Image production device, image production method, and recording medium

Abstract

The present invention relates to an image production device, an image production method and a program. The image production device includes a control unit, the control unit causing an image production screen and one or more parts in the image production screen to be displayed by a display unit, receiving an operation of selecting at least one of the one or more parts displayed in the image production screen, determining the number of the selected at least one part, determining different alignment criteria according to whether the determined number of the at least one part is a single part or two or more parts, performing alignment relative to the determined alignment criteria, and producing an image including the aligned at least one part.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional of an invention patent application filed on August 3, 2017, with application number 201710654991.9 and invention name “Printing image production device, printing image production method and recording medium”. Technical Field

[0002] The present invention relates to an image producing device, an image producing method and a recording medium. Background Art

[0003] Conventionally, there is known a label printer that prints a printed image consisting of partial images such as arbitrary characters, patterns, or graphics on a long strip of printed medium, and then cuts the long strip of printed medium to produce labels. For example, there is Japanese Patent Publication No. 2011-197228.

[0004] Printed images include not only those composed of a single partial image but also those composed of a plurality of partial images. In addition, for example, printed images are produced by accepting user operations in a personal computer or a smart phone. When a printed image is to be produced, user operations are required to arrange each partial image at any position in the upper, lower, left, or right direction of the printed image. Summary of the invention

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide an image creating device, an image creating method, and a recording medium that allow a user to easily create a desired print image.

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image production device, characterized in that:

[0007] A control unit is provided, wherein the control unit is:

[0008] causing the image creation screen and one or more parts in the image creation screen to be displayed on the display unit,

[0009] receiving an operation of selecting at least one of the one or more parts displayed in the image creation screen,

[0010] determining the quantity of the selected at least one portion,

[0011] Different alignment criteria are determined according to whether the number of the at least one portion is single or two or more,

[0012] Alignment is performed relative to the determined alignment reference.

[0013] An image including the at least one aligned portion is created.

[0014] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image production method, which is executed by a control unit of an image production device, and is characterized in that:

[0015] causing the image creation screen and one or more parts in the image creation screen to be displayed on the display unit,

[0016] receiving an operation of selecting at least one of the one or more parts displayed in the image creation screen,

[0017] determining the quantity of the selected at least one portion,

[0018] Different alignment criteria are determined according to whether the number of the at least one portion is single or two or more,

[0019] Alignment is performed relative to the determined alignment reference.

[0020] An image including the at least one aligned portion is created.

[0021] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a program for causing a computer to execute the following processing:

[0022] causing the image creation screen and one or more parts in the image creation screen to be displayed on the display unit,

[0023] receiving an operation of selecting at least one of the one or more parts displayed in the image creation screen,

[0024] determining the quantity of the selected at least one portion,

[0025] Different alignment criteria are determined according to whether the number of the at least one portion is single or two or more,

[0026] Alignment is performed relative to the determined alignment reference.

[0027] An image including the at least one aligned portion is created. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] Figure 1 It is an explanatory diagram for explaining the printed image producing device involved in the embodiment.

[0029] Figure 2 It is a perspective view showing a printing device according to an embodiment.

[0030] Figure 3 This is a control block diagram of the printing device according to the embodiment.

[0031] Figure 4This is a flowchart for explaining the print image creation method involved in the embodiment.

[0032] Figure 5 This is an explanatory diagram of a print image creation screen for explaining the embodiment.

[0033] Figure 6A to Figure 6D This is an explanatory diagram for explaining the creation of a printed image according to the embodiment.

[0034] Figure 7A to Figure 7D This is an explanatory diagram for explaining the creation of a printed image according to the embodiment.

[0035] Figure 8 This is an explanatory diagram for explaining the creation of a printed image according to the embodiment.

[0036] Fig. 9 This is a flowchart for explaining alignment when some images are repeated according to the embodiment.

[0037] Fig.10 It is a diagram showing a repeat setting screen for accepting repeat settings when some images are repeated according to the embodiment.

[0038] Figures 11A to 11E This is an explanatory diagram for explaining the creation of a printed image according to the embodiment.

[0039] FIG. 12A to FIG. 12D This is an explanatory diagram for explaining the creation of a printed image according to the embodiment.

[0040] Fig.13A and Fig. 13B This is an explanatory diagram for explaining the creation of a printed image according to the embodiment.

[0041] Figures 14A to 14C This is an explanatory diagram for explaining the creation of a printed image according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] Hereinafter, specific embodiments of the present invention will be described using the drawings. However, the scope of the invention is not limited to the illustrated examples.

[0043] Hereinafter, a print image creating device, a print image creating method, and a program according to embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0044] Figure 1 It is an explanatory diagram for explaining the printed image creating device 1 according to the embodiment.

