JP6033611B2 - Label printing device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a label printing apparatus.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, products such as fresh food and processed food are sold with a label piece attached to the upper surface of the product to indicate information (product information) about the product. For example, Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application No. 2002-283633) proposes a label printing apparatus for printing product information on a label piece.

  By the way, the label printing apparatus proposed in the above-mentioned Patent Document 1 includes a cutter mechanism for separating a mountless label portion on which product information is printed from the mountless label. The cutter mechanism has a motor that drives the blade in the vertical direction with respect to the mountless label. Here, when a failure occurs in the cutter mechanism, the entire cutter mechanism may need to be repaired. However, if the label printing apparatus cannot be used while the entire cutter mechanism is being repaired, it is inconvenient because a label piece to be attached to a product cannot be generated.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a label printing apparatus that makes it possible to generate a label piece even when a cutter mechanism cannot be used.

  The label printing apparatus according to the present invention includes a roll holder, a feeding roller, a printing unit, a cutter mechanism, and a control device. The roll holder holds the label roll around which the mountless label is wound. The feeding roller feeds the mountless label from the label roll. The printing unit prints product information on a mountless label. The cutter mechanism cuts a predetermined portion of the mountless label in order to generate a label piece by separating the mountless label portion on which the product information is printed from the mountless label. The control device controls operations of the feeding roller, the printing unit, and the cutter mechanism. The control device also has a setting mode reception unit. The setting mode reception unit receives input of setting modes related to the use of the cutter mechanism including the cutter use mode and the cutter non-use mode. The cutter use mode is a mode in which the cutter mechanism can be used. The cutter non-use mode is a mode in which the cutter mechanism cannot be used. The printing unit prints a cutting mark on a predetermined part of the mountless label when the input of the cutter non-use mode is received by the use mode receiving unit.

  In the label printing apparatus according to the present invention, a cutting mark is printed on a predetermined portion of the mountless label when the cutter non-use mode is set to disable the use of the cutter mechanism. Thereby, even if it is a case where a cutter mechanism cannot be used, a label piece can be produced | generated.

  The cutting mark preferably includes any one of a solid line, a broken line, and a chain line. Thereby, the operator of the label printing apparatus can easily specify the cutting location.

  Furthermore, the control device preferably includes a setting mode storage unit and a confirmation screen generation unit. The setting mode storage unit stores the setting mode received by the setting mode receiving unit. The confirmation screen generating unit generates a confirmation screen regarding the change of the setting mode when the new setting mode newly received by the setting mode receiving unit is different from the setting mode stored in the setting mode storage unit. This can alert the operator of the label printing apparatus that the setting mode is changed.

  Furthermore, the control device preferably includes a product selection receiving unit, a price setting information storage unit, and a setting availability determination unit. The product selection accepting unit accepts selection regarding the type of product related to the product information to be printed on the mountless label. The price setting information storage unit stores information regarding the type of price setting. The information on the type of price setting is information on the type of price setting for the product, and includes fixed amount setting and measurement setting. In the fixed amount setting, a fixed price is set according to the type of product. In the weighing setting, different prices are set according to the weight of the product. The setting availability determination unit determines whether the cutter non-use mode can be set based on the price setting corresponding to the type of product received by the product selection receiving unit. The setting availability determination unit determines that the cutter non-use mode can be set when the price setting corresponding to the product is a fixed amount setting. In addition, the printing unit receives a predetermined label on the mountless label when an input of the cutter non-use mode is received by the use mode reception unit and the setting non-use determination unit determines that the cutter non-use mode can be set. A cutting mark is printed on the part. Thereby, the setting of the cutter non-use mode with respect to a product whose price fluctuates according to the measurement value (measurement product) can be restricted, and the label piece to be attached to the fixed amount product can be issued efficiently.

  Further, the control device may include a number input receiving unit and a feeding length setting unit. The number input receiving unit receives input of the number of label pieces. The feeding length setting unit sets the feeding length. The feeding length is the length of the mountless label fed from the label roll. The feeding length setting unit sets the feeding length based on the length of one label piece and the number of label pieces related to the input received by the number input receiving unit. Further, the feeding roller continuously feeds a mountless label having a length corresponding to the feeding length from the label roll. Thereby, even when the operation of separating the label piece from the mountless label is performed manually, the label piece can be efficiently generated for the fixed amount product.

  The control device may further include a stop command receiving unit. The stop command receiving unit receives a stop command for stopping the driving of the feeding roller. Further, the feeding roller continuously feeds the mountless label from the label roll until the stop command is received by the stop command receiving unit. Thereby, a desired number of label pieces can be appropriately generated.

  The control device may further include a product selection receiving unit, a price setting information storage unit, and a setting type determination unit. The product selection accepting unit accepts selection regarding the type of product related to the product information to be printed on the mountless label. The price setting information storage unit is information relating to the type of price setting for the product, and includes a fixed amount setting and a weighing setting. In the fixed amount setting, a fixed price is set according to the type of product. The weighing setting sets a different price depending on the weight of the product. The setting type determination unit determines the type of price setting corresponding to the type of product received by the product selection reception unit. In addition, when the type of price setting determined by the setting type determination unit is the fixed amount setting, the feeding roller continuously feeds the mountless label from the label roll. Further, when the type of price setting determined by the setting type determination unit is the weighing setting, the feeding roller feeds a mountless label having a predetermined length corresponding to one label piece from the label roll. . Thereby, the label piece stuck on both fixed amount goods and measurement goods can be issued efficiently.

  Furthermore, it is preferable that the control device includes a number input receiving unit and a feeding length setting unit. The number input receiving unit receives input of the number of label pieces. The feeding length setting unit sets the feeding length. The feeding length is the length of the mountless label fed from the label roll. In addition, when the type of price setting determined by the setting type determination unit is fixed amount setting, the feeding length setting unit displays the length of the label piece for one sheet and the label relating to the input received by the number input receiving unit. The feeding length is set based on the number of pieces. In addition, when the type of price setting determined by the setting type determination unit is the weighing setting, the feeding length setting unit sets a correction length that is larger than the length of one label piece to the feeding length. Set to The feeding roller continuously feeds a mountless label having a length corresponding to the feeding length from the label roll. Thereby, even if it is a case where a cutter mechanism cannot be used, the label piece suitable for each of fixed amount goods and weighing goods can be issued.

  The label printing apparatus according to the present invention makes it possible to generate a label piece even when the cutter mechanism cannot be used.

It is an external appearance perspective view of the packaging apparatus provided with the label issuing apparatus which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram of a packaging apparatus. It is the schematic of the label issuing apparatus with which the label roll was mounted | worn. It is a figure which shows the back surface of a mount-less label. It is a figure which shows the surface of the mountless label which printed merchandise information (image data) and the mark for cutting. It is a figure which shows the example of a goods master. It is a figure which shows the example of the information memorize | stored in format information. It is a figure which shows the example of an initial screen. It is a figure which shows the example of a function setting screen. It is a figure which shows the example of a confirmation screen. It is a figure which shows the example of a confirmation screen. It is a figure which shows the example of a goods selection screen. It is a figure which shows the example of a warning screen. It is a figure which shows the example of a goods call completion screen. It is a figure which shows the example of a goods call completion screen. It is a figure which shows the operation | movement flow of the label issuing apparatus when not changing a setting mode. It is a figure which shows the operation | movement flow of the label issuing apparatus at the time of changing setting mode. It is a figure which shows the operation | movement flow of the label issuing apparatus at the time of changing setting mode. It is a block diagram of a control device concerning modification B. It is a figure which shows the example of the printing number input screen which the control apparatus which concerns on the modification B displays. 10 is a block diagram of a control device according to Modification F. FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of the confirmation screen which the control apparatus which concerns on the modification F displays. It is a figure which shows the operation | movement flow of the label issuing apparatus at the time of changing a setting mode in the control apparatus which concerns on the modification F.

