indicating that may be displayed. Further, the manufacturing date and time may be displayed as it is.

  (Modification 7) In the above embodiment, the control unit 30 of the tape printer 1 compares the print image and code image read by the line sensor 19 with the print data and attribute information, and determines whether or not the print result is normal. However, it may be determined whether the print result is normal by comparing only one of the print image and the code image.

  (Modification 8) In the above embodiment, the remaining tape information is recorded as the attribute information, but the usage amount information that is the usage amount of the tape that has been used since the start of the use of the tape cartridge 2 is recorded. Alternatively, the remaining amount of tape may be obtained by subtracting the amount of tape T used from the unused tape length. In this case, the tape length when not in use may be recorded as tape type information, or may be obtained by the tape printer 1 based on tape width information and tape material information.

  (Modification 9) In the above embodiment, the tape printer 1 prints print image data and code images formed inside the tape printer 1, but an external information processing apparatus such as a personal computer (see FIG. It is also possible to transmit print image data and code images formed using the image data to the tape printer 1 and print or record images corresponding to the print image data and code images on the tape T. In this case, the information processing apparatus stores a program (software) for forming print image data and a code image. Further, the tape printer 1 reads the attribute information of the tape T and transmits it to the information processing apparatus.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Tape printer, 2 ... Tape cartridge, 10 ... Housing | casing, 11 ... Keyboard, 12 ... Display part, 13 ... Cartridge mounting part, 14 ... Opening / closing lid, 14a ... Confirmation window, 15 ... Thermal head, 16 ... Conveyance mechanism , 16a, 16b ... rotating shaft, 17 ... slit, 18 ... cutter unit, 19 ... line sensor, 20 ... cartridge case, 21 ... head fitting part, 23 ... delivery port, 24 ... platen roller, 25 ... tape core, 26 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS ... Feeding core, 27 ... Winding core, 30 ... Control part, 30a ... Bus, 31 ... CPU, 32 ... RAM, 33 ... ROM, 34 ... CGROM, 35 ... Input interface, 36 ... Output interface, 41 ... Display drive part , 42 ... Head drive unit, 43 ... Conveyance drive unit, 44 ... Cutter drive unit, 50 ... Clock unit, T ... Tape, R ... Ink Bonn.

Claims (11)

A tape printer that performs printing on a tape-like print medium provided in a tape cartridge,
A print head that prints print data generated based on image information on the tape-shaped print medium using an ink ribbon provided in the tape cartridge;
An attribute information recording unit that records a code image obtained by encoding the attribute information of the tape-shaped print medium on the ink ribbon using the print head;
A tape printing apparatus comprising: The tape printer according to claim 1,
A predetermined sensor disposed downstream of the print head in the medium feeding direction;
The tape printing apparatus, wherein the code image recorded on the ink ribbon is configured to be readable at an arbitrary timing by the predetermined sensor. The tape printer according to claim 2, wherein
An attribute information analysis unit that decodes the code image read by the predetermined sensor and analyzes the attribute information of the tape-shaped print medium;
An attribute information generation unit that generates second attribute information based on the attribute information analyzed by the attribute information analysis unit;
A code image generation unit that encodes the second attribute information generated by the attribute information generation unit to generate a second code image;
Further comprising
The attribute information recording unit records the second code image generated by the code image generation unit on the ink ribbon using the print head. The tape printer according to claim 2 or 3,
The predetermined sensor can read a print image based on the print data recorded on the ink ribbon,
A tape printing apparatus, further comprising: a determination unit that compares the print image read by the predetermined sensor with the print data and determines whether the print result is appropriate. A tape cartridge having an ink ribbon and a tape-shaped print medium,
The ink ribbon has a recording area capable of recording a code image obtained by encoding attribute information of the tape-shaped print medium so that the code image can be read at an arbitrary position in the extending direction of the ink ribbon. A featured tape cartridge. The tape cartridge according to claim 5, wherein
A tape cartridge having an initial value recording area for recording an initial value of the attribute information in the recording area of the ink ribbon. It is a tape cartridge of Claim 6, Comprising:
The tape cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the initial value of the attribute information includes tape type information. It is a tape cartridge of Claim 6, Comprising:
The initial value of the attribute information includes tape remaining amount information. It is a tape cartridge of Claim 6, Comprising:
The initial value of the attribute information includes authentication information for identifying whether or not the tape cartridge is genuine. It is a tape cartridge of Claim 6, Comprising:
The tape cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the attribute information includes date and time information on the start of use of the tape cartridge. A control method of a tape printing apparatus having a print head for printing print data generated based on image information on a tape-shaped print medium using an ink ribbon provided in a tape cartridge,
A method for controlling a tape printing apparatus, comprising: an attribute information recording step of recording a code image obtained by encoding the attribute information of the tape-shaped print medium on the ink ribbon using the print head.

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