[0045] The printed image production device 1 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 2, which is an example of a control device, a storage device 3, an input device 4, a display unit 5, an interface device 6, and a recording medium drive device 7. These components are connected via a bus 8, and various data are transmitted and received to each other. In addition, the printed image production device 1 can be any computer that includes a control device (CPU 2) and a display unit 5. For example, in addition to a personal computer, a portable terminal such as a smart phone or a tablet computer can also be listed. In addition, the printing device 100 Figure 3 The control device 103 shown in the figure performs the same processing as the CPU 2 described later, and when the printing device 100 includes a display unit, the printing device 100 itself functions as the printed image creating device 1 .

[0046] The CPU 2 is a calculation processing unit that controls the overall operation of the print image creation apparatus 1. The CPU 2 reads out a control program such as a print image creation program and executes it.

[0047] The storage device 3 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a hard disk, and the like.

[0048] ROM is a read-only semiconductor memory in which a predetermined basic control program is recorded in advance. In addition, as ROM, a memory such as a flash memory that stores data and is nonvolatile when power supply is stopped can be used.

[0049] The RAM is a semiconductor memory that can be written and read at any time and is used as a working storage area as needed when the CPU 2 executes various control programs.

[0050] The hard disk stores various control programs executed by the CPU 2 and various data.

[0051] The input device 4 is, for example, a keyboard device or a mouse device. When operated by a user of the print image production device 1 , the input device 4 acquires various input information corresponding to the operation content from the user and transmits the acquired input information to the CPU 2 .

[0052] The display unit 5 is, for example, a display, and displays a print image creation screen 50 for creating a print image. When the display unit 5 is a touch panel, the display unit 5 also serves as the input device 4.

[0053] The interface device 6 manages the transmission and reception of various information with various devices. For example, the interface device 6 sends a print image (print data) having one or more partial images composed of arbitrary characters, patterns, graphics, etc. to the printing device 100 connected by wire or wirelessly. In addition, a system including the print image production device 1 and the printing device 100 can be regarded as a printing system.

[0054] The recording medium drive device 7 is a device for reading various control programs and data recorded on the portable recording medium 9. The CPU 2 reads a predetermined program recorded on the portable recording medium 9 through the recording medium drive device 7 and executes it, thereby being able to perform various processes for printing image creation.

[0055] Examples of the portable recording medium 9 include a CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), a DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc Read Only Memory), and a flash memory having a connector conforming to the USB standard.

[0056] In order to make the computer with CPU 2 operate as the printed image production device 1, first, a control program for causing CPU 2 to perform various processes is created. The created control program is pre-stored in the hard disk device of the storage device 3 or the portable recording medium 9. Then, by giving a predetermined instruction to CPU 2, the control program is read out and executed. Thus, the computer with CPU 2 operates as the printed image production device 1.

[0057] Figure 2 It is a perspective view showing the printing device 100 according to the present embodiment.

[0058] Figure 3 This is a control block diagram of the printing device 100 .

[0059] Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 The printing device 100 shown in the figure is a device for printing a strip-shaped printing medium M. Figure 1 The printed image creating device 1 shown receives the printed image and creates a label which is an example of a printed matter.

[0060] exist Figure 2The device housing 101 shown in the figure has an outlet 101A for discharging the printed medium M to the outside of the device housing 101. The device housing 101 is provided with a power cord connection terminal, an external device connection terminal that functions as an interface device 102 described later, and a storage medium insertion port. In addition, the device housing 101 is provided with an opening and closing cover (not shown) for attaching and detaching the cartridge.

[0061] like Figure 3 As shown, the printing device 100 includes an interface device 102, a control device 103, a ROM 104, a RAM 105, a head driving circuit 106, an example of a printing unit, namely a print head 107, a conveying motor driving circuit 108, a conveying motor 109, a conveying roller 110, a tool motor driving circuit 111, a tool motor 112, a full cutting mechanism 113, a half cutting mechanism 114 and a belt width detection switch 115.

[0062] The interface device 102 is connected to the interface device 6 of the print image producing device 1 by wire or wirelessly, and receives the print image from the print image producing device 1 .

[0063] The control device 103 is, for example, a microprocessor, and activates a system program pre-stored in the ROM 104 , a control program stored in a memory card, a control program read from an external device, and controls the operation of each circuit unit using the RAM 105 as a working memory.

[0064] The head driving circuit 106 controls the print head 107 based on the print image (print data) received from the print image producing device 1 by the interface device 102 and stored in the RAM 106. Based on the control, the print head 107 prints a desired print image on the print medium M by thermal transfer using an ink ribbon between the print head 107 and the platen roller, one of the transport rollers 110.

[0065] The transport motor driving circuit 108 controls the transport motor 109 based on the print image stored in the RAM 105 , thereby controlling the transport roller 110 , and transports the print medium M at a desired speed while the print head 107 is printing on the print medium M.