  A label printing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The following embodiments do not limit the technical scope of the present invention.

(1) Overall Configuration FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of a packaging apparatus 100 provided with a label printing apparatus 160 according to the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram of the packaging device 100. As shown in FIG. 1 or 2, the packaging device 100 mainly includes a weighing-in mechanism 20, a packaging mechanism 30, and a label issuing unit 60. The packaging device 100 further includes a control device 80 that controls the weighing-in mechanism 20, the packaging mechanism 30, and the label issuing unit 60. In the present embodiment, the label issuing unit 60 and the control device 80 included in the packaging device 100 will be described as a label printing device 160.

  The weighing-in mechanism 20 is a mechanism that loads the product P into the packaging device 100 and measures the weight of the product P. The product P weighed by the weighing-in mechanism 20 is conveyed to the packaging mechanism 30.

  The packaging mechanism 30 is a mechanism for packaging the product P put in a tray or a container with a film. As shown in FIG. 1, the packaging mechanism 30 mainly includes a packaging material holding unit 31, a packaging station 32, and a seal portion 33. The packaging material holding unit 31 is a unit that holds a film roll. The packaging station 32 folds the film fed from the film roll into the lower surface side of the product and wraps the product P with the film. Further, the packaging station 32 sends the packaged product P to the seal portion 33. The seal portion 33 performs heat sealing on the film folded on the lower surface of the product P.

  The label issuing unit 60 issues a label piece LP to be attached to a packaged product. Hereinafter, the configuration of the label issuing unit 60 and the configuration of the control device 80 will be described in detail.

(2) Detailed Configuration of Label Issuing Unit The label issuing unit 60 prints product information on the mountless label LS and issues a label piece LP. The label issuing unit 60 is controlled by the control device 80 as described above. The mount-less label LS is a continuous sheet-like paper member. The mount-less label LS has an adhesive surface with an adhesive on the back surface. The mount is not attached to the adhesive surface. That is, the label sheet LS is a mount-less.

  As shown in FIG. 4, an eye mark EM is provided on the back surface of the mountless label LS. The eye mark EM is a portion with a different color from the mountless label LS. The eye mark EM is detected by a label detection sensor 65 described later. When the label detection sensor 65 detects the eye mark EM, the amount (length) of the mountless label LS fed out from the label roll LR is determined. The eye marks EM are provided at a predetermined distance in the longitudinal direction of the mountless label LS. Product information is printed on the surface of the mountless label LS. The surface of the mountless label LS is formed by a heat-sensitive color developing layer and a release layer. Specifically, the surface of the mountless label LS is coated with silicon so that the adhesive on the adhesive surface does not adhere to the thermosensitive coloring layer.

  Hereinafter, the configuration of the label issuing unit 60 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3. The label issuing unit 60 mainly includes a roll holder 61, a thermal head (printing unit) 62, a platen roller (feeding roller) 63, a cutter mechanism 64, and a label detection sensor 65.

(2-1) Roll Holder The roll holder 61 is a mechanism that rotatably holds the label roll LR. The label roll LR is a roll around which a sheet-like mountless label LS is wound. The roll holder 61 has a mounting portion for mounting the label roll LR. The mounting portion has a rotation shaft. By rotating the rotation shaft, the label roll LR rotates and the mountless label LS is fed out. A stopper (not shown) is attached to the tip of the rotating shaft. The stopper restricts the label roll LR mounted on the mounting portion from being removed from the mounting portion.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the mountless label LS is conveyed downstream with the surface facing upward.

(2-2) Thermal Head The thermal head 62 is a printing unit that prints product information on the surface of the mountless label LS fed from the label roll LR. The product information printed on the mountless label LS includes, for example, a product name, an amount (and unit price), a weight (net amount), a barcode, a processing date, an expiration date, etc., as shown in FIG. Specifically, product information including a combination of information units associated with each format described later is printed on the surface of the mountless label LS.

  In this embodiment, the product information is such that the vertical direction of the label piece LP coincides with the longitudinal direction of the mountless label LS, and the lower end portion of the label piece LP is discharged from the discharge port before the upper end portion. It is printed on the mountless label LS. In other words, the mountless label shown in FIG. 5 is discharged from the lower end side.

  The thermal head 62 is positioned above a platen roller 63 described later. The thermal head 62 applies heat to the thermosensitive coloring layer on the surface of the mountless label LS to cause color development, and prints the above-described product information on the mountless label LS.

(2-3) Platen Roller The platen roller 63 is a roller that feeds the mountless label LS forward. The platen roller 63 is disposed below the thermal head 62 so as to face the thermal head 62. The platen roller 63 sandwiches the mountless label LS with the thermal head 62. The mountless label LS sandwiched between the thermal head 62 and the platen roller 63 is sent out toward the discharge port by the rotational drive of the platen roller 63.

(2-4) Cutter mechanism The cutter mechanism 64 separates the portion on which the product information is printed from the continuously extending mountless label LS. In other words, the cutter mechanism 64 cuts a predetermined portion of the mountless label LS, and separates the label piece LP attached to the product P from the mountless label LS.

  The cutter mechanism 64 is disposed in front of the discharge port in the conveyance path of the mountless label LS. The cutter mechanism 64 is located downstream of the thermal head 62 and the platen roller 63 in the transport path of the mountless label LS.

  The cutter mechanism 64 includes a movable cutter 64a, a fixed cutter 64b, and an actuator (not shown). The moving cutter 64a is disposed on the upper surface side of the mountless label LS. The moving cutter 64a has a configuration that can be moved in the vertical direction by an actuator. That is, the moving cutter 64a moves in a direction toward and away from the mountless label LS. The fixed cutter 64b is disposed on the lower surface side of the mountless label LS. When the moving cutter 64a moves downward, it sandwiches the mountless label LS with the fixed cutter 64b, and separates the label piece LP from the mountless label LS. The label piece LP separated from the mountless label LS by the cutter mechanism 64 is attached to the product P.

  The cutter mechanism 64 is detachably attached to the label issuing unit 60. In other words, the label issuing unit 60 can feed out the mountless label LS even when the cutter mechanism 64 is removed.

  Further, the cutter mechanism 64 is driven by the control unit 84 described later only when the cutter use mode is set.

(2-5) Label detection sensor The label detection sensor 65 is a photoelectric sensor. The label detection sensor 65 irradiates the mountless label LS conveyed in the downstream direction with light and receives light reflected from the mountless label LS. The label detection sensor 65 detects the eye mark EM of the mountless label LS based on the difference in the amount of light reflected from the mountless label LS. When the eye mark EM is detected by the label detection sensor 65, a detection signal is sent to the control device 80 described later. Based on the detection result by the label detection sensor 65, the transport amount of the mountless label LS is grasped.

  In addition to the label detection sensor 65, a plurality of label detection sensors are provided in the conveyance path of the mountless label LS. Based on the detection results of the plurality of label detection sensors, the tip position of the mountless label LS and the tip position of the label piece LP are grasped.

(3) Detailed Configuration of Control Device Next, the configuration of the control device 80 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. The control device 80 is connected to each component included in the packaging device 100 and transmits and receives signals to and from each component. Thereby, the control apparatus 80 controls the measurement carrying-in mechanism 20, the packaging mechanism 30, and the label issuing unit 60 as mentioned above.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the control device 80 mainly includes a display unit 81, an input unit 82, a storage unit 83, and a control unit 84.

(3-1) Display Unit and Input Unit The display unit 81 displays an operation screen, a confirmation screen, and the like for operating the packaging device 100 (see FIGS. 8 to 15). In addition, the display unit 81 shows the processing status of the packaging device 100, information on the products packaged by the packaging device 100, and the like. The display unit 81 is a touch panel display. The touch panel display has an input function in addition to a display function. The input unit 82 is used for inputting various information necessary for processing by the packaging device 100. The input unit 82 includes a machine key. The packaging device 100 operates based on the contents input by the touch panel 81 and the machine key 82.

  The display unit 81 includes an initial screen (see FIG. 8), a function setting screen (see FIG. 9), a confirmation screen (see FIGS. 10 and 11), a product selection screen (see FIG. 12), and a warning screen (see FIG. 13). And various screens such as a product call completion screen (see FIGS. 14 and 15).

  The initial screen is a screen displayed on the display unit 81 when the packaging device 100 is started up. As shown in FIG. 8, a notification regarding the operation method is displayed on the initial screen. Further, the currently set setting mode of the cutter mechanism 64 is displayed in the lower left region R81 of the initial screen. The setting mode of the cutter mechanism 64 is a mode related to use / non-use of the cutter mechanism 64. By default, the cutter usage mode is set.

  The function setting screen is a screen displayed by selecting a function setting key k8 included in the initial screen. The function setting screen is a screen for setting a plurality of functions provided in the label printing apparatus 160. A plurality of function keys are provided on the function setting screen. By selecting the cutter setting mode switching key k9 among the plurality of function keys, the setting mode of the cutter mechanism 64 is changed.

  The confirmation screen is a screen that is displayed when the cutter setting mode switching key k9 included in the function setting screen is selected. When the execution key is selected on the confirmation screen, the changed setting mode is displayed in the lower left regions R141 and R151 of the initial screen, as shown in FIGS.

  The product selection screen is a screen for selecting product information to be printed on the mountless label LS. That is, the product selection screen is a screen for selecting a product. The product selection screen is displayed by selecting a predetermined location on the initial screen. Here, the predetermined location is, for example, a call number area R82 (see FIG. 8).

  The warning screen is a screen that is displayed when an attempt is made to call a weighing product when the cutter non-use mode is set.

  The product call completion screen is a screen on which the weighing product is called. As shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, information (product name, weight, price, etc.) about the product that has not appeared on the initial screen is displayed on the product call completion screen. When the cutter non-use mode is set as the setting mode of the cutter mechanism 64, a print stop key k14b is displayed on the product call completion screen, as shown in FIG.

  The information selected or input through the various screens described above is received by the input receiving unit 84a described later.

(3-2) Storage Unit The storage unit 83 includes a ROM, a RAM, a hard disk, and the like. The storage unit 83 stores various programs and various information necessary for controlling the packaging device 100. Further, the storage unit 83 stores information necessary for printing product information on the label piece LP.

  Specifically, the storage unit 83 mainly includes a product master storage area (price setting information storage part) 83a, a format information storage area 83b, a setting mode storage area (setting mode storage part) 83c, and an input information storage area. 83d is secured.

(3-2-1) Product Master Storage Area The product master storage area 83a stores basic information about products. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, the basic information related to the product includes a call number, a product name, a product code, a price, a weight, a unit price, a price type, a raw material, and the like.

  Here, the price type means a type of price setting. Specifically, the price setting type includes a fixed amount setting and a weighing setting. A product with a fixed amount is a product for which a fixed price is set according to the type of product. Specifically, a fixed amount set product is a product for which a predetermined price is set for a product that is previously weighed to a predetermined weight. That is, a fixed price is set for a fixed price for the same type of product. On the other hand, the weighing-set product is a product for which the unit price of the product is set and the price is set according to the weight of the product. That is, the product with the weighing setting means a product for which a price corresponding to the weighing weight is set. Therefore, different prices are set according to the weight of the product even if the product of the weighing setting is the same type of product.

  In addition, the basic information stores a bar code, a processing date, a expiration date, and the like related to the product in association with each other.

(3-2-2) Format Information Storage Area The format information storage area 83b stores information (format information) related to a format that is referred to when product information is printed on the mountless label LS. In the format information storage area 83b, information related to a plurality of types of formats corresponding to the types of products is stored (see FIG. 7). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, as the format information, it is necessary to print the type of product information to be printed on the label piece LP (the type of information to be printed among a plurality of product information) and the print item. This defines the size of the label piece and the layout information of the print items. The layout information includes, for example, the arrangement (coordinates) of each print item, the character direction, and the font / font size. The coordinate format information is stored in association with the product number of each product stored in the product master storage area 83a.

(3-2-3) Setting Mode Storage Area The setting mode storage area 83c stores a mode (setting mode) related to the use of the cutter mechanism 64. Specifically, the setting mode includes a cutter use mode in which the cutter mechanism 64 can be used and a cutter non-use mode in which the cutter mechanism 64 cannot be used. More specifically, the cutter use mode is a mode in which the mountless label LS fed from the label roll LR is cut by the cutter mechanism 64. In other words, in the cutter use mode, the label piece LP is separated from the mountless label LS using the cutter mechanism 64. On the other hand, the cutter non-use mode is a mode in which the operator manually cuts the mountless label LS fed from the label roll LR. In other words, in the cutter non-use mode, the label piece LP is separated from the mountless label LS without using the cutter mechanism 64.

  The setting mode storage area 83c stores a cutter use mode as a default. The currently set mode is stored in the setting mode storage area 83c. The information stored in the setting mode storage area 83c is overwritten by the setting mode (input setting mode) received by the input receiving unit 84a described later.

  The cutter non-use mode is a mode mainly used when the cutter mechanism 64 is removed from the label issuing unit 60.

(3-2-4) Input information storage area The input information storage area 83d stores various types of information input via the input unit 82 and received by the input receiving unit 84a described later. Here, the various types of information stored in the input information storage area 83d include information related to product selection, information related to the number of label pieces LP, and the like.

(3-3) Control Unit The control unit 84 is mainly composed of a CPU. The control unit 84 reads out and executes various programs stored in the storage unit 83. In addition, as shown in FIG. 2, the control unit 84 mainly includes an input reception unit (product selection reception unit, setting mode reception unit, stop command reception unit) 84a, a setting mode determination unit (setting availability determination unit) 84b, and confirmation. It functions as a screen generation unit 84c, a calling unit 84d, and an image data generation unit 84e.

(3-3-1) Input Reception Unit The input reception unit 84a receives various information input via the input unit 82. In other words, the input receiving unit 84 a receives various information input using various screens displayed on the display unit 81. Here, the various types of information received by the input receiving unit 84a include information related to product selection, information related to the setting mode of the cutter mechanism 64, a print command, and a print stop command.