[0066] The tool motor driving circuit 111 controls the movement of the tool motor 112 which operates the full cutting mechanism 113 and the half cutting mechanism 114. The full cutting mechanism 113 cuts both the base material of the printed medium M and the release paper adhered to the adhesive surface of the base material, while the half cutting mechanism 114 only cuts the base material of the printed medium M.

[0067] The tape width detection switch 115 is provided in the cassette storage section in the device housing 101 and automatically identifies the type of the tape cassette, that is, the tape width of the print medium M by detecting the shape of the concave and convex portions formed on the tape cassette inserted into the cassette storage section.

[0068] The printing device 100 is merely an example, and any printing device of the present embodiment may be a device that produces printed matter by printing a printed image on a printed medium M. For example, the print head 107, which is an example of a printing unit, may be a printing unit that prints on the printed medium M by other printing methods such as inkjet.

[0069] In addition, the device housing 101 may also include an input device and a display unit. As the input device, for example, any one or all of the input keys for inputting text, patterns, graphics, etc., a print key for instructing the start of printing, a cursor key for moving a cursor on the display screen of the display unit, and various control keys for setting the printing mode and various setting processes can be listed. In addition, as the display unit, for example, a liquid crystal display panel can be listed, and the text, patterns, graphics, etc. corresponding to the input from the input device, a selection menu for various settings, a screen for notifying the user when an error occurs, and messages related to various processes can be listed.

[0070] Figure 4 This is a flowchart for explaining the print image creation method according to the present embodiment.

[0071] Figure 5 This is an explanatory diagram for explaining the print image creation screen 50 .

[0072] Figure 5 The print image creation screen 50 shown is Figure 1 An example of an image displayed on the display unit 5 of the printed image creation device 1 shown.

[0073] The print image creation screen 50 includes a menu bar 51 , a large tool bar 52 , a small tool bar 60 , an image display area 53 , a label setting section 54 , and a text setting section 55 .

[0074] The menu bar 51 is for displaying a list of functions related to each menu when each menu such as File or Edit is pressed.

[0075] Large buttons or small buttons are arranged in the large toolbar 52 and the small toolbar 60, respectively, and when each button (icon) is pressed, the CPU 2 executes processing corresponding to the operation. Fig. 6A as well as Figure 6BAs shown, examples of operation parts for alignment are configured in the small tool bar 60, namely, top alignment button 61, bottom alignment button 62, left alignment button 63, right alignment button 64, left-right center alignment button 65, top-bottom center alignment button 66, etc.

[0076] At the upper end and the left end of the image display area 53, a scale 53A showing position coordinates in mm units is shown. The vertical axis of the scale 53A shows Fig. 6A as well as Figure 6B The label width (ie, Figure 2 The horizontal axis of the scale 53A represents the length of the printed image M10, while the horizontal axis of the scale 53A represents the tape width of the printed medium M as shown.

[0077] The image display area 53 displays Fig. 6A as well as Figure 6B The printed image M10 shown. The printed image M10 includes, for example, only a single partial image P11 composed of a pattern, but a plurality of partial images P11 can be produced. The partial image P11 is not limited to a partial image composed of a pattern, and may be a partial image composed of text, a partial image composed of a graphic, etc. The dotted line in the printed image M10 indicates an area in which the printing device 100 can print, that is, the printable area A10. In addition, in the printing device 100, the partial image P11 in the printable area A10 is printed rightward, for example, from the left end to the right end.

[0078] exist Figure 5 The label setting unit 54 shown sets the width, length, etc. of the label to be created.

[0079] The character setting unit 55 sets the font, size, orientation, and the like of characters included in one or more partial images P11 constituting the print image M10 .

[0080] Fig. 6A The partial image P11 shown is in a state where it has been selected by the user (S1). The partial image P11 is selected, for example, by using Figure 1 The desired partial image P11 is left-clicked by the mouse device of the input device 4 shown in the figure. In addition, the partial image (in the last selected partial image P11) among the selected partial images P11 (S1) is selected. Fig. 6AIn the example of , the number of partial images P11 is single, so the partial image selected last is also partial image P11. ), a first adjustment portion Sa for changing the size of partial image P11 in the up, down, left, and right directions, and a second adjustment portion Sb for changing the angle and deforming are displayed. The first adjustment portion Sa is, for example, in the shape of a rectangle surrounding partial image P11, and the second adjustment portion Sb is, for example, a portion for changing the angle protrudes from the upper right end of partial image P11 toward the upper right, and a portion for deforming protrudes from the upper right end of partial image P11 toward the upper and right, respectively. In addition, the selected partial images P11 (S1) are not limited to the order in which they are selected, but are displayed surrounded by a dotted rectangular line.

[0081] In CPU2, Figure 1 After the display unit 5 shown in the figure displays the print image creation screen 50 (first process, first function), or after a plurality of partial images to be printed are further displayed in the print image creation screen 50 of the display unit 5 (second process, second function), by Fig. 6A as well as Figure 6B The various buttons 61 to 66 shown above are pressed, thereby Figure 1 CPU2 is shown executing Figure 4 The processing of the flowchart shown in the figure. In addition, when the partial image P11 is not selected, for example, these buttons 61 to 66 are in an inactive state where they cannot be operated.

[0082] First, if Fig. 6A As shown, for example, when the left alignment button 63 is pressed and Figure 1 When the CPU 2 shown receives the positioning operation from the user, the CPU 2 determines whether the partial image P11 ( S1 ) selected by the user is single (step S11 ).

[0083] like Fig. 6A As shown in FIG. 1 , when it is determined that the selected partial image P11 (S1) in the print image M10 is single (step S11: Yes), the CPU 2 performs alignment of the partial image P11 with respect to the printable area A10 (an example of the second alignment). The second alignment is to align a single partial image (in the printable area A10) among the plurality of partial images that can be displayed. Fig. 6A In the example of FIG. 1 , a single partial image is aligned with respect to the printable area A10 in the print image M10 in a state where the partial image P11 is selected. Fig. 6A In the example shown, since the left-align button 63 is pressed, the left end of the partial image P11 is positioned at the left end of the printable area A10 ( Figure 6B The alignment is performed by moving the partial image P11 in the manner of the alignment line AL shown in the figure (step S12). Figure 6BThe alignment line AL indicated by the two-dot chain line in FIG. 1 is a virtual line for explaining the position to be aligned, and is actually a line that is not displayed on the print image creation screen 50 and is not printed.

[0084] On the other hand, Figure 6C As shown, in the printed image M10, when other partial images P12 (S2, represented by S1, S2, ... in the order of selection) are selected in addition to the partial image P11 (S1), the CPU 2 determines that there are multiple selected partial images P11 and P12 (step S11: No). In this case, the CPU 2 performs alignment between the selected multiple partial images P11 and P12. Figure 6C In the example shown, since the left-align button 63 is pressed, the CPU 2 calculates (acquires) the left end of the leftmost partial image P11 of the two partial images P11 and P12 ( Fig.6D The alignment line AL shown in FIG. 1 is used as the position for alignment (step S13), and alignment is performed by moving only the partial image P12 to the left (an example of the first alignment) (step S14). In addition, the first alignment is performed on two or more partial images (in the plurality of partial images) among the partial images. Figure 6C In the example of FIG. 1 , two or more partial images (P11, P12) are selected and two or more partial images are aligned based on their relative positions. In addition, the process of performing the first alignment to produce a printed image M10 having a plurality of partial images P11, P12 corresponds to the third process or the third function.

[0085] Even if a plurality of partial images P11 (S1) and P12 (S2) are selected, it is possible to select another partial image P11 (S1) as one. Figure 6B As in the example of , the alignment is set relative to the printable area A10. For example, an operation portion for aligning the partial images P11 and P12 relative to the printable area A10 and an operation portion for aligning the partial images P11 and P12 can be set separately. In this case, since the state of selecting a plurality of partial images becomes a prerequisite for the alignment between the partial images, when a single partial image is selected or when no partial image is selected, the operation portion for aligning the partial images P11 and P12 is made inactive and cannot be operated.

[0086] Then, if Fig. 7A As shown in the printed image M30, when a single partial image P31 (S1) is selected and the left-right center alignment button 65 is pressed to perform the alignment operation, Figure 7BAs shown, the CPU 2 performs alignment by moving the partial image P31 (the above-mentioned step S12) so that the left-right center of the partial image P31 is located at the left-right center of the printable area A30 (alignment line AL). In addition, in the case where the alignment operation is performed by pressing the vertical center alignment button 66, the CPU 2 performs alignment by moving the partial image P31 so that the vertical center of the partial image P31 is located at the vertical center of the printable area A30.

[0087] like Figure 7C As shown, in the printed image M30, when the two partial images P31 (S1) and P32 (S2) are selected and the left-right center alignment button 65 is pressed to perform the alignment operation, the CPU 2 performs the alignment between the two partial images P31 (S1) and P32 (S2) (the above-mentioned steps S13 and S14). Figure 7C In the example shown, since the left-right center alignment button 65 is pressed, Fig.7D As shown, CPU2 calculates the center position (alignment line AL) between the left end of the partial image P31 located on the left and the right end of the partial image P32 located on the right of the two selected partial images P31 (S1) and P32 (S2) as the alignment position (step S13), and aligns the partial images P31 and P32 by moving them so that the centers of the partial images P31 and P32 in the left-right direction are located at this position (step S14).

[0088] Furthermore, the left-right center alignment and the top-bottom center alignment may be performed in such a way that the center between the centers of the two partial images at the two ends in the alignment direction becomes the alignment line AL. Alternatively, the left-right center alignment and the top-bottom center alignment may be performed in such a way that the alignment line AL is located at the center of the partial image located in the middle in the alignment direction when the selected partial images are multiple and the number is odd. Furthermore, when the selected partial images are multiple and the number is even, the alignment may be performed in such a way that the alignment line AL is located at the center between the centers of the two partial images located in the middle in the alignment direction.