  Specifically, the information related to product selection is the type of product related to the product information printed on the mountless label LS. More specifically, the input receiving unit 84a receives an input of a product number corresponding to a product as information related to product selection. Specifically, the input receiving unit 84a receives the product number selected (input) on the above-described product selection screen (see FIG. 12).

  In addition, as described above, the information regarding the setting mode of the cutter mechanism 64 is to perform printing processing on the mountless label LS without using the cutter mechanism 64 or print on the mountless label LS using the cutter mechanism 64. This is information regarding selection of a setting mode for whether to perform processing. Specifically, the input reception unit 84a receives either the cutter use mode or the cutter non-use mode as information regarding the setting mode. In detail, the input reception part 84a receives the information input using the cutter setting mode switching key k9 of the function setting screen (refer FIG. 9) mentioned above.

  The print command is a command for executing print processing on the mountless label LS. Specifically, the input receiving unit 84a receives information input using the print keys k14a and k15a on the product call completion screen (see FIGS. 14 and 15).

  The print stop command is a command for stopping the printing process on the mountless label LS when the cutter non-use mode is selected. In detail, the input reception part 84a receives the information input using the printing stop key k14b of a goods call completion screen (refer FIG. 14).

  The information received by the input receiving unit 84a is stored in the input information storage area 83d. Further, based on the information received by the input receiving unit 84 a, the control unit 84 transmits a control command to each unit constituting the packaging device 100.

(3-3-2) Setting Mode Determination Unit The setting mode determination unit 84b sets a setting mode that is different from the setting mode stored in the setting mode storage area 83c in the selection of the setting mode received by the input receiving unit 84a. It is determined whether it is a thing. In other words, the setting mode determination unit 84b determines whether the setting mode (input setting mode) received by the input receiving unit 84a is to change the previously set setting mode (current setting mode). Determine whether. When the input setting mode is different from the current setting mode, the input setting mode is stored in the setting mode storage area 83c. That is, in the setting mode storage area 83c, the current setting mode is overwritten by the input setting mode.

  Furthermore, when the current setting mode is the cutter non-use mode, the setting mode determination unit 84b determines whether or not the cutter non-use mode can be set for the product related to the selection received by the input reception unit 84a. Specifically, the setting mode determination unit 84b first determines whether the price setting corresponding to the product received by the input receiving unit 84a is a fixed amount setting or a weighing setting. Furthermore, the setting mode determination unit 84b determines that the cutter non-use mode can be set when the price setting corresponding to the product is a fixed amount setting. On the other hand, the setting mode determination unit 84b determines that the cutter non-use mode cannot be set when the price setting corresponding to the product is the weighing setting.

  More specifically, the setting mode determination unit 84b refers to the price type stored in the product master storage area 83a and determines the price type set for the product. The setting mode determination unit 84b determines that the cutter non-use mode can be set when the price type set for the product is a fixed amount setting. On the other hand, the setting mode determination unit 84b determines that the cutter non-use mode cannot be set when the price type set for the product is the weighing setting.

  Here, when it is determined that the cutter non-use mode can be set, the setting mode determination unit 84b determines that the product cannot be called. That is, when the setting mode determination unit 84b determines that the cutter non-use mode can be set for the selected product, the setting mode determination unit 84b enables the calling unit 84d described later to call the product information. On the other hand, when the setting mode determination unit 84b determines that the cutter non-use mode cannot be set for the selected product, the setting mode determination unit 84b limits the calling of the product information by the calling unit 84d. That is, when the setting mode determination unit 84b determines that the cutter non-use mode cannot be set, the setting mode determination unit 84b disables the information calling by the calling unit 84d.

(3-3-3) Confirmation Screen Generation Unit The confirmation screen generation unit 84c generates various confirmation screens when the setting mode determination unit 84b determines that the setting mode has been changed. Here, the confirmation screen includes a screen for confirming the setting change and a screen prompting a warning that the setting change is impossible (see FIGS. 10, 11, and 13).

  Specifically, the screen for confirming the setting change is a screen generated when the setting mode determination unit 84b determines that the input setting mode is different from the current setting mode (see FIGS. 10 and 10). 11). Specifically, FIG. 10 illustrates an example of a screen generated by the confirmation screen generation unit 84c when the selection of the cutter non-use mode is received by the input reception unit 84a in a state where the cutter use mode is set. Indicates. FIG. 11 shows an example of a screen generated by the confirmation screen generation unit 84c when selection of the cutter usage mode is received by the input reception unit 84a in a state where the cutter non-use mode is set. .

  Further, the warning screen is a screen generated when the setting mode determination unit 84b determines that the cutter non-use mode cannot be set for the selected product (see FIG. 13). Specifically, FIG. 13 is generated by the confirmation screen generating unit 84c when the product related to the selection received by the input receiving unit 84a is a weighing product in a state where the cutter non-use mode is set. An example of the screen is shown.

(3-3-4) Calling unit The calling unit 84d calls the product information corresponding to the product number based on the product number received by the input receiving unit 84a. Furthermore, the calling unit 84d calls the format information corresponding to the called product information. Specifically, the calling unit 84d calls the product information and the format information corresponding to the product information based on the information stored in the product master storage area 83a and the format information storage area 83b.

(3-3-5) Image Data Generation Unit The image data generation unit 84e generates image data based on the product information and format information called by the calling unit 84d. Image data is data in which product information is displayed based on format information, and is print data printed on a mountless label.

  Further, the image data generation unit 84e adds a cutting mark CL to the generated image data when the cutter non-use mode is set (see FIG. 5). The cutting mark CL is a straight image used as a mark when the operator separates the label piece LP from the mountless label LS. Specifically, the cutting marks CL are provided to indicate boundaries between a plurality of image data (images) printed continuously in the longitudinal direction of the mountless label LS. In other words, the cutting mark CL is a straight image extending in the width direction of the mountless label LS, and indicates a cut portion of the mountless label LS.

  The cutting mark CL is an image of any one of a solid line, a broken line, and a chain line. In the present embodiment, the image data generation unit 84e adds a broken line image as a cutting mark to the image data of the product information. The straight line image is provided at the upper end of the image having the longitudinal direction of the mountless label LS as the vertical direction. As described above, in the present embodiment, the vertical direction of the label piece LP coincides with the longitudinal direction of the mountless label LS, and the lower end portion of the label piece LP is discharged from the discharge port before the upper end portion. The product information is printed on the mountless label LS. Therefore, the cutting mark CL is formed in a portion corresponding to the upper end portion of the label piece LP so as to extend in the width direction of the label piece LP. That is, the image data generation unit 84e adds a cutting mark CL to a location corresponding to the upper part in the height direction of one label piece LP in the image data.

(4) Flow of Processing by Label Printing Device Hereinafter, the flow of processing by the label printing device 160 corresponding to the setting mode of the cutter mechanism 64 will be described mainly with reference to FIGS. 16 and 17. FIG. 16 is a flow showing the operation of the label printing device 160 when the cutter use mode is set, and FIG. 17 is a flow showing the operation of the label printing device 160 when the cutter non-use mode is set.