[0089] Figure 8The printed image M40 shown includes a partial image P41 (an example of a second partial image surrounding a first partial image), partial images P42 to P46 (an example of a first partial image) arranged within the partial image P41, and partial images P47 and P48 arranged outside the partial image P41. In such a printed image M40, when only partial images P42 (S1) to P46 (S5) arranged within the partial image P41 are selected (or partial image P41 is further selected), and when a positioning operation such as pressing the left-right center alignment button 65 is performed, the CPU 2 may also perform positioning of the partial images P42 (S1) to P46 (S5) relative to the partial image P41. Figure 8 In the example, since the left-right center alignment button 65 is pressed, the partial images P42 (S1) to P46 (S5) are aligned by moving them so that the left-right centers of the partial images P42 (S1) to P46 (S5) are located at the left-right center of the partial image P41 (alignment line AL).

[0090] Fig. 9 This is a flowchart for explaining alignment when a portion of an image is repeated.

[0091] Fig.10 It is a diagram showing a repeat setting screen 56 for accepting repeat settings when a part of images are repeated.

[0092] Consider the following situation: Fig.11A As shown in the printed image M50, when two partial images P51 (S1) and P52 (S2) are selected and the left alignment button 63 is pressed, the two partial images P51 (S1) and P52 (S2) overlap each other in the left-right direction. In order to eliminate such overlap, Figure 4 The alignment process (steps S12 to S14) shown in the figure can be performed as described later. Fig. 9 Processing shown.

[0093] First, when performing alignment, the CPU 2 determines whether there are overlapping areas in the plurality of partial images when only the left-right alignment is performed (step S21). Thus, the CPU 2 as an example of a control device has the following means: determining whether there are overlapping areas in two or more partial images (in the plurality of partial images) when the alignment is performed. Fig.11A In the example of FIG. 1 , whether there are overlapping areas in the partial images P51 and P52. If it is determined that there are no overlapping areas (step S21: No), the CPU 2 directly performs the alignment (step S27) as in the above steps S12 to S14. Fig.11A In the case where the selected plurality of partial images P51 (S1) and P52 (S2) are aligned as shown in FIG. 1 , even when the partial images are aligned with respect to the printable area A50 with only a single partial image selected, overlap may occur between the selected single partial image and other partial images that are not selected. Therefore, the CPU 2 may further include a unit for determining whether the partial images have an overlapping area at least in part.

[0094] In such Fig.11A When it is determined that there is an overlapping area when only the left-right alignment is performed, as in the partial images P51 and P52 shown in FIG. 1 (step S21: Yes), the CPU 2 Figure 5 The printed image production screen 50 shown in FIG. Fig.10 The repeat setting screen 56 shown in the figure is displayed, thereby notifying the user of the existence of the overlapping area (step S22). In this way, the CPU 2 has a unit for notifying the user of the existence of the overlapping area, but in order to notify the user of the existence of the overlapping area, other notification means such as sound may be used. In addition, the notification to the user may be omitted, and the CPU 2 may automatically perform the position change and size change described later based on the predetermined setting.

[0095] exist Fig.10 When the user presses the repeat permission box 56a in the repeat setting screen 56 shown, the CPU 2 determines that the repeat permission setting has been made (step S23: Yes), and directly performs the above-mentioned alignment (step S27).

[0096] In addition, if the user does not press the repeat permission bar 56a but presses the position change bar 56b (step S23: No, and step S24: Yes), Fig. 11B As shown in FIG. 1 , the CPU 2 makes a change so that the partial image P51 located on the lower side of the partial images P51 and P52 in the overlapping area moves downward in a manner that does not overlap with the partial image P52 (step S25), and performs alignment (step S27). In this way, the CPU 2 has a unit that moves at least one of the two or more partial images in the overlapping area in a manner that eliminates the overlap.

[0097] The position change is to change at least one of the plurality of partial images so that it moves in the alignment direction (in the Fig.11A In the left direction in the figure, the sample image can be moved in a direction perpendicular to the image (up and down direction) to eliminate overlap. In addition, the sample image with the changed position can be moved in a direction perpendicular to the image (up and down direction) to eliminate overlap. Figure 5The user is presented with the display on the print image creation screen 50 shown, and then an operation for setting a desired position for position change is further accepted from the user.

[0098] exist Fig. 11B In the example of FIG. 5 , since the upper end of the partial image P52 is located at the upper end of the printable area A50, only the partial image P51 is moved downward. In addition, such a position change is performed when the right alignment button 64 is pressed, such as Fig. 11C The same is true when the left-right center alignment button 65 is pressed as shown. In this case, for example, in order to eliminate the overlap in the up-down direction orthogonal to the left-right direction, the partial image P51 only needs to be moved downward.