(4-1) Flow of processing of label printing apparatus when setting mode is not changed First, the flow of processing of the label printing apparatus 160 when the setting mode is not changed will be described with reference to FIG. That is, FIG. 16 shows a processing flow of the label printer 160 when the cutter use mode is set. Examples of screens displayed on the display unit 81 of the label printing device 160 at this time are shown in FIGS. 8, 12, and 15. FIG.

  First, in step S11, it is determined whether or not the input receiving unit 84a has received selection of a product. That is, it is determined whether or not a call number is selected on the screen shown in FIG. In step S11, it waits until selection of goods is received, and when selection of goods is received, it progresses to step S12.

  In step S12, product information about the product related to the selection received in step S11 is called (see FIG. 15). At this time, since the setting mode of the cutter mechanism 64 is not changed, the character “cutter (use)” indicating the default (cutter use mode) of the setting mode is displayed in the region R151 of FIG. Furthermore, in step S12, the format information associated with the product information related to the selection is called up. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S13.

  In step S13, the image data generation unit 84e generates image data based on the product information and format information called in step S12. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S14.

  In step S14, it is determined whether or not a print key has been input. Specifically, the control unit 84 determines whether or not the input of the print key (see symbol k15a in FIG. 15) on the operation screen has been received by the input receiving unit 84a. In step S14, the process waits until there is an input of the print key k15a. If it is determined that the input of the print key k15a is accepted, the process proceeds to step S15.

  In step S15, the printing process for one label piece LP is started. Specifically, a mountless label LS necessary for generating one label piece LP is fed out from the label roll LR, and image data is printed on the mountless label LS. Specifically, the control unit 84 rotates the rotation shaft of the mounting unit and rotates the platen roller 63, and causes the thermal head 62 to print image data on the surface of the mountless label LS. That is, product information is printed on the mountless label LS. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S16.

  In step S16, the cutter mechanism 64 is driven to separate the label piece LP from the mountless label LS. Specifically, the cutter mechanism 64 stands by until a predetermined number of eye marks EM (an amount corresponding to the length of one label piece LP) is detected by the label detection sensor 65. Thereafter, when a predetermined number of eye marks EM are detected by the label detection sensor 65, the movable cutter 64a is moved to the fixed cutter 64b side, and the continuous mountless label LS is cut in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction. Thereby, one label piece LP is cut off from the mountless label LS.

(4-2) Process Flow of Label Printing Device When Setting Mode is Changed Next, a processing flow of the label printing device 160 when the setting mode is changed will be described with reference to FIG. Examples of screens displayed on the label printer 160 at this time are shown in FIGS.

  First, in step S21, it is determined whether or not an input in an input setting mode that changes the current setting mode has been accepted. Specifically, whether the setting mode determination unit 84b intends to change the setting mode (current setting mode) that has been previously set by the setting mode (input setting mode) received by the input receiving unit 84a. Determine whether or not. In step S21, the process waits until an input setting mode for changing the current setting mode is received. When an input setting mode for changing the current setting mode is received, the process proceeds to step S22.

  In step S22, it is determined whether or not the input setting mode is a cutter non-use mode. Specifically, the setting mode determination unit 84b determines whether or not the setting mode (input setting mode) received by the input receiving unit 84a is the cutter non-use mode. If it is determined in step S22 that the input setting mode is not the cutter non-use mode, the process proceeds to step S23. In other words, when the input setting mode is the cutter use mode, the process proceeds to step S23.

  In step S23, a confirmation screen is generated by the confirmation screen generation unit 84c and further displayed on the display unit 81 (see FIG. 11). As shown in FIG. 11, in this case, the confirmation screen displays a notification that the user is about to change to the cutter usage mode, an execution key for executing the change to the cutter usage mode, and the change to the cutter usage mode is stopped. The cancel key is displayed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S24.

  In step S24, it is determined whether execution has been input. Specifically, the control unit 84 determines whether or not the selection of the execution key on the confirmation screen illustrated in FIG. 11 has been received by the input receiving unit 84a. If the execution key selection is not accepted in step S24, that is, if it is determined that the cancel key selection is accepted, the process returns to step S21. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S24 that selection of the execution key has been accepted, the process proceeds to step S25.

  In step S25, it is determined whether the input reception unit 84a has received selection of a product. That is, it is determined whether or not a call number is selected on the screen shown in FIG. In step S25, it waits until selection of goods is received, and when selection of goods is received, it progresses to step S26.

  In step S26, product information about the product related to the selection received in step S25 is called (see FIG. 15). Furthermore, the format information associated with the product information related to the selection is called up. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S27.

  In step S27, the image data generation unit 84e generates image data based on the product information and format information called in step S26. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S28.

  In step S28, it is determined whether or not the print key k15a has been input. As described above, specifically, the control unit 84 determines whether or not the input of the print key k15a on the operation screen has been received by the input receiving unit 84a (see FIG. 15). In step S28, the process waits until there is an input of the print key k15a. If it is determined that the input of the print key k15a is accepted, the process proceeds to step S29.

  In step S29, the printing process for one label piece LP is started. Specifically, a mountless label LS necessary for generating one label piece LP is fed out from the label roll LR, and image data is printed on the mountless label LS. Specifically, the control unit 84 rotates the rotation shaft of the mounting unit and rotates the platen roller 63, and causes the thermal head 62 to print image data on the surface of the mountless label LS. That is, product information is printed on the mountless label LS. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S30.

  In step S30, the cutter mechanism 64 is driven to separate the label piece LP from the mountless label LS. Specifically, the cutter mechanism 64 stands by until a predetermined number of eye marks EM (an amount corresponding to the length of one label piece LP) is detected by the label detection sensor 65. Thereafter, when a predetermined number of eye marks EM are detected by the label detection sensor 65, the movable cutter 64a is moved to the fixed cutter 64b side, and the continuous mountless label LS is cut in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction. Thereby, one label piece LP is cut off from the mountless label LS.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S22 that the input setting mode is the cutter non-use mode, the process proceeds to step S40. In step S40, a confirmation screen is generated by the confirmation screen generation unit 84c and further displayed on the display unit 81 (see FIG. 10). As shown in FIG. 10, in this case, the confirmation screen displays a notification that the weighing product cannot be called when the cutter is not used, the execution key for executing the change to the cutter non-use mode, and the use of the cutter. A cancel key for canceling the mode change is displayed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S41.

  In step S41, it is determined whether execution has been input. Specifically, the control unit 84 determines whether or not the selection of the execution key on the confirmation screen illustrated in FIG. 10 has been received by the input receiving unit 84a. If the execution key selection is not accepted in step S24, that is, if it is determined that the cancel key selection is accepted, the process returns to step S21. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S41 that the execution key has been selected, the process proceeds to step S42.

  In step S <b> 42, the control unit 84 determines whether the selection of a product has been received by the input receiving unit 84 a. That is, it is determined whether or not a call number is selected on the screen shown in FIG. In step S42, it waits until selection of goods is received, and when selection of goods is received, it progresses to step S43.

  In step S43, the setting mode determination unit 84b determines whether or not the product related to the selection received by the input reception unit 84a is a fixed amount product. In other words, the setting mode determination unit 84b determines whether or not the price setting corresponding to the selected product is a fixed amount setting. If it is determined in step S43 that the price setting of the selected product is the weighing setting, the process proceeds to step S44.

  In step S44, the setting mode determination unit 84b limits the calling of product information. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S45.

  In step S45, the confirmation screen generation unit 84c generates a warning screen (warning screen), and the warning screen is displayed on the display unit 81 (see FIG. 13). Specifically, as shown in FIG. 13, since the selected product is a weighing product, a notification that the cutter non-use mode cannot be set is made. Then, it returns to step S21.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S43 that the price setting of the selected product is the weighing setting, the process proceeds to step S46.

  In step S46, product information about the product related to the selection received in step S42 is called (see FIG. 14). At this time, since the setting mode of the cutter mechanism 64 has been changed, the character “cutter (not used)” indicating the current setting mode is displayed in the region R141 of FIG. Furthermore, the format information associated with the product information related to the selection is called up. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S47.

  In step S47, the image data generation unit 84e generates image data based on the product information and format information called in step S42. At this time, the image data generation unit 84e adds a cutting mark CL to the image data. Specifically, the cutting mark CL is a straight line (broken line in FIG. 5) extending in the width direction of the mountless label LS at the upper part of the height of one image data. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S48.

  In step S48, it is determined whether or not a print key has been input. As described above, specifically, the control unit 84 determines whether or not the input of the print key k14a on the operation screen has been received by the input receiving unit 84a (see FIG. 14). In step S48, the process waits until there is an input of the print key k14a. If it is determined that the input of the print key k14a is accepted, the process proceeds to step S49.

  In step S49, the printing process is started. Specifically, the mountless label LS is fed out from the label roll LR, and the image data and the cutting mark CL are printed on the mountless label LS. More specifically, the control unit 84 rotates the rotation shaft of the mounting unit, rotates the platen roller 63, and causes the thermal head 62 to print the image data and the cutting mark CL on the surface of the mountless label LS. . That is, the product information and the cutting mark CL are printed on the mountless label LS. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S50.

  In step S50, it is determined whether a stop command has been accepted. Specifically, the control unit 84 determines whether or not the input of the print stop key k14b included in the operation screen has been received by the input receiving unit 84a (see FIG. 14). In step S50, the process waits until the print stop key k14b is input. That is, the mountless label LS is continuously fed out from the label roll LR until a stop command is received by the input receiving unit 84a. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S50 that the input of the print stop key k14b has been accepted, the process proceeds to step S51.

  In step S51, the printing process is stopped. Specifically, the control unit 84 stops the rotation of the rotation shaft of the mounting unit and stops the rotation of the platen roller 63.

(5) Features (5-1)
The label printing apparatus 160 according to the above embodiment receives an input of a setting mode related to the use of the cutter mechanism 64. The cutter use mode is a mode in which the cutter mechanism 64 can be used. The cutter non-use mode is a mode in which the cutter mechanism 64 cannot be used. When the input of the cutter non-use mode is received by the input receiving unit 84a, in other words, when the cutter non-use mode is set, the platen roller 63 puts the cutting mark CL on a predetermined portion of the mountless label LS. Print.

  As described in the above embodiment, the cutter mechanism for automatically separating the label pieces from the mountless label mainly includes a fixed cutter, a movable cutter, and an actuator that drives the movable cutter. There are various reasons for the malfunction of the cutter mechanism, such as the deterioration of the cutting of the cutter and the malfunction of the cutter mechanism. Here, if the malfunction of the cutter mechanism is the deterioration of the cutting of the cutter and the cause thereof is glue adhering to the blade, the operator can easily deal with it. However, in the case of a problem that cannot be easily dealt with by an operator, such as a malfunction of an actuator, generally, repair is entrusted to an external maintenance company. Here, if the label printing apparatus cannot be used while the cutter mechanism is being repaired, it is very inconvenient because a label piece to be attached to a product cannot be issued.

  Therefore, in the label printing apparatus 160 according to the above-described embodiment, a cutter non-use mode in which the printing process is executed without using the cutter mechanism 64 can be set. Here, when the cutter non-use mode is set, the cutting mark CL is printed on a predetermined part of the mountless label LS. The operator can generate a label piece from the mountless label LS by cutting the mountless label LS along the cutting mark CL using another instrument (for example, scissors and a cutter). That is, the label printing device 160 according to the above embodiment can suitably generate the label piece LP even when the cutter mechanism 64 cannot be used.

(5-2)
Further, the label printing apparatus 160 according to the embodiment forms a straight image as the cutting mark CL. Specifically, the cutting mark CL is one of a solid line, a broken line, and a chain line. As a result, the operator of the label printing device 160 can easily specify the cutting location of the mountless label LS.

(5-3)
Furthermore, in the label printing apparatus 160 according to the above embodiment, a new setting mode (input setting mode) newly received by the input receiving unit 84a is stored in the setting mode (current setting mode) stored in the setting mode storage area 83c. ), A confirmation screen for changing the setting mode is generated by the confirmation screen generation unit 84c (see FIGS. 10 and 11). Thereby, it is possible to alert the operator of the label printing apparatus 160 that the setting mode is changed.

(5-4)
Furthermore, in the label printing apparatus 160 according to the above-described embodiment, the setting mode determination unit 84b determines whether or not the cutter non-use mode can be set based on the type of price setting corresponding to the selected product.

  Here, when the price setting corresponding to the product is a fixed amount setting, the setting mode determination unit 84b determines that the cutter non-use mode can be set, and the printing process is performed in the cutter non-use mode. That is, the mountless label LS is ejected with the cutting mark CL printed on a predetermined part of the mountless label LS.

  On the other hand, when the price setting corresponding to the product is the weighing setting, the setting mode determination unit 84b determines that the cutter non-use mode cannot be set, and the warning screen (see FIG. 13) is displayed on the display unit 81. Is displayed. Thereby, it is possible to restrict the setting of the cutter non-use mode for the product (measurement product) whose price fluctuates according to the measurement value, and to efficiently issue the label piece to be attached to the fixed amount product.

(5-5)
Further, the label printing apparatus 160 according to the above-described embodiment is configured such that a stop command related to the printing process is received by the input receiving unit 84a. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 14, a print stop key k14b is provided on the operation screen, and the mountless label LS is continuously printed on the label roll LR until a stop command is input by the print stop key k14b. It is paid out from. Thereby, a desired number of label pieces can be appropriately generated.

(6) Modification (6-1) Modification A
In the above embodiment, in step S43, it is determined whether or not the selected product is a fixed amount product (see FIG. 18). If it is determined in step S43 that the selected product is not a fixed-price product, the process proceeds to step S44 to restrict the calling of product information and to display a warning screen (see FIG. 13).

  Here, when the cutter non-use mode is selected, it may be designed such that only the fixed amount product is displayed on the product selection screen (see FIG. 12). That is, the control unit 84 may change the type of product displayed on the product selection screen based on the setting mode stored in the setting mode storage area 83c. Thereby, since only the fixed amount products are displayed on the product selection screen, Step S44 and Step S45 can be omitted.

(6-2) Modification B
The label printing device 160 according to the above embodiment includes a control device 80. Here, in addition to the configuration of the control device 80, the label printing device 160 may include a control device 180 further including a feeding length setting unit 84f (see FIG. 19).

  At this time, the display unit 81 displays a screen (print number input screen) on which the number of labels (label pieces) LP can be input as shown in FIG. The input receiving unit 84a further receives the number of prints input on the print number input screen. The feeding length setting unit 84f sets the length of the mountless label LS fed from the label roll LR based on the number of printed sheets received by the input receiving unit 84a.