[0099] like Fig.11D As shown in the partial images P52 and P53, since the length of the printable area A50 in the vertical direction is shorter than the sum of the lengths of the partial images P52 and P53 in the vertical direction, even if the alignment direction (in the Fig.11D In the example, the left-align button 63 is pressed, so the left side is the right side. Even if the overlap is eliminated by moving the partial images P52 and P53 in the vertical direction perpendicular to the left side, the duplication cannot be completely eliminated. In this case, the duplication can be minimized, for example, by moving one partial image P53 downward to the lower end of the printable area A50, thereby leaving the minimum duplication. Fig.11E In the example of , the last selected partial image P53 ( S2 ) of the two selected partial images P52 ( S1 ) and P53 ( S2 ) is preferentially displayed in front.

[0100] When the user does not press the repeat permission bar 56a or the position change bar 56b but presses the size change bar 56c (step S23: No, and step S24: No), the CPU 2 performs alignment (step S27) after changing the size of the partial images (step S26). In this way, the CPU 2 has a means for changing at least one of the partial images in the overlapping area to a size that eliminates the overlap.

[0101] Even if Fig. 12A As shown in the printed image M50, the partial images P52 and P53 have overlapping areas due to the alignment, for example, in the alignment direction (in the Fig. 12A In the case where the left-align button 63 is pressed in the middle, and therefore the left direction) and the vertical direction perpendicular to the left direction cannot eliminate the duplication, the size to be changed can be set to the minimum size that can eliminate the duplication (for example, in Fig. 12BIn the example, the size of the partial images P52-1 and P52-2 may be changed, or the size setting may be accepted from the user. In addition, the partial image whose size is changed may be a single partial image or multiple partial images. However, when the sizes of multiple partial images are changed, it is preferred to make the proportions of the changes (the proportion of the sizes relative to the original sizes) consistent.

[0102] Alternatively, the size may be changed (step S26) only when the duplication cannot be eliminated even by changing the position (step S25), or conversely, the position may be changed (step S25) only when the duplication cannot be eliminated even by changing the size (step S26).

[0103] Next, the alignment using indicators such as the virtual line VL will be described.

[0104] When the user wants to align to a desired position, Fig. 12C As shown, the CPU 2 displays, for example, a virtual line VL as an example of an indicator on the print image M60. In this way, when the alignment operation is performed in the state where the virtual line VL is displayed, the alignment with respect to the virtual line VL can be performed. In this way, the CPU 2 has a unit for displaying an indicator that is a reference for alignment and is not a printing object in the print image production screen 50. In addition, the display of the virtual line VL and other indicators can be performed, for example, by using Figure 1 The display may be performed by performing a selection operation in a menu that appears by right-clicking the mouse device of the input device 4 shown, or by arranging an operation portion that displays an indicator in the print image creation screen 50 and pressing the operation portion.

[0105] like Fig. 12C As shown in the figure, when the left alignment button 63, the right alignment button 64 or the left-right center alignment button 65 is pressed while the virtual line VL extending vertically is displayed, the CPU 2 performs alignment using the virtual line VL as a reference position for alignment (an example of the third alignment). The third alignment is performed when an indicator (e.g., the virtual line VL) is displayed in the print image creation screen 50 and two or more partial images among the plurality of partial images are selected (in the example of the third alignment). Fig. 12C In the example of partial images P61 and P62, two or more partial images are aligned relative to the indicator. In addition, the third alignment may also be an alignment of a single partial image relative to the indicator. Fig. 12C In the example shown, since the left alignment button 63 is pressed, Fig.12D As shown, the CPU 2 performs positioning in the left-right direction so that the left ends of the two selected partial images P61 ( S1 ) and P62 ( S2 ) coincide with the virtual line VL.

[0106] For example, when the top alignment button 61, the bottom alignment button 62, or the top-bottom center alignment button 66 is pressed while an imaginary line extending horizontally is displayed, the CPU 2 can perform alignment in the vertical direction using the imaginary line as a reference position for alignment.

[0107] In addition, the virtual line VL is not limited to a straight line extending up and down or left and right, and may be a straight line inclined with respect to up and down or left and right, or may be a curve, etc. Fig. 12C as well as Fig.12D The dashed lines shown may also be displayed as solid lines, dashed lines, dotted lines, etc.

[0108] As another example of an indicator, Fig.13A As shown, when the virtual frame VF is displayed on the print image M70 and the positioning operation is performed in the state where the virtual frame VF is displayed, the positioning with respect to the virtual frame VF is performed.

[0109] For example, in Fig.13A In the example shown, since the left-right center alignment button 65 is pressed, Fig. 13B As shown, the CPU 2 performs left-right alignment so that the left-right centers of the selected three partial images P71 ( S1 ), P72 ( S2 ), and P73 ( S3 ) coincide with the left-right centers (alignment lines AL) of the virtual frame VF.