  Specifically, the feeding length setting unit 84f sets the feeding length based on the length of one label piece LP and the number of label pieces related to the input received by the input receiving unit 84a. The image data generation unit 84e generates image data to be printed on the mountless label LS and a cutting mark CL in accordance with the number of prints. The platen roller 63 continuously feeds the mountless label LS having a length corresponding to the feed length from the label roll LR.

  Thereby, even when the work of separating the label piece LP from the mountless label LS is manually performed for a fixed amount product, a predetermined number of label pieces can be efficiently generated.

(6-3) Modification C
The mountless label LS used in the above embodiment had an adhesive surface on the back surface and an eye mark EM. Here, the back surface of the mountless label LS may have a surface in which the adhesive portions and the non-adhesive portions are alternately arranged so as to cross the width direction of the mountless label LS. Accordingly, the amount of the mount-less label LS fed out can be determined by recognizing the position of the adhesive portion instead of the eye mark EM.

(6-4) Modification D
The packaging device 100 according to the above embodiment may be connected to other devices. Further, the information stored in the control device 80 may be information sent from the other device.

(6-5) Modification E
In the above-described embodiment, the label printing device 160 has been described by taking an example of being incorporated in the packaging device 100. However, the label printing device 160 may function alone.

(6-6) Modification F
In the label printing apparatus 160 according to the above embodiment, the cutter non-use mode can be set only for the fixed amount product. Here, the cutter non-use mode may be configured to be settable for both the fixed amount product and the weighing product.

  Specifically, the label printing device 160 includes a control device 280 instead of the control device 80 (see FIG. 21). After receiving the selection of the cutter non-use mode, the control device 280 changes the feeding method of the mountless label LS according to the price type of the product.

  Specifically, the control device 280 includes a feeding length setting unit 184f. Other configurations included in the control device 280 are the same as those of the control device 80.

  The feeding length setting unit 184f determines the length of the mountless label LS that is fed out from the label roll LR when a weighing product is called when the cutter non-use mode is set. Specifically, the feeding length setting unit 184f sets the length (feeding length) of the mountless label LS fed out from the label roll LR when printing an image for one label piece LP on the mountless label LS. To do. More specifically, the feeding length setting unit 184f is based on the length (height dimension) of one label piece LP and the number of label pieces LP related to the input received by the input receiving unit 84a. Set the feed length.

  Specifically, the feed length setting unit 184f sets a dimension (corrected length) obtained by adding a predetermined length α to the feed amount of one label piece LP when the cutter use mode is set, for one label piece LP. Is set to be the length of the mount-less label LS fed out from the label roll LR. Therefore, the predetermined length α is set so that when the cutter use mode is set, one label piece LP is generated, a larger amount than the amount of the mountless label LS is fed out. Further, the predetermined length α is assumed to be a length that allows the operator to easily cut the mountless label LP.

  In addition, the control device 280 generates a confirmation screen shown in FIG. 22 instead of the confirmation screen shown in FIG.

(6-6-1) Process Flow The process flow of the control device 280 according to Modification F will be described with reference to FIG. In addition, the process before step S70 is the same as the said embodiment (refer FIG. 17). Therefore, the description of the process before step S70 is omitted.

  In step S70, a confirmation screen is generated by the confirmation screen generation unit 84c, and the confirmation screen is further displayed on the display unit 81 (see FIG. 22). As shown in FIG. 22, on the confirmation screen, a notification that the user is about to change to the cutter non-use mode, an execution key for executing the change to the cutter non-use mode, and the change to the cutter non-use mode are stopped. The cancel key is displayed. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S71.

  In step S71, it is determined whether execution has been input. Specifically, the control unit 84 determines whether or not the selection of the execution key on the confirmation screen illustrated in FIG. 21 has been received by the input receiving unit 84a. If the execution key selection is not accepted in step S71, that is, if it is determined that the stop key selection is accepted, the process returns to step S21. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S71 that the execution key has been selected, the process proceeds to step S72.

  In step S72, it is determined whether or not the input receiving unit 84a has received selection of a product. That is, it is determined whether or not a call number is selected on the screen shown in FIG. In step S72, the process waits until the selection of a product is accepted. When the selection of the product is accepted, the process proceeds to step S73.

  In step S73, the setting mode determination unit 84b determines whether the product related to the selection received by the input reception unit 84a is a fixed amount product. In other words, the setting mode determination unit 84b determines whether or not the price setting corresponding to the selected product is a fixed amount setting. If it is determined in step S73 that the price setting of the selected product is a fixed price setting, the process proceeds to step S74. Steps S74 to S79 correspond to steps S46 to S51 according to the above-described embodiment, and thus description thereof is omitted. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S73 that the price setting of the selected product is the weighing setting, the process proceeds to step S80.

  In step S80, product information about the product related to the selection received in step S72 is called. Furthermore, the format information associated with the product information related to the selection is called up. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S81.

  In step S81, the image data generating unit 84e generates image data based on the product information and format information called in step S72. At this time, the image data generation unit 84e adds a cutting mark CL to the image data. As described above, the cutting mark CL is a straight line (broken line in FIG. 5) extending in the width direction of the mountless label LS at the upper part of the height of one image data. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S82.

  In step S82, it is determined whether or not a print key has been input. As described above, specifically, the control unit 84 determines whether or not the input of the print key on the operation screen has been received by the input receiving unit 84a. In step S82, the process waits until the print key is input. If it is determined that the print key input is accepted, the process proceeds to step S83.

  In step S83, the correction length is set by the feed length setting unit 184f. Specifically, when the image for one label piece LP is printed on the mountless label, the length of the mountless label LS fed from the label roll LR is set by the feed length setting unit 184f. More specifically, the feeding length setting unit 184f adds a predetermined length α to the length of one label piece LP (the dimension in the height direction of the label piece LP) L to add a corrected length l (l = L + α) is set. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S84.

  In step S84, the printing process is started. Specifically, the mountless label LS is fed out from the label roll LR based on the corrected length l, and an image for one label piece LP is printed on the mountless label LS. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S85.

  In step S85, based on a signal input by a sensor (not shown), it is determined whether the label piece LP has been separated from the mountless label. That is, in step S85, it is determined whether or not the label piece LP has been cut. In step S85, the process waits until the label piece LP is cut. When the label piece LP is cut, the process proceeds to step S86.

  In step S86, the platen roller 63 is rotated in the reverse direction, and the mountless label LS is sent in the direction opposite to the normal transport direction. At this time, the mountless label LS is returned in consideration of the amount (predetermined length α) corrected from the feed-out length as the correction length. Then, the process ends.

(6-6-2) Feature The control device 280 according to the modification example F enables generation of the label pieces LP not only for the fixed amount product but also for the measured product when the cutter mechanism 64 cannot be used.

  The price of the weighing product varies depending on the weight of the product. Therefore, if an image corresponding to a plurality of products is printed on the mountless label LS, there is a possibility that a label piece LP on which information on different products is printed is attached to one product. That is, when generating the label pieces LP for the weighing product, it is preferable that the label pieces LP be generated one by one.

  The control device 280 according to the modification example F changes the feeding method of the mountless label LS according to the type of the called product. Specifically, when generating a label piece LP to be attached to the weighing product, the mountless label LS on which image data corresponding to one label piece LP is printed is discharged. That is, the mountless label LS corresponding to the length of one label piece LP is fed out. Further, when generating the label pieces LP to be attached to the fixed amount products, the mountless labels LS on which image data corresponding to the plurality of label pieces LP are printed are continuously discharged. That is, the mountless label LS is continuously fed from the label roll LR until a stop command is received.

  Thereby, the sticking operation | work of label piece LP can be reliably performed with respect to measurement goods. Moreover, since the label piece LP can be generated without using the cutter mechanism 64 for both the fixed amount product and the metered product, it is possible to minimize the influence on the business due to the malfunction of the cutter mechanism 64. Become.

(6-7) Modification G
Similarly to the control device 180 according to the modification B, the control device 280 according to the modification F has a screen (FIG. 20) on which the display unit 81 can input the number of printed labels (label pieces) LP as shown in FIG. It may be designed to display a (print number input screen). The input accepting unit 84a also accepts the number of prints input on the print number input screen.

  In addition to setting the correction length, the feed length setting unit 184f removes the label roll LR from the label roll LR based on the number of printed sheets received by the input receiving unit 84a when a fixed amount product is called when the cutter non-use mode is set. The length of the unpaid mountless label LS is set.

  Specifically, when a flat-rate product is called, the feeding length setting unit 184f sets the length of one label piece LP and the number of label pieces related to the input received by the input receiving unit 84a. Based on this, set the feeding length. The image data generation unit 84e generates image data to be printed on the mountless label LS and a cutting mark CL in accordance with the number of prints. The platen roller 63 continuously feeds the mountless label LS having a length corresponding to the feed length from the label roll LR.

  Thereby, it is possible to continuously generate a predetermined number of label pieces LP for a fixed amount product. Moreover, about the measurement goods, the label piece LP can be produced | generated one sheet at a time.

(6-8) Modification H
In the label printing apparatus 160 according to the above-described embodiment, a linear image is formed as the cutting mark CL. Here, instead of the straight line image, a frame image surrounding the image data may be formed as the cutting mark CL. Also by this, the operator can easily specify the cutting site in the mountless label LS on which a plurality of images are printed.

20 Weighing-in mechanism 30 Packaging mechanism 60 Label issuing unit 61 Roll holder 62 Thermal head (printing unit)
63 Platen roller (feeding roller)
64 Cutter mechanism 65 Label detection sensor 80, 180, 280 Control device 81 Display unit 82 Input unit 83 Storage unit 83a Product master storage area (price setting information storage unit)
83b Format information storage area 83c Setting mode storage area 83d Input information storage area 84 Control section 84a Input reception section (setting mode reception section, product selection reception section, number input reception section, stop command reception section)
84b Setting mode determination unit (setting availability determination unit, setting type determination unit)
84c Confirmation screen generation unit 84d Calling unit 84e Image data generation unit 84f, 184f Feeding length setting unit 100 Packaging device 160 Label printing device LR Label roll LS Mountless label LP Label fragment

Japanese Patent Application No. 2002-283633

Claims (8)

A roll holder for holding a label roll wrapped with a mountless label,
A feeding roller for feeding out the mountless label from the label roll;
A printing unit for printing product information on the mountless label;
A cutter mechanism for cutting a predetermined portion of the mountless label in order to separate the portion of the mountless label on which the product information is printed from the mountless label to generate a label piece;
A control device for controlling operations of the feeding roller, the printing unit, and the cutter mechanism;
With
The control device includes:
A setting mode receiving unit that receives input of a setting mode related to the use of the cutter mechanism, including a cutter use mode in which the cutter mechanism can be used and a cutter non-use mode in which the cutter mechanism cannot be used ;
A product selection receiving unit that receives a selection about the type of product related to the product information to be printed on the mountless label;
Information relating to the type of product price setting, the price setting including a fixed amount setting for setting a fixed price according to the type of the product and a weighing setting for setting a different price according to the weight of the product A pricing information storage unit for storing information related to the type of
Based on the price setting corresponding to the type of product received by the product selection receiving unit, a setting availability determination unit that determines whether to set the cutter non-use mode,
Have
The setting availability determination unit determines that the cutter non-use mode can be set when the price setting corresponding to the product is the fixed amount setting,
When the setting mode receiving unit receives the cutter non-use mode input and the setting availability determination unit determines that the cutter non-use mode can be set, the printing unit receives the mount. A cutting mark is printed on the predetermined part of the less label,
The setting availability determination unit determines that setting of the cutter non-use mode is impossible when the price setting corresponding to the product is the measurement setting.
Label printing device.   The controller is
A calling unit that calls the product information corresponding to the type of the product received by the product selection receiving unit;
Further comprising
When it is determined that setting of the cutter non-use mode is impossible with respect to the product received by the product selection receiving unit when the cutter non-use mode is set, Restrict product information calls,
The label printing apparatus according to claim 1.   The controller is
When it is determined that setting of the cutter non-use mode is impossible with respect to the product received by the product selection receiving unit when the cutter non-use mode is set, Disable calling product information,
The label printing apparatus according to claim 2.   A display unit;
  A confirmation screen generator,
Further comprising
  The confirmation screen generation unit is configured to determine that the price setting corresponding to the product received by the product selection receiving unit is the measurement setting when the calling unit is disabled from calling the product information. Display on the display unit a screen indicating that the use mode cannot be set;
The label printing apparatus according to claim 3. The control device includes:
A number input receiving unit for receiving an input of the number of the label pieces;
A feeding length setting unit that sets a feeding length that is a length of the mount-less label fed from the label roll;
Further comprising
The feeding length setting unit sets the feeding length based on the length of the label piece for one sheet and the number of the label pieces according to the input received by the number input receiving unit,
The feeding roller continuously feeds the mountless label having a length corresponding to the feeding length from the label roll;
The label printing apparatus according to claim 1 . The control device includes:
A stop command receiving unit for receiving a stop command for stopping the driving of the feeding roller;
The feed roller continuously feeds the mountless label from the label roll until the stop command is received by the stop command receiving unit.
The label printing apparatus according to claim 1 . Wherein the control device,
A setting type discriminating unit for discriminating the type of price setting corresponding to the type of the product received by the product selection receiving unit ;
Further comprising
When the type of price setting determined by the setting type determination unit is the fixed amount setting, the feeding roller continuously feeds the mountless label from the label roll,
When the price setting type determined by the setting type determination unit is the weighing setting, the feeding roller applies the mount-less label having a predetermined length corresponding to one label piece to the label. Let it roll out,
The label printing apparatus according to claim 1 . The control device includes:
A number input receiving unit for receiving an input of the number of the label pieces;
A feeding length setting unit that sets a feeding length that is a length of the mount-less label fed from the label roll;
Further comprising
When the price setting type determined by the setting type determination unit is the fixed amount setting, the feeding length setting unit is received by the length of the label piece for one sheet and the number input receiving unit. Based on the number of the label pieces according to the input, set the feeding length,
When the type of price setting determined by the setting type determination unit is the weighing setting, the feeding length setting unit sets a correction length that is longer than the length of the one label piece. , Set to the feeding length,
The feeding roller continuously feeds the mountless label having a length corresponding to the feeding length from the label roll;
The label printing apparatus according to claim 7.

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