[0110] In addition, the virtual frame VF is not limited to a rectangular frame, but may be a circle, an ellipse, or other shapes. Fig.13A as well as Fig. 13B The dotted line shown may also be displayed as a solid line, a dashed line, a dotted line, etc.

[0111] Next, explain how Fig.14A Positioning when the selected partial image P81 ( S1 ) protrudes from the printable area A80 , as in the print image M80 shown.

[0112] exist Fig.14A as well as Fig. 14B In the example shown, since the left alignment button 63 is pressed, the CPU 2 performs alignment by moving the partial image P81 to the right so that the left end of the selected partial image P81 (S1) is located at the left end of the printable area A80. In addition, assuming that the top alignment button 61 is pressed, the CPU 2 moves the partial image P81 upward so that the upper end of the selected partial image P81 (S1) is located at the upper end of the printable area A, and moves the partial image P81 to the right to eliminate the overhang so that the left end of the partial image P81 is located at the left end of the printable area A80.

[0113] Next, explain how Fig. 14C As in the printed image M90 ​​shown in FIG. 1 , there is a case where a non-printing area P91 b such as a margin exists in at least one of the selected partial images P91 ( S1 ) and P92 ( S2 ).

[0114] In this case, the position to be aligned may be calculated based on the printed area P91A (shown by a thick dotted line for convenience of explanation) excluding the non-printed area P91b in the partial image P91. Fig. 14C In the example shown, since the left-right center alignment button 65 is pressed, the center position (alignment line AL) between the left end of the printing area P91A of the partial image P91 and the right end of the other end on the right side in the partial image P92 is calculated as the alignment position, and alignment is performed in such a way that the centers of the printing area P91A of the partial image P91 and the partial image P92 in the left-right direction are located at the center position.

[0115] In addition, the printing area P91A can be cut out from the partial image P91 in a rectangle along the left, right, top and bottom ends of the printed part (black part) such as text contained in the partial image P91, or when there is a blank part with a specified area or more in any direction of the upper, lower, left or right of the partial image P91, the part can be regarded as a non-printing area, and the part outside the non-printing area can be cut out as the printing area P91A.

[0116] In the present embodiment described above, Figure 1 The printed image creation device 1 shown in the figure includes a display unit 2 and a CPU 2 as an example of a control device. The CPU 2 causes the display unit 5 to display a printed image creation screen 50, and in the printed image creation screen 50, for example Figure 6C As shown in FIG. 1 , a plurality of partial images P11 and P12 to be printed are displayed, and at least one of the plurality of partial images (in Figure 6C In the example of the partial images P11 and P12, the CPU 2 performs alignment to produce a printed image M10 having a plurality of partial images P11 and P12. In addition, the CPU 2 selects two or more partial images (in the example of the partial images P11 and P12) from among the plurality of partial images in the printed image production screen 50. Figure 6C In the example of the partial images P11 and P12, the first alignment of the two or more partial images is performed based on the mutual positions of the two or more partial images. Therefore, it is easy for the user to arrange the partial images P11 and P12 at any position. Therefore, according to this embodiment, the user can easily create the desired printed image M10.

[0117] In the present embodiment, the CPU 2 selects a single partial image (in the print image creation screen 50) among the plurality of partial images. Fig. 6A In the example of the partial image P11, the second alignment of the single partial image is performed relative to the printable area A10 in the print image M10. Therefore, it becomes easier for the user to arrange the partial image P11 at an arbitrary position. Therefore, the user can more easily create the desired print image M10.

[0118] In addition, in the present embodiment, the first alignment (the alignment of the plurality of partial images P11 and P12) and the second alignment (the alignment of the single partial image P11) are performed based on the user's operation of the common operation portion (e.g., the left alignment button 63) in the print image creation screen 50. Therefore, the user can create the desired print image M10 more easily.

[0119] In the present embodiment, the CPU 2 has an index (for example, Fig. 12C , Fig.12D 13 ) is displayed on the print image creation screen 50, and when the indicator is displayed in the print image creation screen 50 and two or more partial images (partial images P61 and P62 in the example of FIG. 12 ) are selected, the third alignment of the two or more partial images is performed with respect to the indicator. Therefore, the user can more easily create a desired print image.

[0120] In addition, in the present embodiment, the CPU 2 includes a unit for determining whether there are overlapping areas in two or more partial images when the alignment is performed. In addition, the CPU 2 includes at least one of the following units: when it is determined that there are overlapping areas in two or more partial images, the partial images (in the case of the partial images) having overlapping areas in the two or more partial images are overlapped. Fig.11A In the example of the embodiment of the present invention, at least one (partial image P51) of the partial images P51 and P52) is moved in a manner to eliminate the overlap, or at least one (partial image P53) of the partial images of a part of the overlapping area in two or more partial images is changed in size to a size that can eliminate the overlap. In addition, when it is determined that there are overlapping areas in two or more partial images, the CPU 2 changes the overlapping area, for example, by Fig.10 The unit notifies the user of the repeat setting screen 56 shown in step S22. FIG. 11A to FIG. 12D As shown, the overlap of the partial images P51 to P53 (or a part of the overlap) can be eliminated. Therefore, the user can create a desired print image M50 more easily.

[0121] In addition, in this embodiment, if Figure 8 As shown, the plurality of partial images P41 to P48 include first partial images P42 to P4 and second partial images P41 surrounding the first partial images P42 to P46, and when the first partial images P42 (S1) to P46 (S5) are selected in the print image creation screen 50, the CPU 2 performs alignment of the first partial images P42 to P46 with respect to the second partial image P41. Therefore, the user can more easily create a desired print image M40.

[0122] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention includes the inventions described in the claims and their equivalents. Hereinafter, the inventions described in the claims of the original application of the present application will be appended.

Claims

1. An image production device, characterized in that: A control unit is provided, wherein the control unit is: causing the image creation screen and one or more parts in the image creation screen to be displayed on the display unit, receiving an operation of selecting at least one of the one or more parts displayed in the image creation screen, determining the quantity of the selected at least one portion, Different alignment criteria are determined according to whether the number of the at least one portion is single or two or more, Alignment is performed relative to the determined alignment reference. creating an image including the at least one portion that has been aligned, The control unit is: When it is determined that the number of the at least one portion is two or more, a position determined based on the relative positions of the two or more portions is determined as a reference for the alignment. When it is determined that the number of the at least one portion is single, a printable area in the image is determined as a reference for the positioning.

2. The image production device according to claim 1, characterized in that Regardless of whether the number of the at least one portion is single or two or more, the reference for the alignment is determined based on the user's operation on the common operation portion in the image creation screen.

3. The image production device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The control unit is: The indicator that is not to be printed is displayed at a position determined based on the user operation in the image creation screen. When the indicator is displayed in the image creation screen, the at least one portion is selected, and an alignment instruction operation is accepted, the indicator is determined as a reference for the alignment, and the at least one portion is aligned relative to the determined indicator.

4. The image production device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The control unit includes means for determining whether or not different portions displayed in the image creation screen overlap each other when the alignment is performed.

5. The image production device according to claim 4, characterized in that: The control unit has a first unit or a second unit. When it is determined that the different parts displayed in the image creation screen overlap each other, the first unit moves at least one of the different parts to eliminate the overlap between the different parts. When it is determined that the different parts displayed in the image creation screen overlap each other, the second unit changes the size of at least one of the different parts to a size that eliminates the overlap.

6. The image production device according to claim 4, characterized in that The control unit includes means for notifying a user of the overlap when it is determined that the different portions displayed in the image creation screen overlap each other.

7. The image production device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The control unit is: A first part and a second part surrounding the first part are displayed in the image production screen, and when the first part is selected and an alignment instruction operation is accepted, the second part is determined as a basis for the alignment, and the first part is aligned relative to the determined second part.

8. The image production device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The control unit is: When the third part in which a part of the area is set as a non-printing area is selected, the printing area of ​​the third part except the non-printing area is set as the object for alignment, and the alignment of the third part is performed based on the printing area set as the object for alignment.

9. The image production device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The control unit causes the printing unit to perform printing based on the created image.

10. An image production method, which is a method executed by a control unit of an image production device, characterized in that: causing the image creation screen and one or more parts in the image creation screen to be displayed on the display unit, receiving an operation of selecting at least one of the one or more parts displayed in the image creation screen, determining the quantity of the selected at least one portion, Different alignment criteria are determined according to whether the number of the at least one portion is single or two or more, Alignment is performed relative to the determined alignment reference. creating an image including the at least one portion that has been aligned, The control unit is: When it is determined that the number of the at least one portion is two or more, a position determined based on the relative positions of the two or more portions is determined as a reference for the alignment. When it is determined that the number of the at least one portion is single, a printable area in the image is determined as a reference for the positioning.

11. A computer program product comprising instructions, wherein the instructions cause a computer to perform the following processing: causing the image creation screen and one or more parts in the image creation screen to be displayed on the display unit, receiving an operation of selecting at least one of the one or more parts displayed in the image creation screen, determining the quantity of the selected at least one portion, Different alignment criteria are determined according to whether the number of the at least one portion is single or two or more, Alignment is performed relative to the determined alignment reference. creating an image including the at least one portion that has been aligned, When it is determined that the number of the at least one portion is two or more, a position determined based on the relative positions of the two or more portions is determined as a reference for the alignment. When it is determined that the number of the at least one portion is single, a printable area in the image is determined as a reference for the positioning.

Images